Before I get to the important bit, I want to make it known that we've always been open to new writers. Sometimes we get lucky and someone like Greg Kyte manages to find time in his busy schedule to bless us with an article. Sometimes we get a stupid idea like running a new talent contest that pretty much ends in disaster.
We're coming up a little empty handed so here's what we're going to do: run an informal call for writers through Open Items.
We aren't looking for dry, stale BS you can find on any number of other accounting sites out there (duh) and we aren't looking for unsubstantiated rants against regulatory agencies either. We're looking for perspective, insight, and a few jokes if you've got the stuff (if you're not terribly funny but at least interesting, we'll take that, too). This isn't your personal diary, but if you have unique experiences to share that you think will help the audience, we're open to you sharing those.
To throw your hat in the ring, first you'll have to register on Open Items if you aren't already. Then, write a 500 – 1000 word article there on whatever you want. Opinions are welcome, but please back them up with facts (as in "The PCAOB sucks, and here are 5 reasons why"). Once your article is approved, shoot us an email to introduce yourself and let us know you want to be considered for the gig.
Here are a few topic ideas:
- recruiting/hiring
- making partner
- putting the life in work/life balance
- putting the work in work/life balance
- interning
- alternative career paths
FAQs
Q: Does it pay?
A: Yes, if we decide to bring you on, you will be paid per article. We'll discuss that more if you're in the running.
Q: How often would I have to write?
A: How often can you write? We need a commitment either way (be it once a month or once a week) but you let us know what works. Exceptions can be made if you have a few busy times out of the year where you will be MIA, we're cool like that.
Q: Do I have to write under my real name?
A: We prefer that you do, and you will definitely have to provide us with your real info to get paid but we understand you may have a day job that you want to keep and are worried they may not appreciate you writing for us.
Q: What's in it for me?
A: Besides money, you'll have a pretty cool resume item that will make you slightly more well-rounded. Writing good, web-ready content is harder than it looks, so we'll also teach you basic style and a little SEO. If you have an interest in journalism and Internet marketing, we're happy to show the right candidate with solid skills how to be a better writer.
Q: What would I write about?
A: The best content is built with passion and expertise, so you should write about areas that you know about and interest you. Personal narratives are OK (think Sydney Kingston's series on the partner track) but remember you are writing for a large audience and no one here wants to read 600 words about your cat (confirmed by Adrienne).
Q: I'm not the greatest writer, can I still write for you?
A: Again, passion and expertise count for a lot so if you don't know AP Style or only get the right form of "you're" correct 75% of the time, that's OK. If forming complete sentences and telling interesting stories isn't up your alley, then this might not be a good fit for you.
Q: Do I have to be in public accounting?
A: Um hello, our founder is a KPMG refugee. So no, you don't have to be in public accounting. You can be an accounting student, professor, tax preparer, auditor, intern, partner… we don't care. The important thing is that you have a remedial understanding of the subject matter and can write compelling content.
If you have any other questions, hit us up.