Following is a Q&A with Mark W. Wright, executive editor, OverTime (OT) Magazine.
By Greg Shemitz
What’s your background as a journalist? Please tell us about OverTime Magazine and your responsibilities with the publication.
I have been a journalist for over a decade. I started out in newspapers (The Washington Times) and I was always on the sports side. I landed in magazines in the late ’90s, and have worked at quite a few — including Black Enterprise, ESPN The Magazine, The Source Sports, SPORT and TV Guide.
OT is a business and lifestyle publication for professional athletes (retired and active). Now a bimonthly, starting in January 2007, the magazine is in its third year. As the executive editor, every single story goes through me — from conception to delivery. The issues’ focus is also my responsibility, as well as tone and voice.
What types of stories are most likely to pique your interest? What kind of material should public relations people be on the lookout for?
The magazine is for professional athletes, so whenever writers pitch me stories, I tell them that their pitches should help athletes change or improve their lives. If it doesn’t, then it’s not an OT story. So whether it’s “best places to vacation this year†or “what to do with your signing bonus,†the stories should move athletes to check themselves.
What recent projects have given you the most satisfaction or are most reflective of your work?
At the completion of every issue, I strive to make the next one better. We recently compiled a feature on the top 26 athlete foundations. It was long and a pain, but in the end it was a labor of love. And the athletes truly appreciate it.
What industry publications, Web sites and services do you refer to?
ESPN Magazine, Street & Smith’s, The New York Times, ESPN.com.
What do you like/dislike about dealing with PR people? Any tips you’d like to give them?
I hate when I am sent e-mails with no note addressing me specifically. And, I hate being sent story pitches from PR folks who clearly know nothing about my publication. I urge all PR people to first introduce themselves — and if they know nothing about the magazine, start a dialogue. I’ll have issues sent to them, and once they’ve seen what we’re about, they’re welcome to send pitches.
How and when do you prefer to be contacted?
Via e-mail, on an ongoing basis.
What’s the best way to send news releases to you? Mail, e-mail or fax?
E-mail.
Do you accept photos/graphics/artwork? If so, how do you want to receive them? Any specific formatting requirements?
Send all artwork to OT’s creative director, Cheryl L. Cromer, president of Square Moon Custom Publishing, Inc., in Atlanta. She can be reached at (678) 574-5407 and cheryl@square-moon.com.
Mark W. Wright
Executive Editor
OverTime (OT) Magazine
2405 Richmond St.
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
E-mail: MWright@OT-Magazine.com
Web site: www.OT-Online.com