Writing Opinion Pieces That Compel

Writing Opinion Pieces That Compel
Everybody may be entitled to their opinion, but how many are really catching anyone's attention? The Internet and social media have given a platform to every individual or group with the least bit to say. All too often, those opinions can be missed – or easily dismissed. But some sites and publications do value a well-written opinion piece. Newspapers like the Cambridge Times, Guelph Mercury and Waterloo Region Record dedicate pages to editorial from people and organizations in their communities. An opinion piece in your local paper may reach thousands; well written, it can raise awareness, spark discussion and, just maybe, win people to your cause. This half-day workshop will introduce participants to the basics of effective opinion writing. Using examples from local newspapers, we'll look at: The general purpose and structure of an opinion piece Selecting a topic and your specific angle Bolstering opinion with facts A non-adversarial approach to persuading others How to make your column compelling Participants are encouraged to bring an idea for an opinion piece to the workshop.   About the Trainer: Michael Strickland is a strategic storyteller – part communications strategist, part wordsmith – with degrees in rhetorical theory. He spent half of his 30-year career as a journalist, helping to craft stories on a range of topics for newspapers and television. He later led the media relations programs at Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Waterloo. Today, Michael writes feature articles for lifestyle publications and a regular column for the Mercury. Participant Limit: 20 Fee: for members* or for non-members. *members of Volunteer Action Centre of Kitchener-Waterloo & Area, Volunteer Centre of Guelph/Wellington or United Way of Cambridge & North Dumfries Volunteer Centre. Waterloo-Wellington Learning Alliance Workshop Registration & Cancellation Policy: Fees for workshops, training opportunities, and events are due prior to or on the date of the event. The Waterloo-Wellington Learning Alliance reserves the right to request fees in advance. Participants who have registered for a workshop, training opportunity, or event with the Waterloo-Wellington Learning Alliance will be invoiced for the fee associated with the event if cancellation is not made at least 3 business days prior to the date and time of the event. Cancellation fees will be waived if the participant can find and guarantee an alternate to attend. The Waterloo-Wellington Learning Alliance reserves the right to cancel a workshop. In the event of cancellation, full refunds will be issued to all paid registrants within one month.

at Family and Children's Services of Guelph and Wellington County
275 Eramosa Rd
Guelph, Canada

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