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©Jennifer Crump (From the workshop: Non-fiction on
the Side, 2003 RWA Conference, New York City)
STARTING OUT
I. Make a list of three areas you have expertise in.
2. Under each of these, list 3-5 ideas for each area of expertise.
3. Make a separate list of magazines that cater to your area of expertise.
OR
I. Choose a target market (magazine or newspaper)
2. Analyze that market:
a. Audience (look closely at the ads and features)
b. Why does that audience read this magazine?
c. What message is the editor hoping to instill in the reader?
d. What topics or opinions will likely never be expressed in this magazine?
e. List topics covered in this issue you are reading.
f. Which departments would not be a good springboard for the novice writer?
3. Make a list of article ideas for that magazine and pitch your best one.
THE CHEAT SHEET
1. Local newspapers are a great place to get clips.
2. So are online sites like FolksOnline, etc.
3. Regional parenting magazines, regional business magazines and regional
lifestyle magazines frequently employ free lancers.
4. Start the bio part of your query with a line like "My latest clips include.
.." Or "I contributed to several newspapers including. .."
5. Use your life experiences in woman's magazines or parenting magazines. 6.
Draw on your career or life expertise.
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