Op-eds express the opinions of the writers by conveying a response to an argument or a call to action. They react to a published article either in the newspaper or a website with the aim of reaching the public. Concerning international trade policy, op-eds can be used to reshape the public opinion, especially since in this platform the writer represents the local voices. The article aims to analyze some of the tips on writing international trade policy op-eds that will enable the writer’s opinions to connect with the reader.

Use a hook that attracts attention

The hook of the argument should be reflected in the headline as it assists the readers to catch the essence of the op-ed quickly. It is essential to highlight how the trade policy will affect businesses and communities and this is reflected in the hook. The argument of the op-ed is presented on the first line and demonstrates the stand of the writer based on the mater. The hook shows the reader why they should care about the issue especially if it is getting little media attention. Use a tone that is incontrovertible and highlight irony and contradictions to emphasize the argument. According to Amanda Sommer, Head of Content Writing at APA Outline service, the hook should tell the readers why they should care by telling them how the existing policy impacts their life in one way or another.

Present opinions clearly and uniquely

The opinion editorial should demonstrate importance by expressing an opinion and backing up the facts and ultimately present a solution. The argument should be based on a timely topic regarding the international trade policy topic and talk about the benefits and drawbacks of the new trade policy. The argument should be based on a timely topic and should quickly grab the attention of the reader. Before establishing the problem of the argument, it is essential to analyze why the readers should care.

Understanding what the public needs to hear and demonstrating predominance through a news hook ensures that the message gets to a multitude of people and might lead to the intended change. “Clearly express one major opinion early on in the argument to avoid leaving the readers wondering what the goal of the op-ed is,” advises Jill Peters, Senior Content Creator at ConfidentWriters. Give a concrete call to action to the reader on the way forward and recommendations on how they can take part in bringing change on public policies, especially since their voice carries more weight on policy formulation.

Know your audience

It is essential not to underestimate the level of information that the audience has concerning the topic as well as overestimate their intelligence. It is vital to comprehend that using simple and compelling language that attracts their attention should be the goal of the op-ed as it will influence their readership and their response to the call to action. Knowing the intended audience assists the writers in using a reliable outlet to reach them. Matters on international trade policies can be published on a website, especially since the world has become digitally connected.

Matters on international trade policies can be published on a website, especially since the world has become digitally connected. This ensures that members from the global community can pitch in and share their opinions with the intended audience to have an impact on change. Personalizing the op-ed by using local anecdotes grabs the attention of the reader, especially if the argument is based on facts. Audiences are more intrigued by writing that connects with them, especially since lawmakers make their decisions based on their opinions. Tapping into their emotions by emphasizing the impacts the policy will have on their livelihoods and their communities may drive the readers to respond to the call to action.

Suggest feasible solutions

Feasibility emphasizes that solutions be actionable and practical. This is necessary if the writer is basing their argument on international trade policies that arguably seem to put particular groups at a disadvantage. The solution is mainly summarized at the end of the argument and it is meant to make the argument credible and convincing.

Emphasize on the key messages which may include the importance of trade currently on the global community and the impact of lack of trade deals on certain organizations. Give an example of a context where the solution has shown change and present credible sources to prove this fact. Provide practical steps and recommendations that avoid appealing for political will as it will show the readers that the op-ed has no solution. If the situation has no solution yet, it is also critical to state that some problems are insoluble to enable the readers to critically think of potential solutions.

The article analyzed some of the tips in writing international trade policy op-eds to ensure that that the readers understand how policies impact their lives. Thinking about the audience and how to grab their attention with an engaging hook and a personal note improves their readership as well as their response to the call to action.

Paul Bates is a writer and editor at Paper-Research.com and SwiftPapepers.com. He also contributes to HuffPost, Medium, and Paperadepts.