HOW TO SUBMIT AN OP-ED ARTICLE
An "Op-Ed" (Opinion Editorial) are the longer editorials you see on the commentary page of your local newspapers. They are different than a letter-to-the-editor. They may (often) be in response to a featured article, but they don't have to be. And, a letter-to-the-editor is often limited in length (50 to 75 words), an Op-Ed typically runs 700 to 1000 words in length. Most newspapers accept op-ed pieces from guest writers who are prominent figures or members of the community.
In order to get your op-ed in the paper:
- Call the newspaper's op-ed page or opinion page editor, introduce yourself, and say you would like to submit an op-ed article. Some newspapers don't accept unsolicited pieces, but most will.
- Ask for suggestions about what should be included. For example, sometimes the editor would like extra facts and figures that can be used to develop an "info-graph" to accompany the piece.
- Send the piece to the editor with a signed cover letter including all relevant titles and positions as well as the address and phone number of the writer. Supplying a small photo of the author is also a good idea.
- Expect that the op-ed page editor may wait a week or two to publish your piece.
Keep in touch and offer to supply any extra information they need.
