How To Pitch an Article to an Editor in South Africa

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Getting published or being a regular feature writer for a magazine has always been a dream of mine. However, in the freelance world, that is, if you are looking to write articles part-time or to be a Carrie-Bradshaw, it can be challenging to get an opportunity.

My backstory with paid writing

As I was preparing to pitch, l did as much research as possible on how best to prepare and pitch to be published by the magazine. The biggest struggle I had was finding actual pitches, how to approach an editor, the writing process and, how to get paid. Now, I know that if you majored in a writing intense degree/diploma at school that taught you this then great, but if you are dipping your toes into the world of paid writing… buckle up!

Finding editors to pitch to

All you really need to know is, who is the editor and how you can contact them?

A lot of publications have their contributor’s page visible. This is simply that “Write for us” , “Do you want to contribute” or any of these variations. You have to trend carefully when you approach publications though as you might be exploited. Some magazines want to see your portfolio, which is great! A writing portfolio is simply samples of what you have written in the past.

Pitching to write

You now know who to pitch to but how does one actually do it? The first thing to do go over the publication which you want to write for. This way, you will be able to see if it the right fit for you and mostly so that you can pitch the right topic ideas to the editors!

Winning article pitch example

I have been putting my pitches in email bodies as well as attaching a pdf which I have created from canva. This ensures that if the editor wants to print out pitches, put them in a folder or whatever, they have that option. Remember, canva has a lot of great free features and use their easy templates!

My winning sample

Article Pitches by : Lynn Fitho

Topic: Ultimate guide to your self label beauty store

One of the best business ideas is to build a profitable online store. A lot of the stores especially in the beauty niche focus on small trending impulse driven shopping products. The best way to drive traffic, get repeat business and solidify your business is to self label your products.

The article will:

  • Explain the business of private labeling
  • Go over the best and most economical way to create your own private label beauty store and products
  • Interview someone who has a thriving private label beauty store (owner of falima beauty)

(sign off and put your contact details at the bottom).

Good luck!!! While waiting to hear back from editors, start your own portfolio where you can showcase your skill and talent for as little as $3.35 per month

Lynn Fitho

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