Why Your Herald Dispatch Obituary Update Contribution Is Failing (and How To Fix It)
Why Your Herald Dispatch Obituary Update Contribution Is Failing (and How To Fix It)
Submitting an obituary to the Herald Dispatch is a sensitive process, made more challenging when your contribution is rejected or fails to publish. This frustration is understandable, especially during a time of grief. This guide will diagnose common reasons for obituary submission failures and offer solutions to ensure your tribute is published successfully.
Common Reasons for Herald Dispatch Obituary Submission Failure:
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Incorrect Submission Method: The Herald Dispatch likely has specific guidelines for obituary submissions. Ignoring these instructions – whether submitting through the wrong online portal, email address, or failing to use their preferred format (e.g., Word document, specific template) – will almost certainly lead to rejection. Carefully review their submission guidelines, often found on their website's obituary section.
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Missing Information: Incomplete or inaccurate information is a frequent culprit. Obituaries require precise details: the deceased's full name, birthdate, death date, location of death, and surviving family members with their relationships to the deceased. Ensure all information is accurate and completely filled out. Missing contact information for the submitter also frequently causes delays or rejection.
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Word Count/Character Limits: Many publications impose limits on obituary length. Exceeding these limits will often result in automatic rejection or the need for significant edits. Check the Herald Dispatch's guidelines for specifics on word count or character limits. If you've exceeded the limit, carefully edit your submission to meet their requirements.
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Inappropriate Content: Obituaries should be respectful and factual. Avoid including inflammatory language, unsubstantiated claims, or content that violates the publication's standards of decency. Sensationalizing the death or including excessively personal details is usually inappropriate.
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Technical Issues: Problems can arise from technical glitches on your end. Ensure you're submitting the correct file type, the file isn't corrupted, and your internet connection is stable. If you're using a specific template, make sure you've filled it in correctly and not accidentally deleted any crucial formatting.
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Image Issues: If including a photograph, ensure it's high-resolution, appropriately sized, and in a compatible format (like JPEG or PNG). Blurry or low-quality images might be rejected. Always check the Herald Dispatch's specifications for obituary photos.
How To Fix Your Herald Dispatch Obituary Submission:
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Reread the Guidelines: Thoroughly review the Herald Dispatch's obituary submission guidelines on their website. Look for any updates or changes to their process.
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Double-Check Your Information: Meticulously verify the accuracy of all information included in your submission. Have a family member or friend proofread it for errors.
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Edit for Length and Content: Ensure your obituary adheres to their word count and character limits. Remove unnecessary details and focus on the important aspects of the deceased's life. Review for inappropriate content and ensure a respectful tone is maintained.
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Check File Integrity: Ensure your submission file is not corrupted and is in the correct format. If using a photo, make sure it meets their requirements.
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Contact the Herald Dispatch: If you've followed all steps and are still experiencing problems, contact the Herald Dispatch directly. Their contact information should be available on their website. Explain your issue clearly and provide any relevant details.
Submitting an obituary is a significant undertaking. By carefully following these steps and addressing potential issues proactively, you can ensure your heartfelt tribute to your loved one is successfully published in the Herald Dispatch. Remember, patience and persistence are key during this challenging time.