feature article pitch example

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Freelance Article Pitches That Got Accepted

February 21, 2024

In this updated freelance writing tips blog post on magazine article pitch examples, I’m sharing the article pitch template I use in my emails when I pitch magazine editors and freelance clients article ideas . Here are some article pitch examples that worked after I sent them to editors, got their feedback on the pitch, and the final results that turned into successful freelance assignments.

Remember, after you review these magazine article pitch examples, here’s how to find an editor’s name to send your pitch to , and check out these reasons why an editor didn’t respond to your freelance pitch .

You might be wondering which outlets you should spend time writing article pitches for and the types of freelance writing you should start with. I suggest starting with these best freelance writing niches of 2023 .

Examples of Freelance Article Pitch Examples That Sold

Learn how to write freelance article pitches that work with the following article pitch examples. (Get more article pitch examples when you subscribe to my weekly freelance writing newsletter.)

Article Pitch Example: For Potential New Brand Freelance Writing Client

SUBJECT LINE: Intro to experienced content marketing writer and magazine writer

EMAIL BODY COPY:

Hi [EDITOR NAME],

I hope this email finds you well. Congratulations to your team on the first-place win in the #ConV2X competition.

I wanted to introduce myself and inquire about whether Happify uses freelance writers. I’m a content marketing writer with an editorial background somewhat similar to yours at magazines and websites, writing for magazines, websites and content marketing clients since 2006. My focus has been on health, weight loss, and wellness but I particularly enjoy reading about and reporting on psychology topics.

My clients include Headspace, Nike, Oribe, Noom, Alex and Ani, Pfizer, Walgreens, Walmart, CVS and  more .

You can see what clients and editors have said about me on my  clients page  as well as samples of work on my  website . I have also included a few relevant clips below.

I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully working with you in the near future.

Diana Kelly Levey

[INCLUDED RELEVANT CLIPS]

Why this freelance article pitch examples of article pitches for a freelance client worked:

• My subject line let them know that this was an introductory email to a writer
• I included something relevant about the company to show that I was following them and their news.
• I had links to my clients and named some big brands they’d recognize in the email. (Don’t stress if you don’t have many clients and big names to drop: Here’s how to find freelance writing jobs for beginners .)
• I included article examples I wrote for previous clients that were similar to the content they feature on their website. This shows that I already know how to write content in their niche. 

(PSST! You’ll get over 100 tips on why certain freelance pitches worked in my guide 20+ Freelance Pitches That Sold) 

EDITOR’S RESPONSE:

Thanks for reaching out! We do work with freelance writers, and I was impressed with your clips. We’re always looking for consumer-friendly articles that help our 3 million+ users improve their emotional health and well-being, whether that means dealing with loneliness, improving relationships, boosting self-compassion, sleeping better, or setting meaningful goals, among many other topics. What is your rate?

THE FREELANCE ARTICLE PITCH THAT GOT ASSIGNED

[From Diana]

“Could CBT Solve Your Sleep Problems?”

A recent study on inmates found that completing just one hour of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT-1) session was effective in preventing the development of chronic insomnia in 73 percent of prisoners. After one month of the treatment, the prisoners reported a reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Granted, you probably don’t have the same sleep stressors and life concerns a prisoner faces that may interfere with sleep, but that doesn’t mean the average adult should dismiss this therapy. A 2015 study had found that a one-hour cognitive behavioral therapy session led to a 60 percent reduction in insomnia symptoms in the general population.

I just finished editing a 100-page magazine on Sleep for a client and found that many sleep experts suggested CBT to help with a number of sleep issues besides insomnia, from helping seniors deal with sleep problems, to sleep apnea, people who have chronic pain and sleep, anxiety, and more.

I’d like to write an article covering how CBT may be the answer to readers’ sleep problems and how it can improve their overall mental health.

Why this freelance article pitch worked:

• I included a timely study hook.
• I mentioned another study that would support the article’s concept.
• This article pitch example showed that I had experience covering the subject matter.

EDITOR’S RESPONSE

Great to hear from you! We actually use a fair number of CBT exercises in our 4-week sleep track on Happify, and you’re right, there’s a great deal of research around CBT as an effective way to treat insomnia as well as occasional sleep problems. Let’s explore this one further!

Would 12/18 work as a deadline?

FINAL LIVE ARTICLE:

Could CBT Solve Your Sleep Problems?

Get more examples of article pitches and real-world pitches that sold with templates:

“I can’t thank you enough for getting me on the right track with regard to pitching, specifically within my niche. In the past, I’ve purchased books on writing query letters and LOIs, subscribed to newsletters, online communities and classes, and read about pitching in general, but nothing clicked. However, since I began following you and subscribed to your newsletter in these past few weeks, it all clicked. The way you present, explain the hows and why’s, teach, and share actual templates, your method makes all the difference! Just know that you’re the QUEEN of your craft!” -Arnita Williams, customer who purchased a PDF pitch packet

Customers who’ve used the freelance article pitch examples in my pitching PDF and the principles behind them have gone on to write for Glamour, Women’s Health, Muscle & Fitness, Well + Good, Food Network , Equinox, Oxygen, and more.

Should you try freelancing on fiverr? Is fiverr worth it?

What’s in a Winning Article Pitch?

Wondering ‘what does a magazine article pitch look like?’ or ‘what does an article pitch include?’

This freelance writer’s process for writing a magazine article pitch that editors want to read and assign includes these components:

• Timeliness: Why this, why now?
• Suggested headlines: Make sure the headline is in the subject line or high up in the pitch. It should be written in the style of the headlines that the publication uses.
• Who and what will be in the article: Will you interview experts? Will you cite recent studies? Will you interview an author of an upcoming book? Whomever you tell the editor that you’ll include, make sure you have  or can get access to them for the freelance assignment.
• Why it’s the perfect article pitch for them: Make sure the pitch shows that you’ve  done your homework and know their brand. Add in some freelance pitch copy that lets them know how this solve’s their audience’s problems.
• Why YOU should write it: Give the editor a brief background about you and why you would be the BEST freelance writer to work on this particular article.
• Similar article examples (freelance clips) if you have them: Include a few relevant links so the editor can see your writing style.
• If they need to respond within a certain time . If your pitch has a timeliness around an event and you need to pitch to another outlet if you don’t hear from this one, let the editor know that. The freelance article pitch copy could be something like “Due to the timely nature of this story, I need to get a confirmation assignment as soon as possible. If I don’t hear back from you by X date, I’ll assume you aren’t interested and send the pitch to my second choice.” I’d also change your subject line to something like “timely pitch.”

These are just some of the perfect article pitch freelance assignments that I worked on for editors.

Hungry for more examples of article pitches?

Learn EXACTLY how to write a winning pitch that gets the attention of editors and content marketing managers when you order my 20+ Freelance Pitches That Worked PDF .  Following the above pitching approach and those explained in my pitching packet helped me get freelance work from the following clients: Instyle, Men’s Journal and Fitness, Real Simple, Reader’s Digest, Beachbody, Health, Harry & David, TheBump, Chewy, and more. Hungry for more editorial article pitch examples? OF COURSE YOU ARE! Download this pitches that worked guide today and start writing your perfect article pitches.

Tags: article ideas , freelance pitches that worked , freelance rates , freelance writing course , freelancing , how to make more money , magazine editors , magazines , making six figures freelancing , online course , pitches , six figure income , time management , work from home , writing tips

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Work With Me

Diana can help with:

• Writing content
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• Content strategy
• Magazine writing and editing
• Website writing
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Email Diana about opportunities: Diana(at)DianaKelly.com.

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Best Feature Story Pitch Examples (For PR Teams)

When I’m looking for the best feature story pitch examples, I want to see the following:

• Unique and attention-grabbing angles
• Clear and concise messaging
• Personalisation to the target audience
• Demonstrated relevance to current events or trends

In this article, I’m going to break down the best feature story pitch examples to consider.

I’ve found that studying successful feature story pitches can provide valuable insights into crafting effective pitches for campaigns.

My general rule is to focus on the journalist’s interests and needs, rather than just promoting the brand or product.

Without wasting any time, let’s dive in and explore the best feature story pitch examples for PR teams.

Feature Story Pitch Examples (My Top Pick)

After researching and analysing numerous pitches, my top pick for the best feature story pitch example is the “behind-the-scenes” pitch.

In my opinion, this type of pitch offers a unique angle by revealing the inner workings of a company or organisation. It can be tailored to various industries and showcase the human side of a brand. The pitch can pique the interest of journalists who are always looking for exclusive, behind-the-scenes access.

Here’s a feature story pitch example:

Subject: Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access to [Event Name]: A Unique Story Opportunity

Dear [Journalist’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name] and I am the [Your Position] at [Your Company or Organisation’s Name]. I am reaching out to offer you an exclusive opportunity to delve into an upcoming event that we believe will resonate with your readers.

Event Details:

• Event Name: [Event Name]
• Event Date: [Event Date]
• Location: [Event Location]

Our event, [Event Name], is a unique [event type (e.g., concert, festival, conference, etc.)] featuring a diverse array of [relevant event detail, e.g., speakers, artists, industry leaders, etc.] from around the globe. It represents an intersection of [relevant industries or themes], making it a fascinating, multi-faceted spectacle.

What we’re offering is a rare behind-the-scenes access to the [Event Name]. This would include exclusive interviews with [key figures involved in the event], a look into the preparation process, as well as an inside look at what it takes to organise an event of this magnitude.

In return, we would appreciate coverage of the event in your respected publication. We believe this is an opportunity for your readers to gain unique insights into the hard work, dedication, and creativity that goes into planning and executing [Event Name].

Additionally, this backstage access could provide an array of compelling story angles, such as:

• How [Event Name] is shaping the landscape of [relevant field/industry].
• The challenges and triumphs in organising a large-scale event like [Event Name].
• Profile features of key figures participating in [Event Name].
• A day in the life of an event planner/producer/performer for [Event Name].
• The economic and cultural impact of events like [Event Name] on the local community/region.

We understand that your time is valuable, and as such, we would be more than happy to assist in facilitating interviews, providing information, and granting complete access to ensure you have everything you need to craft an engaging and impactful story.

Should this opportunity align with your interests and your publication’s content, please let us know by [specific date], so we can discuss further details and arrange your access.

Thank you for considering this proposal. We greatly appreciate your time and are available to answer any questions or provide additional information as needed.

Best Regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Position]

[Your Contact Information]

9 Best Feature Story Pitch Examples (To Pique The Interest Of Journalists)

1 – the human interest pitch.

Based on my experience, the human interest pitch is a great option for PR teams. This pitch focuses on telling a compelling story about a person or group of people who have been positively impacted by a brand or product. It can be emotional and heartwarming, which can resonate with readers and viewers.

2 – The Trend Pitch

When I’ve seen trend pitches succeed, they tap into the current cultural or societal trends that are relevant to the target audience. This pitch can showcase how a brand or product is adapting to these trends and can offer unique solutions or insights.

3 – The Surprising Statistics Pitch

I’ve found that using surprising statistics in a pitch can grab a journalist’s attention. This pitch can offer a fresh perspective on a topic and can showcase the brand or product’s expertise in a particular area.

Subject: Exclusive Feature Story Opportunity: Uncovering Surprising Statistics That Are Shaping [Industry/Topic]

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out from [Your Company Name], a leading [describe your company briefly]. Our team recently conducted a groundbreaking study on [Topic/Industry], and the findings are both insightful and surprising. We believe this could make for an engaging feature story and are offering you the exclusive opportunity to cover it.

Key Highlights:

• [Statistical Finding #1] – Offer a short explanation or insight on this finding.
• [Statistical Finding #2] – Offer a short explanation or insight on this finding.
• [Statistical Finding #3] – Offer a short explanation or insight on this finding.

Potential Story Angles:

• Impact on Industry/Topic: How are these surprising statistics reshaping the understanding of [Industry/Topic]?
• Behind the Numbers: What factors led to these unexpected findings, and what do they mean for [Industry/Topic]?
• Forecasting the Future: Based on these findings, what predictions can we make for the future of [Industry/Topic]?

We would be thrilled to provide you with full access to our data, images, infographics, as well as interviews with our key team members who led this research. We believe this unique opportunity to bring fresh, statistically-driven insights to your audience will further establish your reputation for publishing cutting-edge content.

Please let us know if you’re interested in pursuing this story or if you have any additional questions. We would be happy to arrange a call or meeting to discuss this opportunity further.

Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to potentially working together to bring this exclusive feature story to life.

[Your Title]

4 – The Timely Pitch

Timely pitches are often highly effective . These pitches tie into current events or news stories and can offer a unique perspective or solution. They can also demonstrate a brand or product’s relevance and awareness of the world outside of their own industry.

5 – The Opinion Pitch

This pitch offers a unique perspective on a topic or issue. It can showcase the brand or product’s thought leadership and can generate discussion and engagement. However, it’s important to ensure the opinion is well-researched and backed up with evidence.

6 – The Local Angle Pitch

Pitching a story with a local angle can make it more relevant and interesting to journalists in a particular area. This pitch can showcase how a brand or product is impacting the local community and can generate interest from readers/viewers who are invested in their local area.

7 – The Celebrity Endorsement Pitch

If a celebrity or influencer has used or endorsed a brand or product, this can be an effective angle for a feature story pitch. It can generate interest from fans of the celebrity/influencer and can showcase the product’s credibility and popularity.

8 – The How-To Pitch

Providing a step-by-step guide or tutorial on a particular topic can be an effective feature story pitch. This pitch can offer valuable insights and information to readers/viewers and can showcase the brand or product’s expertise in a particular area.

9 – The Data-Driven Pitch

Using data and statistics to support a pitch can be highly effective. This pitch can offer unique insights and perspectives on a topic and can demonstrate the brand or product’s credibility and expertise. However, it’s important to ensure the data is accurate and relevant to the target audience.

Best Feature Story Pitch Examples (My Closing Thoughts)

Before moving ahead, I’d recommend keeping in mind the following tips when crafting feature story pitches:

• Offer a unique angle
• Focus on the audience’s interests and needs
• Be personal and relevant
• Showcase your brand or product’s expertise
• Demonstrate awareness of current events and trends

By following these guidelines and studying successful feature story pitches, you can increase your chances of securing media coverage and promoting your brand or product effectively.

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