Applying to write for WoW Insider

We are not currently looking for writers to fill any specific positions. However, we're always keeping our eyes open for talented writers and keep all applications on file for the next time we're looking to expand our staff.

All positions at WoW Insider are paid. We do not have any volunteers or accept article submissions from outside writers. We get a lot of requests from people wishing to publish their work on WoW Insider and we always respond the same way: publish your work on your own blog and send us a link to it. If we like it, we'll write it up and link to you.

Read all instructions before submitting your application. Incomplete applications will be printed out and used for paper airplanes -- because if you can't follow instructions now, there's nothing to make us think you'll be able to follow instructions if we contract you to write for us.

First off, anyone who's interested must have:

• A passion for World of Warcraft. You don't have to love everything about the game or everything about Blizzard, but you need to have an interest in the game.
  
• Solid writing ability. Basic spelling and grammar are required -- and the ability to form words without any numbers in them is a major plus. Insider tip: we're going to assume that the writing in your application is an example of the best writing you're capable of. Once we see a spelling mistake, grammatical error, or typo, we usually stop reading. (So iff you don't know the difference between its and it's, now's the time to look it up.)
  
• Prolificacy! We need people who can commit to writing on a regular basis.
  
• For bloggers, we're looking for people who can commit to a minimum of 50 posts a month. (This may sound daunting, but it works out to about 1.5 posts a day.)
• For weekend bloggers, we need a commitment to a minimum of 25 posts a month on the weekends. (This works out to 3 every Saturday and Sunday.) You're free to post during the work week as long as you keep up your weekend post count.
• For columnists, we're looking for people who can commit to weekly content articles of between 500 and 1500 words. You're free to post other pieces as long as you maintain a quality column on a regular schedule.
  

There are a few technical requirements as well. Before you apply, be sure you:

• Possess a computer and a reliable Internet connection. If your computer can play WoW, you should be able to blog with us.
• Have the software and knowledge to create and manipulate photos and screenshots. (You only really need to be able to resize images, but you're welcome to do fancier stuff if you feel like it.)
  
• Know a little bit about HTML. (Our CMS is all WYSIWYG, but you may occasionally need to make minor tweaks in the source code.)
  
• Are eligible to work wherever you're writing from. We can, and often do, contract bloggers from outside the US. The only caveat is that people outside of the US must have a bank account and be able to accept payments by wire transfer.
  
• Are reachable outside of Azeroth -- via e-mail, IM, Skype, phone, etc.
  

Still think you're right for the job? Well then... Send apply AT wowinsider DOT com an email including:

• Absolutely no attachments. Please include all information in the body of your e-mail.
• Your full name and whether you're applying as a blogger or a columnist in the subject line. I.e. "John Doe -- blogger" or "Jane Doe -- weekend blogger" or "Johannes Dostoyevsky -- columnist."
  
• Your city and state. (If outside of the US, include country as well.)
  
• Your contact information, including email address and any instant messenger addresses.
• Availability information -- when and how often you think you'll be able to post.
• An explanation of why you think you're the right person for the job.
  
• Some information about your background in World of Warcraft, including your current characters and objectives in game.

For bloggers, also include:

• Three sample posts about World of Warcraft, in the style of a typical WoW Insider post
• Three links to posts on WoW Insider that you feel exemplify our best content
  
• Three suggestions for improving WoW Insider

For columnists, also include:

• A proposed theme for your column. Insider tip: If you send us a column suggestion that's already being covered on WoW Insider, you're not likely to be considered.
  
• Ten sample topics you might explore. (if you can't think of ten sample topics, you might want to re-consider your theme.)
• A sample first column of around 500 words. (Even if you're hoping to write longer pieces, 500 words represents the minimum length we're looking for columns and is enough to give us a feel for your writing ability. We get many applications -- please do not write a novel.)