Work Smart: Letter of Introduction

“Work smart” is a phrase we hear a lot, in both the business world and in life. I’m constantly looking for advice that will help me “work smarter” in my home and in my writing life.

A couple of years ago, I saw a copy of a beautiful magazine that covered arts, travel, dining, and entertainment in my region. I skimmed through the issue and thought of several ideas I wanted to pitch to the editor. Yet I wasn’t sure what angle she was looking for, and since I’d only seen one copy of the magazine (and there weren’t any issues archived online), I didn’t know what they’d already featured.

So I sent the editor an email, introducing myself as a local freelance writer, willing to help her out in any way she needed.

Using bullet points, I pitched about five brief article ideas, all stemming from a hometown angle, and said I was available to interview local residents. I heard back from her immediately, and she asked me to snail mail her some of my clips. So I sent copies of a few of my columns and articles, along with a cover letter.

This brief introduction was the beginning of a good working relationship with this editor. She assigned me a short business profile and then a few stories featuring upcoming events. When she saw how I handled those, she began to assign me longer pieces, and eventually I pitched several of my own ideas, resulting in some nice clips for my portfolio.

A “letter of introduction” may help you work smart in your writing life by:

• Demonstrating your knowledge of how the publishing industry works.
• Showing an editor your long-term interest in the publication, not for just one story.
• Getting your foot in the door by showing your willingness to write whatever is needed.

If you’re trying to break into a new publication, a power-packed letter of introduction may be just the ticket you need to start your journey.

P.S. I wish all of you moms a Happy Mother’s Day!