What to put in your first issue: a 12-item checklist
2 min read
Blank contents pages are frightening. This checklist gives you twelve things to put on them.
The checklist
1. Editor's letter (200 to 300 words). Say who you are, why the magazine exists and what members will find in it. Invite replies.
2. A main feature (800 to 1,200 words). The piece you most want to be remembered. Pick a topic members care about this year. How to write one.
3. A member profile (400 to 600 words). A person or business and what they've learnt. It's the easiest way to make readers feel the magazine is theirs. How to interview.
4. News from the association (200 to 400 words). What you've done, what's coming and decisions members should know.
5. A practical how-to (400 to 600 words). Something members can use this week: a checklist, a guide to a form, a calendar of deadlines.
6. A short Q&A (300 words). Pose three questions members ask staff, and answer them.
7. Events and dates. A page or half page. Include the next two to three months.
8. A "from the archive" or history item (200 words). It rewards longer-standing members and shows continuity.
9. A new members list or welcome (100 words). People like seeing their names.
10. A resource page. Links, templates and contacts: the things members come back for.
11. How to contribute. Who to contact, what you're looking for and a deadline for next time.
12. Contact and about. Who makes the magazine, how to reach them, how to subscribe or unsubscribe.
A sample running order (16 pages)
| Page | Item |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cover |
| 2 | Contents and editor's letter |
| 3 to 4 | News |
| 5 to 8 | Main feature |
| 9 | Q&A |
| 10 to 11 | Member profile |
| 12 | Practical how-to |
| 13 | Archive item and new members |
| 14 | Events |
| 15 | Resources and how to contribute |
| 16 | About and contact |
If you're short of material
- Reuse content from your newsletter, with updates.
- Ask a committee member for a short opinion piece.
- Interview two members for the profile and the Q&A.
- Write the news yourself. Keep it brief.
What to leave out
Long reports, minutes and anything members can find on the website. A first issue should feel light and useful.
Before you publish
Show it to two members, not just the committee. Ask what they'd read first and what was missing.
Frequently asked questions
How many pages should the first issue have?
Twelve to twenty-four pages. A tight first issue is better than a thin large one.
Should it include ads in the first issue?
You can, but it's not essential. Use the first issue to show what the magazine is, then approach advertisers with a real example.
What if I don't have enough content?
Reuse material from newsletters and events with permission, interview two or three members and write short pieces yourself.
Who should write the editor's letter?
Whoever members know and trust most, or the person running the magazine. Keep it short and personal.
