Tips for Writing a Letter to the Editor: Boost Your Advocacy with Effective LTEs

July 29, 2024

Letters to the Editor (LTEs) are a powerful tool for advocating important issues, particularly in the realm of home care. They are quick to write, frequently published, and widely read. Politicians and government agencies often pay close attention to these letters as indicators of constituent concerns. Here’s how to craft a compelling LTE that stands out and gets noticed:

  1. Be Current and Relevant Responding to a recent news article or event is one of the best ways to increase the likelihood of your LTE being published. Identify trending topics or “hooks” in recent news and reference them directly in your letter. Mention the article’s title and date to provide context and relevance.
  2. Be Clear, Concise, and Impactful Keep your LTE between 150-200 words. The shorter and more to the point, the better. Focus on one key issue and ensure your message is clear and grammatically correct. A concise letter is more likely to capture attention and be published.
  3. Make a Personal Connection Help readers connect on a personal level by emphasizing how home care issues impact individuals and families. Personal stories and emotional appeals can make your LTE more engaging and persuasive.
  4. Include a Strong Call to Action End your LTE with a direct call to action. Encourage readers or elected officials to take specific steps, such as supporting home care legislation or advocating for better policies. A clear call to action can drive change and rally support.
  5. Provide Contact Information Include your name, agency, address, email, and phone number in your submission. While this information may not be published, it helps the outlet verify the authenticity of your letter.
  6. Submit and Share Your LTE Use our media directory to find contact information for local news outlets and submit your LTE. To maximize impact, share your LTE on social media and tag PHA and your elected officials. This can help amplify your message and reach a broader audience.

By following these tips, you can craft an effective Letter to the Editor that not only raises awareness about home care issues but also encourages actionable change.