Get Quick Clips & Consistent Cash Writing For Newspapers,
Trade Journals, Websites & Regional Magazines Roundtable

Tips to Get Clips and Gain Credibility Quick!

by Michelle Medlock Adams

  1. Enter Writing Contests
    • Some writers' conferences offer writing contests. Take advantage of those opportunities and enter in every category you can!
    • Writer's Digest Magazine http://www.writersdigest.com/contests, Writersweekly.com, the Abilene (TX) Writers' Guild, Colorado Christian Writers' Conference, etc.—all have writing contests.
    • Sometimes magazines such as Ladies Home Journal or even department stores like Kohl's (transformationnation.com writing contest) offer opportunities to enter writing contests.
    • Local newspapers often offer writing contests such as "Tell us about your worst date ever" or "What did you do on your summer vacation?" OK, so even if they're only offering a free year subscription to the newspaper.
    • To learn if a writing contest is legit, go to http://www.sfwa.org/beware/contests.html online.


    • NOTE: Here are a few contests to consider:

    • Get Quick Clips
      • Definition of Clips: Published pieces of writing that showcase your writing talents. When a magazine says, "Query with clips," it means "Send us a query letter and published samples of your writing."
      • OK, so maybe you don't have a journalism degree, and maybe you don't have many publishing credits. In fact, you may have never been published before. THAT'S OK! You can still get published... everyone has to start somewhere. So, celebrate because you are on your way!!!
        • Write an editorial for your local newspaper.
        • Write a column or an occasional feature for your church's newsletter.
        • Write for websites and magazines that offer no other compensation other than publication and free copies. (They probably don't have too many people trying to sell pieces to them since they don't pay. In other words, it'll be fairly easy to get some quick clips at those publications/websites.)
        • Write a letter to the editor for your local newspaper.
        • Write a letter for "Reader Feedback" for your favorite magazine.
        • Take industry newsletters (See Resource handout) which will tell you about the latest writing opportunities—compilation projects, "Chicken Soup for the Soul... books" etc.
        • Write for your alma mater's magazine or newsletter. (Many times, they take submissions from graduates.)
        • Write for Freebie/Regional Magazines
          • Magazines like Elegant Lifestyle (which is really an advertorial sort of publication that is mailed to wealthy home owners) and Fort Worth Child (which is a "take one" free magazine outside of Blockbusters and grocery stores.)
            • The contact information is usually on the inside cover. Simply e-mail the editor a pitch letter, offering your services.

    • Find Writing Assignments in LOTS of Places
      • Visit the online job boards for work assignments. Some of the ones I like are: www.mediabistro.com and www.journalismjobs.com online. Also, go to www.sunoasis.com and www.writersweekly.com online. All feature freelance writing assignments and other writing opportunities.
      • Go to www.ilovetowriteday.org and order How I Made $66,270 in 9 Months Writing for Websites from John Riddle. He teaches all the tricks of the trade for writing for websites.
      • Scan online classified ads from newspapers all over the world, looking for writing assignments. Even if a newspaper advertises for a staff position, offer your freelance services. They may have never considered hiring a freelancer to fill their needs.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: A Christian writer is simply a writer who is a Christian. Christian builders don't just build churches, get the idea? So, get your writing out there. Don't hide your light under a bushel.


close window