How to Become a Food Columnist
A career as a food columnist, also known as a food writer or food critic, is a difficult spot to obtain. Not only is a strong background in writing a must, being well-versed in all aspects of food, including various cuisines, cooking techniques and restaurant trends, is essential. To write successfully about food, you must also read about food often. Magazines, journals, newspapers and blogs are a great way to keep abreast of food trends.
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Instructions
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Attend an accredited college or university, studying journalism, writing or the culinary arts. If you choose to major in journalism or writing, it is still a good idea to pursue electives in the culinary arts. To be an effective and well-respected food columnist, you must not only write well, but have a well-defined palate, be well-versed in a variety of cuisines and understand the intricacies of creating dishes.
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Determine the market for whom you wish to write. There are avenues available for food columnists. Create your own food blog or write for one already established. Gourmet food magazines as well as local magazines are also an option. Newspapers often have food and restaurant reviews sections. You can find job openings online and magazine submission information in The Writer's Market as well as online writer's outlets.
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Monetize your food blog. There are several options to pursue to make your blog profitable. Adding Google Adsense or other advertisements, writing paid product reviews and employing affiliate marketing are just a few. Do not bombard your blog with links and advertisements, as this may turn off readers. The more readers you have for your blog, the more money you stand to make.
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Create a resume, showcasing your skills as a writer and any culinary degrees, awards or classes you have completed. Prepare a writing sample specific to the job for which you are applying. For example, a writing example that critiques a restaurant may be better suited when applying for a newspaper. Creating a recipe for an exotic meal may work best for a gourmet food magazine.
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Apply to a variety of food columnist jobs. Continue to attend cooking classes and conventions, networking as much as possible. Be prepared to work for free for a while to build your reputation and gain experience.
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Tips & Warnings
Offer to submit articles to your local paper for the byline alone. This will help you build a clip file. A clip file is a collection of all your published works and is essential for a writer who is looking for a paying job. Become a regular contributor to TripAdvisor to practice your writing skills.
References
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