Feature Writing

✍️Feature Writing Unit 15 – Pitching and Publishing Features

Feature pitching is a crucial skill for writers seeking to publish their work. It involves crafting compelling story ideas, understanding publications' needs, and presenting proposals that captivate editors. Success in pitching requires research, creativity, and persistence. Mastering the art of feature pitching opens doors to exciting writing opportunities. From identifying marketable ideas to navigating rejections, writers must hone their skills in crafting query letters, timing submissions, and addressing legal and ethical considerations.

Key Concepts in Feature Pitching

  • Feature pitching involves proposing a story idea to an editor in hopes of securing a writing assignment
  • Requires a clear understanding of the publication's target audience, editorial focus, and submission guidelines
  • Pitches should be concise, engaging, and demonstrate the writer's ability to deliver a well-researched and compelling story
  • Timing is crucial when pitching seasonal or timely stories to maximize relevance and chances of acceptance
  • Building relationships with editors through professional communication and consistent quality work can lead to future opportunities
  • Persistence and adaptability are essential qualities for success in feature pitching, as rejections are common and ideas may need refinement
  • Legal and ethical considerations, such as avoiding conflicts of interest and respecting copyright laws, are paramount when pitching and writing feature stories

Identifying Marketable Story Ideas

  • Recognize current trends, events, and issues that align with the interests of the target publication and its readers
  • Seek unique angles or fresh perspectives on familiar topics to stand out from other pitches
  • Consider the timeliness and relevance of the story idea to the publication's editorial calendar and upcoming themes
  • Identify potential sources, experts, or characters who can provide valuable insights and compelling narratives
  • Assess the feasibility of the story idea in terms of research, access to sources, and the writer's ability to deliver a well-crafted feature
  • Evaluate the potential impact and significance of the story, considering its ability to inform, entertain, or inspire readers
  • Brainstorm multiple ideas to increase chances of acceptance and demonstrate versatility as a writer

Researching Publications and Their Audiences

  • Study the publication's mission statement, editorial focus, and target demographics to ensure the pitch aligns with their goals
  • Read several recent issues or articles to familiarize oneself with the publication's style, tone, and preferred topics
  • Identify the appropriate editor or section to pitch the story idea based on their specific areas of interest and responsibility
  • Analyze the publication's advertising content to gain insights into their target audience's preferences and purchasing habits
  • Review the publication's submission guidelines for specific requirements, such as word count, formatting, and preferred methods of communication
  • Research the publication's freelance policies, pay rates, and rights agreements to ensure fair compensation and protection of the writer's work
  • Follow the publication and its editors on social media to stay informed about their latest interests, initiatives, and upcoming issues

Crafting a Compelling Pitch

  • Begin with a strong, attention-grabbing headline that encapsulates the essence of the story and entices the editor to read further
  • Provide a brief, engaging summary of the story idea, highlighting its unique angle, timeliness, and relevance to the publication's audience
  • Demonstrate the writer's expertise, access to sources, and ability to deliver a well-researched and compelling feature
  • Include a proposed outline or structure for the story, showcasing the writer's organizational skills and narrative flow
  • Offer a selection of potential interviewees, experts, or characters who can provide valuable insights and engaging perspectives
  • Suggest possible sidebars, infographics, or multimedia elements that can enhance the story's impact and visual appeal
  • Conclude with a confident, professional tone that expresses enthusiasm for the story and a willingness to collaborate with the editor to refine the idea if needed

Elements of a Professional Query Letter

  • Address the editor by name and title, demonstrating the writer's research and attention to detail
  • Open with a strong, concise paragraph that introduces the story idea and captures the editor's interest
  • Provide a brief background on the topic, explaining its significance and relevance to the publication's audience
  • Outline the proposed scope and structure of the feature, including estimated word count and potential sources
  • Highlight the writer's qualifications, relevant experience, and ability to deliver a polished, well-researched piece
  • Include links to writing samples or a portfolio that demonstrate the writer's style, versatility, and professionalism
  • Express appreciation for the editor's time and consideration, and provide contact information for follow-up communication

Timing and Submission Strategies

  • Research the publication's lead times and editorial calendar to ensure pitches are submitted well in advance of relevant issues or themes
  • Be mindful of seasonal content and pitch ideas accordingly, allowing ample time for research, writing, and revisions
  • Consider the editor's workload and avoid pitching during busy periods, such as close to publication deadlines or major holidays
  • Follow up on pitches promptly and professionally, allowing a reasonable amount of time for the editor to review and respond
  • Be open to feedback and suggestions from the editor, and be willing to refine the pitch or adapt the story angle as needed
  • Keep track of submitted pitches and their status, and withdraw pitches if the story is accepted elsewhere or no longer timely
  • Cultivate relationships with editors through consistent, high-quality work and professional communication, increasing the likelihood of future assignments
  • Understand that rejections are a common part of the pitching process and do not necessarily reflect the quality of the writer's work
  • Analyze rejected pitches for potential weaknesses or misalignment with the publication's needs, and use this feedback to improve future pitches
  • Consider alternative publications or media outlets that may be a better fit for the rejected story idea
  • Follow up on pitches professionally and sparingly, allowing editors sufficient time to review and respond
  • If a pitch is rejected, thank the editor for their consideration and express interest in future opportunities to collaborate
  • Continuously generate new story ideas and pitches to maintain a steady flow of potential assignments and minimize the impact of rejections
  • Persist in the face of rejection and maintain a positive, resilient attitude, recognizing that success in feature writing often requires perseverance and adaptability
  • Ensure that all sources are properly attributed and that any quotes or information are accurate and not taken out of context
  • Obtain written consent from sources when necessary, particularly when dealing with sensitive or controversial topics
  • Respect the privacy and confidentiality of sources, and be transparent about the intended use and publication of their information
  • Avoid conflicts of interest, such as writing about subjects in which the writer has a personal or financial stake, without proper disclosure
  • Adhere to copyright laws and obtain permission to use any protected material, such as images, quotes, or excerpts from other publications
  • Fact-check all information thoroughly and be prepared to provide documentation or evidence to support the story's claims
  • Maintain journalistic integrity by resisting pressure from advertisers, sponsors, or other external influences that may attempt to shape the story's content or angle
  • Disclose any potential biases or limitations in the writer's perspective or access to information, allowing the editor and readers to assess the story's credibility


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.