Chasing big outlets vs. accepting smaller ones

A query from a famous magazine feels like the prize. A query from a small trade blog feels like a consolation. As a beginner, you should often choose the opposite of your instinct.

1. Big outlet — huge audience, but dozens of expert sources compete, and editors are picky. Long odds.
2. Small niche blog — tiny audience, but you may be one of three replies, and a relevant link from a trusted industry site can matter more for your authority than a buried mention in a giant one.

Think of it like a school play vs. a Broadway audition. The play gives you a real part now; Broadway might never call back.

The wise path: take the small wins early. They build a portfolio of real placements you can point to when the big outlets finally consider you.

Try this today: say yes to the next niche query, even if the outlet is one you've never heard of.