The simplest way to improve your writing is to read it out loud.
I don't mean subvocalize. Actually read it as if you had an audience. You'll be amazed at the awkward phrases, punctuation errors, run-on sentences, etc. that suddenly become apparent. You'll constantly be saying to yourself, "how did I miss that?" no matter how many times you read it silently.
As to the column, shoot for the highest frequency you can. Otherwise it seems to be a sometimes thing, and the readers do not develop brand loyalty---something you want downstream as a negotiating tool.
Pay strict attention to deadlines. Far as editors are concerned, reliability is more important than talent. |