How to Publish a Column From a Website

Columnist

Publishing a column from your own website can be really rewarding. You can write your column on what interests you the most, however, choosing something from the news is usually the most popular. You can get your material from your own life, instead of mainly from the news and popular culture. Your column should be about something that truly interests you. In a column you are free to write about what you wish, and free to write about your own thoughts and opinions. All columns began in newspapers, but today you can self-publish your column through your own website.

Instructions

1. Choose a topic. I really enjoy writing, so that is my topic. I write about being a freelance writer and how that affects my life. If you are a veterinarian you might write a column on animals. Once you choose your umbrella topic (the overall topic, such as writing) you need to narrow it down to a target topic. If you work in an animal shelter, you might write a column about your experiences with homeless animals. It is what you experience and feel that people want to read about in a column.

2. Zinester is a great email tool and it is free, unless you opt for the paid version. Zinester allows you to have people opt-in to your column and you can manage your subscribers. When you send a message through Zinester it will reach your readers at about the same time. You can also add a web form to your website that will help you get more readers. I have used it for years, and I recommend it.

3. Your first column can be an introduction column to your readers. Let them know what you will be writing about and why. Tell everyone about yourself. Write about what makes you want to write a column on this topic in the first place. Get people excited about reading each and every one of your columns.

4. Let your readers know when to expect your column. What day of each week will you send your column out? Choose the best day for you and send it only on that day. You could write and publish your own column daily, weekly or monthly. It's up to you.

5. Write your column in a text editor and save it to your computer. Copy and paste the text into Zinester to send it. Always back up your work with a reliable flash drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep Your Column Interesting with Facts.

• Get Your Readers Involved with Your Column with Feedback.

• Keep copies of your work yourself!

Resources

• Zinester