How to Get Published in Polygon

If you’re looking to get your work published in Polygon, understanding their guidelines and editorial focus is key. This article will guide you through the steps needed to create a successful pitch and navigate the submission process. You’ll learn about what types of content Polygon accepts, how to craft a compelling pitch, and what to expect after you submit your work.

Key Takeaways

• Polygon accepts original reporting, essays, reviews, and opinion pieces.
• A strong and catchy headline can make your pitch stand out.
• Follow the submission guidelines closely to avoid rejection.
• Be prepared for revisions and feedback from editors after submission.
• Building a good relationship with Polygon can lead to more opportunities.

Outsource getting Digital PR to our A+ Team of Media Experts

Get started now

Understanding Polygon’s Editorial Focus

Polygon has a unique approach to its editorial content, focusing on specific types of articles that resonate with its audience. Understanding what Polygon looks for can greatly enhance your chances of getting published.

Types of Content Accepted

• Original Reporting: Articles that provide fresh insights or news.
• Essays: Thoughtful pieces that explore themes in gaming and entertainment.
• Reviews: In-depth evaluations of games, hardware, and related media.
• Op-Eds: Opinion pieces that offer a unique perspective on current issues.

Content Not Accepted

Polygon is selective about the content it publishes. Here are some types of submissions they do not accept:

1. Prewritten pieces that are not tailored to their audience.
2. AI-generated articles or artwork.
3. Fictional works, including short stories.

Target Audience

Polygon’s audience consists mainly of gaming enthusiasts and pop culture fans. They seek content that:

• Engages with current trends in gaming and entertainment.
• Offers new insights or perspectives.
• Is relatable and accessible to a broad range of readers.

Polygon aims to create a community where readers can find engaging and thoughtful content about the games and media they love.

By aligning your pitch with Polygon’s editorial focus, you can increase your chances of being published and reaching a dedicated audience.

Crafting a Compelling Pitch for Polygon

Importance of a Strong Headline

A catchy headline is crucial when pitching to Polygon. Your headline should summarize your main idea and grab attention. Think of it as the first impression; it needs to be strong enough to make editors want to read more.

Key Elements of a Successful Pitch

When crafting your pitch, consider including these key elements:

1. Clear Topic: Define what your article will cover.
2. Unique Angle: Explain why your perspective is different or interesting.
3. Target Audience: Identify who will benefit from your piece.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes when pitching:

• Submitting prewritten articles. Polygon prefers to work with writers on developing ideas.
• Proposing topics that lack a fresh perspective, like contrarian takes without evidence.
• Forgetting to include a clear takeaway or conclusion in your pitch.

Remember, a well-thought-out pitch can set you apart from other writers. Focus on clarity and originality to increase your chances of getting published!

In summary, a successful pitch to Polygon requires a strong headline, clear content, and an understanding of what the publication seeks. Avoid common pitfalls to enhance your chances of acceptance. For example, a pitch titled “Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred is Good, but It’s No Loot Reborn“ could effectively highlight a unique perspective on a popular game expansion.

Submitting Your Pitch to Polygon

When you’re ready to share your ideas with Polygon, it’s important to know how to do it right. Here’s a guide to help you through the process.

Where to Send Your Pitch

Make sure you send your pitch to the correct email based on your topic:

• Entertainment (movies, TV, comics, books): [email protected]
• Video games: [email protected]
• Tabletop games: [email protected]

Formatting Guidelines

To ensure your pitch stands out, follow these formatting tips:

1. Keep it concise: Aim for clarity and brevity in your writing.
2. Include a strong headline: This is your first chance to grab attention.
3. Attach relevant work: Include links to your previous articles or portfolio.

Response Time and Follow-Up

After you submit your pitch, here’s what to expect:

• Response Time: Polygon receives many pitches, so it may take time to hear back.
• Follow-Up: If you haven’t heard back in a few weeks, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email.

Remember, the entire game is about positioning your ideas effectively. Make sure your pitch is tailored to Polygon’s audience and style.

Navigating Polygon’s Editorial Process

What Happens After Submission

After you submit your pitch, the editorial team at Polygon will review it. They aim to respond quickly, but it may take some time depending on their workload. If your pitch is accepted, you will be contacted to discuss the next steps.

Working with Editors

Once your pitch is accepted, you will collaborate with an editor. This process includes:

• Discussing your ideas in detail.
• Receiving feedback to improve your piece.
• Making necessary revisions based on the editor’s suggestions.

Revisions and Final Approval

After you submit your draft, the editor will review it again. They may ask for further changes to ensure it meets Polygon’s standards. Once all revisions are complete, you will receive final approval before publication. This step is crucial for maintaining quality.

Getting Paid for Your Work

Payment Terms and Methods

When you get your work accepted by Polygon, you will be paid fairly for your efforts. Here are some key points about payment:

• Payments are usually made within 30 days after publication.
• You will receive your payment through a platform called Shortlist.
• If you have any expenses related to your work, you can get reimbursed for those as long as they are approved in advance.

Reimbursement for Expenses

If you incur any costs while working on your piece, you can ask for reimbursement. Here’s how it works:

1. Get approval for any expenses before you spend money.
2. Keep all your receipts and documents related to the expenses.
3. Submit your reimbursement request through the Shortlist platform.

Adding Your Bio and Social Media Links

Once your work is published, you can enhance your author profile by adding:

• A short bio about yourself.
• Links to your social media accounts.
• Any other relevant information that showcases your work.

Remember: Clear communication is key. If you have questions about payment or expenses, don’t hesitate to reach out to your editor.

In summary, Polygon values your contributions and ensures that you are compensated fairly and promptly for your work. Understanding the payment process will help you focus on creating great content without worrying about the financial side.

Maintaining Professionalism and Ethics

Conflict of Interest Policies

Maintaining a clear boundary is essential. Polygon has strict rules to avoid conflicts of interest. Here are some key points:

• Disclosure: If a writer has a financial stake in a company, they must disclose it.
• Previous Employment: Writers cannot cover companies they have worked for in the past.
• Relationships: If a writer’s partner works for a company, they must also disclose this.

Corrections and Retractions

Polygon values accuracy. If a mistake is found in a published article, they will:

1. Correct the error.
2. Not remove the story.
3. Ensure transparency about the correction.

Advertising and Affiliate Links

Polygon has clear guidelines regarding advertising:

• They do not accept payment for favorable reviews.
• All ads are clearly marked.
• Affiliate links are used, but they do not influence editorial content.

Professionalism is key in journalism. Always be honest and transparent in your work to maintain trust with your audience.

Building a Long-Term Relationship with Polygon

Creating a lasting connection with Polygon can be beneficial for both you and the platform. Here are some key points to consider:

Consistent Quality and Reliability

• Always deliver high-quality content that aligns with Polygon’s standards.
• Meet deadlines to build trust with the editorial team.
• Engage with feedback positively to improve your work.

Networking with Polygon Staff

• Attend events or webinars hosted by Polygon to meet the team.
• Connect with editors and writers on social media platforms.
• Share your work and insights to get noticed by the staff.

Opportunities for Future Work

• Stay updated on Polygon’s content needs and trends.
• Pitch new ideas regularly to show your enthusiasm.
• Be open to collaboration on special projects or series.

Building a strong relationship with Polygon is not just about getting published; it’s about becoming a valued member of their community. Engagement and quality are key.

By following these steps, you can create a fruitful partnership with Polygon that may lead to more opportunities in the future.

Final Thoughts on Getting Published in Polygon

Getting your work published in Polygon can be a great chance for writers who love games and entertainment. Remember to focus on your main idea and create a catchy headline that grabs attention. Make sure your pitch is fresh and fits what Polygon is looking for. Don’t forget to follow their guidelines closely. With some effort and creativity, you could see your name in their articles. Good luck, and happy writing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of articles does Polygon want?

Polygon looks for unique articles like news stories, essays, reviews, and opinion pieces. They want original ideas that connect with their readers.

What types of articles will Polygon not accept?

Polygon won’t accept pre-written pieces, AI-generated content, fiction stories, or interviews without a strong angle. They also don’t want unsolicited reviews of movies or books.

Where should I send my article ideas?

You can send your pitches to different email addresses based on the topic: for entertainment, use [email protected]; for video games, use [email protected]; and for tabletop games, use [email protected].

What should I include in my pitch?

Make sure your pitch has a catchy headline and clearly explains your main idea. It should show that you’ve thought about what the readers will find interesting.

How long does it take to hear back after submitting?

Response times can vary, but it’s a good idea to wait a few weeks before following up if you haven’t heard back.

What happens after my article is accepted?

Once your article is accepted, you will work with editors on revisions. After final approval, you’ll be paid and can add a short bio and your social media links.