How to Become a Newspaper Columnist

The author with her column for The Woodstock Independent

Are you a journalist? Do you dream of having your very own steady column? I have accomplished that dream and below are steps to reach that dream for yourself.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Journalism or English degree (most cases)
• Catchy ideas
• Writing talent with your own voice and flow
• Newspaper company

How To Write a Column

1. Find a willing newspaper who needs a columnist. It would be easier if you already worked for that newspaper or freelanced for it. If you don't already have a job as a reporter, freelance writer or editor for a newspaper you must send out your resume to secure the job. In most cases, newspaper companies require a journalism or English degree.

2. Brainstorm some catchy ideas. Take in account the region your newspaper is for and its main readers. Make sure you can fully relate to your ideas as well. For an example the newspaper is the main newspaper for a very small town. I though of small town ideas and it helped that I also resided in that town so I knew first hand what to write. Also come up with a catchy title for your column. It has to be short and will grab the reader immediately. Mine is "Making It After All."

3. Present your ideas to the editor in charge of the columnist section of the newspaper. Make sure you let them know that you just don't have one idea in mind to write about but several. This will make them grab you better.

4. Once you begin to write your columns make sure you establish your own writing voice. Put your character and excitement in your column. Make sure it flows easily and in order for readers to follow. Always leave a reader wanting more for your next column. Always have your column done by deadline so your editor know they can trust you to continue. If you ever get stuck on what to write about, just write and write until something of sense comes out. Then edit it.