Certainly, there are those who, by virtue of their profession or notoriety, have an advantage over most other people when it comes to freelancing writing "expert status." Golf game-plan articles written by Tiger Woods and Jean Van de Velde would catch a reader’s eye, and financial articles written by Dave Ramsey and Joe Biden would also be attention getters; however, two of those four articles would, some may say, be untrustworthy. Two of those writers need to gain some trust and legitimacy.
Suite101.com and the Internet
One way for Jean and Joe to, as aspiring freelance writers, gain a trusted following is to start writing for a quality web site. Suite101.com, is one of the best places to learn the trade. There are other sites, such as HowtoDoThings.com, eHow.com, and a few more general and niche portals, but Suite101.com offers writers much more assistance. Help in the form of tutorials, writer forums, a monthly newsletter, comprehensive statistics, and editor involvement are invaluable while to learning the craft.
On the path to becoming a freelance writing expert, the legitimacy attached to holding the title of Feature Writer, Contributing Writer, Editorial Writer, and so on, for a respected web site is a great first step. It can often catapult a fledgling writer into bigger things and a wider audience.
Join Organizations Related to the Particular Niche
Certainly, new writers can gain a great deal from joining general and freelance writing organizations and associations. Many of them offer help ranging from job postings to search engine optimization, and "Member: United Writer’s Association," or something to that effect, is a great thing to have trailing your name. Even better, should a person be writing a review of the latest, greatest horror film, would be "Member: Horror Writers Association," which is an actual association.
Trade Publications
The compensation may not be great, but offering to write an article for a trade publication related to the writing niche is a great way to get publishing credits for the would-be freelance writing expert. For a person planning to freelance in the event planning niche, contacting Special Events Magazine or Event Solutions Magazine with an article idea or offering to write for them (check the submission guidelines first) is a good idea.
Conduct Free Writing Seminars
Brainstorm ideas for short, free seminars within the chosen niche that can be taught. These speaking credits, especially if done at a university or college, can lend immediate credibility to a writer’s reputation. Simply approach the chosen venue and ask for permission to conduct a free seminar. Once they agree, schedule the date and place, put up some fliers, and prepare your presentation.
Join ProfNet
Ever wonder where Fox News, CNN, CNBC, the New York Times, and other media outlets find their subject experts? They find them at ProfNet. In a nutshell, ProfNet is a site where people with expert credentials post their profiles and respond to media inquiries for specific information.
For example, say a representative for ESPN.com needs expert with information pertaining to the golf fitness boom. That representative would send out a query within ProfNet, and people that have experience in that area respond and offer their services. With a few quotes in print or appearances on radio and television, a new guru is born.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but with a little creativity and persistence, it will work nicely along with good writing to establish credibility and provide expert credentials. Even Jean and Joe could overcome their obstacles by following these tips. Tiger Woods and Dave Ramsey already have their bases covered.
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