Here’s a question I receive often:
What should I use as clips when finding freelance writing jobs?
First and foremost, potential clients want to get a feel for your writing style and expertise. When choosing clips, make sure they’re relevant to the advertised gig and, also, that they’re your best representation.
I can tell you a story about someone who was just rejected for a job he really wanted. After talking with the editor, he learned his sample wasn’t very impressive. So the writer asked for a second chance, submitted a new sample, and got the gig.
Some writers are worried because they only have content site experience and read conflicting reports as to whether or content site clips can be used to land freelance writing jobs. The short answer to this is, “sure.” The longer answer is, “it depends.” I can tell you that my content site clips landed me some very lucrative opportunities. I can also tell you that many of the higher paid freelance writers and freelance writing bloggers you talk to in the freelance writing community also worked for content sites and used those clips to successfully land more lucrative opportunities.
However, choose what is considered your most prestigious clip. If your local newspaper published your article, use this instead of a content site clip. If you’re a good writer and you have strong samples, editors will offer you opportunities , regardless of where you were published before. Anyone who makes it more about the place you worked than about your writing shouldn’t be an editor. Several years ago I worked with editors who wouldn’t accept Associated Content clips simply because A.C. doesn’t have a very strict acceptance policy and it kind of skewed my thinking. I’ve since learned to read the writing through before making a decision.
Choose your strongest writing and try and choose a piece that is relevant to the gig. For example if a gardening website is looking for writers, they don’t want to read your automotive clips. If you don’t have relevant samples and really want the gig, take some time to write an informed article to use as a clip.
Let’s talk about clips today. What do you use for writing samples. Did you successfully land freelance writing jobs with your samples? Did your clips for lower paying clients lead you to more lucrative opportunities? What clips land you the highest paying jobs?
Discuss…
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