Opinionated editorial essays are fun, fast and furious, and easy to get into print. Editors are always looking for quick commentary on current topics from experts who can provide unique and interesting angles and opinions. So if you have an engaging, unusual point of view on a current topic put it out there. Here are some tips to help:
1. Be early. Timing is essential, especially for online news that updates often. Be sure to factor in lead times and how long it can take an editor to reply.
2. Be opinionated. Avoid lukewarm opinions, being diplomatic, or offering both sides of a story. An argument is a better read than a discussion.
3. Convey a strong link to your subject. When you are an expert on a topic, you can emphasise your authority with the first-person voice. Let your personal story and experience resonate with your audience.
4. Add unknown facts. Keep asking yourself what’s new, fresh, unusual and current. Include specific facts, updated statistics and direct quotes to support your argument.
5. Don’t be obvious. No one wants to read what everyone already knows. Rather share a rarer point of view as only you uniquely can.
6. Keep it short and sweet. 600 words or less is best. Longer pieces are more difficult to get published.
7. ID your audience. Be aware of who will potentially be reading your piece, and then write specifically for that audience. i.e. if it’s a financial piece for non-financial readers, avoid jargon.
8. Follow up. Check-in with editors a day or two after submission. Make sure the piece was received. If it’s rejected, learn from their reasons why.