by Tara Rijon

Created on: May 25, 2009   Last Updated: May 27, 2009

Anyone who loves to write knows that it's like having an itch that you can't scratch. Just when you think that you've finally satisfied that overwhelming creeping sensation, another urge sets in and you have to appease it. While Helium does nothing to rid you of your itch, it does act like a soothing lotion. When properly applied it can soften the itch, and it has all of the makings for a happy union.

RECOGNITION

Every writer's dream is recognition. Without it your work is nothing more than mere words on a piece of paper. With Helium your articles are read by people from all over the world, and that brings with it a huge sense of accomplishment. You gain pride in knowing that your article on heart disease or ADD actually helped someone on the other side of the globe.

Helium also encourages writers to continually improve by offering stars and badges as incentives, and has partnered with some top organizations in order to present its writer's with some great opportunities. A writer could be honored with a Citizen's Journalism Award and even make some extra cash.


FEEDBACK

Writers, while not always good at accepting criticism, can have their articles rated by their peers and obtain insight into how to improve their writing skills. They also receive praises on their articles, which gives them the fortitude that is sometimes needed in order to deliver a good, comprehensive piece.


MONEY

Nothing says appreciation to a writer like m-o-n-e-y. While I wouldn't set my sights on retiring any time soon, anyone can supplement their income nicely by submitting good articles on a regular basis. Helium offers a variety of ways to increase your income via contests, marketplace, ad revenue and upfront payments. How much you earn is totally dependent on how much effort you want to put into it.


VARIETY OF SUBJECTS

The variety of subject matter on Helium is unsurpassed, offering more than half a million topics. But suppose you have an idea that still isn't covered? Merely contact Helium and they will open up a new title for you. You can bring your expertise in a particular field, or simply share life experiences.


YOUR NAME IN LIGHTS

Nothing feeds the soul like seeing your name in print. Whether you're a seasoned journalist or a housewife, nothing can compare to the sense of satisfaction you feel once you see your article published with your name attached to it. It is proof positive of the hard work and dedication that you put into your work, and it is there for all the world to see.


EDITING YOUR WORK

Every writer wants to believe that they have written the best article possible, but what if the information changes or another idea comes to you after it is published? Thanks to a little thing known as "Leap Frog," you can go in and change your article or add new information to it as needed. This not only keeps your article up to date, but also helps in maintaining a good rating.


COMMUNITY FORUM

If you need help or have a question that needs to be answered, Helium's community forum is a great resource. There you will find some great information on how to improve your earnings, learn about the latest contests, find new titles, or merely stay up to date on new and exciting changes to the site. You can receive input from other members or blow off a little steam if the need arises. You can even hang out at the Helium Caf and make new friends. There is no lack of information at the community forum, and anyone who visits will learn something new.

With the wide variety of subject matter, the friendly staff and the earning potential, there is no way that one can avoid the Helium addiction. It's a soothing friend that scratches that itch, just ever so slightly, until it hits again.

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