How to Pitch ToolGenX
We're always looking for talented writers, product testers, and subject matter experts to contribute to ToolGenX. Here's how to pitch your ideas, avoid common mistakes, and increase your chances of acceptance.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. It helps fund our testing at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Common Problems When Pitching
Problem: Generic Pitches Get Rejected
Many writers send generic pitches that could apply to any site. Editors receive dozens of these daily and reject them immediately.
Solution: Research ToolGenX specifically. Read 3-5 of our recent articles, understand our tone and structure, and reference specific content in your pitch. Show you've done your homework.
Problem: Unclear Value Proposition
Writers often pitch topics without explaining why readers would care or how it helps them make better buying decisions.
Solution: Clearly state the problem your article solves. Explain who the target reader is, what pain point you're addressing, and how your content helps them make informed decisions.
Problem: Missing Writing Samples
Editors can't evaluate your writing ability without samples. Pitches without writing samples are often rejected immediately.
Solution: Always include 2-3 links to published articles that showcase your writing style. If you don't have published work, create a sample piece specifically for ToolGenX to demonstrate your ability.
Problem: Topics Already Covered
Writers pitch topics we've already covered extensively, wasting both their time and ours.
Solution: Search our site before pitching. If we've covered the topic, propose a unique angle, updated information, or a different perspective that adds value beyond existing content.
Problem: Unrealistic Promises
Some writers promise guaranteed rankings, unrealistic traffic numbers, or outcomes we can't control, which damages credibility.
Solution: Focus on what you can deliver: high-quality content, thorough research, honest reviews, and helpful information. Let results speak for themselves.
What We're Looking For
Product Review Writers
Writers who can test products hands-on and write honest, detailed reviews with pros and cons. Experience in specific categories (kitchen, electronics, beauty, etc.) is a plus.
Ideal for: People who regularly test products, have access to products for testing, or can purchase products for evaluation.
Buying Guide Authors
Writers who can create comprehensive buying guides that help readers make informed decisions. Strong research skills and ability to compare multiple products required.
Ideal for: Researchers, analysts, or writers who excel at synthesizing information and creating helpful decision frameworks.
Subject Matter Experts
Industry professionals with deep expertise in specific product categories who can provide authoritative insights and recommendations.
Ideal for: Chefs, fitness trainers, tech specialists, beauty professionals, or other experts with verifiable credentials.
Product Testers
People who can test products in real-world scenarios, document findings, and provide honest feedback on performance, build quality, and value.
Ideal for: Long-term product users, early adopters, or people who can test products over extended periods.
How to Pitch: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Research ToolGenX
Before pitching, spend significant time understanding our site:
- Read our content: Read at least 5-10 recent articles in your category of interest. Pay attention to structure, tone, and depth.
- Understand our style: We use conversational, honest language. We focus on helping readers, not selling products.
- Check our coverage: Search our site to see if we've covered your topic. If yes, identify what's missing or how you can add value.
- Review our standards: Read our About page and guide structure to understand our editorial approach.
Why this matters: Editors can immediately tell if you've researched the site. Pitches that reference specific articles or demonstrate understanding of our style are much more likely to be accepted.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pitch
Your pitch should be clear, concise (150-300 words), and include:
1. Clear Topic & Angle
Specify the exact topic and your unique angle. Example: "Best coffee makers for small kitchens under $200" with focus on space-saving features and countertop footprint.
2. Your Expertise
Explain why you're qualified: years of experience, relevant credentials, access to products, or unique perspective. Be specific and verifiable.
3. Value Proposition
Explain why this content helps readers: what problem it solves, who it's for, and how it helps them make better buying decisions. Connect to reader pain points.
4. Unique Angle
What makes your approach different? Do you have access to products others don't? A unique testing methodology? Fresh data or insights?
5. Writing Samples
Include 2-3 links to published articles that showcase your writing style. If no published work, create a sample piece (500-800 words) demonstrating your ability to write in our style.
6. Timeliness & Relevance
Explain why this topic matters now. Is it seasonal? Addressing a current trend? Filling a gap in our coverage?
Step 3: Submit Your Pitch
Email Format
Send your pitch to: editorial@toolgenx.com
Subject line format: "Pitch: [Your Topic]" (e.g., "Pitch: Best Air Fryers for Small Kitchens")
Response Time
We typically respond within 5-7 business days. If you don't hear back, you can send a polite follow-up after 10 business days.
What Happens Next
- If accepted, we'll discuss timeline, word count, and specific requirements
- If we need more information, we'll ask clarifying questions
- If not a fit, we'll provide brief feedback when possible
Pitch Email Template
Subject:
Pitch: Best [Product Category] for [Specific Use Case]
Body:
What Makes a Good Pitch
Do This
- Be specific about the topic and your unique angle
- Show you understand our editorial style and have read our content
- Provide relevant writing samples that demonstrate your ability
- Explain why you're qualified with verifiable credentials or experience
- Demonstrate knowledge of the product category
- Connect your topic to reader pain points and buying decisions
- Keep your pitch concise (150-300 words)
- Reference specific ToolGenX articles to show you've researched
Avoid This
- Generic pitches that could apply to any site
- Promotional content or sponsored posts
- Topics we've already covered extensively without a new angle
- Pitches without writing samples
- Unrealistic promises or guarantees about traffic or rankings
- Overly long pitches (over 500 words)
- Vague topics without specific angles
- Pitches that don't explain value to readers
- Mass emails sent to multiple publications
Our Editorial Standards
All content published on ToolGenX must meet these standards:
Content Quality
- Honest and balanced: Every product review includes both pros and cons
- Well-researched: Content is backed by testing, research, or expert knowledge
- Helpful: Content genuinely helps readers make better buying decisions
- Original: Content is original and not copied from other sources
- Accurate: All facts, prices, and specifications are verified and up-to-date
Writing Standards
- American English: All content must use US spelling, grammar, and terminology
- Conversational tone: Write like a knowledgeable friend, not a corporate brochure
- Clear structure: Follow our guide structure (see The Anatomy of a ToolGenX Guide)
- Internal links: Include at least 15 internal links to related ToolGenX content
- Mobile-friendly: Short paragraphs, scannable text, clear headings
Learn more about how we structure our guides and our editorial process.
Payment & Compensation
We believe in fair compensation for quality work. Payment terms are discussed on a case-by-case basis and depend on:
- Article length and complexity
- Research and testing requirements
- Your experience and expertise level
- Timeline and urgency
We typically pay per article or per word, with rates competitive for the industry. Payment is made upon acceptance of final draft, unless otherwise agreed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have published work to pitch?
While published work helps, it's not required. If you don't have published samples, create a sample piece (500-800 words) in our style to demonstrate your writing ability. This shows initiative and helps us evaluate your fit.
How long should my pitch be?
Keep it concise: 150-300 words is ideal. Editors receive many pitches daily and appreciate brevity. Include all essential information but avoid unnecessary details.
Can I pitch multiple topics at once?
Yes, but focus on quality over quantity. It's better to send one well-researched pitch than multiple generic ones. If pitching multiple topics, send separate emails for each to keep them focused.
What if my pitch is rejected?
Rejection doesn't mean your idea is bad—it might not fit our current needs, we might have similar content planned, or timing might not be right. We'll provide brief feedback when possible. Feel free to pitch a different topic or refine your angle and try again.
Do you accept guest posts?
We work with regular contributors rather than one-off guest posts. If your pitch is accepted and your first article performs well, we're likely to invite you to contribute regularly.
Can I include affiliate links in my article?
No. All affiliate links are managed by ToolGenX. We handle all monetization to maintain editorial independence and ensure compliance with Amazon Associates Program requirements.
Ready to Pitch?
Send your pitch to editorial@toolgenx.com. We look forward to hearing from you!