Strategies for Crafting and Publishing an Editorial Article
Pitching Op-Eds: A Guide for Syracuse University Faculty
In the realm of thought leadership, op-eds offer an excellent platform for academics to share their insights on timely and relevant public issues. Here's a comprehensive guide on how Syracuse University faculty can effectively pitch their op-eds to news media.
Connecting Research to Public Issues
The key to a successful op-ed lies in its ability to connect research to current events or debates. By doing so, faculty can offer unique perspectives that inform and persuade readers.
Crafting a Clear and Focused Argument
Op-eds are opinion pieces meant to persuade or inform, not to engage in neutral discussions. It's essential to present a clear, strong argument that resonates with the audience.
Highlighting Expertise
When writing an op-ed, it's crucial to demonstrate your expertise in the topic area. Make sure to highlight how your scholarship or research qualifies you to speak on the subject.
Engaging the Reader
Use accessible language to reach a wide audience, avoiding jargon, obscure acronyms, and technical terms. Keep sentences and paragraphs short and simple for easier reading.
Following Submission Guidelines
Each outlet has specific requirements for length and format. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these guidelines before submitting your op-ed.
Submitting Op-eds to The Daily Orange
For campus-related op-eds, faculty may consider contacting The Daily Orange (The D.O.), which accepts submissions from the SU community in the 300-1000 word range. The D.O. offers a simple story idea submission form on their website, and it helps to build relationships with their editors.
Broader Reach
For a broader reach, the National Press Club Journalism Institute is relevant as it emphasizes op-eds for amplifying thought leadership and offers resources and fellowships related to journalism and public health reporting.
Targeting Publications
Faculty interested in pitching elsewhere should research target publications' op-ed sections and follow their submission protocols, typically found on their websites.
Important Contacts
The media relations team at Syracuse University can assist in the op-ed submission process. Key contacts within the team include Ellen James Mbuqe ([email protected]), Daryl Lovell ([email protected]), Keith Kobland ([email protected]), Vanessa Marquette ([email protected]), and Chris Munoz ([email protected]). To initiate contact, send an email to [email protected].
Submission Best Practices
- Include text within the body of an email, as attachments are usually discouraged.
- If a graphic can drive home a point, offer it.
- Make sure to include your contact information and a brief line about your credentials.
- Each op-ed must be offered exclusively to one media outlet at a time.
Top Newspaper Publications
If seeking reach, here's a listing of the top newspaper publications (listed by circulation) for which to target your op-ed:
- The Wall Street Journal - Circulation: 1,011,200
- The New York Times - Circulation: 483,701
- USA Today - Circulation: 1,621,091
- Los Angeles Times - Circulation: 417,936
- Chicago Tribune - Circulation: 238,103
- The Boston Globe - Circulation: 230,756
- The New York Post - Circulation: 426,129
- The Washington Post - Circulation: 254,379
- Star Tribune (Minneapolis) - Circulation: 251,822
- Newsday - Circulation: 251,473
By following these tips and guidelines, faculty can increase their chances of publication and effectively share their thought leadership with a wider audience.
Cultivating Knowledge beyond the Classroom
The pursuit of education and self-development doesn't end within the walls of Syracuse University. Leveraging op-eds provides a unique avenue for faculty to extend their academic insights to broader societal discussions.
Amplifying Scholarly Expertise
Successfully pitching op-eds not only serves to inform, but also to showcase faculty's expertise, enriching the public discourse and expanding their thought leadership.
