Getting Your First Publication
Tips for Beginning Writers Trying to Break Into Publishing
If you're a new writer with no previous publication credits, how do you get editors to take you seriously?
Editors want to know two things: whether you have good ideas, and whether can you write. Many editors are willing to take a chance on a new writer if the candidate impresses them with a professional attitude, a strong cover or query letter, and a passion for the job.
Start small
Don't begin your quest for publication with big names such as the New Yorker, Vogue or Chatelaine. Publications that publish experienced writers and pay well are rarely interested in beginners. And new writers generally shouldn't start by proposing feature articles (which are generally in-depth and about 1,500-3,000 words).
Instead, approach your community newspaper with a short article idea. Offer to do a 500 word story on a local event you're interested in. Make sure the idea you're suggesting fits the sort of story the paper normally covers.
There are tons of small magazines and newspapers and most of them are desperate for content. Some pay a little bit, some don't pay at all. At this point don't worry about the money. Just focus on getting your writing out there.
Build your writing portfolio
You may find that even if you're approaching smaller publications, they still want to see copies of your published work (sometimes called 'tearsheets' or 'clips'). If you haven't published anything yet, you'll have to find creative ways to show off your skills.
Try volunteering to write the newsletter for a community organisation. Or write articles for an online site, where demand for articles is usually high but pay is low. At least you'll be able to direct potential employers to your writing online, as proof of your abilities.
You could also try entering writing contests. Awards look great on a writer's resume – and they boost your writing confidence too.
Know your markets
This is the most important rule when pursuing publication, for novice and veteran writers alike. Know you markets, know your markets, know your markets. Read several issues of the publication and make note of tone, subject matter, sections, and advertisers. The more closely you can target your idea to a certain publication, the more success you'll have.
Check out a copy of the Writer's Market, published every year. If you don't want to buy it, spend an afternoon reading it at your library, making note of publications that interest you. The Writer's Market is primarily aimed at freelancers trying to get started in the field, but there are also market guides for poets, short story writers and novelists.
Hone your skills
Many colleges, universities and community centers offer courses in writing for magazines and newspapers. Take classes if you can afford to. There are on-line workshops as well that can help you improve your writing skills.
Join a writers' group where you will critique each other's work. The regular discipline of writing for group and the practice in editing will help you develop as a writer.
Be honest
It's okay if you don't have much experience in publishing. When you approach an editor, be honest. Tell them you are starting out. Impress them with your professionalism, your strong writing skills, your ideas and your commitment to your craft. Give them a reason to take you seriously.
And remember, every published writer started somewhere.
