87 Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: Making Your Pitch Shine

Hey there, aspiring writers! So, you've poured your heart and soul into an amazing article, and now it's time to send it off to a publication. But wait, what's this? There's another piece of the puzzle: the cover letter. Think of it as your article's personal handshake with the editor. In this guide, we're going to break down what makes a great cover letter for article submission, and we'll even show you a versatile cover letter sample for article submission that you can adapt for your own needs.

Why Your Cover Letter Matters

When you're submitting an article, the editor is likely sifting through tons of submissions. Your cover letter is your chance to make a fantastic first impression. It's not just about saying "here's my article"; it's about showing them why your article is a perfect fit for their publication and why they should be excited to read it. The importance of a well-crafted cover letter cannot be overstated; it's your primary tool for grabbing attention and demonstrating professionalism.

A good cover letter acts as a mini-advertisement for your piece. It should be concise, clear, and highlight the most compelling aspects of your article. Think of it like a movie trailer – it needs to be exciting enough to make someone want to see the whole film (or read the whole article!).

  • Personalization: Address the editor by name if possible.
  • Conciseness: Get to the point quickly.
  • Relevance: Explain why your article fits their publication.
  • Enthusiasm: Show your passion for the topic.

Here's a quick rundown of what to include, presented in a handy list:

  1. Your contact information.
  2. Date.
  3. Editor's contact information (if available).
  4. A polite salutation.
  5. A brief introduction of yourself and your article.
  6. Why your article is a good fit for their publication.
  7. A sentence or two about what makes your article unique.
  8. Your call to action (e.g., expressing hope for consideration).
  9. A professional closing.

Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: To a General Interest Magazine

  1. [Your Name]
  2. [Your Address]
  3. [Your Phone Number]
  4. [Your Email Address]
  5. [Date]
  6. [Editor's Name, if known, otherwise "Editor"]
  7. [Magazine Name]
  8. [Magazine Address]
  9. Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Editor's Last Name, or "Editor"],
  10. I am writing to submit my article, "[Article Title]," for your consideration.
  11. This piece explores [briefly explain the topic of your article].
  12. I believe it would resonate strongly with your readership because [explain the connection to the magazine's audience].
  13. My article offers [mention a unique angle or benefit for the reader].
  14. I have attached the full manuscript for your review.
  15. Thank you for your time and consideration.
  16. Sincerely,
  17. [Your Typed Name]
  18. [Your Website/Portfolio Link (Optional)]
  19. [Your Social Media Handle (Optional)]

Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: For a Niche Blog

  1. [Your Name]
  2. [Your Email Address]
  3. [Date]
  4. [Blog Name] Editor
  5. [Blog's Contact Email]
  6. Dear [Blog Name] Team,
  7. I'm a long-time admirer of [Blog Name] and its insightful coverage of [blog's niche].
  8. I've just completed an article titled "[Article Title]," which delves into [specific aspect of the niche].
  9. Given your recent post on [mention a related blog post], I think my article offers a complementary perspective.
  10. It provides actionable advice on [benefit to the reader].
  11. I've included the article as a Word document below.
  12. I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Blog Name].
  13. Best regards,
  14. [Your Name]
  15. [Link to your relevant blog post or website]
  16. [Your Twitter handle]

Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: For a News Outlet

  1. [Your Name]
  2. [Your Phone Number]
  3. [Your Email Address]
  4. [Date]
  5. News Desk
  6. [News Outlet Name]
  7. [News Outlet Address]
  8. Dear News Desk,
  9. I am writing to pitch a timely article titled "[Article Title]" that I believe is of immediate relevance to your audience.
  10. The piece addresses [current event or trending topic].
  11. My reporting includes [mention a unique source or data point].
  12. I believe this story offers a fresh angle on [the topic].
  13. The full article is attached for your review.
  14. I am available for an interview to discuss this further.
  15. Thank you for your prompt attention.
  16. Sincerely,
  17. [Your Name]
  18. [Your LinkedIn Profile]

Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: To a Literary Journal

  1. [Your Name]
  2. [Your Address]
  3. [Your Email Address]
  4. [Date]
  5. Poetry Editor / Fiction Editor / Nonfiction Editor (whichever applies)
  6. [Journal Name]
  7. [Journal Address]
  8. Dear [Editor's Title and Last Name],
  9. It is an honor to submit my [poem/short story/essay] titled "[Title of Work]" for your esteemed journal.
  10. [Journal Name]'s commitment to [mention a specific aspect of the journal's focus] deeply resonates with my own writing.
  11. My submission explores themes of [mention themes] through [briefly describe style/technique].
  12. I have followed the work of [mention a writer featured in the journal] with great admiration.
  13. The manuscript is attached for your consideration.
  14. Thank you for this opportunity.
  15. With respect,
  16. [Your Name]

Cover Letter Sample for Article Submission: As a Freelancer

  1. [Your Name]
  2. [Your Portfolio Website]
  3. [Your Email Address]
  4. [Date]
  5. Hiring Manager / Editor
  6. [Company Name]
  7. [Company Address]
  8. Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name, or Hiring Manager],
  9. I am a freelance writer specializing in [your specialization] and I am eager to contribute to [Company Name]'s content.
  10. I have a proven track record of creating engaging articles on topics such as [mention relevant topics].
  11. My recent work includes a piece on [mention a successful past article or project].
  12. I am confident that my writing style and ability to [mention a key skill] would be a valuable asset to your team.
  13. I have attached my resume and a few writing samples for your review.
  14. I am available to discuss potential projects at your convenience.
  15. Thank you for your consideration.
  16. Best regards,
  17. [Your Name]
  18. [Your LinkedIn Profile]

Crafting a compelling cover letter might seem like an extra chore, but it's a crucial step in getting your article noticed. By tailoring your letter to each publication and clearly articulating the value of your work, you significantly increase your chances of success. Remember, your cover letter is your ambassador, so make sure it makes a great impression!

Other Articles: