BRYME
SEPTEMBER 2026 EDITIONThe business, craft & economics of writing — free, independent, human-verified.

Writing guide

How to follow up on a writing pitch

When to wait, what to say, and how to treat silence.

Following up is normal, but it has to be done well.

Wait a reasonable time. If the publication states a response window, respect it. A short, polite follow-up after a couple of weeks is reasonable.

Keep it short. One or two lines: reference your pitch, ask if they had a chance to consider it, and offer to adjust.

Confirm you can pitch elsewhere. Many markets appreciate knowing you are holding the idea for them. Make it easy for them to say yes.

Treat silence as a sign. If there is no response after a follow-up or two, that is usually a no. BRYME does not invent response times — it records when they are not stated.

Move on without burning bridges. Publications have small teams and big inboxes. A later, better pitch to the same market is fine.

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