The Letters to the Editor section is one of the most-read sections of any newspaper. It is a quick and easy way to respond to both positive and negative coverage, as well as to bring awareness to an issue not receiving coverage. Letters are extremely important because they allow you to reach a large audience, are often monitored by elected officials as well as editors to gauge “public opinion” on an issue and can bring up information not addressed in a news article.
Click here to write a letter to the editor to your local paper
Tips for writing letters to the editor
Keep it short and on one subject
Letters to the editor are designed to express just one idea and should be no more than 150-250 words. Given this brief amount of text you should pick one main thought and resist the temptation to include other points. Address the letter to “The Letters Editor.” Most newspapers have websites that include instructions for submitting your letter electronically. There are several ways in which to use letters to the editor: reacting to negative coverage, reacting to a negative editorial, providing a different angle on news of the day, and offering a viewpoint from a particular segment of the population.
Personalize your message
Many editors receive hundreds of letters everyday so want your letter stand out. If you have a personal story that shows how this issue affects you, your family, or the community, share it- briefly.
Be polite
You can be critical of the paper or author, but it must always be written in a civil tone. Papers will never publish insulting or vulgar letters. When sending the letter it’s always good to personalize the approach, so take the time to find the name of the editor and always make it clear that you are receptive to any edits and revisions.
Proofread
Any typo or grammatical error in a letter will significantly diminish you chances of being published. Always double-check your work and have an additional party review it before submitting the letter.
Be sure to include your contact information
Many newspapers will print a letter to the editor only after calling the author to verify his or her identity and address. Newspapers will not give out that information, and will usually print only your name and city should your letter be published.
Increase your legitimacy
-Submit your piece to only one publication at a time. Consistently submitting to several at once will hurt your reputation among editors.
-Send any published pieces to your elected officials’ offices that are responsible for the issue you covered. This will help build your reputation as a credible source on the issue.
To increase your chances of publication
- React quickly to news of the day or negative coverage. If possible, have the letter in the hands of an editor on the same day in which the news or negative editorial appears.
- Be authoritative. Speak on behalf of an organization, when possible.
Click here to write a letter to the editor to your local paper