Tips For Writing An Op-Ed That Gets Noticed

No matter how newsworthy your cause or nonprofit, attracting media attention can be a challenge. Increase the chances of getting your story in front of opinion leaders by writing and pitching a great newspaper op-ed (short for “opposite the editorial page”).

Here are a few tips for writing an op-ed that will get noticed:

Make it newsworthy
Editors want to provide content that their readers will find interesting and relevant. So, make sure your op-ed is about a topic that is currently in the news. For example, an op-ed advocating for a shift in thinking around how autism is diagnosed is more likely to be published after the release of new data or during Autism Awareness Month.

Find a credible author
The author should be someone who is an expert in the field and a logical match for the content. For example, an op-ed urging action on climate change would most credibly come from a leader at a prominent environmental organization. If the point of view of a partner organization with greater prominence would bolster your case, consider two authors.

Take a position
To write an effective op-ed, you must take a strong stance on an issue. Then, make your case, just like a lawyer might in a closing argument in front of a jury. Remember your high school essay writing rules? Well, those same guidelines apply. State your thesis at the start. The rest of the piece exists to prove your thesis.

Prove your argument
Include data, as well as personal stories to strengthen your argument. The op-ed may serve to express your opinion, but it is also designed to persuade those who might have a different point of view. Presenting facts from studies, think tanks or other third party sources, will help to reinforce your statements.

Include a call to action
A good op-ed states the problem, as well as the solution. As the expert in your particular field, there is no one better positioned to identify the solutions than you. Include a strong call to action to empower readers to take up the mantle of your cause and become advocates themselves.

Follow these guidelines and you will be well on your way to writing an op-ed that is authoritative and persuasive, creating a powerful opportunity to share your story and make new allies for your cause.