How to Find Work as a Newspaper Columnist

Newspaper columnists have a unique position in the journalism world. Whereas traditional newspaper pieces are generally strictly factual, columnists have the opportunity to interpret the facts and present opinions. This personal approach gives columnists the power to impact opinions and change minds. The great newspaper columnists are frequently quoted and looked to as the experts who can translate current events and explain their relevance.

Instructions

1. Find your angle. The majority of newspaper columnists write from a specific perspective: political commentators, single parents, or Americans living abroad, for example. Consider the aspects of your life and personality that make for an interesting angle for a newspaper column.

2. Hone your persuasive skills. With your perspective in mind, craft a persuasive narrative to convince newspaper editors that you are qualified for the job, both as a writer and as a representative of your particular demographic. If you intend to write a column from the standpoint of a working mother, for example, be prepared to explain that you've been working and being a full-time parent for the past ten years.

3. Explain the relevance. Why would readers be interested in your column? Understand the newspaper's readership demographic, and draw specific connections in your pitch. Newspaper editors are looking for columns that will increase their readership and engage customers. Don't expect them to infer the correct conclusions; make the editor's life easier and be specific.

4. List column ideas. A well-prepared columnist will be attractive to a newspaper because it means less work for an editor. If you pitch your column with qualifications and story ideas for the two months, you will have a leg up on the competition. Be sure that the column ideas fit with the general tone of the newspaper, and check back issues to verify that similar stories have not been published in the past year.

5. Gather writing samples. Don't force the newspaper editor to ask for writing samples; include them in your proposal. If the editor likes your column idea, he or she can read through your samples immediately to determine whether or not your style and abilities are up to par.

6. Do your homework. Find contact information for newspapers in your area and in a 100-mile radius. Research their submission guidelines first to see if they accept freelance work. If you cannot find such guidelines, it is appropriate to send a short email to the editor to find out. By taking this preliminary step, you can avoid irritating editors and save time.

7. Send out your proposal. If you are articulate and confident, call editors directly with your pitch; it is harder to put off a writer in person than it is over email. If you'd prefer a less confrontational method, locate the email address for the editor of the section in which your column would appear, and send the proposal by email. Tailor each proposal to the specific newspaper.

8. Start at the bottom. If you do not receive responses from editors, or if they are hesitant to hire an unknown freelance writer, consider writing for other areas of the paper. By doing small pieces, you have the opportunity to gain the trust of the editor and prove your writing abilities. Later, you will be able to use your relationship to suggest a column.