Andrea King Collier
Think about targeted letters of introduction. I leverage similar clips from other pubs if I have no experience with them. And don't ever underestimate that editors read other publications mining for writers who would be good for them. I have sent in queries and the editor turned them down but liked my clips in other pubs and gave me a shot on something they had on tap. Personal meetings never hurt, but even then those meetings happen when they know your work or like your clips. Also don't forget to work your contacts. I have gotten into mags from some of the most unusual sources--the sister of an editor sent her a clip of mine and she ended up calling me with an assignment. There is no right way except to keep trying.

Sam Greengard
No question, building a regular client base is one of the keys to financial success in freelancing. But getting past Go and Collecting $200 can prove frustrating. I'm not sure there are any "Take a Ride on the Reading" cards in writing, but here are a few ideas:

• First, ask if the magazine assigns to writers or if queries are a necessity. If staff-generated assignments are out of the realm of possibility, then there's no point fretting over the topic. You're stuck querying. If you do have to query, ask if you can submit shorter story ideas—perhaps a few sentences or a paragraph each—instead of a formal query. Many editors are receptive to this approach, especially if they know the writer.
• Meeting with the editor is a great idea. An informal conversation over lunch or a drink may spark great ideas, and assignments. Also, emphasize how good you are and that you meet deadlines. And then prove it with every assignment. In order to become a regular you have to show that you're a bona fide asset and that you're going to simplify and improve the editor's professional life.

Florence Isaacs
The fact is, editors don't want to bother with someone they haven't used before. They want the tried and true. You need a personal connection with them. In your place, I'd try the "personal pitch" at the ASJA writers' conference. Or, start a conversation with an editor at one of the ASJA meetings, and follow up the next day so you're remembered.

If another writer you know is a friend of an editor, you might ask if he/she would be willing to ask the editor about being open to someone new. In my experience, ASJA colleagues are unfailingly generous in helping out.

Minda Zetlin
It depends on the type of magazine. Some custom and trade publication editors prefer clips to pitches, but if you're going after major consumer and women's mags, selling stories without pitching actual ideas usually is more challenging.

I agree that if you can't sell good ideas, then personal connections are key. In addition to meeting people face-to-face whenever you can, try networking from an editor who loves your work to other editors he or she knows. (I e-mailed an editor who really likes my work to tell her a big project was ending and I needed new work. She's sent me three leads so far.)