Working with the Media: Letters to the Editor
Letters to the editor can be effective in influencing public opinion and legislators' views. The "Letter to the Editor" section is one of the most widely read parts of the newspaper and offers a chance to reach a broad audience. Letters to the editor can provide readers with information and insights on issues with which they may be unfamiliar, and can also inspire readers to take action.
- Keep it brief. Keep letters to 250 words or less. Discuss only one issue in a letter. Many newspapers will edit letters. Keeping the letter short will help ensure that the newspaper does not edit out important points.
- Get to the point. Start with a compelling introductory sentence. Follow the introduction with short, clear, factual points. Don't make broad statements you can't back up with facts. Focus on what is most important rather than trying to address every aspect of the issue.
- Relate it to home. Newspaper readers care about how an issue will impact them or their families locally. Including brief information on the economic or other impacts of an issue in the community will draw readers' interest.
- Personalize the issue. Provide an example of how the issue impacts a real person in the community to help readers understand the issue and encourage them to take action. Avoid submitting "form" letters.
- End with a call to action. Ask readers to follow up, such as joining in calling on policymakers to address the problem at issue.
- Be timely. Try to place letters when they will be most effective. For example, letters supporting or opposing legislation will have the most impact when legislators are considering the issue.
- Be professional. Letters should be typed or neatly handwritten and should follow the submission rules of the particular newspaper. Language should be polite but persuasive.
- Identify yourself. Sign the letter personally. Include any information highlighting your expertise on the issue. Provide contact information, including an address and daytime phone number so the newspaper can verify the letter's authenticity.
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