Believe it or not, online sites and magazines are seeking freelance writers they can rely upon. And if they develop a reliable relationship with them, they’ll use those writers as long as they can. The reason? Reliable writers who can follow direction, think intelligently, and write well without AI are few and far between.

I am one of those editors. I just received a submission from someone new. Oh my goodness, her work was well written, all guidelines followed, and the thought well presented. I bought the article and extended an invitation to submit again.

People, those invitations are worth their weight in gold.

1) Look for guidelines first, then follow them to the letter.
2) Never ask an editor is they are looking for writers. Why do you think the guidelines are out there? Don’t make the editor answer because you are too lazy to. Asking me that earns you instant rejection. . . or no reply.
3) Respect the market by knowing it well. Respect the editor by not asking if you can pitch, telling them how reliable you are, or asking for ideas. Editors are strung out and juggling a lot of balls. They don’t need anymore emails than they already have.
4) Submit completely. Don’t make the editor have to ask questions, or ask for a bio, or ask for your PayPal address, or…anything.
5) Pitch well, as if that one submission dictates whether you are considered for a long-term gig.

You only get one chance to make a great impression. And yes, editors often remember your name. And yes, sometimes they remember you as a permanent NO. Why? Because others will get it right the first time.