How to Get Started with and Slightly Contrarian News
Want to break into the news industry with a fresh, unconventional approach? It’s not just about reporting facts; it’s about challenging assumptions and offering perspectives others shy away from. But can a contrarian voice truly thrive in today’s media environment, or is it a recipe for instant obscurity?
Key Takeaways
- Identify three established news narratives in your local area that you disagree with and prepare well-reasoned counter-arguments.
- Build a portfolio of at least five sample news stories demonstrating your contrarian perspective and unique writing style.
- Pitch your work to smaller, independent news outlets initially to gain experience and build a reputation.
Finding Your Contrarian Angle
The first step is identifying the narratives you want to challenge. What are the accepted truths in your community that you question? This isn’t about being difficult for the sake of it; it’s about bringing fresh thinking to the table. For instance, here in Atlanta, there’s a widespread belief that increased development automatically equals progress. A contrarian angle might explore the negative impacts of gentrification on long-term residents or the environmental consequences of unchecked construction.
Don’t just pick any argument. Do your research. Back up your claims with solid evidence. A contrarian viewpoint without a foundation is just noise.
Building a Portfolio That Stands Out
Once you have identified your angles, it’s time to create a portfolio that showcases your unique approach. Think of this as your audition reel. You need to demonstrate that you can not only think differently but also write compelling, well-researched news stories.
Here’s what your portfolio should include:
- Diverse topics: Don’t limit yourself to one area. Show that you can apply your contrarian lens to a variety of subjects.
- Strong writing: Your writing needs to be top-notch. Clear, concise, and engaging. No one will take you seriously if your grammar is sloppy.
- Evidence-based arguments: Back up your claims with data, expert opinions, and credible sources.
I had a client last year who wanted to break into political reporting. He was frustrated with what he saw as the overly simplistic coverage of local elections. So, he created a portfolio of articles that delved into the complex motivations of voters, the hidden financial ties of candidates, and the unintended consequences of popular policies. It was a refreshing change from the usual soundbite-driven reporting. He got hired by an independent online news source within two months.
Choosing the Right Outlets
Don’t aim for the New York Times right away. Start small. Target independent news sites, local blogs, and community newspapers that are more open to unconventional voices. These outlets are often looking for fresh perspectives and are more willing to take a chance on new writers.
Consider these options:
- Local blogs: Many cities have thriving local blog scenes that cover everything from politics to culture.
- Community newspapers: These newspapers often focus on hyperlocal issues and are more receptive to community voices.
- Independent news sites: A growing number of independent news sites are challenging the mainstream media narrative.
Remember, it’s about building a reputation and gaining experience. Once you have a few published articles under your belt, you can start pitching to larger outlets.
Embracing the Pushback
Here’s what nobody tells you: being contrarian means facing criticism. You will ruffle feathers. You will be accused of being biased, uninformed, or even malicious. Prepare yourself for this. Don’t take it personally. Use it as an opportunity to refine your arguments and strengthen your resolve.
I remember one time when I wrote an article criticizing the city’s plan to build a new stadium near the intersection of Northside Drive and I-285. I argued that it would exacerbate traffic congestion and displace low-income residents. The backlash was intense. I received angry emails, social media attacks, and even a few threatening phone calls. But I stood my ground. I defended my arguments with facts and data. And eventually, the city council agreed to make some concessions to address my concerns. The point is, don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in, even when it’s unpopular. It is not for the faint of heart.
Monetizing Your Contrarian Voice
Okay, so you are writing insightful, challenging pieces. Great. But how do you make a living? The news industry is notoriously difficult to crack, but there are ways to monetize your contrarian voice.
Consider these options:
- Freelance writing: Pitch your articles to a variety of publications and get paid per piece.
- Substack: Build a direct relationship with your audience and earn money through subscriptions.
- Patreon: Offer exclusive content and rewards to your supporters.
We ran a test campaign for a local political commentator who wanted to launch a Substack newsletter focusing on Georgia politics. He had a strong contrarian voice and a loyal following on social media. We helped him create a compelling landing page, set up a paid subscription model, and promote his newsletter through targeted ads on Facebook Ads Manager. Within three months, he had over 500 paid subscribers and was earning a decent income from his newsletter. The key was to offer valuable, unique content that people were willing to pay for. He covered stories the mainstream media ignored, analyzed policy from a fresh perspective, and provided insider insights that you couldn’t find anywhere else.
According to a Pew Research Center report, digital subscriptions are a growing source of revenue for news organizations. This presents an opportunity for contrarian voices to build a sustainable business model by connecting directly with their audience.
Here’s a final word of warning: don’t become a caricature of yourself. It’s easy to fall into the trap of being contrarian for the sake of it. But that’s not sustainable. You need to be authentic, thoughtful, and genuinely committed to challenging the status quo. Otherwise, you’ll just become another talking head, spouting off predictable opinions.
Consider how values drive consumer choice, even in news consumption. Authenticity is key.
For example, data holds the answer to many questions, but only if the right questions are asked initially.
Ask yourself: are you really informed, or are you just consuming the same narratives over and over?
How do I find contrarian news angles in my local area?
Start by reading local news sources critically. What assumptions are they making? What perspectives are they ignoring? Talk to people in your community and listen to their concerns. What are the issues that aren’t being addressed by the mainstream media? For example, in the West End neighborhood, residents have expressed concerns about the lack of affordable housing options as property values rise. This could be a starting point for an article challenging the narrative that all development is beneficial.
What if my contrarian view is unpopular?
That’s okay! In fact, it’s often a sign that you’re onto something. Be prepared to defend your arguments with facts and data. Don’t be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom. But also be respectful of opposing viewpoints. Remember, the goal is to spark a conversation, not to win an argument.
How can I build a following for my contrarian news?
Engage with your audience on social media. Share your articles, respond to comments, and participate in discussions. Build a mailing list and send out regular newsletters. Collaborate with other writers and bloggers. The more you put yourself out there, the more people will discover your work.
What are some ethical considerations for contrarian news?
Accuracy and fairness are paramount. Even if you’re challenging a mainstream narrative, you still have a responsibility to report the facts accurately and fairly. Avoid spreading misinformation or engaging in personal attacks. Focus on the issues, not the people.
Is it possible to be too contrarian?
Yes, absolutely. If you’re constantly disagreeing with everything, you’ll quickly lose credibility. Choose your battles wisely. Focus on the issues that you’re most passionate about and where you have something unique to contribute. Don’t be contrarian for the sake of it. Be contrarian because you genuinely believe that there’s a better way to see the world.
So, can you carve out a space for yourself by delivering news in a way that’s and slightly contrarian.? Absolutely, but it demands a commitment to rigorous research, a thick skin, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Start small, build your portfolio, and don’t be afraid to ruffle some feathers. The world needs more independent thinkers. Now, go out there and be one.
