As we approach 2008, now's the time to query publications for their upcoming editorial calendars. Not all titles will have them - and they shouldn't be pitched to as gospel. Plenty of pieces get accepted that have nothing to do with how magazine staffs envision content to unfold over the next twelve months.
Still, a magazine's editorial calendar is one more tool a writer can use to pinpoint their targeting, and better their odds of success.
Of particular use to travel writers? Those non-travel mags that run travel annuals. Regional titles like San Francisco and New York Magazine run seasonal getaway guides, and need content; landing an editorial calendar can help you target your pitches on time.
Mediabistro.com has a killer editorial calendar guide, that gets updated for the new year and is available for AvantGuild members. Not a member? Good grief, sign up! (Full disclosure: I do work for MB. But I'd tout AG membership loudly regardless.) Nothing wrong with googling Editorial Calendar 2008, too.
Final thought: asking for editorial calendars is also a great way to introduce yourself to or reconnect with editors, perhaps emailing them for the latest writers guidelines, too: "Hi, I'm XYZ, a freelance writer preparing some queries for your magazine. Could you point me to your latest writers guidelines, and editorial calendar if applicable? Thanks in advance." Nice and easy.
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