These aren’t the kind of columns this commentary is discussing!
By Andy Brack
Publisher, Charleston City Paper
CHARLESTON, S.C. | A way to influence how thought leaders consider an issue of public importance is to inject yourself into debate by writing a crisp, clear opinion editorial, or “op-ed,” for leading state and national media.
Before getting started
- What is the clear point that I want to make?
- Why should the reader care about the issue or my point?
- What are some examples or research that illustrates the point?
- What do you want people to do, if anything, after reading the piece?
Top 10 tips for good op-eds
FORMAT: The length should be about 500 words. The op-ed should be double-spaced in a standard font. Include your contact information at the top.
ONE POINT: The theme should have one central point, buttressed by examples and discussion. You should be clear about your point.
VOICE: Generally use active voice for more powerful writing.
HOOK: Make sure the first paragraph is interesting and catches the reader with a hook. How? Find something current in the news, be creative yourself, and offer an op-ed.
NEWS, NOT OLDS: Move quickly when writing and offering the op-ed to the media about your subject. The early writer usually gets published.
CARE: Offer personal insights and examples as a way to show you care or how an issue impacts you. By outlining why you care, you illustrate why readers should care. An alternative: Tell a story.
WHAT’S NEXT: Readers are looking for your opinion on the subject, as well as specific recommendations of what they should do next. Offer creative and concise recommendations.
OTHER SIDE: Acknowledge the other side, if you must, but don’t repeat someone else’s message. Craft your own.
NO JARGON: The law offers too many opportunities for jargon. Avoid. Use common-sense language. Spell out common abbreviations; some may not know this abbreviation.
LINKS: At the end, offer a link to your bio and a high-resolution, good-quality photo.
Here are ways how op-eds are beneficial to the community:
Reasons for offering your opinion on issues:
- To bolster your academic and professional credentials;
- To polish your institution’s reputation (or yourself) in the community;
- To show leadership in your community;
- To educate readers; and
- To perform a social responsibility in a democratic society.
- Have a comment? Send to: elliott@brack.net
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