Vonda Skelton - Christian Speaker, Author, and Funny Lady

Each month I post a list of writing opportunities here at The Christian Writer’s Den, and as a result, many of you have found success through the years by taking advantage of those opportunities.

But some have admitted that even with the prepared list delivered to your Inbox each month, you’ve never taken advantage of the posted leads.

Why not?

Some have said so many options are just too overwhelming. Others have said fear prevents them from trying. What’s stopping you?

Well, let’s start at the very beginning. Here are six simple steps you can take to work through the list and eliminate the fear standing between you and the SEND button.

1. Select: As you go through the list of opportunities, eliminate those that you know nothing about or have no interest in learning about. Focus on those that pique your interest. You’re certainly not limited to writing what you know, but when you start out, it’s easier to write about something you’re familiar with or at least interested in.
2. Visit: Visit the site of any opportunities that sound like a good fit. Read through sample blog entries or articles, if available. If you like what you see, then…
3. View: View the writer’s guidelines. What is the word count? Topic? Due date?
4. Search: Even if you don’t know anything about the subject, but are interested in learning more, do an internet seach for information you can use to help develop the article or essay. Is there enough quality material to give you the support you need?
5. Write: If you’re new to writing and submitting, it’s a good idea to complete a piece for submission, even if their guidelines ask for queries only. It would be good practice for you and would help you see a finished project, even if you may not be submitting it. 
6. Submit: SUBMIT ONLY WHAT THE GUIDELINES ASK FOR! Some will only want a query letter, others will want to see a completed article. Whatever you do, follow their guidelines, otherwise, you’re wasting their time and yours. And if you have no idea what a query letter is, be sure to check out my past posts, Taking the Question Out of Query Letters, Part 1 and Taking the Question Out of Query Letters, Part 2.

So, there you have it, six simple steps to help you wade through the pile of opportunities…and get to the ones you really need to write.

And if you don’t know how to begin writing an article, you might want to check out my downloadable class, How to Have Magazine Editors Calling YOU!

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And Now, Here’s This Month’s List of Writing Opportunities

Thanks again to Marilyn Shipe for locating most of these great opportunities!

1. HOMEMAKERS: Canadian-based magazine on food, nutrition, healthy lifestyles. Pays up to 45 cents/word. No specific guidelines online. Accepts queries for features up to 2,000 words.
2. WRITER’S MARKET – POET’S MARKET: Currently accepting pitches for articles in the 2013 editions of Writer’s Market and Poet’s Market. Please send them to Robert Brewer via e-mail at (and not by any other e-mail or communication channel). If you’re pitching for Writer’s Market, please use the subject line: Pitch for 2013 Writer’s Market. If you’re pitching for Poet’s Market, please use the subject line: Pitch for 2013 Poet’s Market. For Writer’s Market, we’re looking for business- and submission-related pieces. If you’re in doubt about your topic, go ahead and pitch. For Poet’s Market, accepting pitches for articles that cover craft and business topics. Also interested in anything that helps poets get their work out to a larger readership.
3. ST. MARTIN’S MINOTAUR/MYSTERY WRITERS OF AMERICA FIRST CRIME NOVEL COMPETITION: Open to any writer who has never been the author of any published novel in any genre. Authors of self-published works may enter as long as the manuscript submitted is not the self-published work. Author cannot be under contract with a publisher for publication of a novel. Entrants must request an application package by November 15, 2011. Application must be postmarked by November 30, 2011. If a winner is selected, Minotaur Books will offer to enter into its standard form author’s agreement with the entrant for publication of the winning Manuscript. After execution of the standard form author’s agreement by both parties, the winner will receive an advance against future royalties of $10,000.
4. CAMPSIGHT: A quarterly magazine of the Christian Camp and Conference Association. Features both inspirational and how-to pieces related to the positive influence of Christian camp and conference ministries. Pays 20 cents/word. Stories of changed lives are the best for newcomers and freelancers.
5. ADDitude: ADDitude, the country’s number one destination for families and adults living with ADD and learning disabilities, is dedicated to helping families live successful and happy lives–at home, at school, at work, and in their communities. ADDitude provides expert guidance and inspiring life stories from the experts in the field and from parents and adults offering advice and inspirational stories. Articles are up to 2,000 words. Kill fee $75. Also seeking parent bloggers.
6. AMBASSADOR: Provides information on all things Italian-American. Covers food, personalities, film, travel and culture. Half freelance written. Pays $250 for pieces of 1,000 to 1,500 words. Art and photos improve chances for acceptance.
7. Gospel Roads Magazine: The purpose of our upcoming Magazine (GOSPEL ROADS.COM) is to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ through uplifting editorial, video and other relevant content. With the Bible as our basis of conversation we intend to reach Christians and those interested in the Christian faith from across the denominational spectrum. We’ll focus on scriptural, financial, Political, Good health, lifestyles, entertainment & relationship related topics as it pertains to Christianity. We strive to challenge everyday believers to advance their faith, strengthen their families and encourage their Christian communities. Unfortunately, at this time GOSPEL ROADS is not paying for editorial. While in our infant stage, writers who consistently produce editorial will be asked to joining our paid editorial staff. All writers’ material will be exclusive and awarded to that writer. Gospel Roads writer’s guidelines her
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8. ANIMAL TRAILS: Keeping animal memories alive through writing. E-mail: . Shannon Bridget Murphy, Editor. 85% unsolicited freelance. Complete ms/cover letter; e-query OK. Pays .02-.05 a word. Articles to 2,000 words. Prefers KJV. Tips: Most open to articles, stories, poetry and fillers that explain the value of animals and their relationship with God.
9. Cec Murphey is looking for angel stories: Got an angel story? Go to  for submission guidelines.
10. LIVE Needs Update 10-4-11: Latest article needs for LIVE.
11. Children’s Writer Poetry or Verse Story Writing Contest: Hurry! Deadline October 31, 2011.

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Don’t Miss These Great Writers Conferences

1. Southwest Christian Writers Studio, Glorieta, NM, October 17-21, 2011
2. CLASS Christian Writers Conference, Abiquiu, NM, November 2-6, 2011
3. East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers Conference, Atlanta, GA, November 11-12, 2011
4. Write2Ignite Conference for Writers of Children’s Literature, North Greenville University, March 16-17, 2012 (I’ll see you there!)

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Parting Words from The Word…

Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:20-21 NIV

I pray God’s blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,

Vonda