What to include in a Query to a Magazine

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When I worked as Editor, my e-mail box was usually filled with what was deemed query letters from novice or wannabe writers. In short, they were e-mails addressed to the Editor as opposed to my name and generally stated that I would be missing out if I didn't employ their services. Of course they were deleted.Briefly, a query is your pitch, be it to an Agent, Publisher or the Editor of a Magazine. Given that the question pertains to querying a magazine, this article will focus on that.A query should include the idea that you are selling, how you intend to develop it, your familiarity with the magazine and what qualifies you to write the article. These are the general prerequisites Allied to this, magazines have guidelines and most generally set a theme two to three months in advance, in some instances six months. Further, they are magazines who publish monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly or seasonally. Hence, there is no point sending a query for an article to be publish at Xmas, in November. This is where researching a magazine's guidelines is crucially important. A simple telephone call requesting a magazine's guidelines, will save you enormous trouble in the future as you will see exactly what they are seeking, when they are seeking and how you should approach them.Unless you are a subscriber to a specific magazine and is familiar with its content, tone, style and topic, it is in your best interest to review at least six months back copies. Analyze them with a fine teeth comb noting such things as content. Is it a Women's magazine, Christian and so forth. Next check the length, tone, style and length of the articles. Check too to see who writes for them. Some magazines like O Magazine do not work with freelance writers. They already have in-house staff writers and one is generally invited to contribute. See also the type of images and photos they use, perhaps you can supply the photos and bump up your fees.The above may appear tedious at first, but in the end if you are serious about writing for a magazine, your research will only stand you in good stead when you present your query.© 2008 Cherry-Ann CarewWant to use or quote one of my articles in your E-zine, newsletter, and magazine or want me to write an article for your publication? No problem, simply contact me at: cherry@writercacarew.com

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