Know-How Exchange : Strategy

Here are some ideas to increase your likelihood of success:

- You are already researching the publications you will target. In that research, you should make note of the editorial deadlines and topics. For example, you may see that the April issue of a certain magazine is focusing on Search Engine Optimization (SEO). If you're content addresses SEO, then you will increase your likelihood of success by lining your article up with that topic. When communicating with the publications, highlight the fact that your article specifically addresses the issue they are looking to bring focus to. That makes it even more relevant to the publication and its audience.

- In both your written and verbal communications, focus on communicating why your article is relevant to the publication. The publication is driven by two primary goals: 1.)serving as a key source of category-related information, and 2.) attracting and maintaining readership(or site visits if online). You will increase your chance of success by illustrating how your article can do both: 1.) offer credible and relevant information, and 2.) grab of the interest of the target audience.

- Do things that increase your chances in the future. Rapport and familiarity with the decision makers will always help. There are gatekeepers and editors that determine whether your article is a keeper or just another submission, and using those people as a resource will definitely increase your likelihood of success. If John Doe is the editor I am speaking with, and he opts not to publish my article at a certain time, I can still take advantage of an introduction/contact that can help me in the future. He may see an editorial topic or content opportunity that fits my article/expertise better, and past contact made with him can weigh favorably for me in the future. I say this to say that it helps to have conversations and receive feedback that makes you more than just another submission.


Getting articles published can be difficult given the number of submissions that many publications/sites receive. However, there are tactics you can use to increase your chances. I hope you will benefit from the general methods and concepts that are included above.