Make Money From Readers' Letters

An Extra Stream of Income for the Freelance Writer

Readers’ letters, which appear in most newspapers and magazines, can be an extra form of income for both the beginner and experienced freelance writer.

Why Write Readers’ Letters?

Readers’ letters are a quick and easy way to earn money and win prizes. You have the satisfaction of sharing your opinions, the bonus of winning prizes and the knowledge that, if you write letters regularly, there’s always something that might be published, whatever else might be happening with the rest of your freelance writing.

Letters are ideal to fit around the rest of your writing projects. Often, creating a letter in a short time can keep you in the writing habit when things are tough. You might be struggling with a novel, but a half-hour break to put together a letter to a newspaper or magazine can be enough to refresh and revitalize your work.

Readers’ Letters are the perfect way for a beginner writer to see their name in print. Most people are capable of putting together a short piece of writing on something that interests them. Add to this the possibility of winning cash or a prize, and this is the perfect first writing gig.

How to Compose a Readers’ Letter

Choose a publication which interests you, at least to start with. This way, your enthusiasm will shine through and you’re less likely to make factual errors. Once you’ve had a few letters published in familiar journals, you can look to expand your portfolio.

Have a good look at the letters page of your chosen magazine. What’s the average word count of the letters? Do readers write in to discuss previous articles, exchange news and opinions or just write about anything that interests them? Stick to the general style and you have more chance of being chosen by the editor.

Remember, editors like to encourage readers to share their views. If you can write a letter which will encourage others to respond, whether they agree or disagree with your views, the editor will be more likely to print your submission.

Readers' Letter Dos and Don’ts

Do come across as a genuine reader. This isn’t the place to write in on your headed ‘freelance writer’ notepaper. Editors like to think they’re hearing from members of the public.

Do accompany your letter with a photograph if possible. Images brighten up the page and increase your chances of publication.

Don’t be tempted to invent details about yourself or your family. Remember, a friend or colleague could be reading your words within weeks.

Don’t feel you have to be insincere in your praise of the magazine. A little controversy can be good and instigate reader discussions.

Don’t include a stamped addressed envelope as you would with a freelance submission. You’re unlikely to receive a response, unless through the pages of the publication.

Do submit your letter by email if possible. Not only do you save on postage, but if your letter is topical, it reaches the editor sooner for inclusion in the next available issue.

Beyond the Readers’ Letter

Once you’ve notched up a good few published letters, you can expand your horizons. Browse the racks of magazines at a large news store and take a look at the prizes your letter could win. Seek out publications you wouldn’t normally read and see what’s on offer.

Swop magazines with friends. This gives you a bigger range of possible markets. Read the magazines at doctor’s surgeries and libraries, opportunities are everywhere. You can always note brief address or website details if you can’t take the magazine home.