by Terreece Clarke
Always hustle.
It’s a simple rule that isn’t easy to follow. It applies to all stages and areas of a writer’s career and is key to their success.
The Gig Hustle
In the beginning, writers usually do one of two things – they either start off with fire, running after every gig they can get, or they dip a toe or two into the pool and test the waters. Regardless of the approach, new writers must always hustle to get new gigs, experience and clips. Successful writers go beyond the virtual world, keeping their eyes and ears open in their everyday lives. Local publications, businesses and organizations are all sources for work, contacts and gigs.
The same holds true for established writers. If you’ve been in the writing world long enough, you know a gig can end at any time, for any reason. Not only can steady clients fall by the wayside, new, dream opportunities can crop up without warning. Often the only way to find out about these opportunities is to keep a watchful eye.
For example, take your local parenting magazine. Parenting articles may not be your niche, however they may need a web designer or sales letters and brochures for their clients. Say your niche is in the automotive field, that same magazine may accept a pitch on an automotive care article.
The Branding Hustle
What’s your platform, brand or niche? What’s your product focus? Brand hustling coincides with the gig hustle. While looking for gigs, writers also need to look for branding opportunities. Build your web presence. Find blogs, web sites and leaders in your field. Keep abreast of the latest happenings, post comments when appropriate (and when you have something relevant or constructive to add) and follow interesting figures on social networking sites like Twitter and Digg. A writer must also build a web site, keep it updated and include the latest news and happenings in their career. [Read more…]