If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your name in BuzzFeed News, you’re not alone. This platform is known for its engaging and timely stories that captivate a wide audience. However, getting published there requires more than just a good idea. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to successfully pitch and write for BuzzFeed News, from understanding its unique sections to promoting your published work.
Key Takeaways
- BuzzFeed News focuses on serious journalism, unlike the more casual BuzzFeed content.
- To pitch effectively, choose trending topics and craft a clear, engaging proposal.
- Make sure to follow BuzzFeed’s style guide when writing your piece.
- After publishing, share your work on social media to reach a larger audience.
- Networking with BuzzFeed staff can open doors for future opportunities.
Understanding BuzzFeed News and Its Sections
BuzzFeed News is a distinct part of the larger BuzzFeed platform, focusing on serious journalism. It was created to provide in-depth reporting and analysis on important topics. Here’s a closer look at its sections:
Differences Between BuzzFeed and BuzzFeed News
- BuzzFeed: Known for light-hearted content, quizzes, and entertainment.
- BuzzFeed News: Focuses on investigative journalism and serious news reporting.
- Content Style: BuzzFeed often uses clickbait, while BuzzFeed News prioritizes factual reporting.
Why Choose BuzzFeed News
- Credibility: BuzzFeed News has built a reputation for thorough reporting.
- Diverse Topics: Covers a wide range of subjects, from politics to culture.
- Engagement: Attracts a dedicated audience interested in real news.
Sections Within BuzzFeed News
BuzzFeed News is divided into several sections, each focusing on different areas:
| Section | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Politics | In-depth political analysis |
| Culture | Trends and cultural commentary |
| Technology | Latest tech news and reviews |
| Investigations | Detailed investigative reports |
BuzzFeed News aims to inform and engage readers with quality journalism, making it a valuable resource for those seeking reliable news.
Preparing Your Pitch for BuzzFeed News
Identifying Relevant Topics
To get noticed by BuzzFeed News, you need to focus on topics that resonate with their audience. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Cultural Criticism: Write about trends in culture, entertainment, or technology.
- Personal Stories: Share unique experiences that connect with broader themes.
- Investigative Pieces: Dive deep into current events or social issues.
Researching Current Trends
Understanding what’s trending is crucial. Here’s how to stay updated:
- Follow BuzzFeed News on social media.
- Read their latest articles to see what topics are being covered.
- Use tools like Google Trends to find popular subjects.
Crafting a Compelling Pitch
Your pitch should grab attention. Here’s how to make it stand out:
- Start with a strong title that reflects your story.
- Include a brief summary that highlights the main points.
- Mention why your piece is relevant right now.
A well-prepared pitch can be a powerful tool to get traction and funding for your ideas.
Make sure to keep your pitch concise and engaging, as editors receive many submissions daily. Remember, clarity and relevance are key!
Submitting Your Pitch to BuzzFeed News
Contacting the Right Editors
To get your pitch noticed, email the right editors at BuzzFeed News. Use the address [email protected]. Make sure to include:
- A clear title for your piece.
- A few sentences explaining what your article will cover.
- Examples of points you plan to discuss.
Emailing Your Pitch
When you send your pitch, remember:
- Don’t send a full draft; just share your ideas.
- If you’re new, include writing samples to showcase your style.
- Be concise and engaging in your email.
Following Up on Your Submission
After you submit your pitch, it’s okay to follow up. However, keep in mind:
- BuzzFeed may not respond to every pitch.
- If they pass on your idea, don’t be discouraged; continue pitching new ideas.
- Persistence is key in getting noticed.
Remember, BuzzFeed News is popular and receives many pitches. Stand out by being creative and relevant!
Writing for BuzzFeed News
Adhering to BuzzFeed’s Style
When writing for BuzzFeed News, it’s important to follow their unique style. BuzzFeed values engaging and relatable content that resonates with a wide audience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Use a conversational tone.
- Incorporate humor where appropriate.
- Keep paragraphs short and punchy.
Incorporating Feedback
Feedback is crucial for improving your writing. After submitting your piece, be open to suggestions from editors. Here’s how to effectively incorporate feedback:
- Read the feedback carefully.
- Ask questions if something isn’t clear.
- Revise your piece based on the suggestions.
Ensuring Timeliness and Relevance
Your articles should be timely and relevant to current events or trends. To achieve this, consider the following:
- Stay updated on trending topics.
- Connect your story to ongoing conversations in the media.
- Ensure your piece has a clear news peg.
Writing for BuzzFeed News means creating content that not only informs but also entertains. Your goal should be to engage readers while providing valuable insights.
In summary, writing for BuzzFeed News requires a blend of style, openness to feedback, and a focus on relevance. By following these guidelines, you can create compelling content that stands out.
Promoting Your Published Work
Once your work is published on BuzzFeed News, it’s important to promote it effectively to reach a wider audience. Sharing your article can significantly increase its visibility. Here are some strategies to consider:
Leveraging Social Media
- Share your article on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
- Use relevant hashtags to attract more readers.
- Tag people or organizations mentioned in your article to encourage them to share it.
Engaging with Readers
- Respond to comments and messages from readers to build a community.
- Ask your friends and family to share your article to boost its reach.
- Create a discussion around your article to keep it alive in conversations.
Collaborating with Influencers
- Reach out to influencers in your niche and ask them to share your work.
- Offer to collaborate on future projects to build a relationship.
- Consider guest posting on their platforms to gain more exposure.
Promoting your work is just as important as writing it. The more people see it, the more impact it can have.
By using these methods, you can effectively promote your published work and increase its chances of being seen by a larger audience. Remember, the goal is to create a buzz around your article, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Alternative Ways to Get Featured in BuzzFeed News
Submitting Tips to Journalists
One way to get noticed by BuzzFeed News is by submitting tips to their journalists. If you have information about a current event or a story that might interest them, you can share it. However, keep in mind that your tip needs to be relevant and timely. Here are some points to consider:
- Ensure your tip relates to trending topics like politics or social issues.
- Provide clear and concise information.
- Remember that tips are anonymous, so there’s no guarantee of a mention.
Networking with BuzzFeed Staff
Building connections with BuzzFeed staff can also help you get featured. Here are some effective strategies:
- Attend events where BuzzFeed journalists are present.
- Engage with them on social media platforms.
- Share your work and insights that align with their interests.
Utilizing Community Contributions
If you want to get your content featured, consider becoming a community contributor. This allows you to create quizzes and posts that can be showcased on BuzzFeed’s homepage and app. Here’s how to get started:
- Sign up for the BuzzFeed Community.
- Create engaging and high-quality content.
- Promote your posts to increase visibility.
Getting featured on BuzzFeed News may seem challenging, but with the right approach and persistence, you can increase your chances of being noticed.
Final Thoughts on Getting Published in BuzzFeed News
In conclusion, getting published in BuzzFeed News can be a challenging journey, but it’s not impossible. Focus on creating strong, relevant pitches that connect with current events or cultural trends. Whether you aim to write for the News section or contribute to BuzzFeed.com, remember that quality matters. Keep your writing clear and engaging, and don’t hesitate to share your unique perspective. If you stay persistent and open to feedback, you might just find your voice featured on one of the most popular platforms out there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BuzzFeed and BuzzFeed News?
BuzzFeed is known for fun content like quizzes and lists, while BuzzFeed News focuses on serious journalism and news reporting.
Can anyone submit a pitch to BuzzFeed News?
Yes, freelance writers can pitch their stories to BuzzFeed News, but they need to follow specific guidelines.
What types of stories does BuzzFeed News want?
They look for stories that are timely and relevant, including cultural critiques and features about interesting people.
How long should my pitch be?
Your pitch should be clear and concise, explaining your idea in a few sentences. It’s not about length, but about how well you present your story.
Do I get paid for writing for BuzzFeed News?
Yes, BuzzFeed News pays writers, and the amount can vary based on the type of story and research involved.
How can I follow up on my pitch?
If you haven’t heard back in about two weeks, you can send a polite follow-up email to check on your submission.
