Given the scope of the project, there is always a need for additional editors, particularly those who are sincerely interested in helping us in our common goal of assembling the most comprehensive directory of useful sites on the Internet.

If your chief interest is in listing your own site, or promoting a business interest, it is not necessary for you to become an editor. Submit your site to an appropriate category, and it will be reviewed by an editor.  While many editors have sites listed in the directory, the misuse of editorial privileges for the purpose of self promotion is not condoned.

The standards of the Open Directory Project are higher for editors than for submitted sites. While we list most of the sites that are submitted to the directory, the majority of new editor applications are not approved.

Your chances of being accepted as an editor with the Open Directory Project will be improved if ...

1. You are honest and your motives are pure.  Are you truly interested in joining our community of volunteer editors, working together to assemble the most comprehensive directory of useful sites on the Internet?
2. You can demonstrate expertise or knowledge in the subject relating to the category you are applying for.
3. You are able to demonstrate a reasonably good command of the language of the category you are applying for.  Spelling and grammar count.
4. You can convince the Meta or Staff Editor reviewing your application that you will be able to positively contribute to the project. Be prepared to submit at least 2, and preferably 3 sample URLs that are appropriate for the category you are applying for, and not already listed.

Do your homework.  Although not specifically required, the following resources may be of interest to you:

• ODP Editor Guidelines
• Online Dictionary
• Ixquick Metasearch
• Copernic Search Program

I strongly suggest you read the ODP Editor Guidelines before applying, especially the part about describing sites.  The online dictionary may or may not be something you will need, depending on your spelling abilities.  It also includes a thesaurus.  The others are metasearch tools that might be of use to you in locating 2-3 sample URLs to use in your application, and will, in any event, be helpful in the event you are accepted.

As a Meta Editor, I have reviewed thousands of new editor applications.  While experiences may differ, among the most common reasons I’ve found for not accepting an application include:

1. Poor command of the language, including spelling.
2. Fewer than two sample URLs provided.
3. Applicant is applying for a category that is too large for a new editor, or one that already has more than one other editor.
4. Sample URLs are inappropriate for the category, or are already listed.
5. Sample URLs all belong to the applicant.

These are just a few of the things we most commonly look for in a new editor applicant. While there are no guarantees, if you keep these in mind, your chances of being accepted will be enhanced.

Good luck, and if you make it, i’ll see you on the other side.