How Do I Get Started? Part One
Now, I know nothing about the stylist's actual ability to write; that's the fodder for an entirely different post. However, one of the best ways to get started in nonfiction freelance article writing is simply to write what you know. Take a hobby (wine, cooking, flea market shopping, sports), a profession (teaching, truck driving, playing an instrument, accounting) or any interest, and I would put money down that you have at least one interesting view on the subject to provide to an audience that will read it.
Try this exercise. Grab paper and pen (or a laptop), set an egg timer for one minute and jot down as quickly as possible everything about which you have some knowledge. When the timer rings, you will probably have filled a page or two with ideas without stretching your limits. Then take a look at the list and think of all the ways your ideas might be turned into article headlines. If you're a penny pincher, for example, you could probably generate a dozen quick headlines on the best times to shop, the best coupon sites on the Web, or other ways to stretch a dollar. The amateur wine connoisseur can probably come up with a dozen quick headlines for selecting, tasting and celebrating a good pour. Reflect on your life and your interests; you'll be surprised at what you develop.So, then, how do you develop the idea and get it published? We will take it all one step at a time. I'll give you some clues in advance:
- First, remember the rule of "beginning, middle and end" for the article Editors demand it, good articles live by it.
- Secondly, learn the editor's submission guidelines, and stick to them. Editors demand it, and good articles get published by it.
- Finally, do not let rejection surprise and discourage you. I have a friend who lives by what she calls the "rule of 13." For every 13 queries she submits, she might get one hit.