Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Land of the Queries

I am approaching my one-year anniversary of this freelance writing endeavor, and one thing has become evident -- the work comes in waves. Editors are planning (or already have completed planning) for their larger holiday issues, so I am scrambling to get my last assignments for the year. And in order to sustain the tide of invoices and subsequent checks, I have to contact numerous editors with what I have that could fit their editorial needs. This means that I am in the ***over-the-top 1960s announcer voice*** LAND OF THE QUERIES.

What, you say? Don't editors just naturally send you assignments once they see your writing clips and resume?? Well, more than not these days, the answer is no. No, editors want to see not only that you can write well, but that you understand the magazine and understand your subject matter and the best way to do this is to let you send good ideas their way. If you are familiar enough with the magazine and familiar enough with the subject on which you're proposing to write and lucky enough to get the idea to the right person -- well, lightning might strike and you just might get an assignment off of your idea, usually after some back-and-forth e-mail tweaking of the subject.

I am not going to clutter the web anymore with discussion about what makes the best queries or how to get editors to notice you. I think these discussions are futile, and well, much like a job interview, it's really a lot more about preparation, contacts, and genuine fit than about any other mojo, tricks or secrets. Oh, yeah, and a healthy dose of optimism, which keeps me sending out those e-mails despite the fact that most never garner a response.

Still, when it all comes together, it can be very satisfying. So far it's worth it. :)

Friday, July 3, 2009

Thanks to Janna and Larry Sprinkle

Last Friday, Janna alerted us that she'd seen Wicked Charlotte on the morning show. Miraculously, she a) recognized the book in a quick flash b) knew the name of it although its total sold copies are 15 or so, and c) was awake enough while getting ready for work to not only pay attention to the segment, but be quick! Thanks Janna!

It seems that Al Roker was in Charlotte last week promoting a charity, and appeared with long-time local weatherman Larry Sprinkle. Larry gave Al a basket of Charlotte goodies, including my book Wicked Charlotte, which they held up and discussed. Random. Funny. As always, thankful.

Oh, and thanks to Holly for providing the following lovely screenshot: