Expert tips that are considered by journal editors
Entering the world of peer review is not easy. In pursuit of both academic and research advancement, novice scholars are constantly looking for opportunities to take on the role of a peer reviewer. With the right motivation, determination, and tactics, you can successfully start your career in the world of peer review. Instead of sending random emails to editors, it is always better to use a more systematic approach.
Why is peer reviewing valuable?
Peer reviewing manuscripts is an advantage for researchers as it allows them to keep up with new research and improve their writing skills. The journey to peer reviewing encourages one to think critically about the article. You can quickly spot common mistakes when you start reviewing articles. Then you can use this experience to improve your writing style and make your research papers more valuable. This can also help increase the chances of the acceptance of your articles by journals. The reviewers can gain recognition through the lists of reviewers in journals and their certificates. In addition, being a member of the peer reviewing community creates new relationships with researchers in your field of work and guarantees your future collaborations.
Tips for Being Noticed by Editors
- Publish quality manuscripts in well-known journals
Publishing articles in reputable journals may be the best way to increase your chances of being noticed. Editors are looking for researchers who have a strong collection of well-written manuscripts. Researchers working in your field may also introduce you as a potential reviewer for their articles. Using keywords specific to each field of work in your manuscripts can be the key to your recognition by editors who have accessed you through database indexing services.
2. Stay in touch with journal editors
Email editors and express your desire for being a peer reviewer. Mention your area of expertise and share some of your work to be reviewed by editors. You can also provide your publication record for a better impression.
3. Follow up with the editors
Contact the associate editors instead of the editors, as they are more likely to be involved in the initial screening of peer reviewers. Be honest about your peer reviewing experience (novice/experienced), your research expertise, and your general preferences. If you are a novice researcher, mention it and emphasize your desire to gain experience as a peer reviewer. Also, state that you are committed to on-time delivery as this is a vital quality sought by editors. You may not receive an immediate response if your skills do not match what the editor needs. However, keep sending emails every 3 to 4 months so they know you are still available.
4. Join researcher networks
Online researcher networks, such as ResearchGate and ORCiD allow you to find and connect with editors specific to your field. Ensure that your profile includes sufficient details about your current areas of research. You may also consider adding links to your published works (journal articles or books). They also help you build your profile as an expert peer reviewer and make it easier for editors from leading journals to discover your profile.
5. Join researcher networks
Online research networks, such as ResearchGate and ORCiD allow you to find and contact editors in your field. Make sure you include enough details about your current areas of research in your profile. You may also want to add links to your published works (journal articles or books). They also help you build your profile as a peer review expert, making it easier for editors of reputable journals to find your profile.