Communicating to the mainstream media: Writing for The Conversation

As you can see in this video, The Conversation is a useful means of writing to the public – but it also provides a route through which you can write for the press. As Prof. Mark Lorch explains, articles from The Conversation are often picked up by the mainstream media. Reflecting on success stories from the University of Hull, Mark also explains how it can lead to book deals, mainstream media attention and roles on expert panels.

To be published by The Conversation you must be currently employed as a researcher or academic with a university or research institution. PhD candidates under supervision by an academic can write for The Conversation, but they don’t currently publish articles from Masters students.

More information about The Conversation: > Access to expertise through high quality, independent journalism is key to a well-functioning democracy. The Conversation aims to provide the expert insight needed to better understand current affairs and the complex issues we face. Our team of editors work with experts drawn from universities and research institutes across the world, sharing their knowledge in a way that is accessible to non-specialists. Bringing expert insights to current affairs, explaining new research findings, or shining a light on topics that deserve greater discussion, we strive to improve the quality of public debate and ultimately to help everyone make better, more well-informed decisions.

Even if you are not looking to write for The Conversation specifically, it is an excellent example of public communication. Information is communicated clearly – without being dumbed down. We recommend you give it a read for inspiration. It may help you develop your own written style.