How to update your AHCJ Freelance Directory profile

AHCJ's Freelance Directory is a key perk of membership for freelancers. The public-facing database allows editors to search for health journalists who could be a good fit for their projects.

For example, maybe an editor is looking for someone with expertise in mental health who's a "professional" member, or someone whose full-time gig is journalism as opposed to public relations or copywriting for brands. Using the search bar and filters, editors can discover fresh voices, and find comfort in writers' affiliation with AHCJ, which involves careful vetting to join.

There's just one catch: AHCJ freelance members need to make sure their profiles are active and up-to-date to be pinpointed for appropriate assignments. And to be fair, it's not entirely obvious or intuitive how to do so - especially if you've transitioned from a staff reporter to an independent journalist without thinking to update your profile on the site.

So, here are step-by-step instructions to polish your public-facing profile and attract assignments with almost no effort:

Click the arrows on the side of each screenshot to advance to the next image.

1. Log in to your AHCJ account
2. Under "Member Compass," click on "profile." The vast majority of this profile does not appear in the freelance or member directory, but is part of the application process for membership. Update any outdated information and make sure AHCJ has your correct address and social media handles.
3. Make sure your "affiliation" reads "Independent Journalist."
4. Scroll down to "areas of expertise." List topic areas and/or writing styles you're most skilled in. For example, "health policy, public health, health disparities, news stories" or "pediatric health, parenting, magazine writing, investigations." Ask yourself: If I wanted an editor to find me for the type of assignment I'm best at and/or enjoy most, what would they search?
5. Scroll down further to "website." While there's a space higher up in your profile for your website, list it again here if you want it visible in the freelance directory.
6. Scroll down to "job title." This could be as simple as "freelance journalist," or you can be more specific - some members call themselves "science communication experts" or name a particular outlet they regularly contribute to. Some who are also medical professionals list that title, too. Keep in mind "independent journalist" will appear below this title, so you don't need to reiterate it.
7. Scroll down to add your headshot.
8. Click "save" on the right hand side and voila!

Don't forget to take advantage of other freelance resources including market guides detailing how to pitch 50 publications including NYT Well, Men's Health, Scientific American and Wired. Join our monthly "Lunch and Learns" to swap strategies on a given topic in an off-the-record conversation with other accomplished freelance health journalists.