Freelance UK Forums - Forum for UK Freelancers - View Single Post - How does an unpublished Novice pitch to an established mag?

waterbaby · 06-29-2007, 11:18 AM

Expert Advice Sought

I have just started writing articles and have approached a magazine with my first one; I am in touch with the right contact, a senior reporter. I am unpublished, so I cannot refer them to my CV/Web of past work.

I emailed a pitch which I consider an unusual take on a common subject, and did not attach the article. Contact said he would send it to the Ed and get in touch when he had heard something, but could more probably get it published on the online site for no fee. Not a prob in my opinion, I just want to get something out there (though cash would be nice).

So my question is: they have no evidence of my writing ability apart from the email pitch, which doesn't reflect the tone of the article...should I come clean with my contact and explain my novice status, and ask what he suggests - ie to send the article to him - or would I be shooting myself in the foot and risk rejection by revealing my minor newbie status? It's only a short article - just under 900 words...

Help appreciated!!!
Thanks!

06-29-2007, 11:18 AM	#1 (permalink)
waterbaby New Poster Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 1	How does an unpublished Novice pitch to an established mag? Expert Advice Sought I have just started writing articles and have approached a magazine with my first one; I am in touch with the right contact, a senior reporter. I am unpublished, so I cannot refer them to my CV/Web of past work. I emailed a pitch which I consider an unusual take on a common subject, and did not attach the article. Contact said he would send it to the Ed and get in touch when he had heard something, but could more probably get it published on the online site for no fee. Not a prob in my opinion, I just want to get something out there (though cash would be nice). So my question is: they have no evidence of my writing ability apart from the email pitch, which doesn't reflect the tone of the article...should I come clean with my contact and explain my novice status, and ask what he suggests - ie to send the article to him - or would I be shooting myself in the foot and risk rejection by revealing my minor newbie status? It's only a short article - just under 900 words... Help appreciated!!! Thanks! Last edited by waterbaby; 06-29-2007 at 11:21 AM.