Hint #4 Write a killer query

MAGAZINE HEALTH WRITING BASIC 12 part – 4

Some people think they should just write their articles and send them out to publications who will say, “thank you very much,” and send a big check. That isn’t the way it usually works.

First, you send a query letter, also known as a pitch letter, the writers’ version of a sales letter. This is not the same kind of pitch letter public relations reps send, and make sure yours doesn’t sound like one or an editor may say, “thank you very much,” and use it without sending you a check.

Here’s what your query letter should do:

• Present a clear article idea that fits the publication, but hasn’t been overdone or recently done in the magazine you’re pitching or their competitors.

• Show that your style is in sync with the publication’s style, and that you’ve actually read the publication.

• Show why an editor should trust you to report and write the article and deliver it on deadline.

Here’s a 5-part format:

1. Hook. Jump right in and hook your editor with a brief paragraph that could be the lead to your article.  This shows the editor that you can speak to their readers in a style that fits their publication. Remember, as gatekeepers, editors are your first readers. No need to introduce yourself or say why you’re writing to them. Editors won’t care until you hook them.
2. Explain. Briefly tell exactly what you’re proposing. Is it a feature, a short, a service (tips) article? Will it fit a specific section (“Your Health” or “Fit News,” for example). Give your proposed article a working title and provide a thumbnail summary that explains why this story is perfect for this publication right now.
3. Elaborate. What points will your article cover and what sources will you use. The higher up the publication is on the food chain, the more credentialed the sources. For top magazines like Reader’s Digest, Prevention, Woman’s Day, Shape, Cooking Light, Self, or Parents, for example, you’ll want to say you’ll use MDs or PhDs with university medical center cred. And take a quick look at the current research at the top universities or at sites such as PubMed. Drop a few names and studies to prove you know your stuff.
4. Identify. Say who you are here, and tell why you’re the writer for the job. Don’t leak oil by saying why you’re not qualified. Stick to the positives, whatever they are, in just a sentence or two.
5. Close. Briefly close with your own personal call to action. This can be anything from: “I look forward to hearing from you,” to May I write [this article] for you?” to the brief and elegant, “Interested?”

That’s it. Email your query to the appropriate editor at your target publication. If you’re not sure who that is, call the number on the masthead or on the ‘Contact Us’ page and ask. Title your query something like: Health Writer Query: Six ways to get thin, fit and rich without really trying. Then follow up in two weeks with a copy of the original query pasted below. Editors expect and appreciate follow-ups.

Happy Health Writing,

Kathy Summers

[See the full list of 12 hints here: 12 Hints for Magazine Health Writers]