How to Write and Submit an Op-ed

1. Find out the name of the newspaper’s op-ed (Opinion-Editorial) page editor and ask about the length specifications for op-eds. If the e-mail address for sending is not printed on the Op-ed page, also request that information.
2. Monitor your paper’s op-ed page to see what kinds of op-eds are published. If the paper just recently ran a piece on a position that your nonprofit disagrees with or that impacts you, an op-ed would be timely. Also consider tie-ins with state or national news issues.
3. You want to capture the reader’s attention in the first sentence. Try giving it a strong local angle. The reader needs to be able to relate quickly and easily to your story.
4. Decide what message you wish to convey. Write it in a brief sentence. Decide the key arguments supporting your message and develop each in turn.
5. Print your op-ed on your organization’s stationery and sign your name and title. You will have a better chance of getting the op-ed in print if the paper knows it is written by a credible source. Many papers, such as The News & Observer in Raleigh request home address, telephone and e-mail.
6. Send your op-ed with a cover letter and background information on your organization. You can call to ask when the paper intends to run your piece. But many editors don’t have time for these follow up calls. You should watch the section to see if/when the work runs.