GUIDE
Follow these five steps to craft and publish a compelling op-ed, turning your ideas into an impactful contribution to public discourse.
Follow these five steps to craft and publish a compelling op-ed, turning your ideas into an impactful contribution to public discourse.
STEP
A current or relevant topic that evokes your passion works best. Your unique connection to the topic, through experience, scholarship, or both, is key to being considered for publication and for winning your readers' confidence.
STEP
Start with an impactful, bold statement. You've got a matter of seconds to grab their attention with an angle or hook that leaves them wanting more. Your distinctive take, through humor, honesty, surprise, originality, and, on occasion, brilliance, holds the key. You are the expert.
STEP
Your well-written thesis must contain facts, information, and/or personal experience that supports your conclusions. Special subject matter expertise and intimate personal experience, go a long way in drawing the reader in. Though guided by logic, research, and clarity of thought, approaching the art of persuasion with emotional intelligence is of equal importance. For example, addressing counter arguments with respect and empathy will enhance the impact of your position.
STEP
Providing clear and definitive perspective, solutions, and a call to action helps bring your reader into agreement with, or at least impacted by your perspective.
STEP
After you simplify, clarify, fact-check, grammar-check, and spell-check, be sure to research each target publication to conform to their requirements. Word count, content, and submission deadlines matter. Include your short byline and if you wish, a headshot and link to your website or social media page. Expect rejections via silence or form reply. It's part of the gig and each rejection gets you one step closer to being published. Good luck!