How should I approach an editor – with a finished article or an idea?
Most editors will prefer to discuss an idea first. That way they can help shape it, knock it on the head to start with, or provide useful leads. Which can save a lot of time and heartache. Send a query letter or email which outlines the proposal in a way that makes the editor salivate with hope and anticipation. Follow it up with a phone call. Then write it to brief. Having said that, some pieces are very hard to describe or sell over the phone. In which case there is nothing wrong with writing it – bearing in mind the target readership – and sending it speculatively to the editor. Do not presume – some editors are overwhelmed with spec pieces and are in general well stocked with commissioned features. Do not despair – some editors are thirsty for new ideas and most of the stuff that appears on spec is rubbish.
