Table of Contents >
   Part C. Promoting Interest and Participation in Initiativ... >
      Chapter 6. Promoting Interest in Community Issues >
         Section 6. Preparing Guest Columns and Editorials >
             Tools & Checklists - A checklist that summarizes the major points contained in the section. >

Preparing Guest Columns and Editorials

  

Tools & Checklists

 Contributed by Chris Hampton Edited by Phil Rabinowitz and Kate Nagy

Checklist

Here, you'll find a checklist which summarizes the major points contained in the text.


____You understand what guest columns and editorials are, and how they differ from regular columns and editorials.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can bring more of the public over to your way of thinking.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can show your side of controversial issues.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can re-open public dialogue on issues that have fallen out of the public mind.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can counter your opponents? arguments against your group or initiative.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can be tied to the start of an initiative, organization, or program.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can be tied to a season.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can be tied to an upcoming or current event.

____You understand that guest columns and editorials can be tied to an upcoming holiday.

____You understand what sort of audiences you can target with a guest column or editorial.

____ You have found out the publication's policy is on guest editorials and columns and, if necessary, sent out a pitch letter.

____ You have selected a writer for the piece.

____ You know the format requirements for guest columns and editorials.

____ You have decided on the main message of your piece and kept it in mind while writing.

____ You have started off by stating the subject of the controversy or issue in simple terms, as clearly as possible.

____ You have explained why your side of the disagreement is right.

____ You have used documented facts to back up your case as much as possible.

____ You have made sure your arguments are clear, logical, and easy to follow.

____ If necessary, you have presented a counter-argument to your opponent's position.

____ If possible, you have asked the reader to take some sort of action.

____ You have checked your work carefully for errors.

____ You have gotten additional, objective opinions from as many people as possible.

____ You have used this feedback to come up with the final version of your guest column or editorial.

____ You have submitted your piece for publication.

____ You have followed up with a letter to the newspaper thanking them for letting you write your piece.