Last updated: January 2026
In this article: News & Numbers | Add Anecdotes | Package Your Pitch | Nail the Headline | Go Beyond Ideas | Sell Yourself | FAQ
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Every magazine editor says the same thing: to land your first byline, pitch the FOB (front of the book) first. Editors at major publications consistently tell new writers to start with shorter pieces before attempting features.
“For features, we typically generate the ideas in-house, then assign them out to well-traveled, proven freelancers who have written extensively for our FOB departments and know our brand well,” explain editors at leading lifestyle magazines.
But what if you’re determined to write a feature story? Landing your first assignment in the coveted “well” of a magazine requires more than a compelling topic. Your timing must be perfect, and you need to convince editors that you’re the ideal writer for the assignment.
Here are six strategies that work, according to successful freelancers and magazine editors:
1. Include News and Numbers
Pitching a generic story about women and depression to major publications like Glamour will likely earn you a “we’ve already covered it” response. However, incorporating information from a new study gives your pitch a fresh angle that editors can’t ignore.
“Get an editor excited,” says Jon Finkel, a Florida-based sports writer. “A good statistic or recent study can give an old topic new life.”
Compelling data can also create urgency, pushing editors to publish sooner rather than later. Stay current with trending stories through:
- EurekAlert for scientific studies
- PR Newswire for corporate announcements
- Google Trends for popular search topics
- Regional publications for local stories with national appeal
2. Add an Anecdote
Numbers grab attention, but don’t forget your role as a storyteller. Medical exposes often open with personal stories because they help readers connect emotionally with the topic.
“You definitely want to make it look like you’ve made some outreach with a prospective source,” says Oregon-based writer Teri Cettina, whose work has appeared in major parenting publications. While she doesn’t always include anecdotes, doing so demonstrates commitment and shows you’ve invested time in the concept.
A strong anecdote in your pitch proves you can:
- Connect with your audience
- Find compelling sources
- Tell stories that resonate
3. Package Your Pitch
From sidebar tips to infographics, thoughtful packaging can make your story stand out and show editors you understand magazine layout.
“It would be a big mistake if you felt like creating visual aids was the job of the editor,” says Cristina Goyanes, a writer who previously worked as an editor at Women’s Health. “They need to see you’ve thought about the complete package.”
Consider including:
- Fact boxes with key statistics
- Resource lists for readers
- Sidebar suggestions
- Photo or video opportunities
Keep packaging recommendations brief—just a few sentences. As Goyanes notes, “They don’t want the whole story until they’re intrigued by the bait.”
4. Nail the Headline
Sometimes a compelling headline alone can secure an assignment.
“If you’re still working on fleshing out the story details, but the headline is too good to pass up, it can save your butt,” Goyanes explains.
Effective headlines:
- Match the publication’s style
- Create urgency (“The Dangers of Missing Breakfast”)
- Challenge assumptions (“Is Sleeping Making You Fat?”)
- Use numbers when appropriate (“5 Ways to…”)
Even if your headline doesn’t make it to print, including one shows thoroughness and professionalism.
5. Go Beyond an Idea
Writing your pitch in the story’s actual tone helps editors envision the piece in their publication and evaluate your writing style.
Cettina says writing the first few paragraphs as if they were the actual article has helped her land major bylines. While this requires more upfront investment, it often pays off.
If you’re hesitant to write before getting approval, focus on demonstrating your research instead:
- List confirmed interview sources
- Show your research depth
- Mention exclusive access opportunities
6. Sell Yourself
A compelling story idea isn’t enough—editors need to know why you’re the perfect writer for the assignment.
Your unique qualifications might include:
- Personal experience with the topic
- Industry connections
- Specialized knowledge
- Geographic advantage
- Social media following
“There are so many places where the goal isn’t just an awesome article but tons of clicks,” Finkel notes. Publications want writers who understand promotion and can help amplify their content.
Today’s pitch is also a business pitch. Show editors you’re thinking about:
- How to promote the finished piece
- Your social media reach
- Your ability to drive traffic
Building Long-Term Success
Even the best pitches get rejected for reasons beyond your control. Timing, editorial calendars, and budget constraints all play a role.
“Persistence can be just as important as having great ideas,” Cettina emphasizes. She focused on a few target magazines and pitched them consistently before breaking into the industry.
Regular pitching builds name recognition. “The first time an editor sees my name, they might dismiss me,” Cettina explains. “If they see my name routinely coming across their email, they start to pay attention.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pitch feature stories to multiple magazines simultaneously?
No. Wait until you’re certain one publication has passed before querying another with the same story idea. However, you can pitch different angles of the same topic to different publications.
How long should my feature story pitch be?
Keep pitches concise—typically 3-4 paragraphs. Include your hook, why it’s timely, your approach, and why you’re qualified to write it.
Do I need to write the full article before pitching?
No, but writing the opening paragraphs can help editors visualize your story and writing style. At minimum, show you’ve done preliminary research and have sources lined up.
How do I find the right editor to pitch?
Check the magazine’s masthead for section editors, visit their website’s contributor guidelines, or use resources like MediaBistro’s database to find current contact information.
What if an editor doesn’t respond to my pitch?
Follow up once after 1-2 weeks, then move on. No response typically means no interest. Focus your energy on new pitches and publications.
