Tag: online journalism

Writing online workshop: some warm-up exercises for next week

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So, next Friday then.

The second course I’m running in a series of workshops offering my insider secrets to writing for the media. This time we’re talking specifically about writing online.

To help us get our thinking caps on, I’d like you to read this recent blog-style article from the Guardian by @davidhepworth, Charlioe Hebdo: A twisted vote of confidence, and post your thoughts.

Read it carefully, not just for content but for style, structure, tone of language etc. Then post a comment below telling us what you think of it and why.

Did you enjoy the way the story was written? What aspects did you like/dislike?

When you post, please also include a brief introduction to yourself, so we can get to know each other a bit before the class next Friday and start a bit of a dialogue between us a a group.

I’ll do the same. And, over the week to come, I’ll post a couple more links to get the discussion flowing.

Looking forward to meeting everyone next Friday – aim for 9.15am at The Glynne Arms, 3 Glynne Way, Hawarden CH5 3NS.

Please call or email with any questions.

New course: HOW TO PITCH AND WRITE FOR ONLINE PUBLICATIONS

 

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Publishing is migrating online. So, if you don’t want to miss out, then you need to adapt your writing for digital devices.

Building on ideas from the first workshop in October 2014 [pictured above], I will share my insider tips on how to get your story ideas published – and get paid for it.

But, in this three-hour session, I will look specifically at how to work online, including writing blogs, guest posts and online features.

It runs Friday, February 6, 2015 in Hawarden, near Chester.

By the end of the course you will be able to pitch, secure commissions and file great copy. We will consider the following:

  • Why do you need to adapt your writing style for the screen?
  • What style, structure and tone devices can you employ to make your writing stand out online?
  • How do you add worthwhile multimedia content to your work?
  • How can you build a community of editors and readers around your writing?

The morning starts with coffee on arrival, then three hours of personal tuition and exercises. You have the option to pick my brains informally over lunch afterwards (lunch not included in the cost).

I’m a freelance writer and independent media tutor with 15 years experience of making a living from selling words. My portfolio includes travel features for the Daily Telegraph, guest blogger for Visit Wales and online copywriting for various tourist boards and travel companies.

The cost of this workshop is £60 per person, including refreshments and e-learning support before the course.

The next courses will run March to May 2015 as part of the Monthly Masterclass series to be hosted at CHIC in Chester – watch this space for more details.

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