Adding a collaborator to a post after it's been published might seem tricky, but it's definitely achievable, depending on your chosen platform. This guide provides thorough directions for several popular platforms, ensuring you can seamlessly add collaborators to your already-published work. Let's dive in!
Why Add a Collaborator After Publication?
There are several compelling reasons why you might need to add a collaborator to a post after it's live:
- Expert input: Perhaps you've published a piece and realized it would benefit immensely from the perspective of an expert in the field.
- Expanded reach: Adding a collaborator with a large following can significantly boost the post's visibility and engagement.
- Missed opportunity: You may have initially overlooked a perfect collaborator whose expertise would enrich the content.
- Content updates: A significant update to the post might require the input and expertise of an additional contributor.
Adding Collaborators: Platform-Specific Guides
The process of adding a collaborator after publication varies significantly depending on the platform. Here are some common scenarios:
Adding a Collaborator on WordPress
Adding a collaborator on WordPress, especially after publication, depends heavily on your setup. Here's a breakdown:
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If you're using WordPress.com (hosted): You'll likely need to edit the post and add the collaborator as an author during the editing process. This might involve changing the author or adding them as a contributor with appropriate permissions. This can be done directly in the WordPress dashboard.
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If you're using self-hosted WordPress (with plugins): Depending on the plugins you use, such as for co-authoring, you might have direct options to add collaborators retroactively. Check your plugin documentation for specific instructions. Without plugins, the process is similar to the WordPress.com method above.
Important Note for WordPress: Always ensure the new collaborator has the appropriate user permissions set within your WordPress dashboard before granting them access to edit the post.
Adding a Collaborator on Medium
Medium's collaborative features are more streamlined. While you can't directly add a collaborator after publication in the same way you can edit authorship, you can:
- Create a new post: Write a supplementary post that acknowledges the original and builds upon it collaboratively. Link the original post clearly for context.
- Use tags and cross-promotion: Engage the new collaborator to promote the original post on their account, thereby acknowledging their contribution.
Adding a Collaborator on LinkedIn
Similar to Medium, LinkedIn doesn't have a direct "add collaborator after publishing" feature. Best practices include:
- Tagging and mentioning: Tag the collaborator in a comment or subsequent post mentioning their contribution to the original article. This grants them credit and allows for visibility.
- Co-author a new post: Create a new post expanding on the first one with the collaborator's input and clearly referencing the original.
Adding a Collaborator on Other Platforms
The specific methods for adding collaborators to posts on other platforms like Substack, Ghost, or custom CMS systems are unique. Always consult that platform's official documentation or support channels for detailed instructions. Often, direct post collaboration isn't available after publication; strategies like those mentioned for Medium and LinkedIn become the most effective options.
Best Practices for Adding Collaborators
Regardless of the platform, here are some essential best practices to follow when adding collaborators after publication:
- Communication is key: Always communicate clearly with your new collaborator before making any changes to the post.
- Credit where credit is due: Always clearly acknowledge the collaborator's contribution within the post itself.
- Respect authorship: Avoid making significant changes without consulting the original author.
- Maintain consistency: Ensure the added content aligns with the overall tone and style of the original post.
Adding a collaborator after publishing might require some creative problem-solving, depending on your chosen platform, but with a bit of planning and communication, it’s entirely achievable. Remember to always prioritize clear communication and appropriate credit to ensure a smooth collaboration.
