Carol asks…

How do I write an article for a company such as the Scripps Howard News Service?

I want to write automotive articles for my local newspaper company. The current articles that they use are not well written and I can write better. I was just curious as to how I sould approach the newspaper with my proposal to write for them, or should I do it through another service. I was looking at Scripps Howard News Service, but I can’t find a way to become a writer. Can I even do this, or are there any other agencies out there in which I can become a member, and newpaper/magazines and buy my articles from me? Thanks Alot

Wize Guy answers:

You need to find out who the editor of the automotive articles is. Is there an editor listed for the section they run in. If there is not an editor listed, is there a contact number. It’s best to go to the actual editor of that section rather than the managing editor of the paper.

Contact the appropriate editor and say that you are interested in writing for him or her and ask if you can send a resume and some writing samples. When you send the resume and clips, write a cover letter that lists three to five solid ideas you have for automotive articles.

As far as Scripps Howard, most of those articles are written by staff writers at papers that Scripps Howard owns. They are repurposed and sold through the news service. I don’t believe they use many freelancers.

Helen asks…

I cannot find anything that will work form wage inequality in the automotive industry?

I am suppose to find two sources that will help me too answer these questions
Describe any current or past news events related to wage inequality in your chosen industry.

What was the industry’s method for determining that there was an inequality? Explain.

I have been looking all day and I can’t find anything that is close to relevent can you help?

Wize Guy answers:

You can find CEO pay for companies at

http://www.aflcio.org/corporatewatch/paywatch/ceou/database.cfm

Here is a time line of events that would have produced news articles that may provide you with a topic for searches, particularly about GM strike.
http://www.lse.co.uk/MacroEconomicNews.asp?ArticleCode=9gy5s8fcdeblvft&ArticleHeadline=auto_industrys_2007_timeline

Linda asks…

Info on the similarities between biological and F1 automotive design?

I’ve already asked a similar question, but the exact information I seek is extremely elusive.

I’m trying to find out if Formula 1 racecar designs were inspired by biological designs. See, I cannot help but notice the striking similarities between the design of an F1 racer and that of some of the fastest swimming fishes – the shark, to be precise (most prominently the hammerhead).

I did find a very good Mercedes design site that talks about the boxfish design – but F1 still eludes me.

http://news.mongabay.com/2005/0710-DaimlerChrysler.html

Thanks.

P.s. I’ve decided to post this in the zoology section, so do bear with my design obsession!

Wize Guy answers:

While race car design itself may not be exactly based on biology the subject of aerodynamics is. Designers noticed that the shape of animals, especially fish, have very low drag coefficients. You cite the boxfish as one example. They then adapted this for use on cars, planes, boats, submarines, anything that needs to cut through the air swiftly.

Lisa asks…

How do I develop a product information kit for a new technology?

What are the steps in, and the components of, developing a product information kit for a new technology. This information kit will be distributed to a narrow number of potential customers. Moreover, because the technology can be leveraged in other applications, is it best to develop one package that focuses on the main applications, with some focus on the other applications? or to develop several information packages, each focused on a specific application? This material is expected to be distributed through a website, at expo and conferences, and possibly, as part of a news release. Anticipated audience: Automotive HVAC, Residential/Commercial HVAC, Industrial Gases, and several others. Primary focus, Auto & Res/Comm HVAC industry.

Wize Guy answers:

I don’t necessarily agree that it’s better to make one presentation. Consider multiple stories especially if you’re going to use the web where “real estate” is cheap. However before you do anything, I recommend the following:

1. Clearly identify your multiple channels or audiences (there will be several in a category. HVAC isn’t enough. Is the the owners of HVAC firms? Building Maintenence folks in large office buildings etc?
2. Know what you are selling. You my provide TECHNOLOGY but you are SELLING the benefits of that technology. What does it do for the end user? Save money? Enable greater up time? WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS…. Think hard on this one.
3. Consider teaming up with or researching trade associations that would want to know about this new technology. The ACCA in Washington DC is a very powerful trade association. (Air Conditioning Contractors of America).
4. If you have an install base already, consider writing case studies.

These are just a few ideas. You have lots of work to do with this. You may have the greatest technology in the world, but if your message doesn’t get to the right people, it will not prevail. Good Luck.

Mark asks…

do you think the media could be destroying the automotive industry?

ford sales were reported down 19% the other day but what the news didn’t say is that ford motor company had projected sales to be down this quarter by 30% so….sales were actually up 11%. i mean, i know negative news is better for ratings but…

Wize Guy answers:

The media doesn’t have to. The US auto companies and unions are doing a pretty good job destroying them.

Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Tags: , , , , ,

Filed under: Answer Guy

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!