How to Write for Business Magazines

Make Money Writing About Finance, Investment, and Business

Sep 15, 2009

Anyone with inside knowledge on finance, investments, and the stock market can learn how to earn money writing for business magazines.

From marketing strategies to starting a home business, many people have valuable information to share with others. Freelance writing, whether as a hobby or a new career, is a great way to build a reputation in the business world while making money.

There are many magazines online and in print that focus on things like investments, finance, and marketing strategies. Here are a few tips on getting articles published in business magazines.

How to Find Business Magazines

The easiest way to search for business magazines is through a search engine like Google. Most magazines, whether online or print, will have a website that will give the writer an idea of what types of articles they publish. Before submitting, freelance writers should take the time to browse through magazines online or in a bookstore, and consider keeping a list of which magazines fit their interests best.

Also consider searching websites like Craig's List for job openings and calls for submission in the publishing industry. Even if the pay is little to nothing, new writers should take the opportunity to add published clips to their portfolio.

Anyone interested in writing about business should also consider starting a blog that focuses on their area of expertise, like business management or stock market analysis. Having a blog will give the writer a voice in the business community and increase exposure, plus give them an opportunity to meet other writers and editors.

What Business Magazine Editors Want

As previously mentioned, business is a broad topic and writers should focus on one area, or a niche, in which they can call themselves an expert. A few examples of business niches include:

The more narrow the niche, the more in demand the writer will be. For example, someone who owns and manages a successful clothing boutique will stand out when querying a magazine aimed at small business owners.

How to Pitch an Article to a Business Magazine Editor

While it's tempting to write an article then hurriedly send a query to dozens of magazines, this is not effective for most writers. The best way to increase chances of publication is to carefully research individual magazines and narrow it down to a few that would most likely be interested in the article.

For example, sending an article about mobile office technology to a magazine that focuses more on financial news isn't going to increase the writer's chance at being published. That time would be better spent finding a magazine aimed at people interested in working at home or while traveling.

Writers should also take care to follow the editor's submission guidelines to the letter. Instructions differ from magazine to magazine, with some publishing "on spec" (the completed article must be submitted for consideration) or off the query or pitch only.

Earn Money Writing About Business and Finance

Freelance writing can be a great way to earn additional income. The best way to start is by starting a business-focused blog, researching the best sources, and of course, writing! Start sending out queries and begin a freelance writer career today.

Learn How to Make Money Writing

The copyright of the article How to Write for Business Magazines in Resources for Writers is owned by Michelle Schusterman. Permission to republish How to Write for Business Magazines in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.