Reginaldo Osnildo
Want to build trust as a local journalist? Here’s how to create clear editorial standards that show professionalism—even if you’re publishing solo.
Hey, Reginaldo Osnildo here—your newsletter cheerleader and local media enthusiast.
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t sound flashy…
But could be the most important thing you do to build trust with your readers:
Setting editorial standards.
Even if you’re running your newsletter solo.
Even if you don’t call yourself a “journalist.”
Even if you’re not sure anyone’s watching (yet)…
Clear editorial values make you look credible, thoughtful, and professional.
And in a world where misinformation spreads fast and trust in media is fragile, your transparency becomes a superpower.
Here’s how to create (and communicate) your editorial values in a way that strengthens your newsletter and keeps you grounded.
1. What Are Editorial Standards—And Why Do They Matter?
Editorial standards are your:
- Values
- Principles
- Rules of the road
They tell readers:
- How you choose what to publish
- How you verify facts
- What’s opinion vs. reporting
- How you correct mistakes
They make your newsletter more trustworthy and give you a north star when tough decisions pop up.
2. Your Newsletter Is a Newsroom (Even If It’s Just You)
You may not wear a press badge or have a managing editor.
But if you’re reporting on real people, events, and issues—you are doing journalism.
And with that comes responsibility.
A simple, public editorial policy says:
“I take this seriously. You can trust my process—even if you don’t always agree with my perspective.”
That trust? It’s the foundation of everything.
3. What to Include in Your Editorial Guidelines
Here’s a simple structure you can copy or adapt:
A. Mission Statement
“This newsletter exists to inform, connect, and empower the people of [Your Community] through trustworthy, independent local reporting.”
B. What You Cover (and Don’t)
“I focus on local news, civic updates, community voices, and neighborhood events. I do not publish national political content or sponsored stories disguised as news.”
C. How You Report
“I strive to verify all facts through multiple sources, use primary documents where possible, and avoid speculation.”
D. Corrections Policy
“If I make a factual error, I will correct it promptly and transparently in the following issue and/or update the original post.”
E. Opinion vs. Reporting
“Opinion pieces are clearly labeled and reflect personal views. Reporting is based on research and interviews with relevant stakeholders.”
F. Transparency
“I disclose any potential conflicts of interest and maintain editorial independence—even when working with sponsors or partners.”
4. Where to Put It
Create a simple page or section on your Substack titled:
- “Editorial Guidelines”
- “Our Values”
- “How I Work”
- “Transparency Statement”
Link to it in:
- Your About page
- Your newsletter footer
- Your first welcome email to new subscribers
Readers may not read it all, but the fact that it exists builds credibility.
5. Use It as a Shield and a Compass
Once your policy is public, you can refer to it when:
- Someone challenges your reporting
- A source wants to review an article pre-publication
- A reader disagrees with your editorial choices
- You’re unsure whether to publish something sensitive
It’s not just a statement—it’s a decision-making tool.
6. Update It As You Grow
As you evolve, add new sections like:
- Contributor guidelines
- Sponsorship disclosures
- Reader rights (like how to submit corrections or unsubscribe)
Make your values a living document.
Your readers will respect the transparency.
7. Bonus: Publish a “Behind the Scenes” Issue
To boost trust and give your audience a peek into your process, publish a newsletter titled:
“How I Decide What to Cover (And What I Don’t)”
In it, explain:
- How you choose stories
- Where you get your information
- What your week looks like behind the scenes
- Why you believe local news still matters
This pulls back the curtain and shows your work—which builds deep loyalty.
Want the Full Toolkit to Build a Credible, Trusted Newsletter?
If you’re ready to take your Substack from casual to credible—and grow something that your community respects and supports—my guide has everything you need:
👉 Local Journalism on Substack: How to Create a Low-Cost, Monetizable News Site and Newsletter Network
Inside, you’ll get:
- Editorial guidelines templates
- Correction policy examples
- Transparency checklists
- Tools to build trust and authority
- A 30-day publishing and growth roadmap
Even if you’re just one person, you can build something serious, meaningful, and sustainable.
Let’s earn your community’s trust—one transparent story at a time.