When it comes to creating content, wouldn't it be great if you could somehow magically know exactly what kind of stories editors want? It would make your job so much easier – right? Fortunately for you, our team talks to editors every day about challenges they're facing, and what type of content and stories would help them do their jobs better and more efficiently.

Shrinking Staffs = Increased Content Need
We all know newspaper editors today face more challenges than ever before. Not only are they responsible for producing content that keeps their readers interested and engaged, but they're doing so with a skeleton staff and little to no budget. In fact, I know of one editor who is single-handedly responsible for 13 special publications, on top of three weekly sections. How's that for juggling! Yet, despite smaller staffs and shrinking budgets, demand for content is steadily increasing. Editors not only need to fill their print publications, but also supply a constant stream of content for their websites, blogs and all forms of social media.

So, it's clear they need more content, but exactly what kind? On average, I talk to 40-50 editors per week to determine their editorial needs and to find out what type of content they're looking for. Below are some "helpful hints" as well as hot topic areas I hear time and time again during these meetings.

Quality is Key
First and foremost, editors need extremely high-quality content that is useful and meaningful to their readers. Many have expressed to me that their readers are under the impression that all content in the newspaper, no matter the section, is written by someone who actually works for the newspaper. Therefore, it's imperative that the content is written according to a high editorial standard because their reputations (and the publications') are on the line.

Think Outside the Box
Editors want stories that are general enough to relate to a large audience, but with a spin to keep it fresh. For example, we're coming up on flu season, so instead of your traditional "Ways to Beat the Flu" tips like get a flu shot and wash your hands, think about other angles such as foods that boost your immune system, or how to disinfect a home or office.

Here's a List of Editor "Must-Have" Topics:

• Jobs – Finding a job, interviewing, transitioning, getting a promotion
• Education – Early childhood, college, grad school, trade schools, continuing education
• Retirement Life – How to prepare, how to enjoy, traveling, budgeting, technology
• Golden Year Seniors – Transitions from home, healthcare, driving, technology
• Cars –  New/used/lease reviews, car care, financing, efficiency, cars for teens/families
• Home – DIY, remodels, design, trends, real estate focus, green building
• Finance – Credit, saving, budgeting, splurging
• Healthy Living – Exercise, healthy eating/food choices, brain/mental health
• Food Trends – Food trucks, cocktails, small plates, locally sourced

What other topics have you found to be appealing to editors?