Dear Blabby: Build Your Platform Through Column Writing
The average book sells 5,000 copies, but most larger newspapers and magazines have circulations of tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, and sometimes, millions. 
Understanding this concept can motivate you to seek out opportunities for exposure by becoming a columnist. If you have a passion and expertise in a certain area, look for publications in your niche that might be a good fit for an ongoing column.
A columnist writes an article or short piece consistently for the same publication. Lydia Harris, a member of the Northwest Christian Writers Association, is a tea expert. Her nationally-syndicated tea column allows her to influence scores of people though her words of encouragement, centered around tea lovers.
Since most columns are 350 words (or less), writing a column will help you practice writing tight and sticking to deadlines. A column also gives you the opportunity to develop a loyal readership, add to your credibility, and open up new writing and speaking opportunities.
Finding column-writing opportunities
In the Christian Communicator (May 2005), Heather Lynn Ivester offered some tips for becoming a columnist:
When I worked for a large accounting firm, the company distributed a monthly newsletter to hundreds of employees. But after reading a few issues, I noticed there wasn’t a column devoted to people’s interests outside the office. I approached the editor with my idea to write “The Downtown Detective” column that would give coworkers an opportunity to share their news items: summer vacations, new babies, awards and promotions, etc.
And I got the job. People loved seeing their names in bold print. Suddenly, I went from being the shy newcomer to being everyone’s best friend.”
Many types of media have columnist positions available:
- local newspapers and newsletters
- industry or consumer publications
- online publications, e-zines, blogs, and Web sites
If you want to try column writing, the most important first step is asking for His wisdom as to where to go, what to do, what to say, and how to say it. Becoming a columnist may give you the opportunity to speak His words of Life to those who need to hear them.
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