About.com - application and various opportunities
By ivan88
@ivan88 (193)
Canada
December 30, 2012 9:01pm CST
I have recently applied to this website. They might take a while to review my application, but it might be worth it at the end. They have various topics to write for. Also, they have different positions for the guides of their website. So, you may find a suitable section for yourself and apply ASAP.
The way it goes, is that it is more practical than submitting your cover letter and resume. You simply have to choose a section of your interest. Then, you fill out a form with your name and copy and paste a writing sample related to the topic you applied to. It has to be 500+ words long. Make sure this piece isn't published anywhere else online because otherwise it would be a simple copy & paste, and not your actual work for that application. Be honest.
Keep it in mind - if you get accepted as a topic writer, you'd have to to write at least 10 articles a month, with an average length of 600 words.
1 person likes this
3 responses
@ladynetz (968)
• Canada
31 Dec 12
that's an interesting one, I'll have to check it out, thank you for mentioning it here. Do you have any information about how much they pay and what are their conditions? 600 words it's not a lot, but do they ask you to write on a certain topic, or you cn come up with whatever you want?
1 person likes this
@ivan88 (193)
• Canada
31 Dec 12
Yes, you become a topic writer, so you have to write anything relevant to that topic.
For example, if you are a Motorcycle Repair Topic Writer, then, you write everything in relation to the Motorcycle Repairs. But, of course, you are not limited to what exactly you cover up within that particular topic.
@Suzieqmom (2755)
• United States
2 Jan 13
I've looked at this site because it has good earning potential, I think. The problem for me is that they are never looking for writers in topics I have expertise in. I do keep checking from time to time to see if something comes up. I am glad you brought up this discussion because it reminded me to check again.
Best of luck with your application process and look forward to seeing your writing on about.com!
@Suzieqmom (2755)
• United States
4 Jan 13
Thanks. I checked today, nothing for me at this time, but maybe in the future....
@sirnose (2436)
• United States
1 Jan 13
I never applied for a position at About but I think if you could get a gig there you would have to develop your own topic because most popular subjects and topics are all ready taken.
I think that if you research the site 1st to see what subjects aren't being covered then a writer has a chance to get accepted. Other than that, I see no way you can get in with About, it is for immediate and advance writers that have the expertises to succeed at whatever subject or topic they choose to undertake.
I myself will create a website and blog before I will pursue any other writing task that call for advance writing and research skills. Good Luck with your application and have a Happy New Year!
@ivan88 (193)
• Canada
3 Jan 13
They list the topics that are available. You can see that in their careers section. However, like you said, these are very specific topics. I have had numerous experiences in therapies of various kinds, which is why I applied to the therapies section. Hope you can find a topic that you are close to.
