Want to Write for a Major Business Publication? These 4 Habits Separate Successful Contributors
Writing skills are important, but so is finding what makes you unique.
EXPERT OPINION BY ROBYN D. SHULMAN
Have you ever wanted to be a columnist? Contributing to a business publication offers significant benefits. Entrepreneurs who share unique advice can build instant credibility, expand their audience, drive new business, land speaking gigs, and bring an entirely new network of people into their lives. Sharing expert knowledge also shows readers you know your industry well.
As a writing teacher, I’ve had many entrepreneurs ask how they can land a column at a prominent publication. In 2017, so many people asked me that question that a colleague and I created a writing class—and even a business around it.
If I were teaching that same class today, here’s a high-level idea of what I would teach my writing students.
Define your unique voice
Everyone has something to teach others. As an entrepreneur, you’ve had many experiences. You’ve learned things that other founders haven’t yet discovered, and you can help current business owners with your distinctive advice. To begin, start making a list of lessons you’ve learned along your business journey so you can easily define the topics where you can stand out as an expert. Hone down the list to solid ideas that you think people would be interested in—and keep them on-hand for future articles.
Refreshed leadership advice from CEO Stephanie Mehta
An Inc.com Featured Presentation
If you have something to offer a magazine that has not been talked about before—even better. For example, when I pitched Forbes years ago, I was the only writer to bring up the idea of education and entrepreneurship. It was a different angle that no other writer was covering at the time. If you have those special topics, use them. Once you have a solid grasp of what you want to write about, it’s time to pick up the pen.
Begin writing and keep a portfolio
Start writing. You don’t have to be an exemplary writer. You need to know your information well, how to deliver it, and whom it will benefit most. For this kind of writing, you should not use AI because you are offering your personal guidance and advice. Writing with AI today can be quite tempting—however, nothing can replace you, your voice, and your particular information. Don’t be scared to put yourself out there. You can start by writing a newsletter on LinkedIn, practicing with different LinkedIn posts, or writing for publications such as Substack or Medium. Pay attention to who reacts to your work so you can start shaping your audience. Once you have a good list of articles, keep them in a portfolio so you can pitch an editor and land a byline.
Grow your online following
As most writers experience, growing your following online takes a lot of work. The main thing I learned about growing an audience is that you have to be consistent and engage with your readers—this takes time, but it’s worth it. You shouldn’t post an article, walk away, and expect your viewership to climb on its own. When you write, respond to comments, engage with your audience, and share your work in as many applicable places as possible.
Source: www.inc.com
