Feature pitch

Definition

A feature pitch is a brief proposal that outlines a story idea for a feature article, aiming to capture the interest of editors or publications. This pitch includes the main concept, angle, and why the story is relevant, ultimately persuading the editor to commission the piece. Crafting an effective feature pitch is crucial because it demonstrates a writer's understanding of the audience and the publication’s needs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A well-crafted feature pitch should be concise, typically one page or less, clearly outlining the main idea and its significance.
2. Effective pitches often include elements such as a compelling hook, background information, and potential sources or interviews.
3. Writers must tailor their pitches to match the style and preferences of the publication they are targeting to increase their chances of acceptance.
4. The competitive nature of media means that a unique angle in a feature pitch can significantly enhance its appeal to editors.
5. Follow-up communication after sending a pitch is important; it shows persistence and enthusiasm about the story idea.

Review Questions

• How does understanding your target audience influence the creation of a feature pitch?
  • Understanding the target audience is essential when creating a feature pitch because it helps writers tailor their ideas to resonate with readers. A pitch that aligns with the interests, values, and preferences of the audience is more likely to be accepted by an editor. Additionally, knowing what appeals to the specific publication's readership allows writers to highlight relevant aspects of their story, increasing its chances of standing out.
• In what ways can a strong angle improve the chances of a feature pitch being accepted by an editor?
  • A strong angle can significantly improve a feature pitch's chances of acceptance by offering a fresh perspective on a familiar topic. Editors are often inundated with similar story ideas, so a unique angle sets a pitch apart and showcases the writer's creativity and insight. By highlighting this distinctive perspective in the pitch, writers can engage editors' interest and demonstrate that their story will offer readers something new and valuable.
• Evaluate how following up on a submitted feature pitch can impact the editorial decision-making process.
  • Following up on a submitted feature pitch can positively impact the editorial decision-making process by demonstrating the writer's commitment and professionalism. It shows editors that the writer is eager about their idea and willing to engage in dialogue, which can lead to further consideration of the pitch. Moreover, a polite follow-up might prompt editors to revisit pitches they may have initially overlooked, potentially increasing the likelihood of acceptance and fostering a relationship for future submissions.

Related terms

Angle: The specific approach or perspective taken on a story idea, helping to differentiate it from other similar topics.

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a feature article that grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for the story.

Target Audience: The specific group of readers that a publication aims to reach, influencing how stories are pitched and written.