Write About What You Know – And If You Don’t Know? Ask.

I recently stumbled upon an article titled: “TV Gun Shows Go Mainstream in 2011.” I was intrigued, given my profession, what this article would entail. I figured it would be something about the gun-related shows popping up on “other” networks. And I was correct.

But what inspired this post is the opening paragraph: “Whether it was due to political sensitivity, a lack of interest in shooting sports, or because producers couldn’t figure out how to make shows about guns appeal to a broad audience, things have changed. At one time the only shows that covered any shooting sports were typically hunting-focused and only available on select networks.” (Wow – what a generalization.)

When I scrolled down to read about the author, I discovered she’s not from our industry and typically writes about education. When I googled her name, I found articles on obesity in college kids, embracing social media in schools, and coping with ADD in college. I did not find an article about guns, outdoor TV and anything related to TV whatsoever.

The remainder of this skeleton article simply regurgitates show summaries and where that show is found. She does not talk about any new gun shows that aired on traditional outdoor networks in 2011. 

Which, by the way, Sportsman Channel debuted three new shooting shows in 2011, including

Patrick Flanigan photo courtesy of Sportsman Channel

Ultimate Shot and Tac TV. And four shooting shows returned in 2011 including Modern Rifle Adventures and the iconic Guns & Ammo TV.  We also have a brand new shooting show debuting next week with world record holder Patrick Flanigan with Shell Shocked!

Okay – my point of this post is to WRITE WHAT YOU KNOW. Stick to one genre and do that genre well. Become an expert and people will seek YOU out. It is your brand. Don’t muddy the waters of your brand and write about something so completely out of your circle, it will confuse your readers and editors.

And if you stray from your usual topics – ask an expert to get an understanding before writing incorrect, or even damaging, articles. A simple google search will turn up the answers you need. Or visit Outdoor Blogger Network to find experts of all sorts of genres in the outdoors.

Larry Vickers being B.A. Photo courtesy of Sportsman Channel

I need to correct this writer – there is no “lack of interest in shooting sports.”  National Shooting Sports Foundation will be able to give you plenty of stats to show the INCREASE in shooting sports participation. And did you catch this recent article in the Wall Street Journal about more women taking up shooting? Huh.

If you are seeking an expert in the gun field – call on our friend, Larry Vickers, or perhaps one of the gents from the 50 year-old-brand, Guns & Ammo. They know a thing or two about shooting sports and personal defense.  Or reach out to me at Sportsman Channel. I can connect you with more than 100 experts in their respective genres.