How to Become a Huffington Post Blogger

Posted bystilllearning2bPosted inLife's LessonsTags:, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

In the last few weeks, I have been receiving quite a few inquiries about how I started blogging for the Huffington Post.  The short answer?  It was a combination of daily work and luck.  Here are my tips for those of you who are interested in getting your writing out on the big stage:

1) Read the Huffington Post.  Daily.  You don’t have to read the entire site, just focus on the sections which are of interest to you and are similar in topic to your writing.  You won’t know what they are looking for if you are not familiar with the material on the site.  I find that it is easiest to subscribe to my sections of interest  in my RSS reader so that I get a notification when a new article is posted.  That becomes especially important with tip #2.

2) Comment on articles and blogs.  Take the time to craft well thought out responses that add to the post or provide an alternate view in a respectable tone.  The best comments provide some information while hinting that you have more to say on the topic at hand.  Leave them wanting more.  You can link to your blog or your other writings on the topic.  This is where the work comes in; I spend thirty minutes or so a day reading and commenting on appropriate articles.

3) In the meantime, work to create a body of writing if you have not already.  This shows your writing style as well as demonstrates that you have a unique view or story to share.

4) Keep this up for a while and you may get lucky and have an editor contact you with a blog idea.  If this doesn’t happen, then proceed to #5.

5) On the “Contact Us” link on Huffington Post you will find a link to submit a pitch for a blog.  They give you the option of submitting the full text or just a description of your blog idea.  I have not gone this route, but I would recommend submitting the entire post so that your ability to craft a quality product is not in question.  Also, write about an area where you are passionate; it will show in your writing and will pull others in.

I wish everyone the best on their writing, whether you keep a private journal, a public blog, or are working to become a published author.

You can find my Huffington Post submissions here. My book is available on Amazon and you can read about my experiences with publishing here and here.

Huffington Post also led to my appearance on The Jeff Probst Show!

Thank you for sharing!

78 thoughts on “How to Become a Huffington Post Blogger”

  1. stephenedwards425 – Nashville, Indiana – I began life going the wrong way. After nearly two decades I had a life revelation. As part of my turn around I became an ultra-distance runner, who a few years ago, ran 3,160 mile across the United States, from Pacific Grove, CA to Rehobeth Beach, DE. Along the way I learned a few things about life, motivation, pain, and, as I like to say, "gobs of other stuff." I co-founded, along with my wife Susie, LifeRevelation. We develop the content for Women's Professional Development Conferences. What Cirque du Soliel has done for circuses is what we envision doing for motivational seminars. We incorporate acrobats, magicians, uni-cyclists, fire-eaters, hand puppets, and drama, as well as speakers, into our program. When women leave our one-day conferences, they are Stronger, Better, and Ready For Whatever. Life is a Revelation...Be encouraged!
    stephenedwards425 says:

    I am always impressed with those who are willing to share the “nuts and bolts” about how to do something. So much of what you get on the internet is teaser. Thank you for taking the time and energy to compose this post. On behalf of all who requested and all who will benefit…I thank you.

    Be encouraged!

    Reply
  3. MAYO PR – Los Angeles, CA – I'm a multimedia expert with a niche in media placement, media training and social media. I maintain blogs on just about every industry. I love dogs (Gina my German Shepard) and photography are my past time. I am a former award-winning print, TV and radio journalist and currently write as the West Coast Bureau Chief for www.odwyerpr.com, NY. I am a self taught techie, who also maintains content for various blogs and website designer. My company website is www.MAYOPR.com blogs: mayocommunications.wordpress.com or http://mediaguru-mayopr.blogspot.com/ Also follow me on http://www.facebook.com/MAYOCommmunications and company page: http://www.facebook.com/MAYOPubicRelations For LA Business investment stories, entertainment, movies, music and social media follow me on Examiner: http://www.examiner.com/business-investment-in-los-angeles/george-s-mcquade-iii On Technorati: https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=vo9&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&channel=s&sa=X&ei=oKD_TtGGHOfliAK3-7i-Dg&ved=0CBkQvwUoAQ&q=george McQuade+technorati&spell=1&biw=790&bih=444 I also do national speaking, master of ceremonies, celebrity charity events, and entertainment publicity. Contact me at Publicity@mayocommunications.com 818-340-5300 or 818-618-9229. I founded MAYO Communications & MAYO PR while working at The Gas Company in 1995, and never looked back. Current passion movies, movie reviews and social media networks. I love creating a buzz for TV dramas, movies and music in Hollywood. I current moderate social media panels and entertainment events, too.
    MAYO PR says:

    As an established writer already, I found your tips great and inspiring for budding writers. I write for Technorati, Examiner and soon YAHOO, but was curious about Huff Post, too. I have about a dozen
    blogs of my own, one that gets pick up by IMDB on entertainment news weekly.

    I also moderated a private group on linkedin.com that also helps budding PR pros learn “How to” stuff in the industry. thanks for sharing your well written article. Geo.

    Reply
  4. everydayclimb – I'm a woman with lots of uphill climbing behind me. I'm a freelance writer and editor and a mortician by education (retired from it). I enjoy working online and writing my first Young Adult book.
    everydayclimb says:

    Hi! Nice to “meet” you!

    Reply
  5. Pingback: Them’s the Rules – A Blogging Year in Review « Lessons From the End of a Marriage
  6. The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap – The year 1895 was filled with memorable historical events: the Dreyfus Affair divided France; Booker T. Washington gave his Atlanta address; Richard Olney, United States Secretary of State, expanded the effects of the Monroe Doctrine in settling a boundary dispute between the United Kingdom and Venezuela; and Oscar Wilde was tried and convicted for "gross indecency" under Britian's recently passed law that made sex between males a criminal offense. When the news of Wilde's conviction went out over telegraphs worldwide, it threw a small Nevada town into chaos. This is the story of what happened when the lives of its citizens were impacted by the news of Oscar Wildes' imprisonment. It is chronicle of hatred and prejudice with all its unintended and devastating consequences, and how love and friendship bring strength and healing. Paulette Mahurin, the author, is a Nurse Practitioner who lives in Ojai, California with her husband Terry and their two dogs--- Max and Bella. She practices women's health in a rural clinic and writes in her spare time. All profits from her book are going to animal rescue, Santa Paula Animal Shelter, the first and only no-kill shelter in Ventura County, CA, where she lives. (see links below on Ventura County Star Article & Shelter) To find out more please go the The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap on facebook or Amazon or e-mail us at the gavatar addresses. Thank you. (photos: of Paulette, her family, and a reading at The Ojai Art Center, July 2012)
    The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap says:

    Great post and a big thank you for sharing. I’m with you on sharing and trying to help other authors, etc. Very glad to connect with you. Happy New Year. Paulette

    Reply

    1. Glad we connected too:)

      I think authors really need to hep each other, especially in this ever-changing world of publishing and marketing. The “rules” no longer apply and we are in uncharted territory.

      Reply
      1. The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap – The year 1895 was filled with memorable historical events: the Dreyfus Affair divided France; Booker T. Washington gave his Atlanta address; Richard Olney, United States Secretary of State, expanded the effects of the Monroe Doctrine in settling a boundary dispute between the United Kingdom and Venezuela; and Oscar Wilde was tried and convicted for "gross indecency" under Britian's recently passed law that made sex between males a criminal offense. When the news of Wilde's conviction went out over telegraphs worldwide, it threw a small Nevada town into chaos. This is the story of what happened when the lives of its citizens were impacted by the news of Oscar Wildes' imprisonment. It is chronicle of hatred and prejudice with all its unintended and devastating consequences, and how love and friendship bring strength and healing. Paulette Mahurin, the author, is a Nurse Practitioner who lives in Ojai, California with her husband Terry and their two dogs--- Max and Bella. She practices women's health in a rural clinic and writes in her spare time. All profits from her book are going to animal rescue, Santa Paula Animal Shelter, the first and only no-kill shelter in Ventura County, CA, where she lives. (see links below on Ventura County Star Article & Shelter) To find out more please go the The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap on facebook or Amazon or e-mail us at the gavatar addresses. Thank you. (photos: of Paulette, her family, and a reading at The Ojai Art Center, July 2012)
        The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap says:

        I’m completely with you on that! And, you are so right about uncharted territory. Feel free to connect with me personally if you feel I might be able to help you with your book. I’ve been very lucky with mine and am more than happy to pay it forward.

        Reply
  7. The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap – The year 1895 was filled with memorable historical events: the Dreyfus Affair divided France; Booker T. Washington gave his Atlanta address; Richard Olney, United States Secretary of State, expanded the effects of the Monroe Doctrine in settling a boundary dispute between the United Kingdom and Venezuela; and Oscar Wilde was tried and convicted for "gross indecency" under Britian's recently passed law that made sex between males a criminal offense. When the news of Wilde's conviction went out over telegraphs worldwide, it threw a small Nevada town into chaos. This is the story of what happened when the lives of its citizens were impacted by the news of Oscar Wildes' imprisonment. It is chronicle of hatred and prejudice with all its unintended and devastating consequences, and how love and friendship bring strength and healing. Paulette Mahurin, the author, is a Nurse Practitioner who lives in Ojai, California with her husband Terry and their two dogs--- Max and Bella. She practices women's health in a rural clinic and writes in her spare time. All profits from her book are going to animal rescue, Santa Paula Animal Shelter, the first and only no-kill shelter in Ventura County, CA, where she lives. (see links below on Ventura County Star Article & Shelter) To find out more please go the The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap on facebook or Amazon or e-mail us at the gavatar addresses. Thank you. (photos: of Paulette, her family, and a reading at The Ojai Art Center, July 2012)
    The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap says:

    I’m sorry. Just e-mailed you back. 🙂

    Reply

  8. I’m so grateful to anyone who is generous and willing to pull back the curtain! Thank you so much for such helpful advice and Happy New Year!

    Reply
  10. Kristin Barton Cuthriell – Kristin is the author of the book, The Snowball Effect: How to Build Positive Momentum in Your Life. She is a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, families, and groups live happier healthier lives. In addition to working in a private practice, Kristin writes, speaks, and teaches workshops on the power of a healthy mindset and ways to make postive changes in life. Kristin earned a masters degree in education and a masters degree in social work. She has experience working in a variety of mental health settings including an inpatient psychiatric hospital and an outpatient private practice. Prior to entering the mental health field, Kristin taught first, third, and sixth grade. She is passionate about the instillation of hope and helping people overcome adversity so that they can lead more fulfilling lives.
    Kristin Barton Cuthriell says:

    Thank you so much for sharing these tips!

    Reply
  11. Maggie Currie – 37 Golden Ridge, Freshwater, Isle of Wight, PO40 9LF – Maggie Currie is an internationally renowned, professional Transformational Coach and Consultant, published author and radio presenter who has spent more than a decade learning her skills and working with clients throughout the UK and worldwide from her base on the Isle of Wight. She is one of the best coaches in the world, and is one of the top 10% of coaches in the UK.
    maggiecurrie52 says:

    Great blog, thanks for all the useful tips.

    Reply
  14. gemmautting – A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in pre-marital preparation and relationship repair. A committed, long-term relationship is going to call you into places of deep personal awareness and growth like nothing else can. Learning how to allow this, how to respond without defensiveness and how to gracefully expand into the best possible version of yourself - whether before you say "I do" - is my joy and life's work.
    gemmautting says:

    I love how “old” blog posts can stay so fresh. Thanks for stumbling upon my blog LIsa, since this allowed me to encounter you – your astonishing story, your lucid, helpful writing and well – who knows! Much appreciated! Hey – and congratulations on the upcoming wedding.

    Reply

  15. My partner and I stumbled over here coming from a different website and thought I may as well check things out.

    I like what I see so i am just following you.
    Look forward to exploring your web page for a second time.

    Reply

    1. They usually don’t respond to me unless there is a change needed. The posts have gone live in anywhere from 3-10 days. I assume this is based upon their backlog and the topics of the other pieces in the queue.

      Reply
  18. butimbeautiful – Far south coast New South Wales Australia – I'm an Aussie writer of fiction. Feel free to check out my books at www.fallaciousrose.com or drop by my blogs, www.butimbeautiful.wordpress.com, and www.turnipsforbreakfast.wordpress.com. Enjoy!
    butimbeautiful says:

    I don’t think I have anything to say to the Huffington Post, but this sounds like really great advice!

    Reply
  19. Ned's Blog – Oregon coast – I was a journalist, humor columnist, writer and editor at Siuslaw News for 23 years. The next chapter in my own writer’s journey is helping other writers prepare their manuscript for the road ahead. I'm married to the perfect woman, have four great kids, and a tenuous grip on my sanity...
    Ned's Blog says:

    Excellent advice that applies to seasoned writers as well as those just starting out — which is usually the sign of wisdom in general. Nicely done 🙂

    Reply

  20. Thanks for the info. Quick question though – many people keep saying (including HuffPost) that you can submit a full blog via the Pitch function, but there is a1000 character (only 150 words!) limit. I’m confused – is there actually a way to submit a full 700-800 word blog?

    Reply

  21. Thanks for your quick reply. There doesn’t seem to be a way to attach or link to anything – 1000 characters is all. I’ll just have to switch my frame from writing the perfect post crafting the perfect pitch. 🙂 Thanks again!

    Reply

  22. I was wondering the same thing re: the 1000 word character. WIll ahve to do the same! Thanks for this article.

    Reply

  25. I am not sure that your tips are the reason Huffington has you blogging for them. You have quite an amazing story, that is widely of human interest. And you write very well ! I have just read a couple of your blogs. Good luck !

    Reply

    1. I’m sure my crazy story has helped me gain attention since it is a pretty good hook. And, yes, you have to be able to write in order to be published in HuffPo. However, one of the beautiful things about media today is that anyone can write and find an audience. Pretty cool, especially when they have something interesting to say:)

      Thanks!

      Reply
  26. susanhayden – Cape Town – I live in Green Point, Cape Town, with my husband and two young daughters. There's a lot of nonsense we're told about how life is 'supposed' to be, and my blog aims to counter that with a hefty dose of over-sharing. It's hard, this gig, and we all struggle with stuff. So, some of my posts are about that - parenting, marriage, relationships - and others are about less serious things. I try and see the humour in the madness of everyday life, and set an example for all of us to be real about what we're thinking and feeling. My solution for when things are going badly is to find a hot pair of pants, a cold glass of bubbly and a disco ball. Whatever's going on in your world, you'll feel much better in the morning.
    susanhayden says:

    This is an awesome piece, and as a result I will be brave and send them some of my stuff! Your writing is fabulous, am very honored about the follow. Thank you, ma’am! 🙂

    Reply

    1. Go for it! It’s fun to write for such a big audience. Just be forewarned, the comments there can get pretty harsh. Don’t take them seriously…I think some people view putting down HuffPo writes as their calling:)

      Best of luck!

      Reply
      1. susanhayden – Cape Town – I live in Green Point, Cape Town, with my husband and two young daughters. There's a lot of nonsense we're told about how life is 'supposed' to be, and my blog aims to counter that with a hefty dose of over-sharing. It's hard, this gig, and we all struggle with stuff. So, some of my posts are about that - parenting, marriage, relationships - and others are about less serious things. I try and see the humour in the madness of everyday life, and set an example for all of us to be real about what we're thinking and feeling. My solution for when things are going badly is to find a hot pair of pants, a cold glass of bubbly and a disco ball. Whatever's going on in your world, you'll feel much better in the morning.
        susanhayden says:

        Thanks for the heads up – I’m new to blogging, and sometimes have to hold the ipad at an arm’s length and read the comments with one eye shut. They scare the hell out of me, those people. All par for the course, I guess… 🙂

        Reply

        1. Great image and I totally understand! It’s a scary and vulnerable feeling putting your writing and you life out there. It’s hard at first, but really does help you learn to not take things so personally. When someone responds to 1000 words with such anger or bitterness, it’s obvious that it triggered them in some way. The anger may seem to be directed at you, but it’s really at something/someone in their past. That perspective helped me distance from the the negativity and even learn to like it – it means I’m making people think and feel and, on a selfish note, it gives me great idead for future posts.

          Reply
          1. susanhayden – Cape Town – I live in Green Point, Cape Town, with my husband and two young daughters. There's a lot of nonsense we're told about how life is 'supposed' to be, and my blog aims to counter that with a hefty dose of over-sharing. It's hard, this gig, and we all struggle with stuff. So, some of my posts are about that - parenting, marriage, relationships - and others are about less serious things. I try and see the humour in the madness of everyday life, and set an example for all of us to be real about what we're thinking and feeling. My solution for when things are going badly is to find a hot pair of pants, a cold glass of bubbly and a disco ball. Whatever's going on in your world, you'll feel much better in the morning.
            susanhayden says:

            Wise, counsel, wow. I’m totally going to cut and paste this and read it when I next get lambasted. You just can’t be real and safe at the same time. As someone super-sensitive, this is probably going to be my biggest challenge. But even dealing with the real people in your life can be tricky. My husband was horrified by my post about marriage feeling crap. Even though none of it could have been a surprise to him, I think seeing it in black and white can be difficult. Anyhow, let me check out those Huff Post folk, and have a look at what they publish. And what else you’ve done! Have an awesome weekend!

            Reply

  27. Ya. This was awesome. Thanks for putting it out there. Soon to be launching my self-achievement blog and finishing my first book and your advice here seems golden for helping to get noticed. I’ll keep you posted as to how it goes!

    Reply
  28. helenhawkes – Mid-North Coast, NSW – Journalist, editor, copywriter, author. Helen's stories have appeared in newspapers and magazines worldwide including titles such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, The Australian Women's Weekly, Madison, The Financial Review, The Sunday Telegraph, London's Daily Mail and Company and more. Helen has specialised in lifestyle issues, including sex and relationships and good health for more than a decade. She is also a qualified Permaculturist who dreams of a 10-acre block with a waterhole and a chicken palace and a UNIFAM-trained counsellor who practices as a Happiness Coach and uses her skills in wide-ranging lifestyle features. She has interviewed former Prime Minister Paul Keating and mega-star Stevie Wonder, been kissed by Johnny Depp and ejected from Bob Geldof's doorstep. She currently lives near Byron Bay with her West Highland Terrier Bruce Lee where she is writing her third book. She is still trying to figure out relationships and, in particular, the male species.
    helenhawkes says:

    Fantastic post. I found it really helpful for those of us who are new to blogging. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise.

    Reply
  29. Pingback: Top Ten | Lessons From the End of a Marriage

  30. Since I have been more open to sharing my insight, life lessons, experiences and stories on a platform as Huffingpost, I have considered becoming a contributor for the platform. Your post has given me a great insight on how to make the next step! I am truly grateful 🙂

    Xx
    Carey

    Reply

  31. Hi there! So glad to have found your site. Having my work published on HuffPo is one of my many writing goals for 2014 (& beyond). Thank you for this very straight-forward and common sense suggestion.

    Happy New Year!
    Sherisa

    Reply

  32. This is so sensible…I love writing about health, but still not able to draw a road map on how to develop it…Thank you so much for your inputs..will try for sure.
    Thank you once again!

    Reply

  33. Thank you for taking the time to help other bloggers by writing this step by step post. The information you provided can be used as a guide to get into any other publication. I wish you an abundance of success in 2014 and beyond.

    Reply

      1. Thank you so much! I have really enjoyed your writing and thanks for being so open about the process. I’m new to blogging as well-does huffpo tell you if they are not going to publish your article once you are accepted as a blogger? Or is it just ignored 🙂

        Reply
  36. hlongwanetp – 882N Bluegumbosch, phuthaditjhaba,9869 – I'm a young dynamic male who's interest is to change lives, I strongly believe in touching souls through words and console those in pain, I write to give hope and to motivate. I believe in creating life where there's none. My vision is to help those in dark and disadvantaged by their background, to show that your background does not determine who you are. I'm a Business man and a Paralegal residing in South Africa. That's me!
    hlongwanetp says:

    Thank you for sharing this post with me I find it very helpful as I’m a new blogger in the field and I want to penetrate and rule in the blogging business and make the best of it. I would just have to give myself time to read and comment to all your posts which interest me for me to get more knowledge and see how other bloggers do to become a success. Thank you

    Reply
  37. Social Bug – Encinitas, CA – Socially bugging you and your topics :) Follow us for blogs on marketing, blogging, authors, public speaking, consultants, real estate, investments, personal finance and more! Always welcoming guest blogging!
    Social Bug says:

    Reblogged this on sociallybugged and commented:
    Thanks for the advice 🙂

    Reply
  38. Renee Lynn – Writer by hobby, aspiring journalist. Renee blogs a lot on her free time whether it’s on her personal blog or contributing to others. You can catch her reading newspapers, listening to NPR and enjoying those intellectually stimulating conversations that inevitably come her way. Follower her around twitter @helloitsrenee
    Renee Lynn says:

    Thanks for this! Hopefully, I could one day write for the Huff!

    Reply

  39. Thanks for what you doing, it’s great and i am trying to writing some about cougar dating on Huff! it really helps me a lot

    Reply
  40. Pingback: How to Write for The Huffington Post and Earn Money for Your Work

  41. Thanks for sharing your insight. I’ve tried the Contact Us, Leave a Pitch route and never, ever have luck. You mentioned that you didn’t grow that route, was it a connection with an editor that helped you? Do you have any tips along those lines? Thank you again for sharing so generously.

    Reply
  42. nocontract – I am a licensed Realtor and mortgage broker. I have been in the real estate industry for over 16 years. In recent years I have learned a ton about blogging, seo, and online marketing. As I prepare to retire from the real estate industry, I have decided to pursue my online marketing interests with much more effort (meaning time and money) Shoemoney Systems was just launched (January 27, 2010) and I was one of the 500 who signed up for it. This blog will showcase my efforts and results, failures and successes. Feel free to follow along and enjoy the ride. Words of encouragement and suggestions are always appreciated. Let's get to it.....
    robert may says:

    old article but still relevant i think. I am hoping to get something published soon.

    Reply
  43. Pingback: How to Write for The Huffington Post and Earn Money for Your Work | Bloggers Making Money

  45. Thanx for the tips!! Can you point me in the right direction re a template for pitching an article to an editor? I have no idea where to begin…

    Reply

    1. I’m not aware of any template. I would suggest interacting on Twitter with the content and the editors as that seems to get more traffic these days than the comment sections.

      Reply
  46. Pingback: How To Become A Blogger On Huffington Post | iloveyouzones
  47. Toni Sorenson – I'm a compulsive writer/photographer/traveler/ eater and connoisseur of humanity. My passion is studying the human brain. I find humor in just about everything and everyone.
    tonisorenson says:

    Thanks for your insight and willingness to share. I love it when writers help writers.

    Reply
  48. hamzakahn – Karachi – Well, I study business, but I don't think I will ever do that. I like filmography but I dont have an expensive camera and I am an aspiring writer and I do have a website.
    hamzakahn says:

    I also think, we need to spend much time working on our own craft, so that when the opportunity strikes, there is no chance of being rejected

    Reply

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