First Steps: Success Tips For New Helium Writers

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Are you a new writer at Helium?

Are you a new writer at Helium or just getting started as an Internet writer? Do you feel confused by the vast number of options and the seeming complexity of this multi-faceted publishing platform? Fear not. This “first steps” zone will help you make your way through Helium, while maximizing your opportunities for success here.

 

How do you define success? What are your goals as a Helium writer? Are you here to add income to your monthly budget? Are you here to build a name for yourself as an Internet writer? Are you a professional journalist looking for new earning sources or branching out with online options? Are you a busy freelancer looking to moonlight between gigs? Are you a new writer trying to get your name out on the web and network?

 

Helium can help you meet your goals.

Step 1: Set your writing goals at Helium

Do you simply want to add income to your monthly budget? Learn about the many ways to earn at Helium.

 

Do you want publishing freedom so you can write to topics you are knowledgeable and passionate about? Helium offers an open portal to match your publishing interests. Write informative magazine style articles which meet Helium’s Writing Standards, and write as many articles as you want. You choose at Helium. No waiting periods. No hassles.

 

Are you looking to expand your exposure as a writer? Build up your professional writer About Me page and consider creating a writer profile Zone. Get tips for how to present yourself professionally as a writer at Helium.

Step 2: Leap in with the 4 article challenge

Click on the “write” menu and choose from Helium’s hundreds of thousands of titles using the title finder tool.

 

Look for titles in informative channels which qualify for upfront payments (avoid the excluded channel for your first 4 articles).

 

Find title groups that already have 2-4 articles. We call those "competitive title groups," because once a title collects three articles ratings begin. When you submit your article the title group will be rated by your peers.

Step 3: Take the 10 minutes/day first week rating challenge

Once you write an article you’ll see paired articles from the same channel(s) you’ve written to. Spend 10 minutes a day deciding which article is better. Make sure you cast quality rates.

 

“Slow and steady wins the race” in rating. Do a little bit each day, with an attentive eye, and you’ll have your first rating star within a few days.

 

That rating star is your on-switch for earnings.

Step 4: Explore more earning opportunities…

Experienced freelancers and journalists compete with advantage in Helium’s Freelance Marketplace.

 

Do you have a gambler’s spirit? Try Helium’s weekly contests. At any given time we have 10 or more contests running simultaneously. Top earners win $75, with runner up prizes as well. Check out this week’s contests.

 

Compete for journalism prizes among our scores of journalist-oriented awards. Some contests include prize money ($125) and wider exposure. Did you know Helium has an exclusive partnership with the National Press Club? Our five-star writers can apply for this prestigious membership opportunity.

Looking for help or someone to ask?

I'm Barbara Whitlock, Helium's New Member Inreach Manager. My inbox is always open as questions arise: bwhitlock@helium.com.

Showing Comments 1 to 4 of 4

Diane Frankowski
Posted on: Oct 26, 09 at 02:59 PM
This certainly taught me more about Helium than I knew before. This is terrific! Thanks for sharing this link with me.
Linda Ann Nickerson
Posted on: Jul 28, 09 at 04:04 PM
Great zone and great info. Wish this had been here when I joined! New writers - check it out!
Barbara Whitlock
Posted on: Jul 16, 09 at 03:44 PM
Hi Dalton, Thanks for the post. My inbox is always open to answer questions too: bwhitlock@helium.com.
Dalton Michael Scott
Posted on: Jun 02, 09 at 04:30 AM
Thank you very much for these great tips on how to be a successful Helium writer. There is alot of great information here that I'll be remembering as I contimue to write.

Connect with other Helium writers

Follow the Helium Writer group on Twitter.

Join us Tuesdays (noon EST) for discussions with staff at the Helium: Where Knowledge Rules group on Facebook.

Network with other writers at the Helium.com Writers group on Linked In.

Explore Betaville groups and find writers who share your interests.

Calling all journalists

Do let Helium know if you have worked as professional journalist. You can get recognized at Helium with a professional journalist badge. This positions you for special Marketplace freelance gig opportunities.

Apply for Helium's professional journalism badge at experts@helium.com.

Provide copies of 3 print clips and an editor's name and email address whom we can contact to verify your professional work in the field. This badge honors the work of print journalists primarily, as well as those from reputable media outlets.

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