Basic Concept:

To get reader interest/buzz the issue covered has to be genuinely topical and provide information that is of use to the reader. Further to this end, it can’t be a blatant commercial for the contributor’s company (readers sniff this out right away and, when they do, they stop reading).

These elements are absolutely crucial to the success of this endeavor so we will be quite hard line about it. In the long run this also benefits the writer (see ’Benefits’). 

As a rule of thumb, seek to provide advice and insight without mentioning your business by name. 

Benefits:  

The author benefits as, if they impress the reader, the reader may seek out their services. The column will feature the author’s picture as well as their name and title, the name of the business and its website. The Focus is mailed out to over 10,000 businesses and is also posted on our website. So the profile is quite substantial.

Lenght of Column:  

It needs to be 500 words.

A Picture is Preferred, but not Required: 

We would like a digital headshot of you for the column.

Unfortunately, No Guarantees: 

We cannot guarantee that all submissions will be accepted.

A Priceless Opportunity:   

As a nonprofit we cannot pay for the column.

How to Submit a Column: 

Submit your column or column idea by emailing doverall@mbchamber.mb.ca.