How To Pitch a Story: With Steps, Template and Example

1. Know the story you want to tell. …
2. Research publications. …
3. Follow the submission guidelines. …
4. Write a clear subject line for an email pitch. …
5. Introduce your story with an engaging opening line. …
6. Explain why they should publish your story. …
7. Include your credentials or qualifications. …
8. Thank them for their time.

This article will discuss how to get your pitch reviewer’s attention as soon as they open your email. We are going to grab your reader’s attention with just the first line of your submission. Additionally, using the example of a story pitch template below, we’ll explain to them why it will sell and why they should choose your story over all the others.

Pitching 101: Storytelling Your Idea

Why is it important to know how to pitch a story?

Knowing how to pitch a story can help professional writers get their work published and build relationships with publishers, editors, and producers. You might feel more assured when approaching publishers if you know the basics and what to expect when pitching a story. It might make it easier for you to succeed in getting your ideas accepted.

Additionally, it’s critical to understand the various story-pitch formats. It’s customary for freelance journalists to email editors with their story pitches. Authors or screenwriters may present their work in person to network producers or directors at writer conferences. Some publishers might demand that authors submit a query letter along with their work.

What is a story pitch?

A pitch is a brief summary of a story that attempts to persuade an editor, producer, or publisher to commission the work (typically no more than 500 words or two paragraphs). Pitch letters are used by writers across industries to persuade publications of their work.

For instance, a journalist might send an email to the editor of a newspaper or magazine outlining an article idea. The editor determines whether the proposed article fits their publication and whether the journalist is qualified to write the piece. Similar to how a screenwriter might pitch a movie script to a producer or a writer might pitch a novel idea to a publisher Regardless of the industry you work in, a pitch typically contains the following information:

How to pitch a story

Here are the steps to pitching your story:

1. Know the story you want to tell

Knowing the story you want to tell is the first step in pitching it, regardless of the industry you work in. List the main narrative components, including the main characters, their actions, the setting, the motivation behind the action, and the events that take place in the story. Knowing the story you want to tell could make it simpler to highlight the key ideas in your pitch.

2. Research publications

Different publications produce content for various audiences. Make sure the material you write is a good fit for the kinds of stories the publication publishes before submitting your pitch. In your research, you should take note of the publication’s target audience, the genre of the stories it publishes, and whether it has previously published any stories on the same or a related topic. You can make sure you only pitch to publications that publish the content you want to write by doing your research.

3. Follow the submission guidelines

Depending on the sector you work in, there may be differences in the requirements for submitting a pitch. Look for any submission guidelines that the publication may have provided as part of your research, and abide by them. The majority of publishers post their submission guidelines on their websites, but if there are none there, you might think about getting in touch with them to get more information. By adhering to the submission guidelines, you can demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, and consideration for the publisher’s expectations.

4. Write a clear subject line for an email pitch

Since many writers email publishers with their pitches, it’s crucial to use a subject line that grabs their attention and describes the email’s purpose. Unless the submission guidelines state otherwise, make it clear in the subject line of the email that it is a pitch by using the word “pitch” Your subject line could include the proposed title for the essay or a succinct phrase that sums up the story’s theme. You can ensure that the publisher doesn’t overlook your email by writing a clear subject line.

3. Introduce your story with an engaging opening line

Though there are various ways to begin a pitch, it’s crucial to grab the reader’s attention right away. You could start your pitch by putting your story’s main idea in a single sentence, by posing a rhetorical query about it, or by describing a scene or action. Be clear in your explanation of the plot’s premise and the angle you intend to approach it from. Instead of focusing on the themes or ideas the story wishes to convey, try to explain what actually occurs in the story.

4. Explain why they should publish your story

After outlining the story you want to tell, justify why the readership of the publication will find it urgent, interesting, or meaningful. Be succinct in your justification, but let the publisher know why their audience might be interested in your story. You could list the key plot points that will keep the reader interested or the primary sources or supporting evidence you intend to use in the story.

5. Include your credentials or qualifications

Editors and publishers may not be familiar with your work because you are a freelancer. You can let editors know about your credentials and pertinent work experience by including a few sentences about yourself near the end of your pitch. You could also include links to your professional website or portfolio in an email pitch so that publishers can learn more about your work.

6. Thank them for their time

Thank the editor for their time and consideration after delivering your pitch. Even if they reject your pitch, you should still be grateful that they took the time to read or listen to your ideas. Building relationships with others in the industry as a freelance writer may be helpful for growing your career over time. Professional connections with publishers and editors may be possible.

Story pitch email template

The following is a sample email pitch for a story:

To: [recipients name]
RE: PITCH: [concise subject line]

Message:

Hi, [first name of recipient],

[One to two paragraphs that briefly describe the topic of your story and why it is appropriate for the publication The opening line grabs the reader’s attention and summarizes the story’s main idea. ].

[A few brief sentences introducing yourself or your credentials. You could provide your contact information as well as links to your online resume or business website. ].

[A brief statement to thank the recipient for their time.]

Thanks,
[Your name]
[Contact details]

Story pitch email example

Here is an illustration of an email story pitch:

Pitch: How One Father Made His Home Kitchen More Sensory-Friendly, To: John Sullivan

Hi John,

I recently got in touch with the father of two autistic boys who had renovated his kitchen to make it easier for his kids to use because they are sensitive to the sounds, smells, and textures that come from cooking. His creative approach has not only inspired his boys to develop a passion for cooking but also strengthened their family relationship. I’d like to contribute a piece on this story to your publication that publishes accounts from parents of disabled children. I believe it would provide your readers with insightful, useful advice while highlighting your magazines humanitarian perspective.

In Charlotte, North Carolina, I work as a freelance food journalist under the name Betty Baker. I have written for publications like Bakers Dozen, Homemade Quarterly, and Home Bakers Magazine. You can find my writing samples here: punctuationandpasta. writerportfolio. com.

If at all possible, if you are interested in the piece, please let me know by Friday at 5 p m. Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.

Best wishes,

Betty Baker
Phone: (888)-888-888
Email: [email protected]

FAQ

How do you write a pitch?

1. Do some pre-reporting. Make sure your pitch is well thought out.
2. Fill in the details. Pre-reporting will assist you in addressing the following issues in your pitch, which Stossel deems essential for a winning pitch:
3. Show off your writing skills. …
4. Have a little drama. …
5. Understand the news value. …
6. Make it timely.

How do I pitch my story to the news?

Be specific Make sure that your idea is clear. Mention any data, case studies, or interviewees you may have in your pitch. Give the editor just enough information to demonstrate that you have a novel idea and the supporting research, without giving away too much. If possible, find a news hook for your story.

How long is a pitch for a story?

Pitch length should generally be limited to a few hundred words in writing or 60 to 90 seconds in person. Another significant distinction between pitching fiction and nonfiction is the amount of advance writing required.

How do you write perfect pitch?

1. Be Human. This one is our number one tip for a reason! .
2. It’s crucial to mention your personal connection to the person you are emailing, so give them a compliment (and make it sincere!).
3. Keep it Short. People are busy. …
4. Proofread. …
5. Show Value. …
6. Be Direct.