Author role list
Tested: No Category: Keyword Research Created time: July 12, 2025 9:09 AM
Recommended Additions for a Complete List
Here are two additional roles that will allow you to plan for a wider range of content types and E-E-A-T signals:
- The Journalist / Investigator:
- What it means: The author's strength is not in their personal experience, but in their ability to rigorously research a topic, gather data, cite credible sources, and interview actual experts.
- Why it's important: For many topics, it's not possible to have first-hand experience. This role allows you to create highly authoritative and trustworthy content by standing on the shoulders of giants. It signals deep research and objectivity.
- The Learner / The Beginner:
- What it means: The author is documenting their journey of learning something from scratch. They are not an expert or enthusiast, but a relatable guide for other true beginners.
- Why it's important: This is an incredibly powerful persona for Top-of-Funnel (TOFU) content. It builds immense trust and connection with an audience that might be intimidated by experts. It strongly signals the "Experience" of being a beginner.
The Final Recommended Dropdown List
Here is the complete, strategically sound list I would recommend for your Author Role dropdown menu. It provides you with a full palette of options to match any content angle.
| Author Role | What It Means | Primary E-E-A-T Signal | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expert | A person with formal credentials and qualifications. | Expertise, Authoritativeness | YMYL topics, deep technical analysis, definitive guides. |
| Practitioner | A person with direct, hands-on, professional experience. | Experience, Trustworthiness | Case studies, real-world tutorials, product reviews. |
| Enthusiast | A passionate and knowledgeable hobbyist. | Experience, Expertise | Niche hobbies, community-focused topics, gear comparisons. |
| Journalist | An objective researcher who synthesizes information and cites sources. | Trustworthiness, Authoritativeness | Complex explainers, news-related topics, investigative articles. |
| The Learner | A beginner documenting their real-time learning journey. | Experience (of learning) | Ultimate beginner's guides, "learning log" style posts. |
My advice is to use these five options in your dropdown. This gives you the flexibility to plan for virtually any type of high-quality, E-E-A-T-focused content you want to create.