Food Media Jobs: How to Break Into Food Writing, Styling & Photography

Career paths, salary expectations, and expert advice for aspiring food media professionals

8 min read • Originally published January 21, 2015 / Updated April 6, 2026

The food media industry offers diverse career paths for people who love food and storytelling. From food magazine editors and cookbook authors to food stylists and social media creators, opportunities exist across publishing, advertising, television, and digital platforms.

Whether you want to write for Bon Appétit, style dishes for commercial shoots, or build a food-focused following on Instagram or TikTok, here’s how to launch a career in food media.

Types of Food Media Jobs

Food media encompasses a wide range of roles across different platforms:

Role	What They Do	Where They Work
Food Writer/Editor	Write articles, recipes, and reviews	Magazines, websites, cookbooks
Food Stylist	Make food look appealing for photos/video	Advertising, TV, publishing
Food Photographer	Capture food images for various media	Magazines, brands, restaurants
Recipe Developer	Create and test recipes	Test kitchens, brands, publishers
Food Content Creator	Create food videos and social content	YouTube, TikTok, Instagram
Food Copywriter	Write marketing copy for food brands	Agencies, brands, restaurants
Food Journalist	Report on the food industry, trends, and culture	Newspapers, magazines, digital media

Food Media Salaries

Compensation in food media varies widely based on role, experience, and whether you work in-house or freelance:

Role	Entry-Level	Experienced
Food Writer/Editor	$40,000 – $55,000	$60,000 – $90,000+
Food Stylist	$300 – $500/day	$800 – $2,000+/day
Food Photographer	$250 – $500/day	$1,000 – $5,000+/day
Recipe Developer	$45,000 – $55,000	$65,000 – $85,000
Food Content Creator	Variable (brand deals)	$50,000 – $500,000+
Food Copywriter	$45,000 – $55,000	$65,000 – $90,000

Food Stylist: Making Food Look Irresistible

Food stylists make food look appealing for photographs, commercials, and video content. Their work appears on menus, billboards, television, packaging, and cookbooks.

Atlanta-based Tami Hardeman got her start in food styling by way of fashion. As a writer for Women’s Wear Daily, she styled photo shoots as part of her role. When offered the opportunity to style food for a shoot, she took it—and never looked back. She’s since worked with major brands including McDonald’s, Arby’s, and Olive Garden.

“Food stylists are hired to make food look good enough to eat,” Hardeman explains. “These days, stylists don’t use a lot of fake food or tricks—too many truth-in-advertising laws. I have a huge kit of tools: spritzers, tweezers of every sort, hundreds of brushes.”

How to Become a Food Stylist

Assist established stylists – Most successful food stylists spent years assisting before going solo
Practice constantly – Cook dishes, style them, photograph them
Build a portfolio – Document your best work on a website
Study culinary arts – Some programs offer food styling courses
Stay current – Follow food photography trends on Instagram and in magazines

“I assisted for a long time,” Hardeman says. “Take time with your camera—it doesn’t have to be fancy—and take photographs of your food. The best way to learn how to become a stylist is to practice.”

Food Writer & Blogger: Carving Out a Niche

Food writing spans many formats: magazine features, cookbook authorship, restaurant reviews, recipe content, and food journalism. Many food writers build audiences through blogs or newsletters before transitioning to traditional publishing.

Successful food blogger Clotilde Dusoulier parlayed her site Chocolate & Zucchini into a career as a cookbook author. The path from blogger to published author remains viable today—though the platform has shifted from blogs to newsletters, Instagram, and TikTok.

Types of Food Writing Jobs

Magazine/website staff writer – Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, Serious Eats, Eater
Cookbook author – Publishers like Clarkson Potter, Ten Speed Press
Restaurant critic – Newspapers, magazines, digital outlets
Recipe writer – Test kitchens, brands, food publications
Food journalist – Covering the food industry, policy, and culture
Newsletter creator – Substack, Beehiiv, and other platforms

How to Break Into Food Writing

Start a platform – Blog, newsletter, or social media presence showcasing your voice
Pitch publications – Study mastheads and pitch editors with specific story ideas
Build clips – Write for smaller publications to build a portfolio
Engage the community – Comment on, share, and connect with other food writers
Develop expertise – Specialize in a cuisine, technique, or angle

“Write the kind of pieces that would interest a Serious Eats or a Food & Wine on your own platform,” advises food writer Zach Brooks. “Once you have a nice body of work, start joining their community by engaging with their content. By contributing your unique perspective and quality content, you’ll get noticed.”

Food Photographer: Building a Mouthwatering Portfolio

Food photographers capture images for cookbooks, magazines, advertising campaigns, restaurants, and social media. The field ranges from editorial work (magazines, cookbooks) to commercial work (advertising, packaging).

New York-based photographer Bill Brady has been a professional photographer for over 20 years, with clients including Boar’s Head, Godiva, Moët Hennessy, and Krispy Kreme.

“The best advice I can give aspiring photographers is to shoot and create a strong portfolio,” Brady says. “If you have zero experience, approach a local restaurant and offer to shoot their food for free.”

How to Become a Food Photographer

Shoot constantly – Build a diverse portfolio of food images
Study the style – Analyze photography in publications you want to work for
Offer free shoots – Approach local restaurants to build experience
Network relentlessly – Referrals drive most photography work
Learn lighting – Natural and artificial lighting techniques are essential
Develop a signature style – Stand out with a recognizable aesthetic

“Most people hire you if you have a photograph in your portfolio that matches what they want,” Brady explains. “If you want to shoot for a particular magazine, study their style and create a unique spin on it.”

Award-winning photographer Lou Manna, whose work appears in over 40 cookbooks and campaigns for Kraft Foods, Dannon, and the Culinary Institute of America, emphasizes versatility: “These days one cannot just be a food photographer—it’s only 40 percent of what I do.”

Food Content Creator: The Modern Path

Social media has created entirely new career paths in food media. Food content creators build audiences on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, earning income through brand partnerships, sponsored content, and their own products.

Platforms for Food Content Creators

TikTok – Short-form recipe videos, food trends, restaurant reviews
Instagram – Food photography, Reels, recipe content
YouTube – Long-form cooking videos, food travel, reviews
Substack/newsletters – Recipe newsletters, food writing
Podcasts – Food industry discussions, interviews, storytelling

How to Build a Food Content Career

Choose your niche – A specific angle helps you stand out (budget cooking, regional cuisine, dietary restrictions)
Post consistently – Algorithms reward regular content
Engage authentically – Build community, respond to comments, collaborate with others
Learn the platforms – Each has different best practices for content
Diversify income – Brand deals, affiliate marketing, digital products, cookbooks

Food Copywriter: Crafting the Right Words

Food copywriters write marketing copy for restaurants, food brands, packaging, and advertising. The role combines writing skills with food knowledge.

Andy Boynton of Seattle transitioned from managing editor at Amazon to freelance food copywriter. “Cooking was always a passion, so I took some culinary classes—but it became clear early on that I was a better writer than a chef,” he says.

Boynton combined his writing background with his love of food, freelancing for Allrecipes.com, Le Cordon Bleu schools, and reviewing food books for Publishers Weekly and Gastronomica.

“There are a lot of opportunities for food copywriters,” Boynton says. “Everyone from food manufacturers to supermarket chains to gourmet retailers needs writers. I’m a big believer that you should use what you have—your connections and experience—and you have more than you think.”

How to Break Into Food Media

1. Build a Portfolio

Every food media career requires demonstrable work. Start creating content now—even without paying clients. Write recipes, style dishes, photograph food, and create videos. Document everything on a professional website.

2. Develop Food Knowledge

Immerse yourself in food culture. Cook regularly, dine out, read cookbooks and food publications, and travel for food experiences. The more you know, the better your work will be.

3. Assist Established Professionals

Many food stylists, photographers, and test kitchen professionals hire assistants. This is invaluable hands-on learning and networking.

4. Network in the Industry

Attend food events, engage on social media, and join professional organizations. Referrals drive much of the hiring in food media.

5. Pitch Relentlessly

For writing and photography, pitch publications directly with specific ideas. Study their content, identify gaps, and propose stories only you can tell.

6. Take Entry-Level Positions

Editorial assistant roles at food magazines, test kitchen positions, and agency assistant jobs provide pathways into the industry.

Where to Find Food Media Jobs

Mediabistro – Media and publishing jobs including food positions
LinkedIn – Search “food editor,” “food stylist,” “recipe developer”
Publication websites – Check careers pages at Condé Nast, Dotdash Meredith, etc.
Food industry associations – IACP, James Beard Foundation job boards

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a job in food media?

Start by building a portfolio that demonstrates your skills—whether that’s food writing, photography, or styling. Assist established professionals to gain experience, network within the industry, and pitch publications or agencies directly. Entry-level positions, such as editorial assistant or test kitchen assistant, can also provide pathways in.

What jobs are there in food media?

Food media jobs include food writer/editor, food stylist, food photographer, recipe developer, food content creator, food copywriter, cookbook author, restaurant critic, test kitchen professional, and food journalist. Opportunities exist in magazines, digital media, television, advertising, publishing, and social media.

How much do food media jobs pay?

Salaries vary widely. Entry-level food writers and editors earn $40,000–$55,000, while senior editors can earn $70,000–$90,000+. Food stylists charge $300–$ 2,000 per day, depending on their experience. Food photographers earn $250–$5,000+ per day. Content creators have highly variable incomes based on audience size and brand deals.

Do I need culinary training to work in food media?

Formal culinary training isn’t required for most food media jobs, but knowledge of food is essential. Many successful food writers, stylists, and photographers are self-taught home cooks. However, culinary school can provide valuable skills and connections, especially for recipe development and styling.

How do I become a food stylist?

Start by assisting established food stylists—this is how most professionals learn the craft. Practice styling and photographing food on your own, build a portfolio, and stay current with visual trends. Some culinary schools offer food styling courses, but hands-on experience is most important.

Can I make a living as a food blogger?

Yes, though it’s competitive. Food bloggers earn income through advertising, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and product sales. Building a sustainable income typically takes years of consistent content creation. Many food bloggers diversify their income through cookbooks, brand partnerships, and other revenue streams.

What skills do I need for food photography?

Technical photography skills (lighting, composition, camera operation), food styling basics, photo editing proficiency, and an eye for visual storytelling. Understanding how to work with food stylists and art directors is also important for commercial work.

How do I get published in food magazines?

Study the publication’s content and voice, then pitch specific story ideas to editors. Build clips by writing for smaller publications first. Having a platform (blog, social media) that demonstrates your expertise helps. Networking and persistence are essential—expect rejection before acceptance.

Ready to launch your food media career? Browse food media jobs on Mediabistro.

Topics:

Be Inspired, Career Transition

Climb the Ladder

How to Choose Job References (Yes, You Can Use Coworkers)

Who to ask, how to prep them, and why your references matter more than you think.

By Scouted

Scouted was a hiring marketplace that matched candidates to roles based on potential, serving clients from high-growth startups to Fortune 500 companies.

5 min read • Originally published June 22, 2018 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Scouted

Scouted was a hiring marketplace that matched candidates to roles based on potential, serving clients from high-growth startups to Fortune 500 companies.

5 min read • Originally published June 22, 2018 / Updated April 6, 2026

References can make or break your job prospects. Even if you had a great interview, a single comment from one of your references could cause a hiring manager to second-guess you—or give them the confidence they need to extend an offer. Choose your references wisely.

Why References Can Make or Break a Job Offer

Imagine you’re a nervous interviewer. Your resume says all the right things, but you came across as awkward during your conversation with the hiring manager. They considered moving on, but decided to call your references first.

Every reference had glowing feedback: you were reliable, learned quickly, and worked well with the team. After hearing this, the hiring manager reconsidered and called you back for a second interview—which you nailed because you were less nervous the second time around.

This scenario plays out more often than you’d think. Strong references can rescue a mediocre interview, while weak ones can sink an otherwise strong candidacy.

Can You Use a Coworker as a Reference?

Yes, you can absolutely use a coworker as a job reference. In fact, coworkers can make excellent references because they have a realistic view of how you perform day-to-day work.

According to Harvard Business Review, when providing feedback, “Managers tend to emphasize task-related behaviors (e.g., meeting deadlines, working independently) while coworkers emphasize interpersonal behaviors (e.g., friendly, compassionate, listening). This isn’t necessarily surprising, as coworkers may have more opportunities to observe interpersonal behaviors of their peers in the workplace as compared to managers.”

Coworkers don’t carry the formal authority of a manager, which can actually work in your favor—their perspective feels more authentic and peer-level to hiring managers.

Who to Ask: You Have More Options Than You Think

Your three job references don’t need to be your last three bosses. You might have good reasons for not including a current or former manager: maybe you don’t want them to know you’re job searching, maybe you had a difficult experience, or maybe you simply need more variety.

Here are other people you can ask:

Other Managers in Your Workplace

If you’ve been at your company for more than a few months, you’ve likely worked with other managers or “higher-ups” who can speak to your abilities.

Direct Reports (People Who’ve Worked Under You)

If you’re applying for a leadership role, having someone who reported to you can be valuable. They can speak to your management style, communication skills, and your support for your team.

Coworkers and Peers

As noted above, coworkers offer a ground-level view of your work ethic, collaboration skills, and how you handle day-to-day challenges.

Past Clients

Lex Brown II of Task & Purpose notes, “Listing a client as a reference can provide a potential employer with testimony of your deliverables. Whatever outcomes result from your productivity (i.e., software code, website designs, photographs, sales revenue, manufactured products, project management, etc.), clients are probably the most reputable voice for feedback.”

Volunteer Supervisors

A volunteer supervisor can speak to your intrinsic motivation and ability to work hard, even without external pressure.

Professors or Academic Advisors

Especially useful for recent graduates, professors can speak to your intellectual curiosity, work quality, and ability to meet deadlines.

Know What Your References Will Say

One key factor in choosing references is knowing what they’ll actually say about you. Don’t assume that just because you only butted heads a few times with a previous manager that they won’t mention it.

Only choose references you’ve had a genuinely positive experience with and who you’re confident will speak highly of you. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask directly: “Can I count on you for a positive reference?”

How to Prep Your References

Before listing someone as a reference, always confirm they’re willing to be contacted. Once you have their permission, prep them so they can give relevant, helpful responses.

Tell Them About the Job

Make sure your references understand the role you’re pursuing and why you’re a strong fit. Explain what you’d be doing and how your past experience translates to the new position.

Share the Job Requirements

Even if you don’t meet every requirement, share the job description with your references. They may identify transferable skills you hadn’t considered.

Mention Key Talking Points

If there were recurring themes in your interview—analytical thinking, leadership potential, attention to detail—mention these to your references so they can reinforce those points.

Include a Variety of References

To give hiring managers a well-rounded picture of your background, include references from different areas of your professional life:

A former manager shows you can work within organizational structures
A coworker demonstrates that you collaborate well with peers
A client proves you deliver results
A volunteer supervisor shows passion beyond your paycheck

Avoid personal references (friends or family) unless you’re brand new to the workforce and genuinely cannot find three professional references. If you must include a personal or character reference, choose someone who has known you for an extended period and can speak meaningfully to your work ethic and character.

Looking for your next opportunity? Browse jobs on Mediabistro.

FAQs About Job References

Can you use a coworker as a job reference?

Yes, coworkers make excellent references. They can speak to your day-to-day work habits, collaboration skills, and interpersonal behaviors that managers may not observe as closely.

How many references should you have?

Most employers ask for three professional references. However, it’s wise to have four or five prepared so you can tailor your list to each opportunity.

Should you use your current boss as a reference?

Only if they know you’re job searching. If you haven’t told your current employer you’re looking, use former managers, coworkers, or other professional contacts instead.

What if you don’t have three professional references?

Consider professors, volunteer supervisors, clients, or mentors. If you’re very new to the workforce, a character reference from someone who knows you well (other than family) can work as a last resort.

Should you tell references before listing them?

Always. Contact your references before sharing their information with employers, confirm they’re willing to speak on your behalf, and prep them on the role you’re applying for.

Can a bad reference cost you a job?

Yes. A lukewarm or negative reference can cause a hiring manager to reconsider, even after a strong interview. Only list references you’re confident will speak positively about you.

Topics:

Candidates, Climb the Ladder

Be Inspired

25+ Best Resources for Writers in 2026: Magazines, Databases & Newsletters

From submission trackers to industry intel, these are the publications and tools every serious writer should know.

By Miles Jennings

@milesworks

Miles Jennings is CEO of Mediabistro and its parent CognoGroup. He previously founded and led Recruiter.com through its NASDAQ listing, executing more than 10 acquisitions over nearly a decade as CEO and COO.

8 min read • Originally published February 9, 2026 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Miles Jennings

@milesworks

8 min read • Originally published February 9, 2026 / Updated April 6, 2026

Whether you’re submitting your first short story or navigating your tenth year as a working writer, having the right resources makes all the difference. The best publications, databases, and newsletters save you time, connect you to opportunities, and keep you informed about an industry that’s constantly shifting.

We’ve compiled the essential resources every writer should have bookmarked. These are the magazines worth reading, the databases worth using, and the newsletters worth subscribing to in 2026.

Writing Magazines & Craft Publications

These publications focus on the craft of writing, the business of getting published, and the community of working writers.

Poets & Writers

Poets & Writers is the gold standard for serious writers. Founded in 1970, this nonprofit organization publishes a bimonthly magazine and maintains what many consider the most comprehensive set of free databases in the industry.

What they offer:

A searchable database of nearly 1,000 literary magazines with editorial focus, submission guidelines, and reading periods
The most trusted writing contests database, featuring only vetted competitions
A grants and awards database updated throughout the year
Readings & Workshops grants for writers in New York State (mini-grants of $150 to $450 per event)
Subject-based handbooks on publicity, book deals, literary agents, and MFA programs

The 2026 Writers for Writers Award recipients include Tina Chang, Khaled Hosseini, and Eugene B. Redmond, to be honored at their annual gala on March 23.

Cost: Magazine subscription ~$19.95/year; databases free to access

Follow them: Bluesky | LinkedIn

Writer’s Digest

Writer’s Digest has been serving writers since 1920, making it the oldest major writing magazine in the United States. Now publishing eight issues per year, it covers craft, publishing, and the business of writing with a practical, accessible approach.

What they offer:

Six annual writing competitions, including the 95th Annual Writing Competition (early-bird deadline: May 4, 2026)
Grand Prize includes a paid trip to the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference and a pitch session with editors or agents
First place in each category wins $1,000 cash and publication on WritersDigest.com
Writer’s Digest University courses, webinars, and tutorials
Annual conferences, including the Novel Writing Conference

Important: Writer’s Digest does not accept AI-generated or AI-assisted work in any of their competitions.

Cost: Magazine subscription ~$26.99/year

Follow them: @WritersDigest on X

Submission Databases & Trackers

Keeping track of where you’ve submitted, what’s open for reading, and how long you might wait for a response can feel like a second job. These tools do the heavy lifting.

Chill Subs

Chill Subs has become the go-to free database for emerging writers. With over 69,000 registered writers and 4,235 publishing opportunities listed, it offers what many paid services charge for.

What they offer:

A free database of 4,000+ literary magazines searchable by response time, payment, genre, word count, and acceptance rate
1,200+ writing contests with deadline tracking
A submission tracker to monitor your submissions and expected response times
Statistics based on 189,332 tracked submissions from the community
A cover letter generator and portfolio feature
A Chrome extension that shows acceptance rates and community data on magazine websites

Cost: Free (premium features available)

Follow them: @chillsubs on X | LinkedIn

Duotrope

Duotrope has been the industry-standard paid database since 2005. If you’re submitting consistently and want the most comprehensive data available, this is worth the investment.

What they offer:

A searchable database of more than 7,500 publishers and agents across 40+ countries
Detailed statistics including response times and acceptance rates for each publication
A submission tracker with automatic reminders for when to follow up
A calendar of upcoming deadlines
Clear upfront information about submission fees

Cost: $5/month or $50/year

Follow them: Bluesky | X

Chill Subs vs. Duotrope: If you’re submitting sporadically (five or fewer submissions per month), Chill Subs’ free database will serve you well. If you’re submitting regularly and want more granular statistics, Duotrope’s paid service provides deeper data. Many active submitters use both.

Submittable

Submittable isn’t a database of publications, but it’s the platform you’ll use to submit to most of them. The majority of literary magazines, contests, and grants use Submittable to manage their reading periods.

What writers should know:

Free for submitters (publications pay for the service)
Universal Submission Tracker keeps all your submissions in one place
Used by thousands of magazines, presses, and organizations
Your submission history stays with your account

Follow them: LinkedIn

Industry Newsletters & Intelligence

The publishing industry changes fast. These newsletters help you stay informed without drowning in noise.

The Bottom Line by Jane Friedman

Jane Friedman‘s newsletter (formerly The Hot Sheet, rebranded in early 2025) is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the business of publishing. Friedman, a former publisher of Writer’s Digest, was named Publishing Commentator of the Year by Digital Book World in 2023.

What you get:

Weekly reporting and analysis on the publishing industry
Coverage of AI’s impact on publishing, licensing, and author rights
TikTok/BookTok analysis and marketing strategy
Industry trends and what they mean for working authors
Archive access dating back to 2015

About half of subscribers work inside the industry (agents, editors, publicists), and half are authors who want business intelligence that puts the writer first.

Cost: Free tier available; paid subscription $70-$120/year

Follow her: LinkedIn | Youtube

FundsForWriters

FundsForWriters, run by author C. Hope Clark, has been delivering paying opportunities to writers’ inboxes for 26 years. Named one of Writer’s Digest’s 101 Best Websites for Writers every year since 2001, it focuses on one thing: helping writers get paid.

What you get:

A weekly Friday newsletter listing 24-30 paying opportunities
Freelance gigs and opportunities paying $200+ or 10 cents/word and up
Contests with first prizes of $200 or more
Grants, freelance gigs, and publisher/agent news
The newsletter reaches 35,000 readers

Cost: Free

Follow her: C. Hope Clark on LinkedIn

Lit Mag News

Lit Mag News on Substack, run by Becky Tuch (founder of The Review Review), delivers literary magazine industry news, scam alerts, and submission advice. If you want to know which magazines are legitimate, which are closing, and which have problematic practices, this is your source.

Cost: Free tier available; paid tier for additional content

Literary Websites & Daily Reading

These sites publish original content daily and serve as central hubs for the literary world.

Literary Hub (Lit Hub)

Literary Hub launched in 2015 and quickly became the daily destination for book lovers. Founded by Grove Atlantic publisher Morgan Entrekin, American Society of Magazine Editors Hall of Fame editor Terry McDonell, and Electric Literature founder Andy Hunter, it aggregates the best of literary culture while publishing substantial original content.

What they offer:

Daily essays, interviews, excerpts, and literary news
Partnerships with 100+ publishers for exclusive content
CrimeReads, a dedicated site for crime, mystery, and thriller coverage
Book Marks, a review aggregation service that scores books as “rave,” “positive,” “mixed,” or “pan”
LitHub Radio, a network of literary podcasts

Their Most Anticipated Books of 2026 list features titles like Téa Obreht’s Sunrise and Karl Ove Knausgaard’s The School of Night.

Cost: Free; membership available for ad-free reading and early giveaway access

Follow them: Bluesky

Electric Literature

Electric Literature is a nonprofit digital publisher with a simple mission: make literature more exciting, relevant, and inclusive. In 2024 alone, they published over 600 writers to 3 million readers. Every writer gets paid, and everything on the site is free to read.

What they offer:

Recommended Reading: A weekly fiction magazine that has published over 715 issues, making it the largest free archive of contemporary fiction outside a library system
The Commuter, featuring poetry and flash fiction
Book coverage, craft essays, and writing advice
Payment of $300 per published piece

For submitters: General fiction submissions open January 26 through February 1 (or when the 750-submission cap is reached). Members can submit year-round. Recommended Reading publishes fiction between 2,000 and 10,000 words.

Cost: Free to read; membership available

Follow them: Bluesky

Premier Literary Magazines

Getting published in these magazines is a career milestone. They’re highly competitive, but they set the standard for literary excellence.

The Paris Review

The Paris Review, founded in 1953, is one of the most prestigious literary magazines in the world. Beyond publishing exceptional fiction and poetry, it’s famous for its Writers at Work interview series, which has captured conversations with nearly every major writer of the past seven decades.

Cost: Subscription ~$40/year

Kenyon Review

Kenyon Review, based at Kenyon College, has published consistently excellent work since 1939. They pay $0.08/word for prose and $0.16/word for poetry. Their 2026 submission themes have already been announced.

Cost: Subscription ~$40/year

Ploughshares

Ploughshares, based at Emerson College, uses guest editors for each issue, bringing fresh perspectives to every publication. They hold more Pushcart Prize recognitions than almost any other non-commercial magazine.

Cost: Subscription ~$40/year

Granta

Granta, the British literary magazine founded in 1889, publishes themed issues of fiction, nonfiction, memoir, reportage, and photography. They’re known for their influential Best of Young British/American Novelists lists.

Cost: Subscription ~$55/year

Poetry Magazine

Poetry, published by the Poetry Foundation since 1912, is the oldest English-language monthly poetry magazine. The Poetry Foundation also maintains poetryfoundation.org, a massive archive of poems, poet biographies, and educational resources.

Cost: Subscription ~$35/year

Nonfiction-Specific Resources

If you write creative nonfiction, personal essays, or memoir, these publications specialize in your genre.

Brevity

Brevity is the premier venue for flash creative nonfiction (750 words max). Founded in 1997, they also publish excellent craft essays on nonfiction writing. Free to read.

Hippocampus Magazine

Hippocampus Magazine, founded in 2011, is dedicated entirely to creative nonfiction. They also run HippoCamp, an annual conference for nonfiction writers. Free to read.

Additional Resources Worth Bookmarking

Resource	Best For	Cost
Winning Writers	Free contest database and scam alerts	Free
Authors Publish	Curated lists of magazines accepting submissions	Free
Reedsy Blog	Craft articles and literary magazine directory	Free
The Masters Review	Emerging/unpublished writers	Free to read
McSweeney’s	Innovative literary forms and humor	Subscription ~$60/year
Narrative Magazine	Prestigious online publication ($5000 annual prize)	Free to read; $27 submission fee
Mslexia	Women writers (UK-based)	Subscription ~£39.99/year

Looking for your next full-time opportunity or project? Browse open positions on the Mediabistro job board.

Topics:

Be Inspired, Productivity

Job Search

How to Address Employment Gaps on Your Resume (Without Losing the Interview)

HR professionals share exactly how to explain gaps, what language to use, and where to address time off on your resume.

By Kristen Fischer

Kristen Fischer is a freelance writer, journalist, and copywriter with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as a health writer for AARP with previous staff roles at WebMD and WW. Her work has appeared in Prevention, Healthline, Woman's Day, Parade, and Writer's Digest, and she is the author of four books.

7 min read • Originally published February 5, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published February 5, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

It’s an age-old conundrum: whether you were unemployed for a while or took a leave of absence, how do you address date gaps on your resume?

Traditionally, there are two schools of thought: ignore the gap and deal with it when you speak to a hiring manager, or be upfront about it so you don’t have to choose your words carefully during the interview—assuming you get that far.

We asked several HR and career experts to settle the issue once and for all.

Be Truthful About Employment Gaps

“Be proactive—address it upfront,” suggests Heather Huhman, a former hiring manager and founder of Come Recommended in Washington, D.C. “In a competitive job market, employers are pickier about who they interview. Having obvious gaps of employment makes many hiring managers wary about you—whether it’s a fair assumption about your character or not.”

Amy Phillip, a Brooklyn-based career coach and resume writer who formerly worked as an HR director, agrees that you have to be honest about gaps, no matter how short.

“If you don’t address gaps, you won’t get an interview,” she warns. “The more transparent you can be, the better.”

If you don’t explain professional time off in your resume, a hiring manager may infer any number of things about you—and that could cost you the interview.

“You don’t want to leave anything open to interpretation,” Phillip adds. By addressing it upfront, questions about why you took time off are out of the hiring manager’s mind before they even meet you.

Keep Dates Simple

One way people minimize the appearance of resume gaps is to list only years of employment rather than months. So if you were out of work during the summer but employed by October, it still looks like continuous employment.

But should you disclose every short-term break? It depends.

Phillip never references months on a resume. Dawn Bugni, Master Resume Writer, says she only lists months when it helps a client.

For example, if you were laid off in June, you may want to note that your sabbatical began then. “If the search is protracted and the month becomes a detriment, switch to years only,” she notes.

How to Reference Employment Gaps

So you’re going to address the gap—where exactly do you include it?

Phillip suggests referencing time off exactly where the gap appears chronologically in your work history, or placing the note at the end of your professional experience section.

If you have more than two periods of unemployment to explain, put the reference at the bottom and state both dates in one statement.

What Language to Use

The less detail you share, the better. The last thing a recruiter wants to see is intimate details of why you took time off.

Phillip says including fluff or filler is never a good idea. Instead, include a one- or two-line note stating that you took a “professional sabbatical,“ followed by the dates.

Important: “Don’t use the words ‘leave of absence,'” cautions Phillip. In HR terminology, that implies a medical or family-related leave, which isn’t always viewed favorably. “Professional sabbatical” implies time off from your professional life without getting too personal.

“Job seekers need to focus on the positive done and skills gained while between positions, not on explaining why they were between positions,” Bugni adds.

Some may argue that being vague still omits the truth. But Phillip says by simply referencing your sabbatical, you can explain it during an interview if asked—without having to address the elephant in the room.

Fill in the Gaps with Activity

Most professionals who were laid off didn’t spend all their time watching TV. Instead, many kept busy by attending networking events, interning or volunteering, taking professional development courses, or going back to school.

Jobs aren’t always easy to come by, and it’s not uncommon for people to be unemployed for a year or more. By including these activities in your professional experience section, you’re not ignoring the gap—you’re showing you stayed productive during it.

A recruiter will see that although you weren’t “working,” you didn’t spend your days waiting for the phone to ring.

“Put it under ‘Professional Experience,'” says Phillip. “I would not separate that out to a separate section.”

Phillip recently worked with a young architect who took five years off to have children but wanted to return to her profession. She noted her time as a new mom on her resume and received plenty of calls. She had to take a step down to get back into the field, but she got a job, and her gap did not hold her back.

“The gap wasn’t even a question during the interview, because it was already addressed in the resume,” Phillip says.

Rethink Your Cover Letter Strategy

Many people omit gaps from their resume and explain them in the cover letter instead. But Phillip says this can waste your time. Why? Because most cover letters don’t get read.

She admits that during her time as a hiring manager, she only read a cover letter if the applicant was from out of town and needed to discuss relocation expectations. Otherwise, the cover letter was futile.

That’s not the viewpoint of all hiring managers, and many companies require cover letters. However, Phillip suggests not using the cover letter as your only means of explaining gaps.

Bugni agrees: “There is no guarantee a cover letter will be read in the order intended, if at all. I do not risk sharing anything important only in the cover letter. I do it on the resume and might mention it in the cover letter too—although you don’t want a cover letter to become a regurgitation of the resume.”

Key Takeaways

Address gaps proactively — Don’t leave them open to interpretation
Use “professional sabbatical” — Avoid “leave of absence” terminology
Keep it brief — One to two lines maximum
Show activity — Include volunteering, courses, or freelance work during gaps
Use years, not months — When it helps minimize short gaps
Don’t rely on cover letters — Address gaps on your resume directly

“Resume writing is sales and marketing. Do what it takes to present skills in the most positive light possible,” adds Bugni. “Put effort into selling the value you bring to an organization, not explaining why you were able, forced, or chose to take time away from the work world.”

Need help with your resume? Mediabistro’s Career Services offer everything from a quick resume edit to career counseling sessions to tackle your CV, networking skills, career transition, and more.

FAQs About Employment Gaps on Resumes

How do I explain an employment gap on my resume?

Address it directly by listing a “professional sabbatical” with the dates where the gap appears in your work history. Keep the explanation brief (one to two lines) and focus on any productive activities during that time, such as volunteering, courses, or freelance work.

Should I put a sabbatical on my resume?

Yes. Using the term “professional sabbatical” is preferable to leaving an unexplained gap. It acknowledges the time off without getting into personal details, showing you’re transparent with potential employers.

Is it better to use months or years on a resume?

Using years only can help minimize the appearance of short gaps. If you were unemployed for a few months but working by year’s end, listing only years makes the transition seamless. However, if months help your case (showing you started a sabbatical recently), include them.

Should I explain employment gaps in my cover letter?

Don’t rely solely on your cover letter to explain gaps—many hiring managers don’t read them. Address the gap on your resume first. You can mention it in your cover letter as well, but the resume should be your primary venue.

What’s the difference between “leave of absence” and “professional sabbatical”?

In HR terminology, “leave of absence” typically implies medical or family-related leave, which can raise questions. “Professional sabbatical” is more neutral—it simply indicates time away from your career without suggesting specific circumstances.

How do I address a gap if I was caring for family?

List it as a professional sabbatical with the dates. You don’t need to explain that you were caregiving on your resume. If asked during an interview, you can briefly mention it without going into detail. Focus on any relevant skills or activities during that time.

Will employment gaps hurt my chances of getting hired?

Not necessarily—especially if you address them proactively. Unexplained gaps raise more red flags than acknowledged ones. By being transparent about what you did during your time off, you demonstrate honesty and initiative, which many employers value.

How long a gap is too long to explain?

There’s no fixed rule, but gaps of a year or more warrant explanation. Even extended gaps can be addressed positively if you show you stayed engaged through volunteering, education, freelance work, or other professional activities. Focus on the value you bring, not the length of the gap.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search, Resumes & Cover Letters

Journalism Advice

How to Get Your First Magazine Feature Story Accepted

Break into the coveted "well" with these editor-approved strategies that go beyond killer ledes and stellar portfolios.

By Kristen Fischer

5 min read • Originally published March 8, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

5 min read • Originally published March 8, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

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

Pro Tip: Your story doesn’t need to focus on the latest development, but that timely angle can be what secures the assignment.

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

Remember: If one publication passes, you can tweak and pitch elsewhere—as long as the story remains unpublished. Just don’t submit simultaneous pitches for the same story.

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.”

Ready to pitch? Browse current magazine job opportunities and freelance assignments at Mediabistro Jobs.

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.

Topics:

Go Freelance, Journalism Advice

Job Search

When to Update LinkedIn With a New Job (Without Alerting Your Boss)

The right timing for updating your LinkedIn profile—whether you're job hunting, starting a new role, or got a promotion.

By John Lombard

John Lombard is a content strategist and writer with over a decade of experience creating interactive and video content for brands like Apple, IBM, and Samsung. He previously worked at Mediabistro and now serves as a Client Strategist at Ceros.

6 min read • Originally published December 12, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By John Lombard

6 min read • Originally published December 12, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

LinkedIn is one of the best resources for job seekers and professionals building their careers. But since many profile updates are shared with your network, timing matters. Update too soon while job searching, and your current boss might notice. Update too late after a new job, and you miss the opportunity to leverage your network.

Here’s when to update your LinkedIn profile during the job search—and after you land that new role.

When You’re Job Seeking While Employed

It’s tempting to overhaul your LinkedIn profile when you’re employed and quietly looking for work. A refreshed headline and stronger experience section can attract more recruiters. But these changes can also be red flags to your current employer.

“I would say you need to take the necessary precautions when updating your LinkedIn profile, especially when you haven’t communicated that you are leaving,” says Randy Ksar, VP of Digital at Voce Communications. “Updating your LinkedIn profile should probably be the last step when you are currently employed and looking for a job.”

If you need to make updates to attract recruiters, take these precautions first:

How to Turn Off LinkedIn Update Notifications

Before making any profile changes while employed, disable the features that broadcast your updates to your network.

Step 1: Turn Off “Share Profile Updates”

Click your profile photo in the top right corner
Select Settings & Privacy
Click Visibility in the left menu
Under “Visibility of your LinkedIn activity,” find Share profile updates with your network
Toggle this setting to Off

Step 2: Turn On “Open to Work” (Privately)

LinkedIn allows you to signal to recruiters that you’re open to new opportunities without notifying your current employer:

Go to your profile and click Open to below your profile photo
Select Finding a new job
Fill in your job preferences
Under “Choose who sees you’re open,” select Recruiters only

This setting is hidden from recruiters at your current company (though LinkedIn notes it cannot guarantee complete privacy).

What Updates Are Safe to Make?

Some updates are less likely to raise suspicion:

Adding skills — Looks like professional development
Updating your photo — Could just be a refresh
Adding certifications — Shows you’re learning
Tweaking your summary — Subtle changes often go unnoticed

Avoid dramatic changes like rewriting your entire headline or adding “Open to opportunities” publicly.

When to Update LinkedIn After Landing a New Job

You’ve accepted an offer, and you’re excited to share the news. But when exactly should you update your LinkedIn profile?

Check With Your New Employer First

“My recommendation is to chat with your manager before you update your LinkedIn profile, especially if your role is public-facing,” says Ksar.

Some companies prefer to announce new hires through official channels first. Others may ask you to wait until you’ve completed onboarding or passed a probationary period.

Wait at Least One Week

Ksar suggests waiting “a week or so, as long as you’ve got your personal brand story and your role in the company defined.”

Consider what happens when you update:

Your network will congratulate you
Connections will ask questions about your new role
Recruiters and potential partners will start reaching out

Make sure you’re ready to respond thoughtfully to all of that engagement.

Consider the “What If” Factor

Sometimes a new job that looks great on paper turns out to be the wrong fit. If you update LinkedIn immediately and then leave within a few weeks, you’ll have an awkward gap—or another quick update—to explain.

While there’s no magic number, many professionals wait 2-4 weeks to ensure the role is truly a good fit before making it “LinkedIn official.”

How to Announce Your New Job on LinkedIn

Once you’re ready to update, you have two options:

Option 1: Simply Update Your Profile

Add your new position to your experience section. If your notification settings are on, LinkedIn will automatically share the update with your network, generating congratulations and engagement.

Option 2: Write an Announcement Post

For more visibility and engagement, write a dedicated post about your new role. This approach lets you:

Thank people who helped you during your search
Share what excites you about the new opportunity
Describe what you’ll be working on
Tag your new company and colleagues

Example post structure:

I’m excited to share that I’ve joined [Company] as [Title]!

After [X years] at [Previous Company], I’m thrilled to take on this new challenge. I’ll be [brief description of what you’ll be doing].

Thank you to everyone who supported me during this transition, especially [names if appropriate]. I’m grateful for the opportunity and can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.

Keep it genuine—overly polished announcements can feel inauthentic.

When to Make Other LinkedIn Profile Updates

After a Promotion

Update promptly, but consider whether to add it as a new position or update your current one. Major promotions (new title, new responsibilities) typically warrant a new entry. Minor title changes can be edited within your current role.

When You Complete a Certification

Add certifications as soon as you earn them. This is a positive update that shows professional development and rarely raises concerns.

When You Finish a Major Project

Add significant accomplishments to your current role’s description. Quantify results when possible (e.g., “Led rebrand that increased engagement by 40%”).

Annually (At Minimum)

Even if nothing major has changed, review your profile at least once a year. Update your skills, refresh your summary, and ensure your experience descriptions reflect your current responsibilities.

Looking for your next opportunity? Browse jobs on Mediabistro.

FAQs About Updating LinkedIn

When should I update LinkedIn with my new job?

Most professionals wait 1-4 weeks after starting a new job. Check with your new employer first, especially for public-facing roles. Make sure you’ve settled in and confirmed the role is a good fit before making it official on LinkedIn.

Will my boss know if I update my LinkedIn profile?

If your “Share profile updates” setting is on, your network (potentially including your boss) will see a notification about changes. Turn this setting off before making updates if you’re job searching confidentially.

Should I update LinkedIn on my first day at a new job?

It’s generally better to wait. Give yourself time to learn about your role, confirm the job is a good fit, and check whether your employer has any preferences about when new hires announce their positions.

How do I update LinkedIn without notifying everyone?

Go to Settings & Privacy > Visibility > Share profile updates with your network, and toggle this to Off. Now you can make changes without triggering notifications to your connections.

Is it okay to announce a new job on LinkedIn before starting?

It’s safer to wait until you’ve officially started. Offers can occasionally be rescinded, start dates can change, and you’ll want to describe your actual role rather than what you expect it to be.

How do I announce a new job on LinkedIn?

You can either update your experience section (which triggers automatic notifications) or write a dedicated post. A post lets you thank supporters, describe your new role, and increase engagement.

Should I remove my previous job when I update my LinkedIn profile?

No—keep your previous positions. LinkedIn is a professional history, and your past experience adds credibility. Simply add your new role and update the end date on your previous position.

What if my new job doesn’t work out after I update my LinkedIn profile?

This happens. You can either update your profile again with a new position or revert to your previous role if you return there. Brief stints at companies are increasingly common and don’t carry the stigma they once did.

Topics:

Get Hired, Job Search

Resumes & Cover Letters

Resume Words to Avoid (and Power Words to Use Instead)

Hiring managers gloss over buzzwords like "detail-oriented" and "team player." Here's what to say instead.

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published May 16, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

By John Lombard

4 min read • Originally published May 16, 2016 / Updated April 6, 2026

In this article: Words to Avoid | Power Words to Use | Other Words Employers Love | Space-Killers to Cut | FAQ

Your resume is one of the most powerful tools in your job search, but it might be full of words that drain it of its strength.

“Buzzwords once had meaning, but they have been repeated so often that hiring managers gloss over them,” says Mitchell Langbert, associate professor of business management at Brooklyn College.

To help you make sure you’re not filling your prime resume real estate with meaningless jargon, we’re breaking down which resume words to avoid and which power words to add instead.

Resume Buzzwords to Delete

While these words and phrases were once effective and meaningful, they are now “dying from overuse,” says Langbert. Remove these from your resume immediately:

Overused Buzzwords	Why They Don’t Work
Detail-oriented	Everyone claims this; show it instead
Team player	Vague; describe actual collaboration
Results-driven / Results-oriented	Empty without specific metrics
Hard worker / Hardworking	Expected of all candidates
Dynamic / Energetic	Subjective and unverifiable
Strategic thinker	Show strategy through achievements
Excellent communicator	Let your resume demonstrate this
Go-getter / Go-to person	Informal and overused
Outside the box	Cliché that suggests the opposite
Synergy / Value add	Corporate jargon that means nothing
Thought leadership	Pretentious without proof
Proactive	Show initiative through examples
People person	Too casual for professional resumes
Seasoned	Use years of experience instead
Bottom-line	Show actual financial impact
Customer-focused	Demonstrate with metrics
Dependable / Loyal	Expected baseline qualities
Enthusiastic	Show passion through achievements
Familiar with	Weak; use “proficient in” or “experienced with”
Highly organized	Prove it with accomplishments
Optimize	Vague without specifics
Track record	Replace with actual results
Well-versed	Specify your actual expertise

Need help with your resume? Get a FREE resume evaluation from Mediabistro’s Resume Writing Services. Our counselors and writers can help you update and upgrade your resume so you can confidently apply for the job you want.

Power Words to Use Instead

Replace buzzwords with “action verbs that describe what you’ve done and how those experiences have contributed to your success or the success of the company,” says Eleesha Martin, senior recruiting specialist at G&A Partners.

Action Verb	Best Used For
Achieved	Goals, targets, certifications
Conceptualized	New ideas, campaigns, products
Created	Content, processes, solutions
Decreased	Costs, time, errors
Improved	Processes, metrics, relationships
Increased	Revenue, efficiency, engagement
Influenced	Decisions, stakeholders, outcomes
Launched	Products, campaigns, initiatives
Managed	Teams, budgets, projects
Mentored	Junior staff, interns, teams
Negotiated	Contracts, rates, partnerships
Organized	Events, systems, workflows
Resolved	Conflicts, issues, complaints
Trained	Staff, clients, users
Won	Awards, accounts, competitions

Other Words Employers Love

Beyond action verbs, these terms signal that you’re focused on measurable impact:

Goal-setting — Shows you think strategically
Revenue — Demonstrates business awareness
Under budget — Proves financial responsibility
Self-motivating — Indicates independence
Ideas — Suggests creativity and initiative

Space-Killers to Cut

Keep your resume to one page with these pro tips from Martin:

Ditch phrase redundancies. Remove “responsible for” and “duties included.” These are largely unnecessary and take up valuable space without adding any value.

Remove “References Available Upon Request.” Most recruiters know you have references and will ask about them later.

Kill extraneous information. “If it isn’t pertinent to demonstrating or explaining your skills, qualifications, knowledge, abilities, and accomplishments, leave it off,” says Martin.

Ready to put your improved resume to work? Browse open positions on the Mediabistro job board.

Frequently Asked Questions

What words should I avoid on my resume?

Avoid overused buzzwords like “detail-oriented,” “team player,” “results-driven,” “hard worker,” and “dynamic.” These phrases have lost their impact because every candidate uses them. Instead, use specific action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate these qualities.

What are the best words to put on a resume?

Use strong action verbs like “achieved,” “increased,” “launched,” “managed,” and “created.” Pair these with specific metrics whenever possible—for example, “Increased social media engagement by 45%” is more powerful than “results-driven social media manager.”

What does “results-oriented” mean on a resume, and should I use it?

Results-oriented means you focus on achieving measurable outcomes. However, this phrase is so overused that recruiters skip right past it. Instead of saying you’re results-oriented, prove it by listing specific results: “Reduced customer churn by 20%” or “Generated $50K in new revenue.”

How do I replace “detail-oriented” on my resume?

Rather than claiming you’re detail-oriented, demonstrate it through your accomplishments. For example: “Identified and corrected 15 billing errors, recovering $12,000” or “Maintained 99.8% accuracy rate across 500+ monthly transactions.”

Should I include “References Available Upon Request” on my resume?

No. This phrase wastes valuable space. Employers assume you’ll provide references when asked, so there’s no need to state the obvious. Use that space for another accomplishment instead.

Topics:

Get Hired, Resumes & Cover Letters

Journalism Advice

Hed, Dek, Lede & More: 10 Journalism Terms Every Freelance Writer Should Know

From kill fees to slush piles, here are the publishing terms you need to know before pitching editors.

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published June 2, 2015 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Kristen Fischer

7 min read • Originally published June 2, 2015 / Updated April 6, 2026

When in doubt, ask. Unfortunately, many new freelance writers don’t follow that advice for fear of appearing inexperienced. Instead, they assume that when an editor says a spring cleaning idea is too “evergreen,” she means it’s too environmentally focused—when the term actually refers to stories that are general and not timely.

That’s just one of the many terms you might hear in a newsroom or see in an email from an editor. Below are 10 essential journalism terms every freelance writer should know before pitching.

1. Hed, Dek, and Lede

These three terms are used constantly in journalism and publishing:

Hed — The headline of an article
Dek — The sub-headline that appears below the main headline
Lede — The introductory paragraph(s) of an article

All three are intentionally misspelled so editors don’t confuse them with the actual story text when marking up drafts.

Michael Sullivan, a freelance journalist in Los Angeles, says he often has to write multiple headlines for the same piece. “I feel like I have to title every story I write, like, three different times,” Sullivan says—one for print, one for web, and one for email alerts.

When pitching, make your lede as compelling as possible and try to include a strong hed and dek. You can even use the headline and dek as your email subject line to catch an editor’s attention. For example, introduce a feature about hair loss as: “Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: 7 Steps to Fight Alopecia Before It Starts.”

Even if your titles aren’t used in the final product, writing them demonstrates that you’re willing to go beyond what’s requested—which can increase your chances of landing future assignments.

2. Slug

A slug in journalism is a word or combination of words and numbers used in a publication’s content management system to identify a story.

In a newsroom, every component of a story—whether a two-inch blurb or a 30-inch feature—is assigned a slug so editors can quickly identify pieces as they manage a large influx of content.

As a freelancer, you probably won’t need to create slugs yourself. If you do, check the internal story roster or ask an editor about the publication’s format.

3. FOB and BOB

FOB (front-of-book) and BOB (back-of-book) refer to news items and shorter articles located at the beginning and end of a print magazine.

“For me, the front of book and the back of book seem kind of interchangeable as far as what runs in them,” says Renee Roberson, blog tour manager at WOW! Women on Writing.

FOB and BOB pieces are excellent opportunities for new writers to break in. Magazines rarely assign features to unproven writers, but these shorter sections are often more accessible.

“[Front of book] is one of the few places I might assign a story if I haven’t worked with you before,” explains Abigail Lewis, editor of Whole Life Times. “However, occasionally, if a writer has strong clips and a well-crafted query, we will assign a department or feature.”

Every publication’s FOB and BOB sections are different—New York magazine’s FOB is called “Strategist” and features party roundups and brief Q&As, while its BOB includes reviews and the “Approval Matrix.” Study several issues before pitching.

4. The Well

The well is the middle section of a magazine where you’ll find longer, more in-depth feature articles.

“That’s where all the feature stories are—typically the stories that are put on the cover, the profiles,” notes Roberson.

Want to get in the well? Start by writing smaller pieces in the FOB or BOB sections before pitching feature-length articles. If you’re eager to go in-depth, pitch features to trade or regional publications before targeting national magazines—smaller outlets are much more likely to take a chance on new writers.

5. Slush Pile

The slush pile refers to the mass of articles or query letters that have been rejected—whether physically discarded, set aside, or deleted from an inbox.

The key to keeping your pitches out of the slush pile is targeting the right editor. Mediabistro’s How To Pitch section details which editors at leading publications are open to pitches.

“I have actually Googled some of the editors’ names and have actually found articles where they talked about how to stay out of the slush pile,” Roberson says.

Another tip: Flesh out your query to make it distinctive. Start with a crisp lead sentence and a hook, then outline sections of the article, including data or quotes. “You have to sort of take some time and put a different spin on it,” Roberson advises.

6. On Spec

When you write on spec (short for “on speculation”), you do so without a guarantee of publication. Editors typically request on-spec pieces to see the finished story before agreeing to pay for it.

Writing on spec might make sense if you know an editor and believe you have a strong chance of approval. If you write well and cultivate relationships, editors will want to work with you on an ongoing basis—which may make spec work worthwhile, says Long Island journalist Ellen Pober Rittberg.

However, the practice is risky and time-consuming. Consider pitching another outlet for your idea before investing time in something that may never be published.

7. Over the Transom

An over the transom submission is an unsolicited piece that an editor did not request—you simply send it hoping it will be published.

This strategy is risky. Publications have strict guidelines about what they accept, and submitting work regardless of their rules may suggest you can’t follow directions. You’re also spending time on a story you may never be paid for.

Before proceeding, read the publication’s guidelines to see if they accept unsolicited submissions.

8. Kill Fee

A kill fee is a payment made when an assigned article is cancelled (“killed”) before publication. This can happen if news breaks, another article runs long, or editors decide the story feels dated.

Kill fees are typically calculated as a percentage of the original article fee, as stated in your contract. However, some publications may shelve your article without paying anything.

If you don’t see a kill fee mentioned in your contract, request one before you begin writing to protect yourself.

9. Clips

Clips are published articles from your portfolio of work. The goal is to build a collection that showcases your talent, the diversity (or specialty) of your writing, and evidence that publications have trusted you with assignments.

Chicago-based writer Alicia Eler recommends sending three clips from different publications when requested. “Show that you can vary your voice and perspective depending on the potential audience,” she explains.

As you acquire more clips, update your portfolio regularly—it should evolve as you expand your reach to more prominent publications.

Looking for freelance writing opportunities to build your clips? Browse media jobs on Mediabistro.

10. Closing Date

The closing date (or “close”) is when a publication is being finalized for print. This is typically a hectic time in the newsroom, with last-minute edits happening everywhere.

This is the worst time to pitch or expect a response to anything that isn’t urgent. Do yourself a favor and do not contact your editor during closing. You can find a publication’s closing dates in its media kit.

FAQs About Journalism Terms

What does “hed” mean in journalism?

Hed is journalism slang for “headline.” It’s intentionally misspelled so editors don’t confuse it with the actual story text when marking up drafts or giving feedback.

What is a dek in journalism?

A dek (also spelled “deck”) is the sub-headline that appears below the main headline. Like “hed,” it’s deliberately misspelled to distinguish it from story text. The dek typically expands on the headline and gives readers more context about the article.

What is a lede?

A lede is the opening paragraph or paragraphs of a news article. It’s spelled this way to avoid confusion with “lead” (as in leading a story or a lead role). A strong lede hooks readers and establishes the most important information.

What is a slug in journalism?

A slug is a short identifier (word or phrase) assigned to a story in a publication’s content management system. It helps editors quickly identify and organize stories. For example, a story about city budget cuts might have the slug “BUDGET-CUTS-2026.”

What does “on spec” mean?

“On spec” (short for “on speculation”) means writing an article without a guarantee of publication or payment. Editors may request spec work to evaluate a writer’s abilities before committing to an assignment.

What is a kill fee?

A kill fee is partial compensation paid to a writer when an assigned article is cancelled before publication. Kill fees are typically 20-50% of the original assignment rate and should be specified in your contract.

What does FOB mean in publishing?

FOB stands for “front-of-book,” referring to the shorter articles and news items that appear in the first section of a magazine. These are often good opportunities for new writers to break into a publication.

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Go Freelance, Journalism Advice

Advice From the Pros

What Does a Publicist Do? Responsibilities, Skills, Salary & Career Path

A complete guide to the publicist role, including daily responsibilities, essential skills, salary expectations, and how to break into PR.

By Jenell Talley

Jenell Talley is a journalist and program analyst with a background spanning media, government, and editorial work. She holds a journalism degree from Howard University and a master's in human resources management from the University of Maryland.

6 min read • Originally published March 29, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

By Jenell Talley

6 min read • Originally published March 29, 2017 / Updated April 6, 2026

A publicist is a communications professional who manages the public image of individuals, brands, or organizations. The work covers everything from writing press releases and pitching journalists to handling media crises and planning publicity events. If you’re a strategic thinker with strong writing skills and a talent for building relationships, a career in public relations could be an ideal fit.

What Does a Publicist Do?

“At the most basic level, publicists communicate a business or brand’s messages to the consumers they hope to reach, impact, and influence,” says Sakita Holley, CEO of House of Success PR. “The primary function of the role is to work with the brand to decide what those messages will be, how they will be delivered, who will deliver them (and on what platform), and how to engage and maintain a conversation with this target group of people and/or the market.”

Whether the client is a public figure, a business, a film, or a product launch, the job is fundamentally the same: shape how the public sees them, and manage that perception over time.

Publicist Responsibilities

Daily responsibilities vary depending on the industry and client type, but typically include:

Writing — Press releases, media alerts, press kit materials, speeches, bios, and social media content
Media relations — Pitching stories to journalists and influencers, arranging interviews and press conferences
Image management — Managing and protecting the public image of clients
Event coordination — Planning and executing publicity events such as book signings, product launches, and press tours
Crisis management — Responding to negative press and developing strategies to mitigate reputational damage
Media monitoring — Developing media lists, tracking coverage, and measuring campaign effectiveness
Strategy development — Creating comprehensive PR campaigns aligned with client goals

Is All Publicity Good Publicity?

No, says Holley. But skilled publicists can often spin a negative story into something positive — or, at the very least, control the narrative and minimize damage.

Skills Required to Be a Publicist

“Writing has always been a core part of public relations, but with the proliferation of technology and social media, publicists now spend more than 90 percent of their time writing and/or crafting copy for everything from emails, proposals, and pitches, to tweets, social media captions, and marketing materials,” says Holley. If you want to succeed in this field, you must write well.

Essential Skills

Skill Category	Specific Skills
Writing	Press releases, pitches, speeches, social media copy, crisis statements
Communication	Public speaking, presentation skills, media training, storytelling
Relationship Building	Networking, media relations, client management, influencer outreach
Strategic Thinking	Campaign planning, message development, audience targeting
Problem Solving	Crisis management, reputation repair, quick thinking under pressure
Organization	Attention to detail, project management, deadline management

Attention to Detail Matters

“A wrong number or address can be a big deal,” says Jessica Janik, owner of The Invisible Bridesmaid, a wedding PR agency. “Could you imagine sending out a press release with the wrong contact number or an invite with the wrong address?”

Tools and Technology for Modern Publicists

Today’s publicists need to master a range of digital tools:

Social Media Management

Tools like Hootsuite and Buffer let you schedule posts, track your clients’ online presence, and engage with audiences across multiple platforms from a single dashboard.

Media Monitoring

Platforms like Mention and Brandwatch track who’s saying what about your clients, helping you identify opportunities, manage potential crises, and measure the impact of your campaigns.

PR Software

Industry-standard tools like Cision, Muck Rack, and Meltwater help publicists build media lists, distribute press releases, track coverage, and measure campaign effectiveness.

Contact Management

CRM systems help you manage your network of media contacts, track interactions, and ensure timely follow-ups. In PR, your network is one of your most valuable assets.

Analytics

Understanding the reach, engagement, and overall effectiveness of your PR efforts is essential. Tools that measure media impressions, sentiment, and share of voice help demonstrate ROI to clients.

Publicist Salary

Publicist salaries vary based on experience, location, industry, and whether you work in-house or at an agency.

Experience Level	Typical Salary Range
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 – $50,000
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$50,000 – $70,000
Senior Publicist (6-10 years)	$70,000 – $95,000
PR Director/VP	$100,000 – $150,000+

Note: Publicists working with high-profile entertainment clients or in major markets (New York, Los Angeles) can earn significantly more. Celebrity publicists at top firms may earn $ 150,000 to $300,000+.

Publicist Career Path

Level	Title	Typical Experience
Entry	PR Assistant / PR Coordinator	0-2 years
Mid	Publicist / Account Executive	2-5 years
Senior	Senior Publicist / Account Manager	5-8 years
Leadership	PR Director / VP of Communications	8+ years

Many experienced publicists also start their own PR agencies or work as independent consultants.

What Does It Take to Excel as a Publicist?

“Being confident while speaking in front of a large group of people is so important,” says Janik, who recommends joining Toastmasters to sharpen your public speaking skills. “Articulating your thoughts and your client’s story in front of an audience, your coworkers, and the media will open many doors.”

How to Break Into Public Relations

Education

A degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or marketing provides a strong foundation. However, experience often matters more than your specific major.

Start with Internships

“The best route is applying for an internship at a public relations firm in the field you are interested in,” advises Janik. “If it’s fashion, look for a designer you would like to work with or for the public relations agency that represents brands you admire, and apply.”

Build Your Portfolio

Even before landing your first PR job, you can build experience by:

Managing social media for student organizations or local nonprofits
Writing press releases for campus events
Starting a blog to demonstrate your writing skills
Freelancing for local businesses that need PR help

Ready to start your publicist career? Browse PR and publicist jobs on Mediabistro.

FAQs About Publicists

What does a publicist do?

A publicist manages the public image of individuals, brands, or organizations. They write press releases, pitch stories to journalists, arrange interviews, plan publicity events, manage crises, and develop strategic communications campaigns to shape public perception.

What is the difference between a publicist and a PR professional?

The terms are often used interchangeably. “Publicist” is more commonly used in entertainment, fashion, and celebrity contexts, while “PR professional” or “communications specialist” is more common in corporate settings. The core skills and responsibilities are similar.

How much do publicists make?

Entry-level publicists typically earn $40,000-$50,000, mid-level professionals earn $50,000-$70,000, and senior publicists can earn $70,000-$95,000 or more. Celebrity publicists and PR directors at major agencies can earn well over $150,000.

What degree do you need to become a publicist?

Most publicists have a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or marketing. However, experience and demonstrated skills often matter more than your specific major.

Is being a publicist stressful?

Public relations can be demanding. Publicists often work under tight deadlines, manage multiple clients simultaneously, and must be available to handle crises at any time. However, many find the fast pace and variety of work exciting and rewarding.

What skills do publicists need?

Essential skills include excellent writing, strong verbal communication, relationship building, strategic thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, and proficiency with PR software and social media platforms.

How do I become a celebrity publicist?

Most celebrity publicists start at entertainment PR agencies, working their way up from assistant or coordinator roles. Building relationships within the entertainment industry, understanding celebrity media, and developing a track record of successful campaigns are essential for advancement.

Can publicists work remotely?

Many publicists can work remotely or in hybrid arrangements, especially for tasks like writing, media monitoring, and virtual pitching. However, some roles — particularly in entertainment PR — may require in-person presence for events, photo shoots, and client meetings.

Topics:

Advice From the Pros, Be Inspired

Hot Jobs

Social and Audience Growth Roles Are Redefining Media Jobs in 2026

From indie game studios to legacy newsrooms, the most interesting hires right now center on building communities, not just broadcasting content.

By Mediabistro Team

4 min read • Published April 6, 2026

By Mediabistro Team

4 min read • Published April 6, 2026

The Audience Builders Are in Demand

Something worth watching is unfolding across today’s job board: organizations of very different sizes and missions are all converging on the same hire. They want someone who understands how audiences form, stick around, and grow.

The titles vary wildly. Head of Social at a game studio. Deputy Director of Audience at a storied newsroom. Social Video Producer. Digital Strategy Manager. Strip away the varying naming conventions and you’re looking at the same core competency: the ability to turn passive viewers into active communities.

What makes this cluster especially revealing is where these roles are appearing. An indie game developer wants social baked into its product design. A 127-year-old Jewish publication is investing in audience experimentation. A private school in Atlanta needs someone camera-ready and campus-present. These aren’t interchangeable jobs, yet they all reflect the same industry-wide realization that content alone doesn’t build loyalty – conversation does.

If you’ve been building audiences across platforms and can point to measurable community growth, your skills translate across sectors you might not have considered.

Today’s Hot Jobs

Head of Social at The Game Band

Why this one is different: The Game Band, the studio behind Where Cards Fall and the cult hit Blaseball, is treating social not as a marketing function sitting adjacent to the product. Social is the product. This role sits inside the games team, shaping share mechanics and viral loops during the design process. For anyone who has felt constrained posting someone else’s content on a brand account, this is the opposite end of the spectrum.

Build and manage character-driven social accounts for individual game titles
Collaborate with product and design teams to shape share mechanics and viral loops
Grow presence across TikTok, Instagram, X, and emerging platforms
Write distinctive copy and develop recurring formats, bits, and running jokes that build a recognizable studio voice

Apply to the Head of Social position at The Game Band

Audience Deputy Director at The Forward

What caught our eye: The Forward isn’t just hiring for audience growth. It’s hiring for audience experimentation. This role is explicitly tasked with piloting new engagement initiatives, tracking what works in real time, and contributing to what the organization calls “an audience-centered culture.” For professionals who want to shape strategy rather than execute a predetermined playbook, this is a rare invitation.

If you’re thinking about how to sharpen your approach to social media strategy, the skill set described here is a strong model.

Identify opportunities for deeper interaction among readers, newsletter subscribers, and members
Design and run experiments that test engagement and conversion hypotheses
Support the editorial social presence with fluency across major platforms
Use data, analytics, and audience insights to inform decision-making across the organization

Apply to the Audience Deputy Director position at The Forward

Social Video Producer at The Forward

The case for applying: The Forward is double-investing in social, and this companion role focuses on the visual storytelling side. The job calls for someone who can write, produce, edit, and post social-first video at journalistic speed. On-camera comfort is a plus but not required. What is required: a track record of producing videos that actually reached large audiences. The emphasis on mentoring colleagues who appear in videos suggests this person will shape how the entire newsroom shows up on social platforms.

Brainstorm video concepts, write scripts, integrate graphics, and produce social-first content
Use platform-native analytics to drive audience development decisions
Collaborate with reporters and editors to translate journalism into visual stories
Mentor colleagues who appear on camera, raising the overall video quality of the newsroom

Apply to the Social Video Producer position at The Forward

Digital and Social Content Manager at The Lovett School

Worth a closer look: Lovett is an established Atlanta independent school approaching its centennial, and it wants someone who is equal parts photojournalist and social strategist. This role requires real on-the-ground presence: capturing classroom breakthroughs, athletic milestones, and campus events as they happen, then producing mobile-first content from that material. Covering a school’s centennial celebration is the kind of portfolio-defining assignment that doesn’t come along often. Check out these social media manager success tips if you want to sharpen your pitch for roles like this one.

Capture, edit, and produce mobile-first photography, reels, stories, and short-form video
Write engaging copy for social platforms and digital channels
Play a key role in documenting the school’s 2026-27 centennial celebration and campus transformation
Work closely with the communications team to maintain brand consistency across all platforms

Apply to the Digital and Social Content Manager position at The Lovett School

The Takeaway for Job Seekers

The throughline across all four of these roles is clear: organizations want people who can build two-way relationships with audiences, not just push content outward. If your resume still frames your social media experience as “managed brand accounts” or “scheduled posts across platforms,” you’re underselling yourself.

Reframe around outcomes. Community growth rates. Engagement experiments you designed. Formats you originated that drove measurable audience gains.

The employers posting media jobs today aren’t looking for channel managers. They’re looking for the person who understands why people gather around content and can engineer more of those moments.

Topics:

Hot Jobs