The “Yes” Checklist – what to discuss when an editor says “yes” to your article idea
February 22, 2008 – 12:58 amI use The YES Checklist – what to talk about when an editor says ‘yes’ to an article idea pitch or query – in an online freelance writing workshop that I conduct and have included it in my book on freelance writing for newspapers and magazines. Negotiating these important assignment details up front will save you confusion after the fact.
THE YES CHECKLIST
Keep this checklist handy to help you discuss/negotiate assignment details when an editor says “yes” to one of your ideas. Use it as the basis of an assignment contract or letter of agreement if the editor does not send out contracts or detailed assignment letters.
1. Angle/slant or central idea of the article: Agree on this before you begin; it could change from your query letter idea.
2. Style: Request a style guide or read the publication analytically.
3. Contacts for research/interviews : Both you and the editor may have contacts, so discuss this.
4. Word count: Stick to the agreed word count unless you have more or less material than you thought you’d have; if that’s the case, discuss word count with the editor.
5. Sidebars: If you can sell a sidebar, you may be able to produce extra income. If you don’t know what a sidebar is, find out!
6. Due Date: Discuss and then meet your deadline. Doing so (and delivering a well written article that meets the agreed upon word count) can lead to repeat business.
7. Fact checking contact list: Supply a contact list even if not requested; include interviewee names and contact information; websites visited; research reports read, and so on. You don’t want to be creating one after the fact if the editor suddenly says he needs the list.
8. Photography/illustrations: Something you can do for extra income? Do you have to ask the interviewee to supply pictures? Find out up front.
9. Return of photos/illustrations: Set up a return by date if you need them back (less of an issue as so much is now digital).
10. Method of filing: Email, no doubt; Word file? Probably. But ask how you should submit your article. Embedded in email message? Sent as a DOC, RTF, PDF or even an HTML file?
11. Fee: Per word or per article (with word range)? Some other payment method? You need to know.
12. Expenses : Does the publication pay for long distance calls, travel, lunches you buy the interviewees? Know before you spend money and find yourself out of pocket.
13. Rights sought: First Serial (print) rights: local, regional, national; Electronic (web, database); Translation; Copyright; Moral rights… Know what you are selling, and not selling.
14. Contract or confirmation letter – Is a contract required? If so, who provides it? Is confirmation letter required? If so, who initiates it? If you, use this list!
15. When/who to invoice : No invoice, no pay, in most cases.
16. Payment due: Upon receipt, upon acceptance, or upon publication? Know the differences and know when your money is due.
17. Maximum Time to Publication: Crucial if payment is due upon publication; negotiate payment in full if publication exceeds maximum time to publication, otherwise you wait and wait and wait … and wait for you cheque.
18. Kill fee: Sadly, not every story submitted makes it to press. If your story is killed what is the kill fee? The fee circumstances may change depending on the kill circumstances.
19. What if? What if … you have less/more of a story than discussed; a contact is not co-operative; you need a deadline extension? Ask.
20. Lead: What kind of lead is expected? Anecdotal? Human interest? W5? Question? Scene? Feature style? You can learn a lot through analytical reading, but ask!
21. Editing: To what degree can the editor edit your work (I let editors edit; that’s their job. Not every writer thinks like me.) Do you get to see/comment on/approve the final draft? Do you have to edit based on the editors comments? Discuss this upfront; avoid frustration down the road.
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Paul Lima is a freelance writer, copywriter, business writing instructor and media interview trainer. He is also the author of several books on business writing and the business of freelance writing. His latest book is How To Write A Non-Fiction Book in 60 Days.
3 Responses to “The “Yes” Checklist – what to discuss when an editor says “yes” to your article idea”
This is a great list, Paul. Thank you. It will be very helpful.
By the way, with a last name like Lima, any chance you’re Portuguese like me?
Sue
By Sue Fagalde Lick on Feb 25, 2008
Great list Paul! Thanks.
Just yesterday I had an editor accept an article I pitched. I covered some of the stuff on your list, but there were a few things we didn’t settle — damn! I’ll know for next time though.
Ingrid
By Ingrid Sapona on Feb 26, 2008
Thank you so much for this very useful list! I was referred to this post from the Freelancing for Newspapers blog, and not only did I place your list in a handy spot to refer back to, but I’ve subscribed to your blog’s RSS feed as well. Although, I do wish you offered your RSS as a full feed so I don’t have to click the title of the post to read it in full, but I suppose I can live with that for now.
If your posts grab my attention within the first paragraph, then I’ll click through to read the entire post. 
I do look forward to reading more of your blog, and I’d like to invite you to visit mine when you get the chance.
Blessings,
Misti Sandefur
By Misti Sandefur on Mar 5, 2008