How to get your work published?

Just make sure you research the company before handing over your precious writing to a publisher. For the poems try the creative writing sections of Helium and AC. The novel is a bit trickier. It depends heavily on what is about to find someone who will publish it. Just make sure you check the company out and don't sign away your copyrights to the novel.

The easiest way for articles is via online writing sites like Associated Content, helium, Triond, HubPages, Bukisa, etc. If you have pretty much finished product, though, such as novels - have a look at Lulu.com

I write for Triond for the sake of exposure and a little bit of money. Exposure is important. I have had a short story published in a local magazine but didn't get paid. I am also having a poem published in an anthology, also no money but two free copies of the book. If you are really serious sign up for newsletters which will tell you about contests and anthologies. Winning Writers and Writers Relief are two websites that provide information on poetry contests you can enter for free. If you are talking novel, from everything I have learned in all my years of research is an agent is the best way to go. Most publishers will not take unsolicited manuscripts... unless they are non-fiction. You have to do your research though by checking out the Writer's Market reference book of editors/publishers/agents/magazines etc. Makes sure you are submitting to the right people and following their guidelines. If you don't follow their guidelines to a T they will not even look at your work. Good luck!