When To Say No

As a new freelance writer it can be tempting to grab every scrap that comes your way. Because of this there are many writers working for much lower than they should. This is turn creates a domino effect causing many buyers to refuse to pay higher. Rather than refusing to work for little, writers are compromising their integrity and professionalism.

Freelance bid sites are notorious for low paying jobs. True, many decent projects can be found there though just as many insulting $2/article jobs can as well. Do yourself a favour and don't even read those ads. It's a waste of your time and intelligence. There comes a time when freelance writers have to take a stand and demand more. These buyers come to writers for a reason. Because we have skills they do not. Why should they not pay for time and talent?

Turn your attention to higher paying markets like magazines or newspapers. The income is not as regular but it's higher and the experience speaks volumes for your resume in ways a $2 article cannot.

The fact remains that we all have to start somewhere. It's realistic that many of us will accept some of the lower paying positions over time. However, the point is to refuse to allow those jobs to hinder your growth. There is more to freelance writing than cheap labour. Set your standards and stick to them. Sometimes it's better to walk away from a job than to do what you know simply is not worth it.



~Trina M. Lee
www.TMLWritingServices.com

Always Write

Being a freelance writer certainly isn't all it's cracked up to be. Not for most of us anyway. It involves a lot of work, possible rejection and perseverance. Those unpredictable dry spells can really be a drag as well. It often seems like work comes in giant loads, more than you can handle before tapering off to virtually nothing before the next giant wave hits. It's not an easy way to live but many of us do it because it's what we love. Or it should be. If you don't love what you do for a living, you're doing the wrong thing.

You may be a full time freelance writer or perhaps writing is a part time thing for you. Whichever it is, be sure to write regularly regardless of jobs. Down time is perfect for honing your skills and brushing up on your marketing techniques. Write up a few queries and send them to magazines that interest you. Work on fiction if it's another avenue of writing you enjoy or simply hit the job boards a little harder than usual. The point is: having no job doesn't mean that you cannot be working.

Freelance writing and making the most of your freelance services is key in your career. There is so much more to your writing than the job itself. Look into all aspects to promote yourself and get the attention of those who need freelance writing services. Promote your website through classifieds ads or directories as well as search engines. There should never be a time when a writer has nothing to do.


~Trina M. Lee
www.TMLWritingServices.com