IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU, IT’S ABOUT THEM.

I hate to break it to ya, but this isn’t about you. This is about how you contribute and bring VALUE to the writer and articles they are currently working on.

In your pitch, explicitly state why you are a good fit for their audience, what knowledge you bring that’s unique to YOU and all the resources you can provide to them to make their writing process quick and easy.

THERE’S NO GUARANTEE (and if a PR agency tells you otherwise — run far and fast)

I hate to break it to you but there’s no guarantee even IF you’re working with a freelance writer that it will go as “planned”. For example, things shift often and Editors have to move and shift their editorial calendars depending on what’s happening currently.

Keep this in mind when you are pitching and stay flexible and always be gracious. Freelance writers are often under a lot of pressure themselves to pump out stories or are busy pitching themselves to publications. Be patient and know that even if that specific story doesn’t go as planned, you are nurturing the relationship with that writer.

BUILD GENUINE RELATIONSHIPS

Freelance writers get pitched hundreds of pitches a day…HUNDREDS. Do your research before you attempt to pitch a freelance writer. Do you read their work? Have you built a relationship with them? If you haven’t done your research it shows and writers are more likely to pay attention to your email if they recognize your name. Try engaging with them on instagram, twitter or even just putting in the extra effort to mention a recent story they wrote when you pitch them. These little things matter.

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