How to Start A Magazine

A timely and extremely informative book, How to Start a Magazine explains all the steps needed in planning, testing, and executing the startup of a successful magazine. But more than this, the book acts as a resource for understanding how profitable magazine publishing is carried out, as well as the current situation of the magazine field. Author James B. Kobak, an advisor to magazines since 1946, takes you through the perils and profits of magazine publishing with ease and a no-nonsense style.

Start A Magazine

Legal Costs for Magazine Publishers

It is a good idea for any publisher working in today’s litigious society to think about forming some sort of corporation to protect personal assets. A lawyer is also an excellent idea. Look for a lawyer who specializes in writing and publishing cases and be sure to discuss whether the magazine should be run by a sole proprietor, a limited liability company, or a corporation before beginning the magazine.

Costs can run from several hundred to several thousand dollars for the incorporation process, depending on whether the business owner can file incorporation or LLC forms himself or whether a lawyer draws up the papers.

Review Copies

As you begin to pull all the pieces of your new magazine together, you should also be thinking about what happens when the first issue is all done—i.e. how you are going let people know that your magazine is waiting for them on newsstands. One of the best ways is to send out a slew of review copies. Who doesn’t love getting something for free, especially when it’s as smart and well crafted as your new mag? Sending out review copies will also help you build a network of people with like interests for possible future collaborations.

Think about finances. Even if you start modestly, making the magazine a side project in your life, you’ll probably need to spend money for articles; for artistic help; and for site design, server space and maintenance. If you want to make the magazine a real business, you’ve got to think about a marketing budget; office supplies, phone bills and mailing costs; research costs; any staff salaries; and legal and business help.

Work with other people, especially if you want to make your magazine a business, as opposed to a hobby. Work out the practical and financial details of your partnership.

Consider how to make a profit. Possibilities include attracting advertising, charging for access, or publishing as a nonprofit and getting grants and donations.