In the last week I have sent an article to EMS1.com (benefits of online education), submitted an article to JEMS.com (The Paramedic Independent Learning Plan) and updated a textbook chapter on Instructional Technology for EMS instructors. I am fortunate that I have reached a point that publishers and editors contact me with requests for articles and chapters, but getting to this point took an intentional effort to hone my craft and market myself. Since there are more opportunities than ever before to write for the EMS market you can get your own EMS writing assignments.
1. Start writing. Anything. A blog, a journal, letters, or a term paper. Practice the skill of writing.
2. Read. Regularly read the online and print editions of EMS publications, textbooks, and fiction and non-fiction books. Learn the style, length, and topics that are being regularly published.
3. Focus. Select a niche or area you want to focus. I think these topics are “hot” and are likely to get published – capnography, safety, STEMI and 12 leads, advanced airway management, education, technology, therapeutic hypothermia, social media, economy and finance, and leadership.
4. Network. Seek out opportunities at conferences to meet the publishers and editors of EMS1, JEMS, and EMS World. Ask what type of articles and topics they are seeking. Offer to review submitted articles before publication to demonstrate your knowledge, writing ability, and capability to meet deadlines.
5. More writing. Comment on online articles and blog posts or write letters to the editor that ask clarifying questions, add supplemental information, or facilitate an ongoing conversation. Your goal should be to add value to other readers instead of drawing attention to yourself as a know it all.
What else can you do to get an EMS Writing Assignment?
