It’s Thursday and that means that its SpeciatyBuzz day. If you haven’t wandered over to these parts before, that means that I will be posting an interview with a freelance writer who considers him or herself a specialist on a particular topic or style of writing within the broader field of freelance writer. Today’s SpecialtyBuzz virtuoso is Robert Medak, professional review writer.

What is your specialty and how did you get started in that particular area?

If I were to claim a specialty, it would have to be reviewing since that is how I got my start in freelance writing, and a generalist when it comes to writing articles. A friend told me about a company that was looking for reviewers, e-mail is a wonderful thing. I applied, took a test to see how I would work out, the rest as they say; is history.

What are three things a writer needs to know before choosing to specialize in your area of specialty?

1. You must love reading.

2. Never give away the story.

3. Watch you writing.

Does writing in your specialty require any particular training or could a layperson pick it up?

A nonprofessional can pick up reviewing. It just takes time to become a good reviewer, and to learn how to write a good review. I have written over 70 reviews, and try to improve with each one.

Are there any potential pitfalls associated with specializing in your area?

The pay per review can be low, and authors may not like your review. The author may ask you to rewrite the review. You will also have to do review on genres you normally do not read.

What is the current market for writing in your specialty? Who is buying and who is selling?

There is a huge market for book review writers. There are many books published, and someone has to review them. Why not you?

What do you enjoy most about your specialty?

The opportunity to learn something new, as a reviewer, there are a myriad of subjects and clients to write for. You can explore new and varied subjects. There always seems to be something new to write about. As someone who enjoys learning new things this is fun, not work. As an avid reader, there is always the next book to review without having to purchase it. After reviewing the book, donate it to your local library, this helps the library and the readers. You can read and help others in your community at the same time.

What do you enjoy least about your specialty?

As an independent contractor for a company, waiting for the next book assigned for review; and having to check the mail when one is assigned, also some of the subjects. Many authors want free reviews. This is not the case for the company I work for.

How would you suggest networking within your specialty?

Social media is good way to network and find other reviewers you can ask question about reviewing. The advent of the internet and high-speed connections, you will find it easier to connect with them. Look for authors and e-mail them with an offer to review their book for a complimentary copy. Most authors are willing to do it if your review will end up at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other sites. Do searches for forums and sites frequented by authors. Ask your librarian if they know of any writer’s groups or if they know of a local author. Put an ad in your local paper. Use your imagination.

What advice would you give to freelance writers interested in specializing in your area?

Write the best you can at all times, and always strive to improve with every piece you write. Learn what it takes to work at home in your town or city. You may find that you need a license, or some type of certificate to work out of your home, even though no clients come to your home. Create a business and marketing plan. Learn about what records you need to keep for tax purposes. For this, you might need to consult with a tax professional.

First and foremost, remember that reviewing is a business. You need to treat it like one.

Robert Medak began writing professionally in February of 2006. He wrote most of his articles from late 2007 to early 2008. He has written both technical How-To while in telecommunications, and nonfiction articles, how-to, and blog content since retirement from the SBC. Robert was born in San Pedro, CA where he spent most of his life. In June of 2008, he with his wife, three dogs and three cats, moved from Southern California to a small town in Northwest Kansas.

Robert writes for four blogs of his own and maintains two for AllBook Reviews. The URL to his blog about freelance writing is: http://rjmedak.wordpress.com/

Robert also has a blog for children and about animals at: http://kidsandanimals.wordpress.com/

You can visit his website at: http://stormywriter.com.

Have questions for Robert on how you too can review? Leave them in them in the comments below.