Many of the magazines for women are similar in content, and fail to give prospective and current readers what they want. Magazines should be timely, and reflect the tastes and interests of their readers; something popular women’s magazines are obviously failing to do.
It can be disappointing to make the decision to discontinue a subscription to what was once was a favorite magazine, but can be necessary when the editorial focus changes, or fails to make necessary changes in order to retain their readership.
Women’s Magazines are not a lost cause, and can of course bounce back. Publishers and editors should think about what the average modern women is, and then creating a publication specific to her should not be a problem. Just in case, they happen to be stuck, below is list of tips for updating women’s magazines.
Reports and Investigative Stories Relative to Women
While women care about fashion and accessories, and most of us care a little too much about the personal lives of our favorite celebrities there is definitely a place for timely relevant issues. Unfortunately, women’s magazines can often provide a rather shallow perspective of what they believe interest women.
Feature reports about diseases that are affecting women, fertility issues, career stories and advice would be a welcome change. Current statistics suggest that more women are entering college than men. The smart intelligent women of today should be treated accordingly, and articles on wearing a round toe in a pointy toe season will not garner much interest in the long term and potentially turn off readers.
Put Real Women on the Cover
Popular actresses such as Jennifer Anniston, and Nicole Kidman featured on magazine covers undoubtedly sell issues, but so would women in the top of their fields in other industries. The successful women of today are running multi-million dollar corporations, but most of them are not known outside of the business world.
These fantastic women can serve as an inspiration to women who are looking to have it all, a family and career. In addition, featuring women from different cultures and walks of life is just a reflection of women in society. Not all women can make a connection to the size zero waif like actresses and models. However, they may be able to see themselves in extraordinary teachers, doctors, lawyers, stay at home moms and actresses. Women’s magazine should be for everyone woman, not just one type of woman.
Promote Realistic Body Images
The average woman is a size 14. The clothes featured in most women and fashion magazines are for women of a much smaller size. The idea that women cannot be stylish and beautiful if they are not as thin as a model promotes a very unhealthy body image. In most instances these body types and sizes are unattainable and those trying to conform to this standard can resort to unsafe measures.
Featuring clothes in all sizes is essential, especially since the target audience is women with a myriad of dress sizes. The plus size women would appreciate seeing clothes just for them that are fun, stylish and up to date corresponding with today’s trends.
While the sales trends for women’s magazine will not reverse overnight, addressing the needs of today’s woman will definitely result in increases over time. A devoted readership will develop from consumers who feel an affinity and desire to be faithful to a publication that is true to their wants and needs.
