Showing special interest in an editor’s readers and publication is a smart way to get an editors attention. And writing letters to an editor is an ideal way to do just that.
Chances are if you want to write for a particular publication, you’re most likely already familiar with its style and content. Instead of competing with countless writers who introduce themselves and article ideas with queries, decrease your competition by choosing a less traditional approach. Submit a letter to the editor.
Letters to the editor are comments from readers regarding an article that appeared in an earlier edition. You can spot them easily because they are in the opening pages of a magazine. Editors pay close attention to letters they receive and regularly solicit them because they provide insight into what topics appeal to their audience.
Though letters to the editor are less glamorous than queries and op-ed pieces, they are a smart way for freelance writers to get an editor’s attention. A well-written letter not only introduces you and your idea to the editor but it also:
- Demonstrates your ability to get your point across quickly while communicating your knowledge about a particular subject
- Gives editors a peek at your writing style
- Gives you the opportunity to promote your expertise
- Your published letter counts as a clip and can also be used as a writing sample.
When to send a letter to the editor
If you’ve read an article from a previous magazine or newspaper edition and think it omitted valuable information, send a letter to the editor sharing your point of view. In your letter mention your expertise or the book you’ve written regarding the magazine article topic.
Here’s how it works
Suppose you’re passionate about running and want to help other runners improve their distance and speed without injury. If you have a website that offers training tips you naturally want to encourage runners to visit your website. You could do this by launching a letter writing campaign to publications that provide running related content. Google News Alerts can help you locate appropriate publications by delivering topic-related content straight to your email. All you need to do is enter key words and phrases that tie in with running into the search field. When you receive an article that strikes your interest, locate the editor and write a letter that aligns with points in the article.
Sonya Carmichael Jones, freelance direct response copywriter and direct marketing consultant helps you rev up your response rates and sales orders with compelling copy and direct marketing strategies. For effective online and offline copywriting and marketing solutions contact Sonya at marketingbuddha.com.
You have my permission to publish this article as long as it is published in its entirety and the author’s resource box is included.
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