Op-ed is a marketing tactic that anyone uses to get some exposure in most important magazines and newspapers.

An op-ed is an editorial space in a magazine or newspaper where that publication gives you an opportunity to express your opinion on a topic that they recently covered. It's generally an article expressing personal opinions and viewpoints. The name originated from the tradition of newspapers placing such resources on the page opposite to the editorial page. The term "op-ed" is from combining the words "opposite" and "editorial."

If you're an expert who has an interesting opinion, you may have thought of writing an op-ed article for a newspaper or a magazine in your target audience. Such an article can reach millions of readers. It also can bring you considerable recognition. Furthermore, effective op-ed articles reflect well on the author, which is why we encourage internet marketer and website owner to extend to this valuable marketing tool.

We have prepared these guidelines to help you get started, to craft and submit an op-ed article: The first sentence should take the reader's attention, and everything that follows should keep it. Illustrate your case with vivid examples and outstanding facts. Defend it with a few strong arguments. Be short and specific. Use a lively, active voice. Give readers the minimum background they need to understand your case.

Timing is essential, Op-eds should be timely, lively and present strong arguments. You are most successful when you follow the news and leap at opportunities. Writing a shorter article is better and you have more chance because newspapers have limited space to offer, and editors generally won't take the time to cut a long article. Make your viewpoint clearly and persuasively.

Put your main point on the top to convince the reader that it's worth his or her valuable time to continue.

An op-ed is not a news story that simply describes a situation; it is your opinion about how to improve matters. In an op-ed article you need to offer specific recommendations. When writing an op-ed article, therefore, look for great examples that will bring your argument to life. Use short sentences and paragraphs and use the same style, relying mainly on simple declarative sentences. Cut long paragraphs into two or more shorter ones.

When writing an op-ed article, it's good to use the personal voice whenever possible. Active voice is nearly always better than passive voice. It's easier to read, and it leaves no doubt about who is doing the hoping, recommending or other action. There isn't any obligation to response point-by-point to an earlier published articles, just mention it once and make your own case.

Both the opening and the final paragraph must be strong to hook reader's. Understand the op-ed editor's needs and submit your article with contact information. The cheapest and fastest methods to submit article are E-mail or fax.

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