6. Actively connect with other researchers in your field
Journal editors often use the reviewers’ suggestions. If you introduce yourself to researchers, your chances of being nominated as a reviewer will increase. Start conversations with fellow researchers and editors while attending conferences. Some journals also invite reviewers to keep in touch with them. This is especially true for new journals that seek to expand their scope and reach in different areas.
7. Try to get a recommendation
Establish a close relationship with your peers and senior colleagues to learn the details of the reviewing process and ask them to recommend you to the editors. This can be a great way to improve your reviewing skills in the absence of formal training.
8. Peer review training and certification
Not only novice researchers but also senior and experienced researchers may have trouble creating a good peer review report. Enrolling in a licensed peer review training course will help you acquire basic skills and increase your proficiency in peer reviewing. Peer reviewing certificates signal the journal editors that you are a valuable reviewer so that you can be added to their jury.
9. Practice your reviewing skills on other platforms
PubMed and F1000Research have launched post-publication peer reviewing systems in which registered users can comment on published articles. Use these platforms to provide targeted, professional, and constructive suggestions on articles. This can demonstrate your critical evaluation skills. Such platforms also allow you to network with a large community of researchers.
10. Become a member of journal databases
Create an account with a compelling biography and relevant keywords in journal databases. Make sure you check the “available to be a reviewer” option. This can be a place where editors are more likely to seek reviewers. In addition, you can sign up for the “volunteer reviewer” initiative launched by several journals.
11. Reviewer recognition platform
Create a personal reviewer profile page on the reviewer recognition platform. You can provide documentation of your arbitration record by showing all of your reviewed works by year. In addition, you can indicate whether the manuscript you have reviewed has finally been published or not. You can also get a certificate of recognition for each peer review and use it to upgrade your resume. Besides, the editors of the journal may personally recognize reviewers who have provided quality peer review reports.
Finally, never give up. Remember that perseverance is the key to success. If you have received an invitation from a journal to peer review, be careful and provide quality reviewing on time. By doing this, the editors will trust more in your abilities and good morals.