Breaking Into the Trade Magazine Market

Looking for writing gigs that pay well and value your expertise? Trade magazines can be a great source of income for freelance writers, and they’re often not as competitive as mainstream publications.

Trade magazines cater to specific industries and audiences, from veterinarians to chefs to software developers. They’re always on the hunt for knowledgeable contributors who understand their readers’ needs.

Whether you’re chasing a byline or offering ghostwriting services, these niche markets can be a lucrative addition to your portfolio.

These tips will help you break into this market:

1. Find Your Niche

Start with industries you already know or are curious about. Do you have experience in education, technology, or health care? Even hobbies like baking or gardening can be a doorway into trade writing.

Pro Tip: Search for “[your industry] + trade magazines” online to find potential publications. For example, a quick search for “cycling trade magazines” leads you to Bicycle Retailer and Adventure Cyclist.

2. Study the Publication

Before pitching, read the magazine’s recent issues. Look for recurring themes, their audience's pain points, and the tone they use. Many trade magazines also post submission guidelines on their websites—follow these religiously.

3. Craft a Tailored Pitch

Editors love pitches that are specific, actionable, and show you understand their readers. For example:

• A bad pitch: “I’d like to write something about marketing trends.”

• A strong pitch: “I’d love to contribute ‘5 Emerging Social Media Platforms Small Businesses Should Watch’ for your digital marketing column. This would include expert quotes and practical tips for staying ahead in the field.”

Let’s take a closer look at two different ways to approach this market: bylined writing and ghostwriting, with steps you can take today to succeed at each one.