How to become a Dummies.com author

I am excited to announce the Knol for Dummies.com competition. I'm particularly excited about this contest because I'm an avid fan of "For Dummies" books and Dummies.com. For instance, as a product marketing manager, I had no experience programming when I first joined Google. And, while coding isn't part of my official job description, it quickly became apparent that knowing some basic CSS/HTML could really go a long way. So, I ordered "CSS Web Design for Dummies" and quickly learned the basics of web design. Now, on the new Dummies.com site, that same expert how-to content is available in video, photo step-by-steps, articles, and author blogs.

Knol is a great place for individuals to share this type of how-to content. (Full disclosure: I am the product's marketing manager :-) Knols are articles written by people who are knowledgeable about specific subjects. Anyone can write one; there are templates to show you how to easily get started. You can embed media to better illustrate a topic, provide information about yourself to build your credibility, and collaborate with others to improve your knol over time.

And now we're offering an opportunity to have your knol featured on Dummies.com.* Simply go to the official contest page, create your own knol about a subject you know well, and the contest judges will select five finalists who will be eligible to have their knols featured on the Dummies.com site. In addition, the best entry overall will be awarded a $1,000 grand prize.

Check out our contest microsite for the Official Rules and more details. Submissions are open through March 23, 2009.

So start racking your brain and show what you know. We can't wait to see what everyone comes up with.

* Subject to Official Rules, see site for details.

Posted by Matt Ghering, Product Marketing Manager