Tip #1 from How to Increase Your Chances of Publication

When I first encountered this tip, I thought it sounded too technical. I thought: “Bah-humbug! A great artist-writer will get published no matter what.”

Yes, a good writer will definitely get published. But, not without doing one’s homework first.

Are you looking into publishing your poetry? Your stories? Your ‘How to be A Good Mommy’ article? Then, go ahead and zoom in at the right market. Collect writers’ guidelines. Yes, print them out if they’re on the web or email. Don’t forget to read issues of that magazine or web site. Check out what the editors like. Do they prefer love stories, friendship poems, or true confessions?

You see, no matter how good your work is, the editor won’t be interested in publishing it if it doesn’t meet their publication’s requirements.

Here are some places to look for writers’ guidelines:

* Writers’ Digest - http://www.writersdigest.com/
* Freelance Writing - http://www.freelancewriting.com/
* Worldwide Freelance Writer - http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/
* Writers Weekly - http://www.writersweekly.com/

Do take note that these are some of the more popular sites for writers. So, expect to compete with thousands of other writers wishing to get published. Just remember that these are not the only places to get writers’ guidelines, though. Keep hunting around for them!

In my case, while I do collect guidelines from these sites and follow some of the leads, I get most of my writing assignments through local web sites and publications. The good part about ‘going local’ is that there are less competition and more chances of repeat assignments.

Your Assignment: Collect at least three writer’s guidelines today. You may choose to visit the sites I’ve mentioned or some of your local publications. It’s best to write for publications that you regularly read or visit. So, do check which ezines, web sites, or newspapers that you are already subscribed to. Are they open for submissions? If guidelines are not readily available, you always have the option of writing to the editor.