You know, editors are lazy some times. Rather, they are whenever they can afford to be, which isn’t because they have low standards or are nasty little buggers. No, it’s a lot easier than that, they are busy busy busy running the publication, making sure it works out in any possible way. Online editors usually have more than just content in mind, they need to make sure that the traffic is decent enough, otherwise the site will falter as will the cash flow, and with no money to spend on good writers, well, there’s just not much to do then, right?

Basically, editors are lazy whenever they can, because they have a ton of other things to do. I know, having edited both online and print magazines, and I can tell you, it’s hard work! There’s always a time crunch, and always a ton of things to do. More than necessary sometimes, since the editor usually is the one with the grand schemes.

You should take advantage of that, as a freelance writer. The editor’s lack of time means that whenever he can spend some effort, he will. I suck at that, personally, because I suffer from the Swedish syndrome, meaning stay on your side and don’t be presumptuous.

That’s bad advice. If you want to be a successful freelancer, you’ll have to take some space, e-mail editors and follow up with calls if possible. Make sure that people in the magazines and online publications that interest you know that you’re available for work. Keep them posted with what you do, and try to inform them of your work, especially when you feel you’ve done something good. The key is not spamming them with unnecessary information, of course. Make it valid and worth something.

The idea is to be the first person the editor will think of when there’s need of a new writer.

The idea is to be the first person the editor will think of when there’s need of a new writer. If they know you can be working on that crucial piece in a jiffy, then why start hunting for contributors using job boards? The editor will save time just e-mailing you, pitching an article or offering a spot straight up. Remember, the editor will always save time if possible.

It’s even easier online, since you can start proving loyalty to a publication before you’re even starting your campaign for work. Bloggers can link to other blogs, and by doing that creating awareness with trackbacks and kind words. Suddenly you’re an advocate for the publication, you’ve already proved some loyalty without even speaking to the people involved. Achieving the same effect in the print industry will take a lot longer, unless the publication in question is very online aware of course.

So why not save a poor editor some time, and score yourself a writing gig, by announcing your availability? Don’t be shy, not everyone can have the luxury of being contacted whenever a site needs a savior.