Blog
How to Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns
by Writing Workshops Staff
5 months ago
Hello writers,
I’m thrilled to announce my upcoming masterclass, Land Big Bylines by Writing for Columns. If you’re a writer looking to break into top publications like The New York Times or Cosmopolitan, this class is designed to give you the tools you need to succeed.
Why are columns such a powerful avenue for your writing career?
- Frequent Need for Content: Columns are in constant need of fresh content, which means they're always on the lookout for new voices, giving you an opportunity to break in.
- Built-In Audience: Writing for a column at a major publication means your work is immediately seen by a large, engaged readership.
- Portfolio Boost: Landing a column byline from a prestigious publication can serve as a strong credential in your writing portfolio.
- Creative Freedom: Many columns are looking for unique takes on their topic or theme, giving you room to let your voice shine.
- Gateway to Bigger Projects: A well-received essay can lead to further opportunities, like feature assignments or even book deals.
In this workshop, I’ll be sharing my strategies for decoding the premise and angle of popular columns and pitching best practices. Plus, you’ll leave with a bunch of ideas, several early drafts, and a game plan to start landing those big bylines.
Join me for this 2-hour live session, complete with a Q&A, and let’s get your writing out there where it belongs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take your writing career to the next level!
Catch you in class,
Courtney
Read an interview with Courtney about teaching this class.
Instructor Courtney Kocak is a writer, podcaster, and comedian based in Los Angeles. She wrote for Amazon’s Emmy-winning animated series Danger & Eggs and Netflix’s Know It All podcast. She’s produced a slew of highly-ranked podcasts—including The Bellas Podcast, which debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts, PayPal’s Never Stand Still, and Girlboss Radio—and currently hosts three of her own with over two million downloads to date: Private Parts Unknown, about love and sexuality around the world, The Bleeders, about book writing and publishing, and Podcast Bestie, a best friend to podcasters trying to grow and monetize their shows (and a popular Substack). As a writer, her bylines include The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Cosmopolitan, BUST, Bustle, InsideHook, and more. She’s currently working on a coming-of-age memoir in essays.
