Esquire Magazine, one of the most iconic and respected publications in the United States, has been a platform for writers, journalists, and content creators to showcase their work for decades. With its legacy of publishing timeless articles, insightful essays, and captivating stories, the magazine is a dream publication for many aspiring writers. If you’re looking to break into Esquire and get your work published in this prestigious magazine, understanding the process for Esquire magazine submissions is essential.
In this guide, we will explore the steps, tips, and insider advice you need to successfully submit your work to Esquire Magazine and increase your chances of being featured in this well-respected publication. Whether you’re aiming to submit an article, an essay, or even a short story, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about Esquire magazine submissions.
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Understanding Esquire’s Editorial Vision
Before you even think about submitting to Esquire, it’s important to understand the type of content they publish. Esquire Magazine is known for its broad spectrum of topics that cater to a diverse audience, but its editorial focus typically revolves around men’s interests, current affairs, culture, fashion, politics, and social issues. The magazine has historically been a platform for both highbrow and accessible writing, offering a balance between serious journalism and lighter, lifestyle-oriented content.
Esquire also has a long-standing reputation for offering thoughtful commentary on the times, mixing investigative journalism with personal stories, profiles, and opinions. If you’re submitting to Esquire, you must demonstrate a unique perspective or voice that aligns with the publication’s overall aesthetic and tone.
Types of Content Esquire Accepts
Esquire Magazine is known for publishing a wide variety of written content. The types of work that Esquire accepts include:
- Long-Form Journalism: Esquire is famous for its in-depth investigative pieces and long-form stories that provide a detailed examination of cultural, political, or social issues.
- Personal Essays: Thought-provoking personal essays that provide a deeper look into the writer’s experiences and perspectives have always found a place in Esquire.
- Profiles: Esquire’s profiles of celebrities, public figures, and ordinary people who lead extraordinary lives are a hallmark of the magazine. These stories typically delve deep into the subject’s character and their influence on culture or society.
- Fiction: Although Esquire is primarily known for its nonfiction, the magazine has a long history of publishing short fiction from renowned authors. If you are submitting a story, ensure it is well-crafted, original, and offers something unique to the Esquire reader.
- Opinion Pieces: Esquire regularly publishes opinion pieces on everything from current events to social issues. If you have a strong opinion or a unique viewpoint on a relevant topic, an opinion piece may be the right submission format for you.
How to Submit to Esquire Magazine
Submitting to Esquire Magazine is a straightforward process, but as with any prestigious publication, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines and be prepared for competition. Here’s how you can get started with Esquire magazine submissions:
Step 1: Review Submission Guidelines
Before submitting any material, always review Esquire’s submission guidelines. Esquire is selective about the type of work it publishes, so understanding the magazine’s editorial direction is essential. While the magazine doesn’t offer a formal submission portal on its website, writers can send their pitches and manuscripts directly to the editorial team via email. Submissions to the editorial department should be in line with the type of content Esquire usually publishes.
Step 2: Prepare a Strong Pitch
One of the most important parts of submitting to Esquire is crafting a strong, compelling pitch. If you’re submitting an article, profile, or essay, your pitch should briefly explain what your piece will be about and why it’s a good fit for Esquire’s readers. The pitch should include:
- A catchy, clear headline or angle
- A brief outline of your piece
- A reason why the topic is timely or relevant
- Any previous experience or credentials (if applicable)
For Esquire, the pitch must be engaging from the very first sentence. Editors receive hundreds of submissions, so it’s important to ensure that your pitch is unique, concise, and hooks the editor right away.
Step 3: Format Your Submission
If you’ve been asked to submit a full manuscript or article, it’s important to format it properly. Typically, Esquire prefers submissions in a clean, readable format, such as 12-point Times New Roman font with 1-inch margins. Your submission should include a title, a byline (if applicable), and a well-written introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the article.
Make sure to include your contact information, as well as a brief bio at the end of your piece if you’re submitting a personal essay or nonfiction article.
Step 4: Follow Up
After submitting your work to Esquire, don’t expect an immediate response. Esquire’s editorial team takes time to review each submission thoroughly, and it can take weeks or even months to hear back. However, following up on your submission is acceptable. If you haven’t received a response in several months, you can send a polite email to check the status of your submission.
Step 5: Be Prepared for Rejection (And Keep Going)
Rejection is part of the process for every writer, and Esquire is no exception. While being rejected may feel discouraging, it’s important to remember that the editors at Esquire are looking for stories that align with the magazine’s editorial vision. If your submission is rejected, don’t take it personally. Keep improving your craft and submit again.
If you do get accepted, consider it a major accomplishment. Getting published in Esquire Magazine can provide significant exposure and open doors to further writing opportunities.
Tips for Esquire Magazine Submissions
- Be Original: Esquire’s editorial team is looking for fresh perspectives and new ideas. Avoid clichés and be sure to bring your own unique voice to your submission.
- Write for Esquire’s Audience: Esquire’s readers are well-informed, sophisticated, and enjoy reading about a wide range of topics. Make sure your piece is engaging, informative, and relevant to their interests.
- Polish Your Writing: Esquire holds its contributors to a high standard. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and free of errors. A well-written and well-researched piece will increase your chances of being published.
- Build Your Portfolio: Having a portfolio of published work can help you stand out to Esquire’s editorial team. If you don’t yet have any published articles, consider writing for smaller publications or submitting to literary magazines.
- Know Your Audience: Understanding Esquire’s tone and target demographic is essential when submitting. The magazine’s audience expects a mix of serious reporting, compelling storytelling, and occasional lighthearted content.
Conclusion
Submitting to Esquire Magazine can be a game-changer for any writer looking to make their mark in the world of journalism, storytelling, or culture writing. Whether you’re submitting an opinion piece, personal essay, or long-form article, it’s crucial to understand the magazine’s editorial standards and to present your work in the best possible light. Following the submission process carefully, crafting a compelling pitch, and being patient are key steps toward securing a spot in Esquire’s coveted pages. With perseverance and dedication, you can join the ranks of some of the most influential writers and thinkers in modern media.
