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I read most magazines and newspapers backwards. That is, I start on the final page and work
my way to the front. Why do I do this? Because I find that the most enjoyable and valuable
section of any publication is the opinion page.
Hi. I’m Lionel Beehner and I teach Op-Ed Writing for Mediabistro.
The Op-Ed page is the most sought-after real
estate in any publication. The best Op-Eds are about current issues and appeal to a broad
audience. When done well, these pieces have the power to change policy, sway public opinion,
and stir debate.
Op-Eds are excellent showcases of a writer’s talent. They look great on résumés, and
will impress prospective employers. They can also
attract the attention of producers, book agents, and policy makers. And most important,
they’ll enhance your credentials as an “expert” in your field.
Some of you may be wondering: But am I qualified to write op-eds? The best part about these
pieces is that they’re open to anyone! The trick is to own your expertise. Some of the
best op-eds are by unknown writers who offer unique glimpses into subjects readers know
nothing about.
So what will my class teach you? You’ll learn the genre and craft of constructing
an Op-Ed. We’ll talk about how to pitch your ideas to newspapers, magazines, websites,
and blogs. We’ll also look at the difference between opinion writing for online versus
print media; how to stay current and ahead of the mainstream; and how to network and
leverage your blog for future writing gigs. By the end of the class, you’ll have three
edited Op-Eds, at least one of which will be ready for submission.
A bit about me: I am a frequent contributor to the Op-Ed pages of USA Today, the Guardian,
and Huffington Post. My commentary has appeared in dozens of publications including The New
York Times, Christian Science Monitor, and International Herald Tribune, and on NPR,
CNN, CNBC, and BBC Radio.
I’m Lionel Beehner and I look forward to meeting you in class!