How to Get Published

How would you like to flip open your favorite magazine and see your name in the byline? There's a certain rush of expectancy and pride when an author sees their name in that spot for the first time. It's as if the weight of the magazine or newspaper is pregnant with your words; your thoughts and ideas manifested and made available for all to read. For some, this is a lifelong dream, and for others, it is simply a stepping stone which leads to greater things. Whether being published is a longtime goal or simply something you'd like to do to get your voice heard, it really is only a few steps away.

Aspiring writers must start at the bottom of the barrel and work their way up. Obviously, those who wish to pursue a career in journalism should do so in any way possible. Students are encouraged to join their school's newspaper staff and then continue that education in college. Adults already out of college might find it helpful to brush up by taking a few writing courses to sharpen their skills before sending out work. Those already confident in their abilities can move onto the next step and figure out just what they're going to say.

First, pick your medium. Almost anyone can submit a letter or short essay to their local paper and be heard in the public forum, but those wishing to really plan and compose articles should first contact a local magazine or paper. It often helps if such media is specialized; for example, I am an avid equestrian and so chose to submit articles to equestrian magazines. That gave me an automatic edge, since I knew the industry and could write knowledgeably about certain topics. My work was relevant to the publication's needs, and that is extremely important.

Before you get too mired in the process of writing, know that you probably won't get paid to submit your first few articles. Unless you are trying to get a job and become a regular writer, these steps are simply going to allow you to get your name and work out there and help get you off the ground. Many editors are happy to accommodate writers who need some exposure and will run an article or give them an assignment. Those who show skill and are dedicated workers might even land a job, but in this case you are the customer, and the editors are the party in the position to help you by printing your work. Plus, crafting real articles and going through the editing and publishing process is valuable experience and will give you vital practice for future assignments or careers.

Once you have scoped out a publication you'd like to see your work in (and remember, unless you have a track record or have an insanely good piece tucked away, don't chase after major magazines; stick to local or specialized publications), contact the editor, either by email or phone. Be prepared to send in a writing sample and some ideas. You can either present an idea (or a completed article, if you have something in particular you want to see published) or offer to write on a certain topic that you're comfortable with. In my case, I contacted an editor and said that I would like to write a few articles to gain experience and exposure. She immediately gave me an assignment, set me up with interviews and the like, and I was left to build my story.

Newspapers aren't always as willing to run articles from unknowns as they have dedicated staffs, but smaller magazines are always looking for interesting perspectives and you could be just the thing they're looking for. You must sell yourself and your work, and be willing to compromise.

Once a deal is worked out and your article is completed, introduce yourself to your journalistic thick skin. Your viewpoint is unique, and although that makes it valuable and special, it also means that the editors you work with will often share different opinions. Since editors are in the power position, you must be ready to take criticism and make the best of it. Your article may be nixed altogether, even if it's well written. It might have a critical error, or perhaps the tone is wrong for the magazine. A lighthearted community publication may not want to run a dark satire; likewise, a sharp literary journal may not like your fluff piece. Most articles, however, won't be completely written off, especially if you're offering up free work. Articles may, however, be edited significantly or altered. The editor might make suggestions and corrections and then leave it to you to make the alterations, while some authors submit their piece and then don't see it again until it is in print, with the editor's own corrections and changes put in place.

Either way, as an author you must be ready for this and able to see the reason for such changes. Simple grammar, spelling, and structure changes are to be expected. More significant editing should be studied and understood; perhaps you used a word a few too many times, or rambled a little too much. Whatever the case may be, build upon your previous mistakes in order to make your next piece even better. An editor who sees the same mistakes again and again will be hesitant to accept future work, and certainly won't be eager to offer you a paid position or make a recommendation.

After the editing process comes that period of waiting, when you simply have to be patient as the publication undergoes layout, final editing, and printing. Those who submit work to newspapers won't have long to wait. When that paper or magazine finally lands in your hands, the feeling of accomplishment and pride should be readily at hand. Getting published isn't something everyone can do; writing takes skill and wit, and to get your work out there for the public to read is something to be proud of. That first article is your base upon which you can shape your future work and begin a career in writing. Be sure to send the editor a kind word for any help they supplied, and offer up your services again. Don't be afraid to contact a number of magazines and publications. Once you have had a few articles printed, you can begin to freelance and perhaps earn a little more than compliments for your work.

Writers must be dedicated to their work, and be willing to go the extra mile to write good stories and get their name around. You must make connections and build a network of contacts readily available to ensure that your dedication doesn't go unnoticed. With a little elbow grease, some sharp words, and good ideas, you'll have your name popping off pages at you in no time.