Freelance Writer's World

How to Become a Freelance Writer Tip#1: Learn How to Write

2008-08-04T13:49:00.007-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Hone Your Writing Skills

Some people believe "you either got it, or you don't." In this case, you either know how to write, or you don't. Personally, I don't hold to this notion. I believe that anyone with the desire to write, (and the willingness to improve their skills), can become a freelance writer.

Granted, it's easier for some people to write an article and become a freelance writer. Person A may be able to create a masterpiece within one hour, which includes the time spent researching, writing, and editing. Meanwhile, it may take Person B three hours to finish a short piece. But with practice, I believe that both persons can reach, or at least come close to achieving the same level.

If you've never picked up a pen and paper and attempted to write, you're probably a little rusty. I don't recommend anyone apply for a writing job without the necessary skills. If you don't know the difference between "its" and "it's", habitually end a sentence with a preposition, or don't know how to write a simple grammatically correct sentence, you'll be greeted with a ton of rejection slips and an unread manuscript.

Pick up a copy of a English grammar book, practice writing exercises, learn how to research, and let others critique your work. The more you write, the better you'll become.

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Visit one of my other blogs...

Telecommuting Diva
The Serious Writer
No More Debt

Wanna Write? Start a Blog

2008-07-23T07:58:00.002-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Start a Personal Blog, Get Writing Experience

I think freelance writing is one of the coolest professions, and apparently, I'm not alone. Whenever I meet someone for the first time, it doesn't take long for the conversation to turn to work. They'll ask what I do, and I'll nonchalantly reply, "I'm a freelance writer." Their eyes get wide and the usual response is "wow, how cool." I have to agree. But it doesn't stop there.

Sometimes I'm asked how to get started as a freelance writer. I'm no stranger to this question. In fact, I have a generic answer: improve your writing skills, write samples, create a cover letter, and religiously apply for opportunities. But I think I forgot one crucial tip.

I became a freelance writer six years ago - pre-blog days. Even though I applied for my first blogging opportunity in 2005, I didn't start my own blog until last year. And even then, I didn't immediately include a website link with cover letters.

Why? I don't really know.

Maybe it was because I started this blog as a way to help beginners, and a way to vent a few frustrations. But what I didn't realize was that this blog could function as a writing sample. And for anyone who wants to break into the business, blogging is a great way to hone your skills. Since newbies don't normally write on a everyday basis, blogs provide great practice.

So, you want to become a freelance writer. My advice: start blogging. Pick a topic and go for it. It's free, and once your skills improve and you're ready to apply for freelance opportunities, you've got a sample.

Freelance Writing Myths

2008-07-22T09:46:00.005-04:00

Writer's Resources....

Know What You're Getting Into

If you want to be a freelance writer...I say write. But at the same time, you need to know the truth about freelance writing. Some people think it's the easiest job. In turn, they think anyone can do it. What's sad, some people who hire freelancers don't have respect for the profession, which is why you'll commonly stumble upon low-paying opportunities that target stay at home moms and people who desperately need to make extra money.

Freelance Writing Myth #1: Anyone can be a freelance writer.

I used to believe this myth. Now that I've been a freelance writer for six years, I completely disagree. Writing isn't for everyone. There's a difference between knowing how to write, and knowing how to write well. Non-writers mistakenly believe that writing is an easy job that anyone can do. Hence, many people with so-so writing abilities look for writing opportunities. Those who become successful do so because they're willing to improve their skills. Those who don't take the time to brush up on their grammar and writing normally give up.

Freelance Writing Myth #2: You need a college degree.

Different companies (print and online) hire writer's without college degrees. So you don't need a degree to freelance. The decision to complete a degree really depends on the direction you want to go. Because I've always wanted to be a writer and I love English, I decided to complete an English/journalism degree. Besides, I didn't want to limit myself. I enjoy freelancing, but who knows, I may decide to become a journalist or get into publishing.

Freelance Writing Myth #3: Freelance writers can't earn a full-time income.

The truthfulness of this statement depends on you. Freelance writers are able to make a full-time income. Unfortunately, some freelancers work morning, night, and weekends to make ends meets. The key to being a freelancer who earns a full-time income is picking jobs that pay well. You've got to hit the job boards, create a good cover letter, and sell yourself.

In addition, learn how to work fast. You may find a job that pays $15 per short article, which isn't bad. Complete two an hour and you're averaging $30 an hour. On the other hand, if it takes you two hours or more to complete the piece, it's not worth it.

How to Make Money with Associated Content?

2008-07-15T09:41:00.002-04:00

Writer's Resources....

Discover Passive Income

Admittedly, I haven't written new content for Associated Content since October 2007. I don't have a problem with the website. However, it was around this time that I took on a few new assignments, I couldn't devote as much time to the website.

I wrote my first article with Associated Content in May 2005, and since then, I've had more than 200 articles published. Although I've heard other writer's complain about receiving $4 and $5 offers for their content, I've only had one ridiculously low offer in three years (one that I can remember). The reason: the website already had a number of articles on this particular topic - 30 to be exact! I didn't do my research, so I can't blame anyone but myself.

There are varying opinions about Associated Content. Some feel that writing for the website can ruin a writer's reputation, and I've heard that some editors won't accept clips from Associated Content. But I think it's a great way for new writers to break into the business. Several of my articles published on the website have been re-printed on larger websites. And I've even snagged a few gigs as a result of my Associated Content profile. So, I tend to ignore the "naysayers." Besides, I receive a satisfying performance payment every month - and I haven't submitted new content in eight months!

I say give it a try, what do you got to lose? And if you're worried about a tarnished reputation, use a pen name. I do. Not because I'm ashamed, but because I write under three different names.

There are different ways to make money with Associated Content:

1. Write accurate, timely content: I have several articles that appear on the first page of Google. In turn, this increases my AC page views and my performance payments. Pick topics that are on the minds of web surfers. Next, check the site and make sure there isn't already an exhausted list of articles on said topic. Find a unique topic or angle, and watch your payout increase.

2. Feature a link on your website or blog: Look up in the left hand corner, and you'll notice an Associated Content link. You can invite others to write for the site, or include a link to your articles on your personal website or blog. If your objective is to make passive income with Associated Content, website traffic is the key.

3. Include keywords in your content: The more keyword or keyword phrases you have in your articles, the higher your rank on Google. Don't forget to include highly searched keywords in your article's title. An ideal keyword density is 3% - 5%. Keyword selector tools such as Overture and SEO Tools (my favorite) offer information on the best phrases, and the average number of monthly or daily searches for each phrase.

The Check Bounced?!?

2008-07-07T21:48:00.003-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Getting a Client to Pay Up!

I love writing, and I'm thankful for the opportunities I have to freelance. Thus, I won't speak ill of my career choice. But I have to say, there's one aspect of this business that annoys me.

About two weeks ago I received a check from a client. I deposited the check two days later and went about my business. Five days later I went to check my bank balance, and to my surprised, the check bounced. Now, I've worked with this company for more than seven months, and this was the first returned check - so I didn't get upset. I simply e-mailed my contact person to make her aware of the situation.

According to my contact person, the company sent out an e-mail to all writers to notify them of the situation. I didn't receive an e-mail. As a matter of fact, I spoke to someone who also writes for this company, and they didn't receive an e-mail either - red flag alert.

By this time I was due another check, so I didn't get mad. Just mail me my money, and I can go on with my life.

Well, I received another check today...but it didn't include funds to cover the check that bounced!

Do they honestly think I forgot about the money?

I sent a very "nice" e-mail inquiring about the missing money. Her response, "the bank should automatically submit the check for payment."

Yeah, well here's a news flash: my bank doesn't do that! Besides, I already received the returned check in the mail.

I'll attempt to re-deposit the funds. But this time, I'll take the check to their bank.

How to Determine Freelance Writing Rates?

2008-06-20T18:14:00.007-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Get Paid What You're Worth

Every business has a learning curve, and sometimes, new business owners price themselves too low. Understandably, you need customers. Without customers, you don't work. If you don't work, you can't make a living and you're forced to return to a traditional workplace setting.

I don't want that to happen, and neither do you. So, it's important to pick jobs carefully and establish a rate that's fair to you and your client.

You need to determine freelance writing rates on a case-by-case basis. Yeah, it's a lot easier to have a set price per word or page. However, if you don't take into account the amount of time it takes to research and edit the piece, you may end up slapping yourself. I've made this mistake, and it's no picnic.

You estimate it'll take one or two hours to complete an assignment, and you bid low. In actuality, it takes twice as long to write the piece because:

1.) There are few resources available on the topic, in which you have to dig deep to find useful information.

2.) You have absolutely no knowledge (or interest) in the subject, which calls for a crash course in said topic before you're able to write a simple introduction.

3.)The style guide and content requirements are so extensive that you have to spend an excessive amount of time checking and re-checking the document for style compliance.

I enjoy freelance writing, and the above situations come with the territory. However, this isn't always the easiest job in the world, which is why I'm determined to get paid what I'm worth.

Some people - including clients - sit back and think freelance writer's have it made. We can work from home, take time off, blah, blah, blah....

What they fail to realize is that writer's deal with a lot of mess.....eye strain, sore hands, mental fatigue, and the annoying task of making sense of an awkward keyword phrase. And through it all, we'll have several clients who want a creative masterpiece, but aren't willing to cough up the cash.

So, how do you determine whether your freelance writing rates are too low? Consider this...

Was the assignment worth your time? If not, maybe it's time for a pay raise.

Write Spontaneously....Edit Later

2008-04-24T08:40:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources....

Learn How to Turn Off Your Internal Editor

Every writer has their own method and technique. And what works for one writer, may not work for another.

Like most freelancers, you're probably juggling multiple clients and assignments. Every minute and hour counts, and we can't afford to spend too much time on one assignment. From what I've read on blogs and freelance websites, it looks as if most writers try to average at least $20 an hour. How they earn this hourly wage varies. Where some writers have to create two or three short articles an hour, another writer can earn a quick $20 with a single piece of content.

Whether you're creating short product reviews, hotel descriptions, or search engine optimized articles, you can reach your hourly goal - whatever it may be. The key is to write fast...but accurate. Writers have a tendency to edit as they write. While this method works, it can slow the creative process, and your words don't flow as freely.

With every assignment I like to write first and edit later. I don't worry about sentence structure, correct punctuation, grammar, or typos. Instead, I focus on my ideas and spontaneous thoughts. Once I turn off my internal editor and yield to uninterrupted creativity, my hands take over and the words spill out.

Three Easy Proofreading Tips for Freelance Writers

2008-04-21T13:37:00.006-04:00

Writer's Resources....

Don't Rely on the Spellchecker

It doesn't matter if you're a new writer or a professional writer, typos and minor grammatical errors are a reality, and they will eventually show their ugly face in your content. I can't tell you how many times I've stumbled upon a typo in a blog post or website. Often times, the typo is minor. The writer may have accidentally dropped a "s," or used "a" instead of "an." The way I see, minor typos are going to happen....that's why we have editors. If typos and awkward sentence structures didn't occur....a lot of people would lose their job.

I don't minimize the importance of proofreading our work. In fact, I feel it's a necessity. At the same time, there's something about our brain that makes us blind to our own mistakes. For example, I once wrote a feature piece and re-read the article several times - five times to be exact. It was perfect - or so I thought.

Then, my husband read the piece. And there it was....on the second line....a BIG TYPO. Instead of "you're," I wrote "your." I could had smacked myself....I hate contraction mistakes!

I say all of this to make a point....you can't always control typos. But you can adopt a few tips and techniques to ensure error-free content.

Read Your Work Out Loud: Before you hit the submit or print button, read your work out loud. This is one of the easiest ways to catch grammar mistakes and awkward sentence structures.

Double Check Contractions and Homonyms: Pay extra attention to contractions and words that sound alike. These include words such as its and it's, their and they're, affect and effect, compliment and complement, etc.

Proofread Another Day: Don't proofread immediately after finishing a piece. If you can, wait until the next day - or at least a few hours. This way, your brain isn't blind to obvious mistakes, and you're able to pinpoint errors.

Finish a Boring Assignment without Losing Your Mind!

2008-04-15T15:15:00.007-04:00

Writer's Resources...

To Accept or Not to Accept a Boring Assignment?

I can think of a few good aspects of freelance writing. My favorite: being able to research and learn about various topics. As a freelance writer, I've developed an in-depth understanding of personal finance, real estate, marketing, relationships, and mental conditions. This is primarily due to the fact that I've created several web content articles and blog entries on the aforementioned topics.

Prior to writing my first personal finance piece, I didn't know how to refinance a mortgage loan, negotiate a better credit card deal, or get an auto loan with bad credit. Even if the title of an assigned article didn't immediately raise my excitement level, I usually developed a sincere interest once I researched and discovered a unique angle.

There are different types of freelance assignments. Personally, I love pitching an article idea. This way, I can write on topics that interest me. Yet, I have received assignment articles from editors on many occasions. Assigned articles are - okay. I know how it feels to go through a slump. Therefore, I appreciate every assignment that comes through my inbox. But sometimes, writing an assigned article is torture. I once wrote an article on NASCAR - the longest week of my life. Halfway through the article I felt like throwing in the towel. But, I honored the commitment and wrote a so-so piece.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson.

Some people feel that writers should only "write what they know." I take it a step further and feel that writer's can write on any subject, given that it sparks their interests. However, I feel that writers should also recognize their limitations. With every boring piece I've ever written, I always had the option of turning down the assignment - but I didn't. I'm all for challenging myself and taking my business to a new level. However, there's a difference between being unfamiliar with an assigned topic and having absolutely no interest in a topic.

Let's be real: a boring assignment can zap your drive, leave you frustrated, and monopolize too much of your time. I've been there....many times. Nowadays, I try to stay off that road. I listen to my gut and turn down any assignment that leaves a bad taste in my mouth. If I don't care about the topic...I can't write a compelling piece.

Freelance Writing Jobs: Should You Accept All Work?

2008-02-05T18:26:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources....

Good Opportunities vs. Bad Opportunities

If you want to make money as a freelance writer, you've got to stay busy. This involves looking for new opportunities on a regular basis, expanding your niche, and so on. However, this doesn't mean that you should accept every freelance writing job that comes your way. For example, a potential client might present a seemingly perfect opportunity. You're expert on the subject, and can create quality content fast. The downside - the client doesn't want to pay a livable wage.

You have a choice - either accept a low wage and complete the assignment, or wait for a better opportunity.

Freelance writers often stumble upon slow periods. Projects end, and it can take days or weeks to find a new assignment. During these "in-between periods," you might be tempted to accept a bad opportunity - don't.

Think about it from this standpoint - the energy dedicated to a bad or low-paying freelance writing job can be spent looking for a better opportunity. Actually, this would be an excellent time to research different markets and mail a few query letters.

How to Grow a Freelance Writing Business

2008-01-30T10:33:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

Make More Money as a Freelance Writer

Some freelancers run a profitable writing business, wherein they may be able to work less than four hours a day and earn a sizable income. On the other hand, you have a few freelancers who scramble to meet their monthly expenses.

Growing a freelance writing business isn't always easy. True, you'll come across a handful of writers who didn't have to pay any dues. They likely had their first query letter accepted, followed by their first article appearing in a national publication - which opened the door to other higher paying opportunities. Now, they only write two or three feature articles a month, and call it a day!

That's going to me - someday.

I've been a freelance writer for five years. And throughout the past five years I've learned how to grow a freelance writing business - and how to work smarter.

Freelancers realize that the key to working less is finding freelance writing jobs that pay more. I've been able to reduce my work hours by more than half within the past two years. And ironically, my income increased. Thus, I'm confident that one day I'll be able to write only a few pieces each month and still earn a decent living.

Here are a few tips on how to grow a freelance writing business - and hopefully - work less hours.

Increase Hourly Rate: Nearly all freelance assignments pay per article. Currently, the majority of my assignments are web content. Personally, I try to average at least $20 an hour. This might involve completing two small SEO articles (250 words or less) for $10 each, or a larger assignment. For example, I used to write travel guides for $80 each. Each guide took between two and three hours, which put me around $26 to $40 per article.

Earn Performance Bonuses: A few writers are uncomfortable with freelance opportunities that pay performance bonuses - I'm one of them. However, I've had success with Associated Content and EHow.com. Both websites offer up-front payments for content. Plus, writers receive monthly payments based on the article's performance. It's been several months since I submitted new content to either site, yet I receive (on average) a performance bonus of $150 each month.

Learn Other Markets: It's easy to get comfortable with one type of writing. However, if you want to grow a freelance writing business, you've got to diversify and think outside the box. Don't rely on web copy assignments. Yeah, these gigs are easy to find and opportunities are steady. But, if you want to make more money as a freelance writer consider other niches. Write business plans, grants, press releases, medical articles, and so on.

How to Get Freelance Writing Jobs without Clips?

2008-01-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources....

Getting Started without Writing Clips

Starting a freelance writing career can be a Catch-22. You'll stumble upon editors who'll only consider writers with clips. But to get clips, you need to be given a chance, right?

Several publications and online editors welcome new writers, in which you can submit a query or manuscript on spec. This is a great stepping stone to bigger jobs, and a huge confidence booster. Rejections are inevitable, and many newbies become discouraged and doubt their skills. However, once you see your name in print, negative thoughts go out the window.

Don't let lack of clips hold you back. In fact, you probably have a few writing clips tucked away.

Memos, College Papers, Etc. - Have you ever written a business letter or term paper? If so, you've got clips. Most of the time, editors use clips to assess your writing style and ability. They don't necessarily care about the topic. They are more concerned with whether you can spell, punctuate, and use correct grammar.

Create Your Own Clips - Put together a writer's portfolio before applying for freelance writing jobs. Write three or four short articles on varying topics (ex. personal finance, home improvement, relationships, parenting, etc.) Try to include relevant writing samples with your cover letter.

Create a Blog/Website - Many writers showcase their ability on a personal website or blog. And the best part... you can start a blog free. Blogger and Wordpress have several available templates and easy-to-use features.

Spruce Up the Cover Letter - If applying for a writing assignment without attached clips, be sure to play up your strengths in the cover letter. Why are you a good candidate for the position? Do you have exceptional writing skills? Do you have a degree or specialized training?

How to Write a Great "List" Article?

2008-01-14T22:02:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

Top 5 Ways to Create a Great List

As mentioned in previous posts, I've made it a goal to get published in a national publication before my 30th birthday, or at least by the end of this year. I brainstormed ideas all weekend, and even flipped through the pages of a couple of magazines. Through my research, I discovered that print magazines love list articles. Even if a topic has been written on exhaustively, creating a list article and putting a unique angle on the subject seems to work. Readers enjoy lists. It's like a how-to article with personality: "7 Ways to Enjoy a Cheap Vacation, " or "Top 5 Ways to Say I Love You." Of course, there's an art to writing a great list. The article should be informative, yet entertain.

Pick a Good Topic: Before pitching a magazine with your idea for a list article, read the publication. If your idea isn't a match, you've wasted time and the editor will reject your pitch. Also, browse the archives to ensure a similar article hasn't been published within the past six months.

Research New Information: If you're writing a list article on a popular topic such as "ways to improve credit," don't offer common-sense advice (ex. pay bills on time or reduce debts). Rather, look for less obvious tips. For example, some persons have been able to boost a low credit score with funds from a home equity loan. Plus, an auto loan can give people a fresh start after bankruptcy.

Intro, Body, & Conclusion: It's easy to forget the introduction and conclusion with list articles - I'm guilty of this! Before jumping into your list of the top 7 ways to do such-and-such, write a two or three sentence intro. Wet the reader's appetite. Make them want to read the article. Once you've completed the list, conclude the article with a one/two sentence blurb.

Give an Explanation: Don't just list a few tips and call it a day. A good list article will expand on each tip. If you're writing an article on how to improve credit, and a list item is "pay off debts with a home equity loan," the explanation might highlight ways to apply for such a loan, the benefits, and loan requirements.

Keep List Explanations Short: Ideally, list paragraphs should feature two to four sentences. If your explanations are too long, the reader might lose interest.

Get Published before 30!

2008-01-10T19:34:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

Breaking into the Big Leagues

So, my goal for the new year is to become a regular magazine writer. Four years ago I made myself a promise - get published in a national magazine before the age of 30. Well, I turn 30 this upcoming October and I've yet to accomplish my goal. It's my own fault. I got too comfortable with web copy. Yeah, the payout is low compared to print markets, and I occasionally deal with slow-paying clients. But the jobs are plentiful, and I don't have to wait months for a check. Still, I think it's time to step outside my comfort zone and live my dream.

While I don't plan to give up web copy entirely, I would love to step back a little. It would be nice to devote more time to writing pieces that pay $1 a word, and spend less time on assignments that pay $0.10 a word. It's an old cliche and every freelance writer's motto - work smarter, not harder!

Although I've been published in two print publications, they weren't national publications and the payout wasn't anything to get excited about. Even if I have to send out five query letters a week, this is my year to get published in a national magazine.

Look for me in Essence, Ebony, or Redbook!

Put Down the Computer and Get Your Life Back

2008-01-06T17:09:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Balance a Freelance Writing Career?

Writing is more than just a job for me. I enjoy writing, and before I became a freelance writer, it was a favorite pastime. Now that I've turned my hobby into a job, I have to remind myself to take a step back. Freelance writing is a great work at home career because you can earn unlimited income, set your own hours, and work from any location. The perks are fabulous. Yet, this type of career can be a catch-22.

Freelance writing is addictive - if you let it take over your life. In the beginning, I worked at a desktop in our home office. The room didn't have cable TV, nor a great view. Therefore, I would use the room solely for work. However, once I got a laptop....everything changed. I could work from any room in the house, and I did. I could be in front of the television on out on the back patio.

Unfortunately, the extra convenience made it harder for me to put down the computer. If I was bored or couldn't find anything on television - no problem - I would write. While most people use the evenings and weekends to spend with family, I would sit on the couch next to my husband with my computer in tow. Even if I wasn't actually working, I would surf the net for blog topics or conduct article research. Plus, I could spend hours in discussion forums.

Now, I've got it under control, and all it took was a schedule. I decided to limit the hours I work during the day, and I completely turn off the computer at 9 p.m. And I don't mean sleep mode, since it's too tempting to check e-mail or sneak a peak at the job boards.

Make More Money as a Freelance Writer

2008-01-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

Trade-in Slave Wages for Higher Paying Jobs

Within the past couple of days, I've stumbled upon several blog posts that encourage freelance writers to accept better wages in 2008. I can't express how much I agree with this sentiment. Writing isn't always easy. Sure, you'll occasionally come across the perfect gig. It'll be on a topic you love, and the pay great! Yet, these opportunities are far in-between. When the opportunities don't roll in, a few freelancers are tempted to accept low-paying opportunities. Low-paying is different for everyone. However, I think we can all agree that $3 for 500 words is comparable to slave wages. It can take an hour or more to craft a quality piece.

Although I've never accepted a gig this low, I said goodbye to low-paying opportunities four years ago. I'll admit - there were times of desperation where I wrote keyword articles for $5 a pop. But, the word count was low (between 200 and 300 words), and I could produce three to five articles an hour.

Web content is consistent, and the payout is quick. Yet, I've decided to take my business to the next level. My new year goal - make more money in 2008. I would love to take a step back from web content and focus on magazine writing. To accomplish this goal, I've resolved to mail at least one query letter a week - possibly more!

Freelance Writing Tips - Learn How to Say "No"

2007-12-15T20:28:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources.....

Learn to Say "No" and Live to Tell About It!

Freelance writer's aren't super people. We have families, interests, and other obligations. Thus, we can't let our business interfere with our personal lives. It seems that most clients are gracious and respect our time. On the other hand, you'll occasionally come across an individual or company who acts as if the world revolves around them.

I'll be the first to admit, saying "no" to a client isn't always easy. Even if I didn't have the time (or desire) to complete an assignment, I would accept and modify my schedule. Last minute assignments with tight deadlines - no problem. I needed the money, and I wanted to keep my regular clients. Unfortunately, I did this at the expense of sleep and personal time. It just came a point when I said, "no more."

Too often I read blogs or speak to other freelancers, and it seems as if we all have the same complaint. Freelance writing is unpredictable. And the fear of losing business prompts many writers to take on too much work. This can lead to a hectic schedule, and writing becomes less enjoyable.

I remember my moment of clarity.

It was two years ago on a Sunday night. I was tired, not feeling that great, and I had ten SEO articles to complete. I accepted the assignment that previous Friday, and I had to complete twenty short articles within two days. I could have easily turned down the assignment. But the request came from a regular client who actually paid well.

At that moment - I hated writing. I wanted to turn off the computer and throw in the towel. This came after a week of several assignments and little down time. I had a choice - I could either lighten my load, or continue to appease clients and watch my passion turn into a burden.

I enjoyed writing - but it was no longer fun. For the first time, I understood the importance of saying "no." Now, I don't hesitate to turn down work. Everyone needs a break, especially writers. Between eye strain, constant thinking, and the risk of carpal tunnel - writer's have a tough job.

Freelance Writing Jobs - Beating Out the Competition

2007-11-26T19:34:00.000-05:00

Maybe there is a larger pool of qualified freelance writers, or perhaps there are more websites and blogs devoted to supplying freelance writing jobs, but it seems as if it's harder to find a freelance writing job these days. During my earlier writing days, I could apply for five jobs and receive a contract for three. If a contract ended - no problem. I would simply view job listings on Craigslist and other online telecommute sites and find a new job in a relatively short time.

While I still maintain a steady stream of regular gigs, I've found that it takes longer to find a new job. This pattern has existed for the past six months, and although I always find a new gig to keep me afloat, slow offers are a little nerve racking. I can't help but fear that all offers will stop one day. What if the competition become too fierce? I imagine that webmasters and job posters receive numerous responses to a single ad. Thus, I realize how important it is to search the job boards early and apply quickly. Being a freelance writer has its perks. And while I enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with this career choice - there is a lingering fear of having too little work.

Freelance Writing Tips - Are You Disciplined?

2007-11-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

Writer's Resources...

Do You Have What it Takes to be a Freelance Writer?

Whenever someone is tired of working outside the home, or wants to find a work at home career that lets them spend more time with the kids, they look for a legitimate home based business. Many people become a freelance writer because it offers flexibility and unlimited income. Yet, few consider whether they will make a good writer. Some people underestimate the talent it takes to create compelling web copy and articles. They feel that anyone can write, and that freelance writing is an easy way to make money. Quite the contrary, a good freelance writer must be creative, disciplined, and self-motivated.

Discipline is a big part of becoming a freelance writer. As a writer, you'll juggle multiple projects. You'll likely work from home. In addition, friends and family may not view your writing business as a "real job," and volunteer you to run errands or complete other tasks throughout the day. If you can't handle setting your own hours and completing assignments without a boss breathing down your neck, a freelance writing career might not be the right job for you. It takes a lot of discipline to run your own business from home. The Internet can become a distraction, and the temptation to sleep late or take mid-afternoon naps may interfere with your ability to complete assignments. If you want the business to flourish, which results in a continuous flow of assignments, you've got to be discipline and respect deadlines.

Freelance Writer's Pet Peeves

2007-11-06T08:54:00.000-05:00

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How to Deal with Rude Clients?

I love freelance writing. Within the past three years, I've been able to payoff debts, save money for my closing costs, and start a nest egg. While the benefits are huge and I enjoy time freedom, there is an apsect of this business that drives me crazy - rude clients!

I've developed long-term relationships with a few clients. The majority are appreciative and offer flexible deadlines, which is great since I juggle multiple gigs. Yet, I've come across a few rude people. One client in particular has started to get under my skin. My annoyance is so real that I'm considering ignoring any future emails from her. In fact, the only reason why I've stuck with her is because the article topics are within my niche and the pay is good. However, I'm at the point in my career where I'm tired of bending over backwards for clients (quick turnaround times, low-paying, etc). This client will occasionally send an email asking whether I'm available for assignments. When I send a response - no answer. Ok - maybe she got busy. A few days later, I'll send a email update just to make sure that she got the previous email. Still, no response. Not to mention, in the past two years I've sent three emails that have gone unanswered or ignored. Yet, when she needs someone (probably because her regular writer is sick or on vacation), I'll receive an urgent email from her. Well, the next time she wants to send an assignment, I'll politely decline - if I'm having a good day. If not, I'll say that the email got lost in cyberspace. This bridge has already been burn.

How to Balance a Freelance Writing Career

2007-10-17T22:28:00.001-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Getting Started as a Freelance Writer

Breaking into the world of freelance writing is tricky, and unfortunately, many aspiring writers give up to soon. In the beginning, you'll likely juggle two jobs - your day job (which pays the bills), and your freelance writing business (which can be unpredictable). Some people take a huge leap of faith and jump head first into the business. I guess this can work, but it will require quickly establishing a strong client base. It can take several weeks or months to find a few regular paying clients. Even if you do find enough work, juggling a freelance writing business alongside a 9 to 5 can be stressful and overwhelming - but the results are worth the sacrifice. Once you're able to kiss the time clock goodbye, and can enjoy the freedom of setting your own hours - you'll never look back.

Freelance writers are contractors, and most jobs are short-term. Thus, I strongly encourage all writers to plan their time well and to keep browsing the job boards. It's best to have too much work than not enough. This way, you'll always receive a steady paycheck.

Why Every Writer Should Use Copyscape

2007-10-11T08:39:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Find Stolen Content on the Web?

If you write content for the web, and constantly send editors writing samples and articles for review, you should consider getting a Copyscape account. This is a great tool for editors. Many online publications want to purchase full article rights, and will not accept previously published pieces. Using Copyscape, they can quickly scan the text of an article, and determine whether the article is already published online.

I recently discovered that Copyscape can also be a good tool for freelance writers. About a week ago I submitted a short article for review and potential publication. Well, the editor declined the article, and politely said that the article "had been copied word-for-word" from a website that will remain nameless. Since the editor gave me the website address, I had a way to track down the webmaster. I kindly asked him to either pay for the article, or remove it from his website. The webmaster was surprisingly nice and I had a payment within the hour.

The article in question was sent to this webmaster as a writing sample. He offered me a writing opportunity, but I declined because the payout was too low. I never heard from him again. Which leads me to wonder - why did he think it was okay to publish a writing sample?

I've heard of writers publising blog posts without permission - but a writing sample! Like most freelance writers, I make a living writing for the web and I email a large number of writing samples and unsolicted articles. I've even made the mistake of writing free test samples. When I don't hear back from an editor, I simply brush it off and look for other opportunities.

Until now, I nevered considered whether or not the editor used a piece without permission, and without paying me. Since Copyscape is cheap ($0.05 per search), I've decided to invest. It's a small price to pay, and this way, I can ensure that I recieve full credit and payment for my work.

Twenty Effective Freelance Writing Tips

2007-10-08T10:31:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

20 Highly Effective Writing Tips:

1. Don't Let Rejection Stop You
2. Create a Good and Error-Free Resume and Cover Letter
3. Proofread Your Work
4. Apply for Jobs on a Daily Basis
5. Respect Deadlines and Style Guides
6. Request Writer's Guidelines before Sending a Manuscript
7. Don't Lie about Previously Published Credits or Credentials
8. Improve Your Writing Skills
9. Write First, Edit Later
10. Carry a Notepad (spur-of-the-moment ideas)
11. Thoroughly Research Topics
12. Don't Make-Up Quotes
13. Learn How to Manage Your Time
14. Beware Super-Low Paying Jobs (ex. $5 per 500 words)
15. Don't Get Distracted Surfing the Internet
16. Learn How to Say, "No"
17. Treat Your Writing Business Like a Real Job
18. Learn How to Vacation without Your Laptop - Take Time Off
19. Don't Get Discouraged
20 Expect Slow Periods (plan ahead)

Freelance Writing Tips - October 4, 2007

2007-10-04T10:31:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Would You Make a Good Freelance Writer?

If you enjoy writing and you want to start a work at home career, you've likely considered freelance writing. While this type of work allows a flexible schedule, and the opportunity to earn unlimited income, freelance writing isn't a good match for everyone. Successful writers, or at least those who are able to earn a living, must patrol the job boards regularly and aggressively apply for jobs. You'll also have to weed through a massive pile of low-paying opportunities and deal with "hard-to-please" clients. Slow-paying clients can become a big issue, and many freelance writing contracts are short-term, wherein you'll have to continually seek new opportunities. New writers are often discouraged by the lack of steady employment and insulting pay. However, for the few that stick it out and look for better paying and more enjoyable opportunities, a writing career is rewarding. Work from anywhere in the world, make your own schedule, and control your income. Plus, a freelance writing career is one of the best ways to learn about unfamiliar topics.

Freelance Writing Tips - September 11, 2007

2007-09-11T13:35:00.001-04:00

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How to Stay Busy as a Freelance Writer?

To make a living as a freelance writer you need one of two things. Either a lot of moderate paying gigs, or a couple of high paying gigs. Writing assignments will not fall into your lap, which means you need to actively patrol the job boards and aggressively apply for work. New freelance writers make the mistake of only applying for a few jobs, or getting too comfortable with a single client. While one client may pay well, there is no guarantee that you'll have the same job next month. In this industry, clients can cancel contracts, disappear, or simply not need your services anymore. The best way to handle this sudden drop in income is to be prepared. Apply, Apply, Apply! Also, don't be afraid to challenge yourself. I've reluctantly applied for many jobs that I thought I wasn't qualified for - the client took a chance anyway - and I always did a good job. This gave me experience in different writing areas, which opened the door to future opportunities.

Freelance Writing Tips - September 7, 2007

2007-09-07T14:48:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Creative Ways to Earn Money Freelancing

There are more than a few ways to make money as an online freelance wrtiter. Early on in my freelance career the majority of the jobs I accepted were for search engine optimized content, aka keyword articles. Even though I was able to find a few decent paying gigs, a large portion of keyword assignments were low-paying, and the topics dull. As a new writer I lacked confidence and I was afraid to step outside my comfort zone - but I did anyway! Now when I look back, I can't believe that I limited myself in the beginning, nor can I believe that I accepted such low wages. Companies and webmasters are eager to pay freelance writers a livable salary, and various online opportunities await you. From my personal experience, travel writing and resume writing offer some of the highest paying opportunities aside from print magazine. Plus, blogging job pay regularly, and it's possible to get paid $5 - $10 for a short 150 word post. While the payout for some blogs is modest, it only takes 15 minutes to write a short blog post. Find five regular blogging jobs, and you'll earn a minimum of $100 every week for just six hours of work.

Too Much Competition?

2007-09-04T15:28:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Too Many Writers, Not Enough Jobs!

When I started writing for the web nearly four years ago, I got hired for almost every job. If a contract ended, I would simply patrol the job boards, send out a few cover letters, and snag a new freelance writing assignment within a day or two. Unfortunately, those days are gone. Maybe it has to do with the onslaught of writers and work at home professionals making a living writing web content, or perhaps it's because I've started going after bigger fish (a.ka. higher paying jobs), wherein job posters are overwhelmed with responses. Within the past two weeks I've responded to about 13 freelance writing job ads, recieved eight responses, and two jobs. From the eight responses, three were low-paying jobs (not worth the effort), one required way too much research and documentation (also not worth the effort), and two reponders felt I was qualified for the assignment, but due to an overwhelming response, the position was already filled. Since I make a living as a freelance writing, I try to have at least three to four regular clients. Sometimes I can stay afloat with two regular clients. Of course, these clients typically pay very well - but the assignments are usually temporary, and many have ended without much notice. To boost my odds of finding a new job quickly, I hit the job boards every hour, and include a resume and relevant samples with every e-mail. The competition is fierce, but this technique seems to get my foot in the door.

Freelance Writing Tips - August 30, 2007

2007-08-30T08:04:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Why You Need Multiple Writing Gigs?

In my early writing days I made the mistake of writing for only one client. Because I was still working part-time I decided that one client was the most I could handle. The pay was decent, and it gave me enough extra cash to payoff a few debts and start a savings account. Like most freelance writing gigs, this job ended - without prior warning. After several months of enjoying a continuous paycheck from this particular client, my extra income was gone, and I went back to patrolling the freelance writing job boards. Now that I freelance on nearly a full-time basis, I've learned the importance of working with multiple clients. At times it gets a little hectic, especially when due dates overlap. On the flip side, it gives me a sense of peace. Freelance jobs can end at any given moment. It's not uncommon for a client to run out of money, or reach their present need. Whatever the reason, many jobs do not last forever. Which is better: too many jobs, or not enough work?

Make Money as a Ghostwriter - August 22, 2007

2007-08-22T21:32:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Letting Someone Else Take the Credit for Your Work

A few years ago when I took the big leap to become a freelance writer, I came across several job ads looking for a ghostwriter. I would bypass these ads and look for jobs that would give me a byline. Besides, my goal was to become a successful writer and break into magazine writing, in which I would need several good clips. I was initally turned off by ghostwriting assignments for one main reason. Ghostwriters don't receive any kind of credit or recognition for their hard work. The ghostwriter does all the research and creates the content, only to have someone else put their name on the pieces and take the credit. My personal thoughts on ghostwriting have changed. About two years ago I took a chance and reluctantly accepted a ghostwriting assignment. The job ad I responded to didn't mention that all articles would be ghostwritten, which is a major plus or else I would have missed out on a great opportunity. The assignment became long-term, the payout good, and the client was enjoyable to work with. I kept that assignment for over a year, and have since accepted numerous other ghostwritten assigments. When applying for new jobs, I'll sometimes submit a clip that I've ghostwritten. In the event that the client stumbles upon the content written under someone else's name, I'll include a little blurb in the cover letter that identifies the clip as a ghostwritten piece.

Freelance Writing Tips - August 16, 2007

2007-08-16T18:08:00.000-04:00

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The Big Break is Coming!

I've wanted to be a writer since high school. Not just any kind of writer, but a freelance writer. I knew that a career as a freelance writer would allow me to work from home, set my own hours, and choose my own writing assignments. Besides, I could make more money as a freelancer than working as a staff writer for a local newspaper. Getting published was hard. I didn't have any real experience. Many job posters wanted to see "published" clips, which was aggravating. If no one ever gives me a chance, how can I have published clips? After two years of pitching article ideas to magazine and querying children book publishers, I discovered the many opportunities available on the web. I wasn't familiar with web copywriting, but decided to give it a chance. Getting hired for a web content assignment was much easier, but the pay wasn't as high as magazine and other print markets. I don't consider web copywriting my big break, but it did open the door to future assignements, which include a few published articles in national publications.

Freelance Writing Tips - August 9, 2007

2007-08-09T08:57:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Should You Accept "Non-Paying" Writing Jobs?

I make a habit of patrolling Craigslist and other freelance writing boards on a daily basis, and I occasionally come across a great job post. The required article word count is short, which lets me produce more content within a specific time frame, and the subject matter is within my niche. As I continue to read the ad I'll come across two little words, "non-paying gig." As a professional who earns a living as a freelance writer, I can't afford to waste time or research energy on a non-paying job. I accepted a non-paying assignment once, and promised never to do it again. I was a new writer and wanted published clips. However, after five hours of research, actual writing, and editing, I decided to decline the job, and submitted the piece to another publication. It sold - and I made $100!

Think about it this way, even if you aren't getting paid for an assignment - someone is profiting from the work. I've seen non-paying job posts for SEO web content. Since this content is designed to drive traffic to a particular website, the person requesting the content likely earns $100 or more per day in sales or adsense revenue. Meanwhile, the writer who spent several hours ghostwriting the content doesn't earn a penny.

Freelance Writing Tips - August 7, 2007

2007-08-07T09:36:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Keep Article Ideas Flowing?

Freelance writers deal with a range of personal issues: computer eye strain, carpal tunnel, mental fatigue, etc. While many writers are able to work through these problems, with the help of strong pain relievers, some problems are more difficult to solve. A common problem that every writer deals with from time to time is writer's block, or more annoying "article idea" block. If you're like most online writers, you probably write a lot of assigned articles, in which the editor provides article titles or topics. In my opinion, these articles are a little easier because the article subject and direction are already given - unless you're assigned a SEO project with silly keyword phrases that don't fit well into normal sentences.

On the other hand, if you're trying to break into print or online magazines, and have to come up with your own article ideas, "article idea" block may be an ongoing problem. Keeping fresh article ideas flowing is hard because several good ideas have already been written on exhaustively. While many publications are willing to print previously published ideas, these articles don't always command a high paycheck.

Great ways to find article ideas include watching local or national news reports or subscribing to a magazine. Is there a medical condition that hasn't receive significant coverage? What's the new high school trend? Better yet, take an already popular topic and approach it from a different or more specific angle. For example, how can college students prevent identity theft on campus? How to get approved for an auto loan with no credit history?

Freelance Writing Tips - August 5, 2007

2007-08-05T23:06:00.000-04:00

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Can You Make a "Real Living" as a Freelance Writer?

If you dream of never punching a time clock again, or asking your boss for time off, the answer to the above question is a resounding "Yes!" Becoming a freelance writer has certain benefits. For starters, writers enjoy the luxury of working from home and setting their own hours. There is also the perk of controlling your income. If you need extra cash for vacation, home improvement, etc. - simply apply for additional freelance opportunities and watch your income increase.

Many successful freelance writers began their career as a part-time writer. Writing may have been a way to supplement their income or payoff credit card debt. Whatever the motivation, it doesn't take long for a part-time writer to realize that he or she can earn their same full-time salary, or more, working less hours. Consider this example, the average freelance writer earns about $20 per hour. If your aim is to make $100 a day, you can achieve this goal in five hours! You can write in the mornings, and have your afternoons free.

Of course, before taking a leap of faith and becoming a full-time freelance writer, you've got to have a game plan.

If you want to make a "real income" as a freelance writer:

1. Write for Magazines: These markets pay substantially more than online markets, and writers can walk from the deal with $500 - $1000 for one article.

2. Work on Multiple Projects: Patrol the online job boards daily and apply for several different opportunities. Avoid unreasonably low-paying jobs. To make a living, look for gigs that pay at least $15 an hour.

3. Become an Expert: You'll occasionally come across a job ad that wants articles on a boring subject. If the project entails a lot of research, some writers will disregard the post and look for projects within their niche. This is perfect for you! You can become an expert is golf, poker, mortgages, real estate, etc. When there's a need for articles in your niche, you can apply for the opportunity and present yourself as an expert in the subject.

4. Be Disciplined: Manage your freelance writing like a real business. Working from home presents a whole new set of challenges. Aside from completing freelance assignments on time, you'll likely juggle housework, errands, cooking, and the children. Come up with a writing schedule, and don't let anything interfere with your work. If necessary, hire a part-time babysitter.

Freelance Writing Tips - August 2, 2007

2007-08-02T12:04:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Paying Markets: How Low is "Too Low?"

It's common for freelance writers to accept a few low-paying jobs in the beginning of their careers. Online job boards are flooded with offensive ads that offer writers a measly one cent per word, which amounts to $5 per 5oo word piece. Online writing is different from print writing because many online publications can't afford to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars for an article. This is why many writers eventually transition into magazine writing.

Before accepting an assignment to create SEO or web content, each writer must ask themselves, "How low is too low?" It's possible to earn a living as a freelance writer. You'll come across some great paying gigs that will pay your mortgage or rent for two months. On the other hand, you'll also experience a few slow months, where the jobs are not as plentiful, and you might have to deal with slow-paying clients. During these times of desperation, some writers are tempted to accept super low gigs to meet their monthly expenses. There is nothing wrong with this. However, if accepting a low paying gig means producing a batch of ten 800-word articles for the grand price of $5 per article - it's time to re-think our standards.

If you can write fast and produce two 800-word articles within an hour, making $10 an hour may not be a bad deal. On the flip side, if it takes you an hour or more to write one article, not including the time spent researching the topic, you'll never make a living as a writer. Instead, you'll work eight hours a day, but earn a part-time workers salary - if that!

Freelance Writing Tips - July 31, 2007

2007-07-31T13:24:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Write an Article a Day?

If you make a living writing web content, you've probably mastered the skill of writing several short articles an hour. On a good day, I can produce about three quality 300 word articles an hour. On the other hand, if you're looking to expand your horizon and write for higher paying markets such as consumer or trade magazines, you should spend more than 20 minutes on a short piece.

Here are a few tips on how to produce a great, well-researched articles in a day. If the article sells at the going magazine rate of $1 per word, you'll earn $500 for a short 500-word piece. Not bad for a day's work!

Step 1: Choose a Subject or Topic - What's your niche? If you can't decide on a topic, browse the internet, newspapers, or magazines. What are people thinking?

Step 2: Pick a Title - If pitching an online magazine or publication, use a keyword selector tool and choose a title that ranks high on the search engines.

Step 3: Write an Intro - The introduction should be catchy and grab the readers attention. If the first couple of sentences are boring or unexciting, readers will lose interest. Begin the piece with a question, or write an attention-grabbing scenario.

Step 4: Research the Topic

Step 5: Create an Outline - Which points will you highlight?

Step 6: Write a Rough Draft - Don't think, just write. You'll have plenty of time to fine tune or edit the piece.

Step 7: Take a Break.

Step 8: Re-read the Article - After a break, you'll be able to notice incomplete thoughts, grammar mistakes, and so forth.

Step 9: Edit the Piece.

Step 10: Submit the Article to the Appropriate Editor or Publication.

Freelance Writing Tips - July 26, 2007

2007-07-26T11:55:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Should You Write an Article "On Spec?"

Many freelancers begin their careers writing for the web but have hopes of breaking into magazine writing. Online freelance writing is steady and it's easy for writers to snag regular paying clients. On the flip side, writers can earn substantially more money writing for consumer magazines. The downside is that more and more magazines ask writers to submit complete manuscripts "on spec." When an article is submitted "on spec" there are no guarantees that the editor will like the piece. If the editor buys the piece - GREAT! If the editor doesn't, you've wasted a lot of time.

Each writer must decide whether "on spec" assignments are right for them. New writers in desperate need of published clips may choose to submit these assignments. I suppose "on spec" assignments greatly benefit editors because they can evaluate a writer's style and tone, and they can pick articles based on how the writer develops the subject. On the other hand, should an experienced writer with several writing credits be asked to write "on spec?" Aren't clips or writing samples enough?

The problem with "on spec" articles is that they do not always benefit the writer. Writing is the only profession that request work "on spec." It can take several hours to research, write, and edit a piece, only to have the editor respond with a "No thank you."

Freelance Writing Tips - July 24, 2007

2007-07-24T09:40:00.001-04:00

Writer's Resources.....

Disadvantages of a Freelance Writing Career

Freelance writing is perfect for persons who want to control their income and enjoy a flexible schedule. Even so, a freelance career has it's own set of drawbacks. Before deciding to become a freelance writer, make sure that you're prepared to deal with certain inconveniences.

1. Slow Paying Clients: Every freelance writer comes across a client who either can't pay for services rendered, or has a difficult time coming up with the money to pay for services. This is why it is important to have a contract. While it is normal for writers to recieve payment upon completion of an assignement, if the client doesn't pay, you retain rights to the work and are free to market the content elsewhere.

2. Annoying Clients: Dealing with rude and obnoxious clients is a part of the business. There is always that one person who believes that his or her project takes precedence over your personal life. These individuals usually offer low payouts and demand super-quick turnaround times.

3. Disappearing Acts: Be prepared to endure a "disappearing act." In other words, a long-time regular client who you've worked for diligently may suddenly disappear without explanation. Rather than send a quick message stating, "we no longer need your services," they'll ignore email correspondences or change their email address.

4. Competition: The majority of beginner writers look for online writing opportunities. The Internet is full of job postings. Unfortunately, the pool of writers is more than the availalbe jobs, and job posters receive a huge response to their ads. The initial ten or fifteen resumes may recieve a fair evaluation. The rest are deleted!

How to Become a Travel Writer

2007-07-03T11:08:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Become a Travel Writer and Get Paid to See the World

Travel writing is an exciting career that let's the writer travel on someone else's dime and explore the world. However, breaking into the travel writing niche is very difficult, and many travel magazines and publications don't cover the writer's expenses.

Although exciting, travel writing is unlike other types of writing. To be successful, travel writers must be able to vividly describe their experience. This involves the ability to tell a capitivating story, ask seemingly silly questions, and pay close attention to minute details. Travel articles are differnet from travel guides, which provide insider tips on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and so forth. Travel articles are often narratives that include detail descriptions of people, places, and things.

A good travel writer knows how to bring the feature to life, wherein the reader can imagine the sounds, sights, and feel the experience.

Learn How to Become a Successful Travel Writer, and get paid to enjoy an all expense paid trip!

Freelance Writing Tips - Managing Your Time

2007-06-19T15:16:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Establish a Routine of Good Time Management

Because many freelance writers work from home, good time management is crucial. Writers can become easily distracted and fall behind on their workload. If considering a freelance writing career, learn tips on how to effectively manage your time and achieve your writing goals.

1. Establish Daily Goals: How much do you plan to work each day? The best way to earn a livable income as a freelance writer is to establish a daily financial goal. Some freelancers strive to earn at least $100 or more every day. Set your personal goal, and then seek jobs that will help you reach this goal.

2. Make a Schedule: Working from home lets you enjoy a flexible schedule. Nonetheless, if you plan on making a real income from home, you have to come up with a realistic schedule and stick to it. Prior to starting your workday, outline a game plan. How many articles do you have to complete? How much time will you devote to research and edits?

3. Take Periodic Breaks: The best part about working from home is the ability to "come and go" as you please. If you have errands or personal business to handle, schedule breaks throughout the day or plan on a long lunch break. If you want to become a successful freelance writer and earn money from home, don't develop a routine of writing for one or two hours and blowing off the rest of the day.

Freelance Writing - Where to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

2007-05-17T08:52:00.000-04:00

The Internet is full of resources and job banks for freelance writers. Getting started with a freelance writing career requires knowing where to look for the best paying jobs. With so many writers, and so few available positions, freelancers regularly peruse job boards. To land that perfect job, you've got to be ahead of the game.

Here are a few great places to find freelance writing jobs.

Freelance Writing Boards

Craigslist

FreelanceWriting.com

Journalism Jobs

Sunoasis

Freelance Writing Newsletters

Absolute Write

Writer's Weekly

Worldwide Freelance

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Freelance Writing Tips

2007-05-10T06:59:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Write a Good Query Letter?

Editors are overwhelmed with solicited and unsolicited manuscripts , and many prefer to see a detailed query for article ideas. If looking to get an editor's attention, it's important to craft an effective and good query letter.

Here are five tips for pitching an article idea.

1. Attention Grabber: What is the problem or solution? For example, if querying a parent's magazine and proposing an article about affordable childcare solutions, you might begin the query by addressing how the high cost of daycare affects working parents.

2. What's the Hook: Next, include insightful information about your proposed topic. Why would the target audience be interested in the subject? Make use of researched facts and statistics.

3. Outline the Article: What will the article discuss? Present the editor with a short three or four line outline of the proposed article. Shorter pieces may only focus on one or two main points, whereas longer pieces may address several points. Include a tentative article title and approximate word count.

4. Credentials: Are you qualified to write the article? Editors request full manuscripts from persons who can write a grammatically correct sentence, and from persons who are familiar with a particular topic. State your professional experience, degrees, specialized training, writing experience, and any other information that may prove useful.

5. The Close: Is the article complete? When will it be complete? Will you submit the ideal to multiple publications?

Freelance Writing Tips

2007-04-12T09:08:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

Freelance Writing Career - What are the Benefits?

If you're looking for a new career or a way to earn extra cash, consider the benefits of a starting a freelance writing business.

1. Work from Home: Telecommute or work for home jobs are great opportunities. Unfortunately, finding a legit work from home job is difficult. Starting a freelance writing career involves few risks and scams. Simply browse job boards such as Freelancewriting.com or Journalism Jobs and apply for available positions. Be patient. There's a lot of competition, and it may take weeks to find a good paying freelance opportunity.

2. Freedom: With a freelance writing career, you don't have to request time-off for family vacations, a doctor's appointment, etc. Freelance writer's set their own schedule, and can work from anywhere. All you need is a laptop computer and a reliable Internet connection.

3. Unlimited Earnings: As a full-time freelance writer, you control your income. Some writers earn a modest salary of less than $30,000/year. On the other hand, there are some freelance writer's earning more than $100,000/year.

4. Perfect Part-time Job: If you have a full-time job, and looking for a way to earn extra money, a part-time freelance writing career is perfect because you can write around your schedule. Before becoming a full-time writer, many freelancers wrote in the early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Freelance Writing Tips

2007-04-10T12:13:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources...

How to Be a Successful Freelance Writer?

Starting a freelance writing career is not easy. With so few available jobs, and a lot of competition, it can take weeks to land a regular writing gig. Magazine writing pays more money, but it's harder to break into this market. The best advice I can give a new freelance writer is to start as a web content writer. These freelance writing jobs are easier to find, and payments are quick.

Many factors play a role in your success as a freelance writer. Getting a writing gig is just the start. To earn a living as a writer, and to find higher paying offers, you've got to be a good writer and professional.

1. Develop Your Writing Skills: To be a successful writer, you must know how to write a coherent sentence. If you pitch an idea or submit a query letter with tons of grammatical errors and poor sentence structures - don't expect a response from an editor.

2. Find a Niche: It's best to write about familiar subjects or focus on one particular niche. Editors may assign an article and offer a generous lead-time. In this case, you have plenty of time to research an unfamiliar topic and write a great article. On the other hand, if an assignment has a short turnaround time, perhaps only a few hours, stick to subjects that you know.

3. Ask Questions: If the details of an assignment are unclear, don't be afraid to ask questions. Many webmasters acknowledge their poor writing skills, wherein their writer's guidelines may need a little clarification.

4. Be Deadline-Oriented: Are you looking to screw-up a freelance writing opportunity? If so, submit an assignment late. Unexpected circumstances may delay completion of an assignment. In any case, contact the editor or webmaster immediately, and ask for an extension.

2007-04-03T09:20:00.000-04:00

Writer's Resources.....

How to Find Article Ideas?

1. Use a Keyword Selector Tool: If you have a specific topic, but can't find a good angle, conduct an online keyword search. This tool is perfect for generating creative article ideas. Let's say you want to write an article about auto loans. Simply type in the keyword phrase "auto loan", and you'll receive an exhausted list of related keywords. For example, you could write an article on "auto loans for people with bad credit," "low rate auto loans," or "cheap auto loans."

2. Watch the News: Early morning news programs broadcast unique story ideas. About a week ago, the Today Show ran an interesting story about young people choking each other for amusement. A person is choked almost to the point of unconsciousness. Once the choking stops, the "so-called victim" experiences a euphoric feeling, comparable to a "cheap high." Last year, this same news program ran a story about unknown conditions such as Inflammatory Breast Cancer and Beauty Parlor Strokes.

3. Select a Different Angle: A good article idea can be an unknown or untouched topic, or you could put a creative twist on a topic that has been written on exhaustively. For example, there are several articles about identity theft. If you choose this topic, look for new information, or write on a specific aspect. I recently published two articles on the subject. One article dealt with "how to prevent identity theft on campus," which was written for college students. The other article, "How Thieves Steal Your Information," explored how a crafty thief can steal infomation from your computer and financial institutions.

4. Browse Magazine Articles: Subscribe to one or two magazines. Publications such as Redbook, Woman's Day, and Reader's Digest always feature unique and interesting articles. Regularly read smaller department or column sections, expand on the topic, and write a feature article.

5. Pay Attention to Conversations: What's are people thinking about? Sometimes, the best story ideas come from everyday life. Perhaps you know someone dealing with the high cost of daycare and health insurance, cyberbullying, excessive anxiety, etc.

Freelance Writing Tip of the Day

2007-03-28T07:49:00.000-04:00

Daily Tip: Writing on Unfamiliar Topics

Some writers enjoy the challenging of accepting an assingment on an unfamiliar topic. These assignments can expand your knowledge, and if you find the subject interesting, the door is open for further assignment. Personally, I feel that some unfamiliar topics take too much time to write and research. If the pay is good, I'll usually stick it out and may spend an entire workday on the project. If the pay sucks, I move on to the next project.

Earn Money Writing for the Web

2007-03-27T10:34:00.000-04:00

Writing for the web is a great way to launch a freelance writing career, and earn a nice chuck of cash. Even though some editors pay pennies per word for web content, plenty of companies respect writers and pay good money to have someone else write their web pages.

1. Begin the Article with a Two or Three Line Summary. What is the article about? If the article includes "how-to" information, the summary might read, "Want to earn extra money? Here are seven ways to start an online writing business."

2. Don't Think. After stumbling upon a great article idea, many writers spend too much time thinking about the content. Don't think - just write. The first draft doesn't have to be perfect. Focus on getting the main ideas on paper, and then re-write.

3. Use SEO Keywords. When writing web pages for a client, he or she will likely supply a list of keyword phrases. Use the phrase(s) throughout the content. A good search engine optimized article will have a keyword density of 3% - 4%.

4. Keep Web Content Simple. Web searchers want infomation that is easy to understand. Besides, good writing doesn't mean using big words. The goal is to provide information, not impress the reader with your big vocabulary.

5. Make the Article Scannable. Use short sentences, headlines, or create lists.

Freelance Writing Tip of the Day

2007-03-26T17:29:00.000-04:00

Daily Tip: Don't accept a freelance writing job with an unrealistic deadline

Clients who respect your talent and value your service will allow a reasonable turnaround time for content. On the other hand, some clients have very tight deadlines, wherein the writer is asked to provide several pages of content within a few hours of notice.

If you're currently juggling several projects, don't be afraid to ask for more time. Eventually, the client will get the hint and start respecting your time.

I Hate Low-Paying Freelance Writing Opportunties

2007-03-26T13:45:00.000-04:00

I hate low-paying freelance writing jobs with a passion. When I started my freelance writing career, I accepted a few low-paying gigs as a way to build a portolio, which worked. As I look back, I was probably crazy for accepting a few assignments.

For example, create 500 word, keyword articles for a pay of $5 - I didn't even complete this assignment. Once I realized that it had taken me about three hours to research, write, and re-write two articles, wherein I had only earned a $10 payout, I contacted the editor and in-so-many-words, politely informed him that the project was not worth my time.

Even though I hate low-paying jobs, I sometimes take one to fill-in a gap, which provides a little income between higher paying jobs. However, I choose the low-pay market with care. For example, if the gig pays $6.00 per 300 word article, I only accept the assignment if I am familiar with the topic, in turn, I can write four or five articles in an hour. Secondly, I don't mess with low-pay editors who want a masterpiece. It amazes me how some editors can offer a low-ball price per article, and then expect the writer to spend two hours researching the topic. Think again.

Finding Time to Blog

2007-03-22T09:08:00.000-04:00

I've been reading blogs posted by other freelance writers for months, and have wanted to start my own personal blog. Their daily gripes mirror my own (slow-paying clients, low-paying offers, writer's burnout, etc.) Of course, finding the time to sit down and write about my passion is difficult. It's easy to get caught up in the everyday routine of meeting deadlines and looking for new writing opportunities. Yet, the opportunity to write about things I enjoy, and topics of personal interest sounds enjoyable. The same way I make time to complete writing assignments on less interesting, boring topics, I need to set aside time for blogging. It's looks like fun, and a great way to release the daily frustrations, and offer a little "freelance writer advice."