Starting a newspaper column?

United States
February 1, 2007 3:02pm CST
Is anyone familiar about how a person can go about starting a column, preferably a paid on in a newspaper. I know it may mean starting off as a volunteer columnist or something to get a portfolio together, or even trying to do a "Dear Abby" type thing on myspace. Any suggestions on how to get started? I think I am pretty good at giving advice on MANY topics (not all) and would really LOVE to do this. Thanks!
1 response
blueberrypie
@blueberrypie (33)
• United States
1 Feb 07
There are several online job boards for writers such as absolutewrite dot com/forums and freelancewriting dot com that have sections devoted to writing jobs. Many of the jobs posted are for entry level writers and perhaps you could start with one of those. Also I live in a small town and I started submitting things to the local papers with some success. In addition, you may think about starting a neighborhood newsletter with various tib bits, recipes and news. It doesn't have to be a large newsletter, start with two -four pages. Create your own personal advice section and build your reputation within the community and local businesses where you distribute your "paper". Good luck :)