How to Use Associated Content to Write for Newspapers

So you've made some money off of Associated Content and want to expand your writing empire.

First, congratulations on contributing quality content to AC! Most of us AC Content Producers are fans of the content here, too. We read other other content producers' articles - that's part of why we stay around.

Branching out is only natural, though. While Associated Content pays quickly, they will pay a maximum of $20 per piece. It's a big world out there, though, filled with other publications which offer higher payments. That's not to say you should leave Associated Content behind, however, because you can still resell your higher-paying articles to AC so long as you still retain the rights necessary.

A good place to spread your wings is at your local newspaper. Weekly and daily newspapers usually have part-time writers (known as "stringers") to cover stories their full-time reporters don't have time to. If you approach the editors correctly, you stand a very good chance of becoming a stringer - and making more money.

First, have a few samples of your work (or "clips," as they're called) in a portfolio. Or, if you've only published at Associated Content, have the link to your Content Producer page handy. Then, it's time to take an old-fashioned approach and call the editor.

Keep in mind editors are busy folks. They're under constant stress and usually don't have a lot of time. When you get her on the phone, be brief. Say something like, "I'm Bob Jones. I've written on topics like food and relationships. I'd like to show you some of my clips and discuss the possibility of stringing for you."

Most likely, she will ask you to send your clips by mail. Ask instead for her email address and make sure you include a link to your Content Producer page.

Before we go much further, however, it's important to point out that, in the sample pitch above, our potential stringer mentioned two specialties. Chances are, you've developed a specialty or two (or five) during your time writing for Associated Content. Mention the two or three you think would be most attractive to the editor. Editors don't normally want to deal with rookies who can "write about anything." They want stringers who can write knowledgeably on a few topics - preferably with a local slant.

When you do get face time with the editor, be prepared to pitch a few specific articles. Since she's meeting with you, she probably sees some of your potential and will give you the go-ahead on one article. When you finish that article, pitch a few more. Before long, she'll be interested in most of your pitches. Soon enough, she'll start assigning you pieces to do and maybe even a beat to cover.

How much can you make by stringing? It varies. You can realistically expect to pull down anywhere from $20 to $50 per piece. And, depending on how much time you invest in researching, interviewing and writing, you may well make $25 per hour or more.

But why stop there? Most mid-sized cities have several newspapers. Become a stringer for all of them! You won't be able to resell the same exact piece to all of them, but you might be able to sell re-writes of your originals for the same amount or more. That can substantially boost your average hourly wage!

Oh - and if you can swing it with your new editor(s), ask if you can retain reprint rights. That way you can resell your pieces here at Associated Content.