Freelance writers wanted
Are you the kind of person who spends 25 hours researching toasters before buying one? If so, you might have the right aptitude for ConsumerSearch.com!
ConsumerSearch.com, which is owned by About.com and is a part of The New York Times Company, is actively seeking freelance writers to join our team. We are in particular need of writers with expertise in personal computers, consumer electronics and photo/video.
Writing for ConsumerSearch requires uncommon research and analytical skills. Contributors need to be detail-oriented, critical and organized, and must be able to adapt to our format and tone.
Payment varies, but is never less than $350. Compensation fluctuates according to how much work is required and depending on a writer's expertise. ConsumerSearch does pay a kill fee for work that we cannot publish.
How to apply
First, check out some of the content on ConsumerSearch.com to get an idea of what we do. See the About Us and FAQ pages for more on how we compile the most comprehensive product reviews online.
Writers and editors are invited to apply by preparing a sample report. Completion of the sample report is not paid. At the conclusion of your sample report, we will be able to provide a tentative assessment of whether you would be a good fit for ConsumerSearch; if we like what we see, we will make an additional, paid writing assignment.
About the ConsumerSearch Sample Report
Specific instructions for how to complete the sample assignment are included in the Sample Report Guidelines. Read this document first. The subject of your sample report is Bottled Water. (Be sure to bookmark this page so you don't need to go through the ConsumerSearch home page again to return to the test.)
The reviews and resources you'll use to compile your report are located here. Please use only these reference materials to complete the assignment. You needn't try to find other articles or reviews at this time.
Please complete your sample report submission using the Microsoft Word template included here.
How long will it take to complete the sample report?
It takes most people about 10 hours to complete the sample report and application. Completion of these items is not paid, but if accepted, will lead to paid assignments. As for word count, between 1,000 and 1,500 words is about right. It's okay to write more than that if you like.
What are ConsumerSearch editors looking for in the sample report?
We're looking for how well you process and synthesize research, how well you organize your thoughts, and adherence to ConsumerSearch.com style, format and tone. Please visit any of our reports to get an idea of this. Our report on Upright Vacuum Cleaners is a good example. You want to take a look at the first page, and at the Full Report pages.
Can I ask questions?
You bet. Feel free to ask for clarification along the way, if you need it. Send questions to editor@consumersearch.com.
Okay, so I've completed the assignment, now what?
Once you've completed your test, please submit the following by email:
* Completed sample report
* Completed writer application form (here)
* Resume
Please email to editor@consumersearch.com.
You'll receive an acknowledgement within 48 hours. You should receive a response from us within three weeks. Feel free to check in if you have not heard from us within that time.
More information here.