So you have something to say and want to publish an op-ed? Here are some tips to help you get there.
- Make sure it’s an op-ed. Are you offering a newsworthy or timely opinion? Do you have authority on the subject or a unique perspective? If not, consider self-publishing.
- Grab readers’ attention at the top. From the first line, your writing must compel today’s distracted reader to keep reading.
- Write fast, edit deliberately. Refine, read your draft out loud, ask others to edit, cut 100 words and refine again.
- Keep it simple. Write in your normal voice. Short, simple words and sentences are best. Use adverbs only when no verb fits.
- Connect emotionally. Your reader won’t remember what you said, but how you made them feel.
- Use vivid details. Small observations can say something big, like sights, sounds, smells and emotions.
- Use examples. Readers often won’t remember facts or statistics, but they will remember people. Anecdotes are great for localized pitches. Examples can help de-mystify a complex topic.
- Maximize your chances. Landing a placement requires a well-written piece, a tightly written pitch note, an outlet that matches your audience (with backup plans) and getting your piece to the right people.
- Build relationships with editors. Your piece stands a much better chance if you have a direct line to an op-ed editor. As you do outreach and land placements, work to maintain relationships with those editors to prime future pitches and learn more about what catches their eye.
- Consider alternatives. If all else fails, would the piece fit your organization’s blog? Medium? LinkedIn?
