If you are a writer and want to work in a magazine, no need to have a backer to be included in a magazine company because you can do freelance magazine writing. In fact, the contents of most of the magazines you see in newsstands are provided by freelance writers.
Here are the things how freelance magazine writing works:
1. Get Clips
Magazine editors want to see examples of your work when you approach them with a story idea, so start writing for local publications, student newspapers, or Web sites to get some experience before contacting the big names. Any time you manage to get your name in print, whether it’s for a company newsletter or a specialty magazine, make lots of copies and keep a file of your work.
2. Read Up
Read as many copies of the magazine you want to write for as possible. This is called learning your market. You’ll have to prove to the editor that you can write for his or her target audience and the best way to learn how to do this is through research. Take note of the publication’s different departments, columns, and fillers. You will be more likely to get an editor’s attention if you pitch an idea that perfectly fits an existing page.
3. Brainstorm
Come up with loads of ideas for articles you would enjoy researching and writing. The name of the game is perseverance, and you’ll need to be armed with lots of enthusiasm and ideas if you are serious about getting published. After all, your first 10 ideas might be rejected. Don’t despair, just keep coming up with new angles.
4. Query
Write a query letter. This is the most important part of the process — actually contacting the editor you’d like to work for. Enclose three or four appropriate clips and a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Mail the whole package, and then be patient. Editors often take up to three months to respond to query letters.
5. Know your contact
Send your letter to the right person. An essential part of getting published is getting your query letter into the right hands at the magazine you want to write for. Many magazines publish writer’s guidelines in books like The Writers Market 2002.
6. Rights and Payment
Once you get an assignment, finish it on time and use your momentum to get other work. If you did not have to sell all the rights, try to reprint the piece in a non-competing market after about six months. This way, you can get paid two, three, or four times for the same work. Always sell as few rights as possible, but don’t worry about it too much when you’re just starting out.
See more information at HowStuffWorks.com.