The art of pitching blog posts to editors has become a crucial skill for writers and marketers alike. A recent survey report sheds light on the common complaints of prominent blog editors, drawing parallels to historical grievances from other editorial fields.
When it comes to pitching blog posts, editors face a myriad of challenges that have plagued editorial interactions for decades. The complaints echo those of magazine editors in the 1980s and journalists in the 1990s, showcasing a recurring pattern of missteps:
- Topics Far Removed: Pitches often veer off course from the publication’s focus.
- Mass-Produced Pitches: Generic pitches that fail to resonate with the publication’s audience.
- Incompatible Angles: Proposals that do not align with the site’s explicit guidelines.
- Lack of Authenticity: Instances of insincerity or outright falsehoods in pitches.
- Dependency on Editors: Requesting editors to provide ideas instead of offering original concepts.
- Missing Credentials: Absence of links to the writer’s bio or previously published work.
- Hidden Agendas: Failure to disclose any underlying motives that may compromise the pitch.
- Quality Concerns: Grammar or spelling errors that detract from the professionalism of the pitch.
Ben Sailer of CoSchedule aptly captures the sentiment shared by many editors, stating, “Over 90 percent of the pitches I receive are low-effort junk.”
Crafting Successful Pitches
To stand out in a sea of mediocre pitches, aspiring contributors must elevate their approach to pitching blog posts. Here are key strategies to consider:
- Research Your Target: Understand the publication’s tone, audience, and content preferences before crafting your pitch.
- Personalize Your Pitch: Tailor your proposal to align with the publication’s interests and needs, showcasing your understanding of their platform.
- Proofread Thoroughly: Avoid common pitfalls such as grammar mistakes or typos by conducting a comprehensive proofread before submission.
By investing conscientious effort into your pitch, you position yourself among the 10 percent of submissions that merit serious consideration. Embracing a proactive and attentive approach to pitching can yield fruitful results and foster lasting relationships with editors.
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital content creation, mastering the art of blog post pitches is a valuable skill that can open doors to new opportunities and amplify your voice in the online sphere.
Remember, success lies in the details. Craft your pitch with care, respect the editor’s time, and let your passion for storytelling shine through.
A graduate of the University of Waterloo, I have been a member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario since 1982 (Now designated Retired). A member of The Association of Ontario Locksmiths, I have been active in the Locksmith trade since 1985
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.