Hello Beautiful Nurse Writers,
Last week, I opened up about a part of freelance writing that's always been a tad challenging for me - pitching. It had me on the ropes for a while. It's essential, yes. But was it my jam? Not always.
Then, in a twist of fate, I chanced upon a call for writers and recognized a face from a conference earlier this year. They needed someone with credentials I didn't exactly match. Yet, leaning into my expertise as a PhD-prepared nurse, deeply entrenched in cardiovascular and mental health realms, I shot my shot. And you know what? I nailed it! 🌟
This got my gears turning. Maybe pitching isn’t just about checking boxes but truly echoing your value and showcasing it. But there are still some critical elements of a pitch to have. So, let’s break it down:
Choose Your Topic Wisely
It's crucial to pick a subject you're passionate about. Specializing in a niche ensures you spend less time researching and more time writing effectively. Remember, time saved is money earned! Evaluate the current trends in your niche for timely topics. Revisit past topics and see if there's a fresh angle or update worth discussing.
Catch Their Eye
A catchy title can be the difference between your pitch being opened or trashed. It should be enticing and reflect the core of your article. A title should evoke emotion or curiosity. Test your title on friends or peers to gauge their interest.
The Attention-Grabbing Lead
Your introduction or ‘lead statement’ should be captivating. It sets the tone and gives the editor an idea of what's to come in the article. Consider starting with a powerful statistic or a relatable anecdote. The goal is to hook the reader immediately.
The Nut Graph
This journalistic term refers to a brief paragraph that encapsulates the article's essence. The nut graph should serve as a compass, pointing out the direction of your article. It's a bridge between your lead and the body of the content. What will readers gain from it? Give the editor 2-3 sentences about the essence of the article.
Address the Pain Point
Tell the editor why this piece is essential for their audience. What problem are you addressing and how? What value do you bring? A healthcare/nursing license is absolutely of value in health content writing. Position yourself as a solution provider. Make it clear that your unique background equips you to tackle the subject better than others.
Outline Your Vision:
Provide a rough roadmap of your article - topics you’ll cover, individuals you might interview, and other potential hooks. An organized outline demonstrates your article's depth and thoroughness. Highlight any unique sources or insights that can differentiate your piece from others.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread:
Before hitting send, ensure your pitch is free of errors. Tools like Grammarly can help, but there's no substitute for a good old-fashioned manual check. Errors can undercut your credibility, no matter how strong your content. Set your work aside for a bit and return with fresh eyes for a final review.

Now, cold pitching can be intimidating. But remember to research potential clients and address their pain points directly. Tailoring your pitch to meet specific needs shows your commitment and can set you apart.
Lastly, don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately. Decide on a waiting period that makes sense for you, before you send a follow-up email. And remember, sometimes it’s about finding the right fit for the right pitch.
Until next time, keep shining and writing! ✨
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