- July 31, 2020
By Jenny Beatrice, Director of Communications
Looking for a way to make an impact during these tumultuous times? Want your voice to be part of the public conversation on important issues of the day? Do you want to be heard by broader public as well as by legislators?
A letter to the editor is an effective advocacy tool that offers your insights on a topic, provides information that has not been presented, and inspires readers to take action. However, there is an art to drafting a letter to the editor that gets published. Follow these ten tips to increase your chances of seeing your words in print.
Keep It Short
A typical length for a letter to the editor is 150-250 words. You can look up the publication’s guidelines on length before submitting. If your letter is too long, you run the risk of being edited and potentially losing important points you are trying to make.
Keep it Focused
You may have a lot to say on the topic, but the best letters focus on one aspect of an issue. Not only will this help you keep it short, but it makes a stronger impact as well.
Be Timely
Don’t talk about “old news.” Refer to articles or events that are currently in the public consciousness or refer to upcoming legislative decisions.
Make a Reference
While some papers may run a general opinion piece, most want you to refer to a specific article they have recently run, including title and date. If you don’t make this connection, they may do so for you, offering them another opportunity to edit your letter.
Start Strong
Get to the point right out of the gate with your position on the issue. Lead with a compelling intro that will grab the reader’s attention.
Find Facts
Back up your statement with facts. Use reliable sources and statistics. However, don’t overdo it with numbers—use just enough to support your position.
Get Personal
What’s unique about your perspective or experience that influences your opinion? Are you impacted on a personal level? How is the local region affected? Sharing your relatable story will make for a compelling and persuasive read.
Call for Action
An effective close to a letter to the editor is a call to action. Whether it’s making calls to legislators or putting purchasing power to work, share how readers can support your cause and create change.
Sign Your Name
Letters must be signed by one individual, not a group or organization. Include your contact information as the paper will verify your identity and the letter’s authenticity before publishing. Highlight any title or position that shows you have expertise on the issue.
Expect Edits
Your letter may be an expression of your words and opinions, but the newspaper has the ultimate authority about what gets printed in their publication, so don’t be surprised if your letter is not printed exactly how you submitted it. Your position will remain clear, but they will edit the letter to fit their format.
Following the paper’s guidelines along with these tips will give you the best chance of having your letter published in its entirety. If you follow these tips and are successful in getting a letter run, email [email protected], and share your letter with us. Good luck!