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Publishing Articles Pays Off
By Jeff Davidson MBA, CMC
It's important to have realistic expectations of what publishing can do for you. Publishing articles in newspapers and magazines can accelerate career marketing efforts and offer a sense of pride. Publishing probably won't put you on the bestseller list or get you on Jay Leno. However, all other things being equal, if you've had a couple of articles published, you're better positioned for advancement than a coworker who hasn't. Check out these benefits:
Positions you as an expert -- Getting published means credentials for you in the article subject area. If a supervisor in an engineering firm, for example, writes an article on reinforcing bridge supports, a public notice has been made that he or she, and the firm, are experts in this area. Someone requiring a subcontractor on a bridge design project may call the writer's organization merely on the basis of the article.
Gain ever-wider acceptance -- If you concentrate on one subject area, you're likely to gain ever-wider acceptance with magazines in your field, and you can keep up with new developments while increasing your visibility.
Makes for attractive reprints -- You can create a favorable impression by supplying clients, coworkers, and peers with reprints or PDF files of an article you've had published. Modesty aside, most authors are proud of their work and have no qualms about submitting reprints to friends, relatives, and associates. Most people are pleased and impressed to accept your reprint. Of course, you use this technique discreetly to avoid seeming egotistical.
Supports career changes -- You can include software files or reprints of your article with resumes when applying for a new position and with raise requests at your present job.
Invites speaking invitations -- An article can lead to an invitation to speak before a particular group. Every article can be made into a speech, and vice versa. Giving speeches will put you in touch with others interested in your subject area who will help broaden your web of connections. This circular exchange of information can prove highly beneficial.
Visibility for you and your organization -- Always mention your organization in your bio when you write an article. For example, "Joe Smith is a manager of XYZ Corporation." Your article therefore will market both you and your organization. If possible, without stretching the content, you may want to mention your company's name in the body of the article. (Use caution, however, with this technique. Some organizations are sensitive about publicity and would prefer not to be mentioned in connection with an employee's activities. Check out your organization's unwritten rules in this area before going ahead.)
The benefits of getting published will continue for a surprisingly long time. A friend of mine got a letter about an article he had published in a monthly trade magazine two-and-a-half years before. This isn't unusual. Your article will live on as long as there are libraries.