What Editors Wish You Knew
If you have been writing opinion articles (op-eds) that always get rejected, or you want to get started on opinion writing, but you are in doubt if you have what it takes, then this article is for you.
Not many people can truly appreciate the work that goes into writing an op-ed. You put in many hours of research and writing. You, then, have to read and reread the draft while doubting if it is any good. And even when you have polished it more times than should be necessary, submitting it is another arduous task. And it is especially so if your articles keep getting rejected, or you worked on an article that you felt was your best work yet, but the editor did not share your view.
If you are at this point where you are hesitant to submit your piece or want to give up writing altogether, then know you are not alone. It is not that you are not good enough. It is only that you have not been trained to know what editors like. You don’t have to have a background in journalism or be the most talented writer. All you need is to understand what editors are looking for. And by the end of this article, you will have a good idea. Let’s dive in!
1. Have a Strong Argument
Many writers focus on having a ‘good’ topic, forgetting that editors receive dozens of pieces every day on important issues: mental health, education, climate, governance, and more. What really makes an article stand out is having a focused point of view. An argument that pushes thinking forward, challenges assumptions, or introduces a fresh perspective to what has been normalized or trivialized with time. As you write, you need to ask yourself…what exactly I’m I trying to say and why does it need to be said now?
The good thing is that if you cared enough to write about the subject, then you most likely have a strong point of view. Now, argue it out like God gave you direct permission to do so. You’ll get the editor’s attention!
2. Relevance
If you have studied different op-eds, then you may find that most of them are reacting to breaking news or a recent event. This is a rule of thumb for writing op-eds, but it’s not all there is to it. Beyond the headlines, you need to demonstrate why your take is relevant. And more than that, you need to differentiate yourself from other writers who are also writing about the same. To earn the favor of editors, ensure your piece connects to something that’s brewing, unresolved, or quietly affecting lives.
3. Simplicity does not mean lack of intelligence
Herein lies the biggest fallacy many new writers hold. They believe that editors publish articles from the most intelligent writers. This results in them using big words or complex sentences to prove that they are smart. They forget that editors are not linguistic professors grading essays, but professionals looking out for their readers.
Some of the most compelling op-eds ever written used clear, everyday language. And this does not mean dumbing things down. It means communicating, even the most complex of ideas, with clarity and precision. Try and be simple, and the intelligence will show. What’s more, the editor will reward you for it.
4. Voice…not title
Another fallacy is the assumption that editors only want voices from ‘big’ names or high-ranking persons. Far from it, editors are not concerned about the size of your resume, but the depth of your insight on the subject matter. And as we have discussed above, it is also about how clearly you share it, and the vigour in your argument. If you’ve seen something firsthand, worked closely on an issue, or noticed something others are missing, you have something worth sharing.
Don’t underestimate your voice just because you’re not a CEO, professor, or high-ranking official. Some of the most powerful and impactful op-eds have come from ordinary people, with a unique view of things, who were bold enough to share it.
5. Quality, not quantity
Many new writers try to say too many things at once, which results in a cluttered opinion piece that is confusing to follow. The good thing is that you are here learning this early, so you will be ahead of many aspiring writers by this insight alone. What you need to keep in mind when writing is that editors are looking for focused, intentional arguments…not a list of problems or an overview of your entire industry.
With that said, it is not easy. You become a better thinker and writer with time. However, with a good trainer or mentor, you can reduce the time it takes to get there. As a general rule, don’t try to cover too much ground. Narrow your scope. Focus. Pick a good idea and build on it.
6. Rejection Doesn’t Mean You’re Not a Writer
If you are afraid of rejection, then you’d better get used to it. Every writer has faced rejection. It’s part of the trade. Even seasoned op-ed writers continue to face rejection. The difference between a new writer and an expert writer is the attitude. Expert writers know the piece was rejected for a reason (some of which we have discussed) and work to improve it. New writers often give up. You need to adopt the attitude of expert writers.
So if you’ve pitched before and didn’t get through, improve your piece and pitch again. The writers who succeed are the ones who revise, refine, rewrite, and keep going.
Write anyway…
Writing an op-ed takes courage, and taking a hit and continuing to write takes even more. The good news is that every published writer began where you are – doubting themselves, making countless mistakes, learning to take rejection, and doing better. What they learnt by doing this is that editors are not in the business of perfection; rather, unique perspectives, clearly written, timely shared, and focused on the reader.
So if you have something to say…say it! Write the piece. Shape the argument. Learn from your mistakes. And most of all, don’t wait for someone to give you permission or validation. Just do it!
Are Op-eds Still Relevant in 2025?
In a world of podcasts, viral tweets, blogs, and long LinkedIn posts, it’s fair to ask if opinion editorial (op-eds) still matter in 2025. We have no shortage of people sharing what they think. Everything feels like thought leadership even when it’s not. So, do op-eds still matter?
The short answer is, yes. Just not in the same way they used to.
When used right, op-eds remain one of the most trusted and strategic tools available for anyone looking to shape conversation, build authority, or influence decisions. They, however, need to be adapted to the changing media landscape.
Let us look at a few pointers that demonstrate the enduring value of Op-eds.
Trust and Credibility
Anyone can share their opinion online. Whether that opinion is taken as credible is another thing. For this, op-eds stand out because people know that the content goes through a layer of editorial scrutiny before it is published. Readers know that when your opinion gets the spotlight of a reputable outlet, you must have surpassed the bar of clarity, relevance, and credibility.
This is backed by research. According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report (2024), trust in traditional news platforms in Kenya stands at 64%. This is among the highest rates globally. When your piece appears in a national paper or respected media outlet, readers take it more seriously than something posted randomly online.
Influence and Impact
Because they are credible, they inevitably catch the eyes of the decision-makers. According to the 2025 Edelman–LinkedIn Thought Leadership Impact Report, over 50% of global business leaders spend at least an hour a week engaging with long-form thought leadership, through published articles and opinion pages. This is because op-eds remain a trusted source for leaders to discover new voices, perspectives, and ideas worth exploring.
In Kenya, op-eds often shape narratives within government circles, civil society, and donor networks. One well-written article, targeting a pre-defined subject matter, has the power to open boardroom conversations, influence policy decisions, or change the trajectory of a national debate.
New Opportunities
This goes without saying, but for the few who may not be aware, many media editors, talk show hosts, and conference organisers keep an eye on op-ed pages to find credible guests or speakers. As you continue getting published, you will not only strengthen your reputation but also position yourself as an expert in your field or a particular subject matter – suitable for the spotlight. In this way, op-eds serve as both a portfolio and a platform.
High shelf life
Social media posts come and go as the algorithms strive to keep their audience entertained. Even the best-performing tweets have a short life span as compared to published pieces. This means op-eds can be referenced in academic papers, quoted in policy briefs, or archived on institutional websites for years to come. For public servants, founders, CEOs, or researchers, that permanence matters.
What’s Changed and What It Means for You
Of course, we have to be realistic. And honest. The digital world has undeniably disrupted traditional media in some cases, lowering reach and influence. Op-eds are not an exception. Let us explore what has changed and what it means for writers.
Scattered Attention
We can agree that op-eds no longer hold the same captive audience they once did, as people now have multiple sources of information. It also misses certain audience segments. For instance, younger audiences are more likely to read a carousel on Instagram than open the commentary section of a newspaper. This, however, does not mean op-eds are irrelevant. It just means they have to be amplified. A great op-ed needs follow-up through social media posts, conversations, webinars, or even video summaries. Learn more about this here.
Increased Competition
To mitigate the negative impacts of the digital space, many editors have been forced to work with smaller teams and tighter spaces. Some media houses have even scaled down their opinion sections, making it harder for new voices to get through.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write. It means you need to write exceptionally well – with clarity, originality, and a strong argument. For help with this, you can refer to our posts on what editors like in op-eds by clicking here. Yes, the bar may be higher, but all you have to do is raise your game.
The Real Work Begins After You Publish
Op-eds used to be the destination, but now they are only foundational. Once your article is published, it’s up to you to share it strategically, initiate discussions, and build on its momentum. Whether you record a short video version, repurpose it for a newsletter, or turn it into talking points for a panel, one op-ed can become many different things.
So What’s the Sweet Spot?
Writers, who are making the most impact and income today, are not debating between the old and the new. They are leveraging the strengths of both by combining them. You can use the credibility of op-eds to anchor your voice and digital tools to elevate that voice and reach more people. This is the sweet spot – a blending of institutional trust and digital fluency.
Op-eds have not lost their value. They have evolved. They remain unmatched when it comes to authority, visibility, and lasting impact.
Op-eds in the digital era work best when used as part of a broader strategy, not a standalone effort. As a leader, policymaker, expert, or advocate with something worth saying, don’t overlook the power of a well-targeted op-ed. Go beyond getting your opinion published. Share it widely. Spark even greater conversations out of it. Because in 2025, it’s not just what you write. It’s what you do from there.
7 Ways to Make your Opinion Piece Irresistible to Editors
A typical editor of a national paper receives at least 25 submissions a day. All these hopeful writers compete for the two or three opinion editorial (op-ed) slots every day. It’s no wonder only a few make the cut for publishing. The multitudes are rejected.
If you have ever worked so hard on an opinion piece only for it to be ignored, passed over, politely declined, or outrightly rejected, then bear with me because what I’m about to say may sting a bit. Despite having a crowded inbox, editors have favourites. People who they look forward to publishing.
So, who are these people you ask? And most importantly, why are they favored?
Well, these are people who know what editors want. It’s not enough to have a powerful story, addressing a pertinent issue. If you don’t speak the language of editors, you will get passed over every time.
If you would like to know how to get published every time you write, then stick with me to the end. Let us look at seven ways to make your writing irresistible. At the end of each point, you will get a bonus tip to help you become a better writer and thinker.
1. Defensible Point of View
The first and most sure way to get to the editor’s ‘favorites list’ is having one strong central argument that comes out clearly in your piece. Many writers fall into the temptation of giving endless summaries of events, unnecessary statistics, or vague reflections. All editors want is one big idea that’s clear, specific, and maybe a little provocative, that clearly demonstrates your position in a matter.
Tip: Before writing the first word, make sure you can summarize your entire argument in a sentence.
2. Topical
Being topical is a very delicate balance between responding to what is happening without being trapped in it. Becoming a better op-ed writer means being able to find the current underneath the news cycle and connect it to something deeper. This gives you piece relevance, and editors reward this any day. Of course, this does not come naturally. You need to study and practice extensively. Having a mentor who guides you and points out your mistakes can help you reduce the time you take to learn.
Tip: Editors love writers who can take a trending topic and demonstrate what it means for policy, culture, leadership, or the future.
3. Authority
One of the best ways to earn credibility with an editor is to demonstrate your authority in speaking about a topic. Of course, this comes naturally if you are addressing something specific in your industry or area of expertise. However, if you write on topics that interest you or comment on social issues, then you need to work harder to show the editor that you are the right person to write the piece. What stake do you have in it? Is it a lived experience? What gives you a unique vantage point on the matter? These are questions you need to answer as soon as possible.
Tip: As a new writer, you may consider including a short bio or pitch, explaining your link to the issue. Otherwise, it is advisable as a new writer to align your choice of topic to your expertise or industry.
4. Originality
In the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a lot of generic content flying around, sometimes disguised as opinion. But even before AI, editors’ inboxes have always been flooded with pieces saying what’s already been said. This is why editors find it refreshing to find writers who bring something new to the table: a fresh angle, a surprising example, or a bold reframing of an old view.
Tip: Always ask yourself – am I saying that others are not? If you can’t, then you can be sure your piece will be passed over.
5. Strong Structure, no fluff
You may have a good argument. Show authority. And have a unique point of view. However, if your writing is hard to follow, your piece can still get rejected. Editors are busy and do not have time to dig through lengthy introductions, confusing paragraphs, convoluted trains of thought, or incoherent flow of ideas. Structure and clarity reign supreme for editors.
Tip: Cut the fluff. Start strong, build steadily, and land with clarity. Not academic or chatty. But clear and persuasive.
6. Evidence, Examples, and Nuance
Editors love strong, bold voices, but you still need to back your claims. Opinions that are not backed by evidence or lived experiences are not worth the paper they are written on. Especially on matters of public interest or concern, editors want pieces that show you have done your research and that you are sharing your opinion from an informed place.
Tip: Include one or two credible sources, or a personal story that adds weight to your argument.
7. A Distinct Yet Respectful Voice
A strong voice, and in extension, tonality can be the difference between having your article published or rejected. Despite having so many writers trying to woo them every day, editors are starved for a strong, distinct voice. They know that if your voice made an impression on them, then it will definitely capture the reader’s attention. A distinct voice does not mean being combative, self-aggrandizing, or too casual. Your writing should show confidence, composure, and conviction.
Tip: One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to have a second pair of eyes to always go through your work to ensure consistency in voicing. It helps if they are experienced in writing op-eds.
Earning the favor of editors is not about perfection; it is about understanding what they want in an op-ed. They are just professionals looking to give their readers the best reading experience.
Getting your stories rejected is part of the game. Don’t take it personally. Instead, refine your voice, your thinking, and hone your writing skills.
For writers who want to excel quickly and make ‘impact and income’ through op-eds, then we have something for you. Our opinion writing course will take you from a beginner or intermediate level to a pro in a few weeks.
PS: Some of our students get published even before finishing the course, having had no success before.
Click here to learn more.
Top 5 Misconceptions About Editors
If you have ever doubted yourself as an op-ed writer, then this article is for you. Many powerful op-ed ideas never see the light of day because the writer was afraid to write, or worse yet, wrote the story but never shared it with an editor. What most writers don’t know is that they are not held back by a lack of skill but a set of false, persistent beliefs about editors and the publishing process that make the process feel impossible.
To excel as an op-ed writer, you need two things. One, you need to understand is what editors want to publish. Two, you need to dispel your misconceptions about them. We will talk more about what editors want to publish at the end of this article, but first, let us unveil the five common misconceptions that could be holding you back.
“Editors Only Publish Big Names or Well-Connected Writers”
It’s easy to look at the bylines in top newspapers and think only politicians, top executives, academics, etc. get published, but that can’t be further from the truth. What editors really want is relevance, originality, and a clear argument. A powerful personal story or frontline insight is better than any title when it comes to op-eds. You don’t need to be well-known. You need to be well-positioned. If you’re close to the issue and have something compelling to say, you have more than enough.
“Write the piece because big or small name, it’s the content of your piece that matters”
“Getting Rejected Means your Idea was not Good Enough”
Rejection is part of the writing process. The mistake aspiring op-ed writers make is taking it as a verdict. A verdict that you are not good enough. On the contrary, there are dozens of reasons a good article might get passed over. Maybe the timing was not right. Or the editor already has something similar. And sometimes, the publication is simply full that week. Take any feedback positively and keep writing.
“Rejection is part of the trade…try and not take it too personally”
“Editors Don’t Publish Bold Opinions”
Some writers hold back their strongest views, worried they will come across as “too much” or simply not get the editor’s attention. The reality, however, is that bold (and at times controversial) opinions that are backed by evidence and grounded in solid arguments are what editors long to see. The best op-eds challenge readers. They don’t just echo what has already been said.
“Freedom of ‘strong and grounded’ expression is guaranteed in the constitution of editors.”
“You Have to Sound Academic to Be Taken Seriously”
This is perhaps the most widespread misconception that keeps many from writing and getting published. Many new writers believe that op-eds need big words and heavy prose to be considered by editors. They couldn’t be more wrong. Editors value clarity, and this is what your writing should reflect – clarity of thinking and writing. Even when tackling complex subjects, strive to keep your arguments focused, evidence-based, conversational, and not patronizing.
“Keep it smart but simple. Be a guide for your readers through the complexity, and editors will always publish your pieces.”
“Editors Aren’t Looking for New Voices”
For this, I will have to admit that it is not fully a misconception. Yes, editors are not always enthusiastic about new writers. But not in the way you think. Editors reject many aspiring writers simply because they do not meet the standards needed to get published. In other words, they need to learn what editors want. Editors are always looking out for fresh perspectives, especially from underrepresented communities, frontline workers, young professionals, and people with personal experiences tied to public issues. If your story or insight helps readers understand an issue differently, that’s enough.
“You don’t need a publishing history. You just need something worth saying and the courage to say it.”
Give Editors What They Want
As I promised at the beginning of the article, we will tell you what editors want in an Op-ed so you can consistently get published. It is, however, a long list, so we have prepared a full article for it. Click here to access it. If you follow the tips in the article, you will be ahead of many aspiring writers.
However, if you would like expert coaching by seasoned op-ed writers and editors, then consider our op-ed writing course. You will get a clear, proven framework that will help you write compelling stories that editors will push everything aside to publish. Begin your journey in thought leadership today with our opinion writing course.
How to Build Long-Term Relationships with Editors
Inexperienced writers think of their relationship with the editor as transactional. That is, they pitch their story, hoping to get in the editor’s busy slot. They may follow up once or twice to know the status of their article, but once published, they are done. On the other hand, experienced writers have learnt over time that the way to grow in their thought leadership journey is to view their relationship with the editor as a partnership. A ‘professional friendship’ if you may.
As you will find out by the end of this article, the most successful contributors are not just good writers; they are reliable partners. Editors remember them. They consider them even when their plates are full. And now the sweetspot…they at times request new material from them, especially when it aligns with their subject matter. That’s the power of building a professional relationship. And just like any good friendship, it is built over time on consistency, communication, and mutual respect.
If you are serious about becoming a thought leader, and not a one-time contributor, then you need to build editorial relationships that last. Below are seven ways experienced op-ed writers engage with editors. We have also included some famous quotes from editors around the world so you can hear it from the horse’s mouth.
Let’s dive in!
1. Consistency
Being published once, especially with a well-written piece, will get you on the editor’s radar. However, it is showing up again and again, with fresh ideas, clean drafts, and timely submissions, which builds trust. As we will keep emphasizing, editors manage tight timelines and unpredictable news cycles. This is why they reward writers who follow instructions, respect deadlines, and send in ‘ready to publish’ op-eds, as they lighten their load.
“We don’t have time to chase writers. If you make our work smoother, you’re already ahead of 80% of the pitches we get.” – Managing Editor, Regional Daily
Good friends are dependable. So are writers.
2. Feedback Loop
No good relationship enjoys a smooth sail all through. There will be points of convergence and divergence. Sometimes, even the most seasoned of writers have their pieces rejected after days of labour. Sometimes you will be required to improve and submit a draft more than once, making you question whether it’s worth the effort. Some edits will cut out what you considered the most important. How you respond during the editing process says more about you than your piece. Engage respectfully. Ask questions if something’s unclear. And if you disagree, do so cordially, not defensively.
“You don’t have to agree with every edit. But if you’re generous and responsive in the process, we’ll want to work with you again.” – Opinion Editor, National Outlet
Treat the editorial process as a dialogue, not a duel.
3. Follow Ups and Engagement
Many writers go silent after they share their piece with the editor. Others follow up too much, thus becoming a nuisance. Neither approach works in your favor. After sharing your article with the editor, take some time before reaching out. And when you are published, spare some minutes to send a brief thank-you note. Keep the engagement going. You can even tell them if the piece sparked discussion or traction if you shared it in your networks. Then, a few weeks later, pitch something fresh that aligns with a current conversation or need.
“The writers I remember are the ones who stay in touch, not just to pitch, but to stay connected to the work we’re doing.” – Editor, Policy and Ideas Platform
Just like a good friend, you don’t only show up when you want something.
4. Editor’s Needs
A relationship thrives when both parties understand each other’s needs in the relationship and fulfill them. Even more, a relationship solidifies when the partners can, to a good extent, anticipate each other’s needs. Editors only care about their readers, and by anticipating what their readers want, you will always have an edge. This means you need to read the publication extensively to keep up with what they are doing.
“If you clearly understand our readers and the moment we’re in, you’ve already separated yourself from most submissions.” – Senior Editor, Online Newsroom
Relationships thrive when you pay attention. So does your writing.
5. Writer’s Contribution
Many writers think their work ends after publication. Seasoned writers know that it is where the work begins. To know more about what to do after getting published, click here. Beyond writing, you need to show your investment as a partner. This means promoting your work on other platforms. You can also support the publication by sharing other writers’ work that you find impactful. Recommend the outlet to peers. Let the editor see a partner in you.
“We notice who uplifts our work beyond their own piece. That goodwill builds fast and lasts.” – Op-ed Editor, Nonprofit Platform
Friendships flourish with mutual effort. So do editorial ties.
6. Beyond the Pitch
Another good way to contribute is by going beyond your self-interest and contributing to the publication’s growth. This will really distinguish you from other contributors to the publication. At times, flag emerging issues and bring them to the attention of your editor. Suggest topics that need coverage, even if they are in line with your subject matter.
“The writers we return to are the ones who show they’re thinking with us – not just at us.” – Ideas Editor, National Weekly
A friendship grows when parties are willing to go beyond their self-interest.
7. Evolve
Even the best of relationships dissolve when parties outgrow one another. Be sure to grow as a writer. Invest in yourself. Become a better writer and thinker. And more importantly, evolve with the publication, even if it means trying out new formats or exploring new topics. Be willing to go beyond your comfort zone.
“We love working with return contributors whose writing keeps growing. It means they’re serious, not just about publishing, but about their craft.” – Editor-in-Chief, Regional Media Hub
If a friendship does not compound, it devalues with time.
Building good relationships with editors has benefits beyond getting published. It paves the way for other opportunities like invitations to panel discussions, policy tables, media interviews, board appointments, and more. So, pitch articles. Be consistent. Exchange thoughtfully and contribute. Above all, improve your craft and thinking.
PS: If you want help getting started as an op-ed writer or building a stronger presence in the opinion space, then consider joining our Op-Ed Writing Course – designed to help you get published consistently and also build stronger editorial ties. We invite national editors so you can learn all these and more firsthand. Click here to learn more.
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