8 Reasons Why You're Not Getting the High Paying Freelance Writing Jobs

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by Deb Ngthumbs-down-stockxchnge

We get letters here at Freelance Writing Jobs. We also receive many comments on our job leads blog. While most comments are positive, some thoughtful comments aren’t so favorable about a few of the jobs we post here because they don’t pay a lot. Though we do offer a good mix of writing jobs, I do get that not all gigs will be to everyone’s liking.

Now, those of you who remember me from back in the day when I was just starting out will remember I was kind of vocal about the low payers too. Then I had an epiphany. It wasn’t the people who were accepting the low paying gigs who were keeping me from getting the good jobs, it was me.

Why You’re Not Getting the High Paying Freelance Writing Jobs

If you’re spending a lot of time ragging on the low payers and not getting the high payers, there could be a very good reason behind it.

1. You’re Not as Good as You Think You Are

I know. Harsh, right? The fact is, great writers command great pay. That’s not to say you’re worthy of $5 writing jobs, but if you want to be paid $1 per word your work has to speak for itself.  Many editors do like to reward good writers with good pay but if they end up doing most of the work for you, it’s not very cost efficient. Turn in clean work. Why would an editor want to pay you good money when she has to practically rewrite everything you turn in?

2. You Don’t Have Much Experience

I don’t every believe a writer has to earn next to nothing to gain experience. Even the newest writer shouldn’t earn $1 a blog post or $1 an article. With that said, I understand starting out at $10 or $20. Though it’s not totally unheard of, not too many brand new writers will get thousand dollar gigs. As your experience grows, so should your pay.

3. You’re Not Asking

If you feel you’re deserving of a pay raise, ask. Many writers don’t ask for an increase in pay because they don’t want to lose their clients. If you’ve been working for the same person for years at the same rate, that person is taking advantage and you need to get aggressive. Inform your client you’ll be raising your rates. If he balks, decide whether or not it’s time to move on. If your client values your writing and your customer service, he’ll pay the increase.

4. You’re Not Looking in the Right Places

We talk often about where to find the higher paying freelance writing jobs. The truth is, you won’t always find these online. We do try to bring these desirable gigs to you here, and though some might laugh, I know Craigslist often has very high paying jobs. If you want to find the really high paying gigs, you may have to close up your laptop and do some cold calling. If you’re not going to take the time to really look for work, quit complaining the jobs aren’t out there. They are, you just have to stop looking in the “easy”places.

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What's Your Response Time?

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ambulance

Deb Ng

Congratulations. You landed a new gig with a terrific client who is not only easy going, but has the promise of a lot more work in the future. Many of her projects are small, but plentiful. You promise to get right on it and set a date for the first’s projects completion.

Deadline date comes and goes, and your client doesn’t hear from you. Two days later she sends a note asking how it’s going. You assure her things are going smoothly and your project will be done by that evening. A few days later she checks on you again and you promise completion by that evening. You contact her the next afternoon to tell her the project is ready.

Life goes along this way for a while. Your client asks you for stuff and you disappear for a while, surfacing only when she asks you how it’s going. It takes you days instead of hours to respond.

Don’t Be That Guy!

Do you know what’s happening now? Your client is worried and frustrated. She has so much to get done but now she’s not so sure you’re the right person for the job. A relationship that showed promise in the beginning is now …not so much. What happened? Poor customer service. Now your client has to choose between going with you, and worrying about whether or not the job is getting done, and having to search for someone else all over again.

If I had to choose the one trait a freelancer has to have to succeed it’s the ability to communicate, specifically, a good response time. If you promise work for Wednesday, turn it in Wednesday. If you can’t turn it in on Wednesday, contact your client to discuss why. [Read more…]

30 Types of Freelance Writing Jobs and How to Get Them

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by Deborah Ng

We talk about writing for web and print as if there are only two forms of freelance writing – magazines and newspaper (print) and web content (web). This isn’t the case. There are so many ways to support one’s self as a freelance writer and the aforementioned print and web opportunities are only a part of it. Today I’d like to explore some of the different types of opportunities available to freelance writers, and offer a few hints as to how to land some of these jobs.  While this report is nowhere near being “in-depth” I did do a bit a research. I’m hoping this can be used as a starting point for further research. I give you:

30 Types of Freelance Writing Jobs and How to Get Them

1.Web Content

Associated Content, LovetoKnow, Constant Content, About.com , Demand Studios, WiseGeek, and many others are looking to hire writers to stock content for their websites. Many of these content sites request their writers rely on keywords and top search terms to bring in traffic and pay either a flat fee or a fee plus page view or traffic bonuses. Some web content places pay very little so do read all the fine print before signing on.

  • How to Get it: To work for web content sites, visit the website and look for a “Write for Us” or “Jobs” link and apply. Some places like About.com and LovetoKnow are strict in their acceptance policies. Others, like Associated Content, accept all who apply.
  • College: No
  • Experience: Depends on the content site.

2. Web Copy

Web copy refers to writing sales, promotional, or other copy for a website. The difference between this type of writing and the content writing mentioned above is that most web content sites are looking specifically to stock their websites with content in order to bring in revenue. Those who are looking for copy for their individual websites usually have another purpose in mind, to bring in traffic and foster interest in a product or service.

  • How to Get it: The most popular way to find jobs writing copy for website is to look on the job boards. Many site owners and web masters advertise at places such as Freelance Writing Jobs, Craigslist and others. You could also contact web owners directly and offer a letter of introduction asking them to keep you in mind for their writing projects. 8 out of 10 of the potential clients may say no, but it’s the 2 who say yes who really matter.
  • College: Not always but knowing something about proper grammar usage can’t hurt.
  • Experience: It helps

3. Blogs

Blogging jobs abound online now. Not only are individual bloggers doing well, but many blog networks are hiring too, but those aren’t the only game in town. Individual web property owners are looking for bloggers as are businesses. As many companies realize they need a web presence, expect to see more blogging jobs in the future.

4. News Reporter

Reporting for newspapers, magazines and even television might seem glamorous but it’s very hard work, often for little pay. You’ll be expected to sniff out stories, break news and even work on pieces that may not be so attractive. You might also be expected to travel on weekends and holidays and even go to dangerous places, it all depends on your contract with the newspaper or network.

  • How to Get it: Apply directly to newspapers and television stations and read the want ads.
  • College: A degree in journalism or communications is usually required.
  • Experience: For a small local newspaper, no. The more prestigious the news outlet, the more experience necessary.

5. Newspaper Columnist

As a former newspaper columnist I can assure you the pay most columnists receive won’t keep you in fancy shoes or pay the rent on an Upper West Side apartment like Carrie Bradshaw. Most newspaper columnists don’t earn much money at all. It’s a rewarding, fun gig, however, and can lead to bigger and better things.

  • How to Get it: Pitch your column directly to the newspaper.
  • College: Depends on the newspaper and the type of column
  • Experience: Not for a small, local paper. The big guns may want to see a resume.

6. Features Writer

Features writers write articles for newspapers, magazines and other news outlets that will be “featured”, in other words, it will get a cover, cover line, or other type of prominent display. There are many types of features, for instance, a celebrity interview or background to a major news story. As you can imagine, these gigs are coveted and usually go to folks who have long established themselves or have a good relationship with an editor. Also, many outlets employ staff features writers. Still, it’s not unheard of for a new freelance writer to pitch an idea with success. Feature writing is lucrative too – many feature writers are paid upwards of $2,000 a piece.

  • How to Get it: Pitch your query to magazines.
  • College: Helps
  • Experience: Most of the time.

7. Magazine Freelancer

Getting your foot in the door of a magazine can only lead to bigger and better things. If a freelancer does well with a first assignment, this can land many more regular assignments. Once a writer is featured in one magazine, this leads to writing assignments within other magazines and publications. Breaking into print journalism is many writers’ dream. This isn’t always easy because so many writers are vying are pitching queries and most magazines only have a couple of open spots for freelancers each month. If a freelancer has a relationship with the magazine and its editors he has the best shot of landing the gigs. Still, new writers can and do land assignments and are encouraged to keep trying, despite rejection.

  • How to Get it: Troll the various magazine markets online or pick up a copy of the Writer’s Market (also available online.) Learn what each magazine expects from querying authors before sending your pitch. Not knowing who to pitch to or the proper format will result in rejection.
  • College: No
  • Experience: No, but it helps sometimes.

8. Catalog Description Writer

When I was an editorial assistant at a graphic design studio we did a lot of catalog work. For big jobs we brought in freelancers to help write descriptive paragraphs to sell products in the catalogs we designed. In many cases this was boring, boring work. The upside was that we got to keep some of the items sent for us to write about. Ask me about hair in a can or the flowbee sometime.

  • How to Get It: Align yourself with catalog designers, graphic design firms and advertising agency by sending your details and following up with some cold calling. Every now and then you might see these gigs advertised, but it’s rare. Most catalog designers go with freelancers from their own pool.
  • College: No.
  • Experience: Helps [Read more…]

Why I Write

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For me, writing isn't a job. It's a passion.

For me, writing isn't a job, it's a passion

by Deb Ng

One of my first freelance writing gigs was a weekly online humor column. I worked full time however, so I did much of my writing during the morning and evening commutes – an hour each way. It came to pass that no matter what I was doing – working, watching TV, washing the dishes, walking in the subway – I was writing. I was forming sentences and ideas and kept playing with those ideas until I could find a keyboard or pen and paper. It’s like I couldn’t shut off the words in my head.

It’s always been that way for me.  Even when I was younger I kept journals and notebooks to store my ideas. I look through many of them now and laugh, but it seems I always had to write something. When teachers would assign papers or essays other kids would groan but not me. I’d eagerly plan my topic and outline and couldn’t wait to go home and begin.

I write because it’s what I was destined to do. Even if I had to work in a cube farm, I’d still be writing. I don’t have a choice. I think if I didn’t write my head would explode. I know I must look so silly to some jotting down ideas or talking into my keyring at the most interesting moments. I can’t help it though, the wheels are constantly turning. Writing isn’t a job or a hobby. It’s a passion. It’s an addiction. It’s something I couldn’t give up if I tried.

Why do you write?

Separating Work from Home When You Work from Home

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The key to work from home success without stress is balance.

The key to work from home success without stress is balance.

I’ve long maintained folks who work at home work more hours than our commuting counterparts. For many of us, if the computer is on, we’re at work. We just can’t shut down. Last weekend I learned an important lesson because I didn’t shut off Skype and ended up working most of the holiday weekend. Where do you draw the line when you work at home? The way I see it, the problem is twofold:

Set Business Hours

When I worked a regular 9 to 5 job it was easy for me to get in my home frame of mind. I left my job every day at the designated time, went home and did home stuff.  I don’t have that kind of luxury when I work at home. You can’t put on your coat and go home when your office is in the same place you eat, sleep and bathe.

It’s easier said than done, but establishing business hours can help you draw the line. Speaking from experience, it’s tough to say, “OK, it’s 6:00. I’m done working for the day” and leave your work at home job. Once you get into a routine however, it’s  easy to switch hats.

Getting Into the Right Frame of Mind

This has been the topic of much discussion but I honestly believe clothes help to set the tone. I change into comfortable working clothes when it’s time to get down to business, and wear something else for relaxation time with my family. Yes, I have been known to wear my flannel penguin pajama pants while working from time to time, but the clothes really do help to put me in the proper mindset.

I also find that if I have established business hour, say when my family is at work and school, I have a better ability to focus. I can’t always pay attention to my job when my son is practicing piano or my husband is running power tools. Having quiet time to work each day helps to put me in the right frame of mind. Once the family starts getting down to business, it’s time for me to close shop. [Read more…]

5 Things About Freelance Writing Jobs I Wish I Knew When I Was Starting Out

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by Deborah Ng

When I first began freelancing in 2000 I thought I had an edge. I spent a dozen years in publishing, after all. That experience should work to my advantage, right?

Well…yes and no.

It gave me some good ideas about customer service, what editors look for and more. There were some areas however, in which I was a little green. There are a few things I had to figure out on my own. I’d like to share them with you today.

1. There Are Different Types of Freelance Writing Jobs

I was kind of surprised at all the different types of writing available to freelancers. Where should I set my sites? Print? Web? Business writing? Writing grants? Those new fangled e-books everyone is talking about? Obviously I found my calling, but it was a little confusing for me in the beginning and I had some fits and starts before reaching my comfort zone.

This is why I think it’s important for all new freelance writers to take some time out before they begin to research every aspect of the business. Not only will they learn some of the ins and outs of the business, but also the types of writing.

2. Everyone’s Good at Something

Today it’s all about branding and expertise. Most freelancers have to pick something they’re good at and use that to their advantage. Thanks to the Internet, there’s more competition now than there was when I worked with freelancers in the mid 80’s and 90’s. To stand out an impressive resume helps. Set yourself up as an expert in your favorite topic and soon the jobs will come to you. [Read more…]

10 Necessary Freelance Writing Multi-Tasks

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I write a lot of posts on things freelance writers need to do besides writing.  When you think about it, we wear many different hats. Writing is a small part of what we have to do on a regular basis if we want to be successful at our jobs.

Here are some of the jobs we need to do well if we hope to make it as a

1. Job Hunt

Freelance writers have to take some time out each day or several times a week to hunt for new opportunities. You might do this by querying magazines or reading the online job ads. In this feast or famine world, it’s a good idea to check the job boards so as not to have slow spots during the month.

2. Customer Service

If looking for work is one of the most important parts of a freelance writer’s job, customer service runs a close second. It’s important our clients are happy with our work. This means good communication with the client, responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner and following up after each gig.

3. Research

Even if you’re well versed on a topic, you’ll still need to research. This might mean Googling some info or visiting the library for a more in-depth read. You might want to watch a documentary or interview experts. Research is probably the most time consuming part of the writing process. [Read more…]

Social Media: Obama Gets It

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by Deb Ng

A hat tip to Wendy Piersall at Sparkplugging for tweeting this story.

I promise, this isn’t a political post.

One thing that impressed me about Barrack Obama is how he realized the importance of a web presence. He and his team embraced social media and used it with positive results. Obama had a presence on Twitter (with 130,000 followers, mind you) and other social networking sites. He knew it wasn’t enough to stump to the crowds in person, he had to do reach out to the online community as well. In fact, most of Obama’s campaign funding came from online donors, the result of an effective social media campaign. This tells me he’s in touch with the real world.

I learned today President-Elect Obama signed on two Web 2.0 savvy social media experts for his transition team. It’s refreshing to see he continues to get it. Having a web presence will allow Mr. Obama and his team to reach out to even more people. Not just during transition time but for his entire term in office.

I understand the President-Elect himself won’t be doing all of this community outreach, he’ll be very busy after all.   Knowing there are people on his team who will be reaching out to the online community makes me feel a little more secure. Not in a “national security” kind of way, but instead it shows me the future President and his team are in touch enough to know what is needed to succeed and communicate with the American public.

Having a web presence will allow the team to see what people are saying and what areas need fixing. The team can discuss issues and causes, answer questions and soothe fears – all in real time. It’s clear Mr. Obama is setting the bar for future political campaigns and this should be applauded. It’s not enough to be in touch part of the country, Obama found a way to reach us all.

Your turn: What are some of the ways you feel a President or person in office can use effectively use social media?

Writing on a Schedule

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By Terreece M. Clarke

Sometimes your creativity needs security. It needs to know that you won’t pounce on it after it has a few off days nagging, pleading and begging it to get with the program and the deadline. Sometimes your creativity likes, dare I say, needs a routine.

Many writers benefit from a writing schedule. An editorial calendar in combination with a regular writing routine is like giving your creativity a work-out schedule. For instance, my creative bug – which looks much like a ladybug wearing Mickey Mouse ears – knew I would be writing on this topic today after my baby went down for her nap, the topic is on the editorial calendar and the preferred time to write is available. My fingers were itching to get to work and as soon as I saw that little head go down to sleep my mind had started to write the blog.

A routine not only keeps the creative muscle primed, it prevents injury. Ever break out in a sprint when you hadn’t run in weeks or months and wind up paying for it later? Ever pull a muscle lifting something heavy? The same thing happens when we apply creativity in a herky-jerky fashion, it may often fail us or become injured in the process – idea formation takes too long, it takes more effort for a  piece to come together, the recovery (editing) process is slower and more painful.

And just like with working out, your creativity will crave activity if you go off it’s schedule. You may always schedule Tuesdays as source interview days, but find yourself with nothing lined up for the day. Your brain is itching for some Q & A, why don’t you call up that expert or source from a previous interview and see what’s new?

Regular creativity work-outs build up a heavy flow of creative juices that spill over into every assignment and opportunity. Schedule it, write it down and behold the wonders.

Do you have a regular writing routine or schedule? Tell us about it.

Why Freelance Writers Need Social Media

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by Deborah Ng

Social media is the practice of using online tools and resources to share and discuss items of interest.  As a freelance writer you may think this isn’t your problem, but I’d like to play devil’s advocate, if you don’t mind. Freelancers need and should embrace social media if they want to be a success.

Social Media Ensures an Online Presence

You may have noticed more businesses are looking to create an online presence. They’re hiring bloggers, web content writers, community managers and social media strategists. Some of us predicted this trend years ago. You see, the Internet is too big to ignore. Businesses of all sizes are learning they have to have a web presence to succeed. They can do this using social media. You will also need to learn social media if you want to work for one of these businesses, or noticed by them.

Network with Movers and Shakers

If you worked at home without the benefit of an Internet connection you reach a limited circle of people. When you create an online presence for yourself, you have the opportunity to network with people from all over, and many of these people are in a position to advance your career. For example, A couple of years ago I heard Darren Rowse was looking for guest bloggers to fill in while he went on vacation. I sent him an email asking if I could write a guest post and he encouraged me to do so. When the post went live, I mingled with Darren’s community and gained a many new readers and friends in the process. In the real world, if an editor of a large well-known newspaper was looking for someone to fill in for him on vacation, he certainly wouldn’t have chosen an unknown freelancer. [Read more…]

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