Before you write an article, it’s a good idea to simply query the editor of the publication that you want to get into to see if they’re even interested in your article.

Who do you query at a publication? Aim as low as you can on the totem pole with your query. Try to find out who the editor of the particular section of interest is and query that section editor.

Try to find out how that editor likes to be contacted - whether by phone, mail, fax, or email. These days, more and more people in the media prefer to communicate by email, simply because it’s so efficient.

Your query should be to the point and include the following:

• Let the editor know that you are familiar with their publication and their audience. You will impress editors immensely if you can prove to them that you have read their publication, you’re familiar with the types of articles that they publish, and that you can help their audience.

• Tell them the idea or the snappy headline for your article and why you think their readers should care.

• Ask, “Is this something that you think your readers might find interesting?”

For more helpful tips on how to impress editors and write effective articles, check out How to Write How-to Articles for Newspapers, Magazines, and Trade Journals