Freelance Writing Jobs Sold to Splashpress Media

When I began the Freelance Writing Jobs blog five years ago, it was a fun hobby. I enjoyed trolling the Internet for job leads each morning and sharing with my fellow freelancers. For me, it was a relaxing way to enjoy my first cup of coffee. In those days, I woke at 4:00 a.m. to find leads as my then three year old son was too high maintenance to allow me to get stuff done during regular business hours. You really have to love what you do to get up that early.

FWJ surprised me by becoming a popular resource for freelance writers. It won awards and accolades and reached the top of the search engines.  I worked hard at creating a helpful community for freelance writers, and the freelance writing community responded in kind. I don’t know that I ever meant for FWJ to become a full time job, but it did. Not only did it pay the bills, but it enabled me to hire about ten freelancers so new writers could learn from the best, and veteran writers commiserated and shared with the rest. FWJ became my life and my brand. Thanks to FWJ many clients found me and I made so many friends. This blog changed my life for the better and I don’t know where I’d be now without it. It’s my most valuable experience.

With all that said, you can imagine what I might be feeling when I tell you that I have decided to sell Freelance Writing Jobs.

Yes, the rumors are true.

The blog that became my life, now belongs to someone else.

Why now?

This has been an emotional and difficult decision, one I didn’t settle upon lightly. I have many reasons for selling FWJ. Some I may tell you in time, others I probably won’t discuss. I’m not bankrupt or broke, I’m not losing money and I’m not sick of blogging about writing. I’m not selling out for the almighty dollar. In fact, money was given the least amount of consideration when making this decision. I’ll leave it at saying it’s time to move on. If you have questions about FWJ or why I decided to sell, feel free to ask. Anything you read that didn’t come from me is purely speculation.

It’s time to move on.

Why Splashpress Media?

When I decided to sell FWJ I received a half dozen offers and the one from Splashpress Media wasn’t the highest. However, in selling I had three concerns and Splashpress was the only potential buyer who addressed these three concerns and promised FWJ wouldn’t languish or lose the message and image we worked so hard to maintain throughout the past five years.

My three concerns:

1. The Freelance Writing Jobs Blog

What would happen to FWJ if I sold? Would it sit, neglected, growing tall weeds like some old, abandoned home? Would it become a haven for dollar jobs and spammers? I don’t think I can bear to watch that happen. The people at Splashpress promised they would continue FWJ’s mission and help writers to succeed and find work. They’ll continue to post the best gigs and offer top notch advice.  To ensure this will happen, my friend, copywriter and published author Susan Gunelius, is coming on as Managing Editor. I’m confident FWJ will grow beyond even my wildest dreams with Susan at the helm.

2, The FWJ Bloggers

The last thing I wanted was for Splashpress to pull some sort of b5media deal where all the bloggers were kicked out of their blogs and their hard work locked up and taken away. They care about FWJ as much as I do and I wanted them to be treated with dignity. I’m happy to tell you that Splashpress has agreed to continue to allow most of the FWJ bloggers to maintain their blogs. However, some of the bloggers have decided to move on with me. You’ll see a mix of old and new faces here in the upcoming weeks, and I hope you’ll continue to be a sharing and giving community. This is an exciting change, but it’s going to change for the better.

3. The FWJ Community

That’s you. I wanted to make sure you all still had a place to go for quality leads and advice. Anyone can start a writing blog,  but not everyone has the experience and to help you land gigs or the talent to help you get where you’re going in a respectful manner.  I think you’ll enjoy the new FWJ! Under Susan’s and Splashpress’ care, FWJ will grow bigger than ever.

What now?

Though FWJ will change hands on July 1, I’ll still be around. My favorite freelance bloggers have promised I can guest post for them from time to time. I’m also writing a couple of books, working on projects with other bloggers,  and working as Conference Director for BlogWorld Expo. If you would still like to be a part of my bloggy community you can also find me at Kommein.com and the Kommein Facebook page where I blog about social media. I’m on Twitter at debng and will still be chatting you up each day. Though I won’t be blogging here, I have agreed to stay on for three months as a consultant to help ensure a smooth transition.

I may be moving on from the freelance writing world, but I’m not gone by any means. I’m still going to be around the blogosphere and social media space. This isn’t the end of anything, but, rather, the start of another chapter.

I hope you know how much you all mean to me, and how none of this would be possible without your continued support throughout the years. I owe so many people so much, it would be impossible to thank them all on this page.I considered a long list of thank you’s but didn’t want to hurt anyone by forgetting to include them and thought it best not to go that route. I have been reaching out with my individual thank you’s, and if you touched my life, I’ll be in touch with you.

I consider all experiences, both positive and negative to be opportunities for learning and have absolutely no regrets.

I hope you will continue to be a part of the FWJ community, and perhaps even come say hi to me at my other blogs and projects. I’m feeling a bit emotional right now, so I’m going to have to end this.

  • Thank you to the FWJ community.
  • Thank you to the FWJ bloggers.
  • Thank you to my friends and family.
  • Thank you to those of you who have supported me and my efforts throughout the years.
  • Thank you to the supportive bloggers and writers who have reached out or linked to FWJ throughout the years.
  • Thank you to my Twitter and Facebook friends.
  • Thank you to all.

I’ll be here until July 1. Thank you, everyone.

-Deborah Ng
June 14, 2010


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78 responses
  1. Chris Garrett Avatar

    Congratulations Deb and the Splashpress team – I am sure you did the right thing. Exciting times 🙂

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, Chris! The right decisions aren’t always the easiest, but I’m sure it’s for the best. Thank you for your friendship and continued support throughout the years.

  2. James Chartrand - Men with Pens Avatar

    Well done and congrats to you. I’m sure the situation has you a little sad to leave FWJ behind, but there’s a lot of good stuff coming your way and it’s time to take advantage of that.

    Cheers, and I’ll be rooting for you.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Indeed, James, it’s sad – sort of like selling the family home or watching one of your children graduate. I don’t think it will be easy watching someone else take care of FWJ, but I know there are exciting things in store for me – and for this blog and the bloggers here.

      Thanks for your support.

  3. Kelly McCausey Avatar

    Wow and Wow Deb! If this is what you walk away from, I can’t wait to see what all you’re walking to 🙂

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thanks, Kelly. I hope to do you proud! Thanks for your friendship and support for the past five years, if not longer!

  4. Lisa Avatar

    Congratulations, Deb. I can’t wait to see your success in bigger & better things. Thanks so much for ensuring the integrity of your site, it’s been such a blessing.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you for your kind words and support, Lisa. I hope you won’t be a stranger!

  5. Genesis Avatar

    And thank you, Deb. You were one of the first blogs I ever read and I built my business up starting from leads I found here. 🙂 Those 4 am mornings paid off for a lot of people!

    I can only imagine how difficult this decision was, but I hope you’re happy with it and can’t wait to see what you do in the future!

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Hi Genesis,

      Your is one of the friendships I’m taking with me, beyond FWJ and the blogosphere. Thank you for being there for me and I look forward to what the future has in store – for both of us!

  6. loupaun Avatar
    loupaun

    Wow!! Bit changes! I hope the new projects are just as rewarding — and thank you, Deb.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thanks, Lou. I feel like this is old home week – you and I go way, way back. Thanks for listening to all my stories!

  7. James Schipper Avatar

    Congratulations Deb! I look forward to what they do with this space, as well as your new journey.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, James! Hope to see you at my other blog?

  8. Sharon Hurley Hall Avatar

    Congratulations on the sale. Sad to see the end of an era, but I’m glad to hear the good work will go on. I’ve already started following your Kommein blog, which I’m really enjoying.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, Sharon. I want you know how grateful I am for your friendship and support throughout the years as well. You have been an inspiration to so many freelancers – getting to know you has been a pleasure – and an honor. I look forward to us continuing to grow together.

      1. Sharon Hurley Hall Avatar

        Ditto, Deb. When I started freelancing, one of my first paying gigs came via this blog. In fact, I think it was the first writing blog I read regularly – and I haven’t stopped in five years. Looking forward to continuing to connect with you in other places.

  9. franky Avatar

    We wish you all luck and even more success in the future. More success than what you already achieved with FWJ.

    It is an honour to be allowed to have FWJ in our portfolio and we will do all we can to make sure Splashpress Media honours all the hard work you and the community have put into FWJ. Every FWJ is important to us and so is every little corner of Freelance Writing Jobs. I am sure that Susan the right person to spearhead FWJ is and we have some more people who will be very active as well.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, Franky. It means so much that Splashpress will continue to honor the message we put forth here.

  10. Jeanne Avatar

    My heartfelt congratulations to you Deb!

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you Jeanne, my friend, my rock and my voice of reason. I know we’ll continue this friendship for many, many years.

  11. Brandon Eley Avatar

    Congratulations Deb, it sounds like you found a great company to take over FWJ. I wish you all the success at BWE, Kommein, and whatever else lies in your future.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thanks, Brandon. I’ve really been enjoying getting to know you this year and you’re one of the people I hope to collaborate with in the future.

  12. Jenna Hatfield Avatar

    Congratulations! I think it’s absolutely wonderful that you found a company who addressed your concerns. Kudos.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, Jenna. I hope you continue to enjoy all that FWJ brings!

  13. John Hewitt Avatar

    As sorry as I am to see you leave this site, I am glad things have worked out for you. Good luck Deb!

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you, John. And thanks for your friendship and support.

  14. Laura Spencer Avatar

    Congratulations Deb!

    Like everyone else, I’m sad to see the end of an era. But, I’m also happy for you. I know that this will free you up to work on some of those projects that you’ve always wanted to tackle.

    Best wishes in whatever you do.

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thanks, Laura. And thanks also for your support, advice and encouragement not only as I made this decision but for the past few years. The freelance writing community can learn so much from you.

  15. Mary@Adventures In Freelancing Avatar

    Thanks, Deb, for all of your hard work, dedication, and integrity. I’ve learned so much from you and this site. Looking forward to seeing your newest adventures unfold!

    1. Deb Ng Avatar

      Thank you Mary! I hope we continue our chitter, blog and Skype chats.

  16. allena Avatar

    NO– THANK YOU. Your leads were instrumental in getting me off my feet years ago, and helping me to convince my husband that this was a viable FT job. You’ve helped me to still be an excellent, available mommy, while making more money than I ever did in an office. You have my eternal gratitude for sharing your knowledge.

  17. My Autism Insights Avatar

    Congrats, Deb & even though I’m a little sad to see you go, I’m thrilled for you that you are moving to the next level of your career. I wish you all the best & look forward to seeing your other endeavors take off!

  18. Robin Avatar

    Wow. Congratulations! I’m totally out of the loop, so this came as a surprise. Thank you for all the hard work you’ve put into this site and for all of the encouragement you’ve given to freelancers.

    Maybe NOW you and I can find the time to do that lunch we keep talking about – next school year. We’ll only be two years late!

  19. Jeremy Powers Avatar

    Deb – That is great news. The gang at FWJ is one of the groups that convinced me to give freelance writing and marketing a shot. While I selfishly wish you were staying around FWJ as I get started, I am happy to see you growing to a new level. You have left a wake of tips and motivation that I am sure people will be reading for years to come. Thank you for that, and good luck!

  20. Serena Makofsky Avatar

    Wow, this is phenomenal news. You and your site have made a fundamental difference in my life. I had always written, but dedicated myself to freelance writing full-time three years ago, and I don’t think a week has gone by that I have not consulted this spot for advice and leads. I have not had a slow month (maybe a slow week, though!) since I began freelance writing, largely due to the information posted here. Many thanks for all you have done, making my life with my family, living abroad in Oaxaca, possible!

    Serena
    Have You Seen the Dog Lately? blog

  21. Andy Hayes Avatar

    Deb,

    I think I was one of the first people to know about this, and you will always have my support in what is best for Deb Ng.

    I’ve always said that FWJ was the first blog I *ever* read and it was what I needed to become a full time freelancer, a published author, and now, a FWJ blogger too.

    It’s always a little sad when something special goes through a big change. But I’m here to support Splashpress and keep FWJ alive, and you and I will continue to spend half our day blethering away on Skype instead of working 🙂

    All the best, my friend.

  22. Joel Avatar

    ‘grats on the sale, Deb. You know I support you and truly believe you did the right thing. I’m proud to count you among my good friends.

  23. Jennifer Escalona Avatar

    Congrats, Deb! I’m so thrilled for you and wish you success in your future endeavors!

  24. Jodee Avatar

    It has been an honor to work for and with this wonderful, classy lady who has been so patient with me and taught me so much. Deb, you deserve every success and good thing that this life has to offer.

    I’m looking forward to finding out what Splashpress has in mind as we move onto the next chapter in the FWJ saga. I’m thinking truth, justice, and the FWJ way….I agree wholeheartedly with what Andy is saying about being sad that one thing is finishing while being very happy for Deb as she moves onto bigger and even better things.

  25. Debra Bacon Avatar

    Congratulations, Deb! As I have mentioned before,the same as others commenting here, this was the first blog/site I began to read when starting to freelance. Even though I did not “know” you – I did know you – through your daily posts. Thank you for everything.

    I wish you the best moving forward.

  26. Beth Avatar

    Congratulations, Deb! Like many of your readers, I’ve received paychecks over the years that came from gigs I found here. FWJ is a daily read along with my morning tea, and will continue to be. Best wishes for continued success!

  27. Amy Cherwin Avatar
    Amy Cherwin

    Have to admit I almost dropped my coffee! Wow! Congrats and I wish you the best. You will be missed and I have hopes that the “new” FWJ will continue to produce the high standard of info that you have provided. Good Luck!

  28. K. Lee Avatar
    K. Lee

    Thank you so much for this site. Your devotion to it has launched a thousand careers (maybe more) and given hope to so many writers.

  29. Susan Gunelius Avatar

    Congrats on the sale, Deb! When Splashpress asked me to take over the site, I knew I had to say yes — to ensure it stays the awesome place it has been for so long and to make sure it continues to be the site you would want it to be.

    First About.com and now FWJ. I feel like I’m stalking you – unintentionally of course.m 🙂

    Best of luck with all the cool new endeavors I know are waiting for you, Deb. And thank you for letting me keep your FWJ alive in its next stage!

  30. WorkatHomeJobsforMoms Avatar

    Congratulations!!!

    You have inspired so many writers to go for the gusto and we deeply appreciate every single one of your efforts. I remember when you first started this blog and how you’ve always fought so passionately for people to pursue their writing goals (and their proper worth). Thank you!

    That it’s time for you to move on isn’t surprising at all. When there’s greatness inside of you, you sometimes have to let go of current attachments in order to achieve the next level of your success.

    I’m excited for you and I trust that you’ve left your baby in good hands.

    Here’s to your continued success, Deb!

  31. Heath Avatar

    Deb,

    This website has been a huge contribution to the community. Congratulations on the sale. I look forward to everything that you do in the future.

    Heath

  32. Yuwanda Black Avatar

    Congratulations Deb. As long as you made the right decision for you, all will work out fine I’m sure.

    Good luck in your future endeavors. You will be missed around here — for sure!

  33. Julie Bonner Avatar

    WOW! A huge congrats to you Deb. I’ve heard great things about Splashpress. I wish you all the best as you move on to other things!

  34. Phil Avatar
    Phil

    Congrats and best wishes on your new endeavors

  35. Nikki Avatar

    Deb – THANK YOU! When I read this in my feed this morning, I have to tell you, I teared up at the thought of you not being the voice of FWJ.

    Your blog was only a year old when I started freelancing. I never obtained a gig from here but I wasn’t coming only for the leads. I came for the information, the sharing and the community. As many have said, I’m sad for the end of this era but I’m also excited for you, the new owners and the writers who have both chosen to stay and go. I look forward to what lies around the corner for everyone. You have been a huge inspiration to me and I’ve learned so much from the other writers who have commented and written here.

    Everything I’ve learned I have applied to my business and I honestly think that experience and applying the information you and your writing team have given have helped me come this far.

    Thank you Deb for all that you’ve done for me and for being a valuable resource and voice for the freelance writing community. I’ll see you on Twitter I’m sure!

  36. Misty Avatar

    Deb,

    Wow… I didn’t see this coming. My favorite and longest running freelance gig came from your leads. I’ve loved watching your site– and your career– grow through the years. Thank you for all you’ve done for me and other freelancers. We’ll miss you, but you deserve every success.

  37. Chris Avatar

    Thanks Deb for providing a legitimate resource to help my business get off the ground. I appreciate all you’ve done!

  38. Terreece Clarke Avatar

    I am so excited for you Deb I could SQUEEE! Judging by the number of FWJ community members that credit you with helping them to get their start in the writing game I know I’m not being over dramatic by saying the freelance writing world is a better place because of your work.

    A couple years ago you created an Idol-style blogger contest to find the next FWJ blogger. I won the contest, but more importantly I won the opportunity to be a part of something really special – the FWJ community. While I’m excited to see you live out the next successful ‘season’ in your life I’m a bit nostalgic for the season gone by.

    It has been awesome working with and for you & I can’t wait till you ‘blow up the next spot!’

    I look forward to the next phase of FWJ & representing well for my girl from Jersey!

    *This feels so yearbook LOL!

    Love ya girl!

  39. Allison Avatar

    Best wishes with this exciting new chapter of your life. 🙂

  40. Patrick Avatar

    Congrats Deb! Happy for you. 🙂

  41. Yury Avatar

    Congrats Deb, keep us posted on your next endeavor…I’m sure it will be a rousing success!!!

  42. Danielle Avatar

    I have to confess that I didn’t see this coming at all. No matter what, it won’t be the same without you but I have to believe that you would never have sold it to someone that wouldn’t keep the general feel going.

    Now, I need to go and find Kommein and subscribe!

  43. Dee Avatar

    I’m fairly new to FWJ, but it inspired me to begin on the freelance path. Good luck to you- new beginnings can be an exciting time.

  44. Jacqui Avatar
    Jacqui

    Congrats, Deb–I’ll miss your “voice” on FWJ, but I look forward to following what you do in the future. I’ve started reading and enjoying Kommein already, and will be first in line to preorder your book(s). FWJ was a huge inspiration to me when I started freelancing and you have my eternal gratitude for that!

  45. Rebecca Laffar-Smith Avatar

    It’s sad to say goodbye to your leadership at Freelance Writing Jobs, Deb, but congratulations on the beginning of a new chapter in your life and on the sale of FWJs. I’m looking forward to seeing where Splashpress Media takes this blog into the future.

    Good luck with your new projects and new direction. These are exciting times!

  46. Linda Rhinehart Neas Avatar

    Dear Deborah,

    I have been a reader of your blog for a bit now, ever since I began my freelance career in earnest. Thank you for your blog posts; thank you for sharing your knowledge; thank you for sharing your dreams; but most of all, thank you for sharing yourself.

    I wish you much success in whatever endeavors you pursue. I know FWJ will continue to enlighten, encourage and educate its readers.

    Peace, Linda

  47. Lori Avatar

    Congrats! And good for you for knowing when it was right to move on. I’m sure it had to be a very difficult choice to make. I got my start with FWJ and I will be forever grateful for all the hard work you put forth to help us all find jobs, especially for those just starting out. I learned so much from you via this blog.

  48. Mary E. Ulrich Avatar
    Mary E. Ulrich

    Congratulations Deb. Hope this means you’ll get to sleep in:)

    All of life and growth has cycles. Sounds like FWJ has reached maturity and is ready to start it’s adult life. Best wishes in your new work.

  49. Glenda Taylor Avatar
    Glenda Taylor

    Congrats Deb. Change is sometimes hard but it precedes growth and new horizons. No matter what you choose to do – you’ll be successful..I feel it in my heart.

    Best always,

    Glenda

  50. Hazel Avatar

    Deb, congrats and thank you for creating this community.

  51. Bryan Avatar

    Congratulations! I’ve followed your blog the last few months and its an impressive site.

    All the best on your new projects.

    Bryan

  52. Prerna Avatar

    Congratulations Deb! And yes, we will miss you terribly.. However, am glad that you made the decision after so much of thought and ensured that the warmth and spirit of FWJ would remain.. I love coming here not only for the leads but to read, to learn and to be inspired. Here’s hoping that come July 1, everything will be the same!
    All the best to you for the big and bright future!
    Blessings.

  53. Rebecca Avatar

    Congrats! It just goes to show what hard work and dedication can do for you.

  54. Tammi Kibler Avatar

    Deb – I wish you all the best. I will look for you and your future endeavors.

  55. Anne Wayman Avatar

    Yikes Deb, I’m late to reading this… we’ll miss you and I’m so excited for you. Congratulations!

  56. Peggy Avatar

    Congrats Deb! Have fun exploring more of the social media world.

  57. Arwen Taylor Avatar

    Congratulations Deb. I’ll miss seeing you around these parts but I’m sure this is probably fort the best.

  58. Sara Fell Avatar

    Congrats on closing this chapter with success, good memories, and positive relationships. You’ve created a great site here, and I look forward to your next chapters and adventures! It’s been a pleasure working with you (both with FlexJobs, and with FWJ!). 🙂

    Many cheers, and all the best,

    Sara
    FlexJobs.com

  59. Sandy Avatar

    Congratulation Deb but we’ll miss you!

  60. Dana Prince Avatar

    Best of luck, Deb. This blog has been a friend to many writers over the years. And so have you.

    Glad it’s all positive for you!
    Cheers,
    Dana

  61. Kimberlee Avatar

    Congrats Deb. I know this was a tough decision since FWJ has been your baby for the last 5 years. I’ve learned a lot from you and the other FWJ bloggers. Susan Gunelius is one of the best writers/editors I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, so FWJ is definitely in good hands.

    Cheers!

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