WRITING FOR COLUMNS/DEPARTMENTS

One of the overlooked groups of markets is the columns and departments of periodicals. Editors at many of these publications tell me that those are the most difficult sections of their periodical to fill. They simply don’t receive enough good material that meets the topic or length requirements. Each column has at least a general focus, and they tend to be shorter than the other articles they might use on the same topics in their magazine.
Writing for columns has two distinct benefits. Often editors tell me that this is where they find new writers. If a writer can write short pieces well on topics of interest, they are more willing to let them try their hand at the longer articles. Also, if you are trying to establish your reputation in relationship to a certain topic, writing regularly for related columns will help strengthen that reputation. Also look for those publications open to book, music, video, and Website reviews.
Just to clarify, there are two types of columns—those that are written by the same person each issue—and those that are open to freelance submissions. It’s the latter that I'm talking about. I always recommend that writers search the market guide for columns dealing with their areas of interest and highlight those to come back to regularly. In the market guide, look for those periodical listings that have a section designated "Columns/Department." In that section you will find the name of the column, its focus, length, payment, and if you have to query or send a complete manuscript.