Sell My Story

Part 2:: First Steps to Selling a Story to the Press

The very first step is deciding which story you are going to sell.  I have found that nearly everyone has experienced something press-worthy in their lives – whether they recognise it or not.  You may know exactly what story you want to sell, but for the majority of you that don’t, then read on ….I guarantee that you do. If you’re selling someone else’s story then follow the same guide.

For those who claim to know exactly what story they are going to sell – this could be your first mistake.  I urge you to read on and keep an open-mind.

First of all, ‘real-life story’ does not mean ‘your whole life story’, so if you are planning on recounting your life over the past 65 years, forget it – no magazine or newspaper will buy it for their real-life pages.

Why? Because these publications are more interested in amazing one-off events or the climax of circumstances which have a connecting thread woven through them.  While these may span many years – documenting your first word through to your last meal is simply not of interest.

Want proof? Simply go to your nearest newsagents and familiarise yourself with the kind of stories that have made it into print.

‘Real Life’ in the context of a magazine, refers to human-interest stories, i.e.: experiences and events that happen to ‘real life’ everyday people like you and me.

You don’t have to be a money-grabbing page three model, or a Big Brother contestant to want to sell a story.  People have many different reasons for selling their story…

• To inspire others and help them deal with a similar heartbreaking situation.

• To make money for themselves or a charity.

• To pay tribute to a cherished friend or relative.

• To appear in their favourite magazine.

• To get publicity and raise awareness.

•To simply share your amazing story or experience.

Although it helps, your story doesn’t have to be absolutely incredible, amazing, or a completely unique occurrence.  Lots of people sell stories about a funny situation the found themselves in, a bad experience, or an unusual lifestyle choice.

All too often people think that they have an ‘incredible’ story to sell, but it’s really not what the magazines and newspapers are looking for.  Publications are looking for real stories about very normal people.  In fact, the more normal you are, the more chance you have of selling your story.

If you’re not sure if your story will work or not, feel free to get in touch and we’ll let you know how much it could sell for. Just visit our home page: Sell My Story