How to become a columnist
Becoming a columnist is a career goal many writers and journalists aspire to achieve. Columns are usually magazine and newspaper staples, written at specific intervals such as daily or monthly. Columns consume little of a publication's precious space and devote themselves to a single subject. Columnists usually write a column devoted to their area of expertise, be it fashion, food, relationships, manners, dog training, knitting, health, or humor. A columnist must be able to write columns that are clear, accurate, compelling, interesting, and concise. A columnist must also be able to use their writing voice and point of view to write appealing columns. It goes without saying that a columnist must have excellent writing and communication skills.
Becoming a columnist is not an easy career to break in to, especially if a writer wishes to become a magazine columnist. However, given the number and popularity of newspaper and magazine columns, it is apparent that there will always be a need for columnists. Writers should not be discouraged by the associated difficulties of becoming a columnist, but should focus their attention on perfecting their craft. With diligence, a writer may be snapped up by a publication and become the author of their own column.
A writer will do well on his or her mission to become a columnist by keeping several pointers in mind:
1: Obtain training.
There are hundreds of colleges and universities that offer degree programs in journalism. Obtaining a degree in journalism provides a writer or potential writer with a professional leg-up. Many popular columnists attended universities to study journalism or writing.
2: Write.
A good columnist must be able to write impeccably and have an excellent command of the English language. Writing a compelling column with a minimum amount of space can be a challenge, but an experienced writer will be up to the task. Writers who wish to become a columnist must write columns extensively to hone their skill.
3: Learn from other columnists.
Regularly reading a variety of columns can help you gain insight on the column trade. Understanding the use of voice, style, and succinctness can help you practice such skills yourself.
4: Freelance write.
Freelance writing is the way many professional writers, and even columnists, started. Freelance writing acclimates one to writing succinct articles under a deadline. It also allows your writings to be published.
5: Pursue jobs in writing.
Very few columnists began their professional writing career as one. The majority started on the path to becoming a columnist by working in the writing field. A writer who pursues a career in journalism or reporting, or who works on the staff of a magazine, or newspaper will find their opportunities for becoming a columnist greatly increased.
6: Write a web log
A web log, commonly known as a blog, is an internet column. A writer can easily become the author of their own column by creating an account at a blog-providing website. Many people regularly read and obtain information from web logs, and a writer does not need to apply for the position.
7. Find publications that are seeking columnists.
Although a major national publication may not post hiring opportunities for columnists, there are many smaller publications that do. By searching for columnist opportunities on the internet, a writer can come in touch with a print or internet publication that is seeking a columnist. Writers may be able to secure such a position simply by applying and submitting writing samples. A writer may decide being a columnist for the publication is rewarding, or, may use his or her position as a starting point for larger opportunities.
8. Maintain samples and prototypes
A writer should always have a portfolio of their work, published and unpublished. Publications seeking to hire a columnist will want to examine a writer's works and capabilities. A person seeking to become a columnist should develop column prototypes and include them in their portfolio as well.
With time, experience, a lucky break, or a sudden opportunity, a writer can achieve his or her goal of becoming a columnist. A writer should maintain a positive outlook and proactively pursue his or her goal of becoming a columnist.
Becoming a columnist for a publication is indeed praise for a writer, considering how important space in a publication is. After becoming a columnist, a writer must face the challenges associated with the profession. Deadlines must be met and interesting new topics must be written each week or month. Columns must be compelling enough to encourage readers to come back to them. A good columnist can maintain their columns for extended periods of time. Some columnists have been writing their own column for decades.
