Thursday, August 28, 2008

Freelance Writers: How to Prepare for the Busy Season

Summer is winding down and we’re about to head into the busy fall season. On Tuesday, September 9th, I’ll be posting a Fall Marketing Tutorial for Freelance Writers akin to the Summer Marketing Tutorial.

To that end, I want to know, what do you need help with, eg: pricing, marketing, how to handle clients, how to negotiate, which services to offer, etc. Now’s the time to send in your questions (info *at* InkwellEditorial.com). I’ll incorporate them into the tutorial so that you can be fully prepared to bring in as much freelance writing business as you can handle.

Blog Hiatus: I won’t be posting next week. Monday is Labor Day and Tuesday starts Ramadan, so I’m going to take this last little break before ramping back up again on the September 9th. In the meantime, enjoy yesterday’s post over at BloggingTips.com, Freelance Writers: How to Prepare for the Busy Season (it’s time to start thinking about it).

Don’t forget to send in your questions for the fall freelance writing marketing manual. Answering questions in this format allows me to really answer in detail, which I can’t do on a daily or individualistic basis anymore.

New Ebook: How to Find Unpublished Freelance Writing Jobs.

Most Recent Posts
New Website for Freelance Writers to Make Money: Review of TheSyndicatedNews.com

How to Convince Clients That You’re the Right Writer for the Job

Freelance Writers: How to Prioritize Your Schedule to Make More Money

What Is SEO Writing? What is SEO Copywriting?

SEO Copywriting Rates: How I Got to the $100/Article Mark & You Can Too!

See you back here on the 9th, and enjoying the waning days of summer (can you believe it went so fast!)

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter (read all issues!)
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
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Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

New Website for Freelance Writers to Make Money: TheSyndicatedNews.com

TheSyndicatedNews.com appears to be the latest entry into paid content media model sites for freelance writers. There are some pros and cons to this content model, which I’ll review here. FYI, this is from my own personal point of view. I have no affiliation with the site; I’ve never submitted anything to it or talked to others about it. So, here goes . . .

TheSyndicatedNews.com: A Review

Pros of The SyndicatedNews.com: I think this site has four things going for it, ie: Read the rest here.

Most Recent Posts
How to Convince Clients That You’re the Right Writer for the Job

Freelance Writers: How to Prioritize Your Schedule to Make More Money

What Is SEO Writing? What is SEO Copywriting?

SEO Copywriting Rates: How I Got to the $100/Article Mark & You Can Too!

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
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Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

How to Convince Clients That You’re the Right Writer for the Job

A running theme through a lot of the emails I receive from freelance writers – especially those who are just starting out – is a lack of confidence.

Whether it’s the, “I didn’t know what they meant by that,” in response to a client query, or “What should I charge for this job?” in putting together a proposal, the underlying problem is not a lack of knowledge or the price that should be charged, it’s the lack of confidence in the freelance writer.

If You Don’t Believe In Yourself, Why Should the Client?

Confidence is a must as a freelance writer. You’ll not only need it as far as your writing ability is concerned, but you’ll need it to price jobs, to go after assignments you may not be “qualified for”, to say NO to jobs that pay too little, to stand up to other freelance writers who wonder why you charge X. Read the rest here.

Most Recent Posts
Freelance Writers: How to Prioritize Your Schedule to Make More Money

What Is SEO Writing? What is SEO Copywriting?

SEO Copywriting Rates: How I Got to the $100/Article Mark & You Can Too!

$100 for SEO Articles: How to Become a Highly Paid SEO Copywriter

Sincerely,Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Freelance Writers: How to Prioritize Your Schedule to Make More Money

In order to live up to the title of this post, I’m going to tell you a story. I hope you find it interesting enough to stick around for the lesson – because there’s definitely one to heed.

Freelance Writers: What It’s Like to Live in Hell!

I was supposed to launch Inkwell Editorial’s affiliate program today, but unfortunately, I’m not ready yet. I need more time (until Tuesday, Sept. 9th).

To explain a bit, I’ve had a hell of a summer – from overseeing the blog design to equipment problems (all last week), nothing has gone right. And I realize, it’s due to success, which is a double-edged sword.

A sample of my hell? I had to rent a computer last week because mine had to be serviced. Do you know what it’s like NOT to have access to all of your files – especially if you have as many as I do? Remember, I’ve been freelancing since 1993. I have client files that go back to then, not to mention my own files (ebooks, financial records, idea files, etc.). It’s been a nightmare!

In the midst of all of this I’ve been keeping up with client work, trying to stay on an ebook publishing schedule (new ebook published), and trying desperately to finish the marketing material for affiliates. It’s just been overwhelming.

My sister said to me, “If Microsoft can delay their software rollouts, why can’t you delay your affiliate program rollout?” Aaaahhhhh, a moment of sanity in the madness. It hit me, “why couldn’t I?”

Freelance Writers: Is Your Personality Causing You to Lose Money?

Read the rest here.

Most Recent Posts

What Is SEO Writing? What is SEO Copywriting?

SEO Copywriting Rates: How I Got to the $100/Article Mark & You Can Too!

$100 for SEO Articles: How to Become a Highly Paid SEO Copywriter

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

What Is SEO Writing? What is SEO Copywriting?

I've gotten this question from 4-5 people since I wrote yesterday's post on how I got to the $100/article mark for my SEO writing. Beause I work in this niche, I kinda take for granted that everybody knows what SEO writing is all about.

So, when I received the latest query from a freelance journalist in New Zealand, I thought, "Mmmm, better explain yourself missy!"

As I hadn't planned to update the blog today b/c I'm pressed for time, here is the answer I forwarded to her, with some links to tons of stuff. After all the source reading you'll be directed to, not only will you know what SEO copywriting is all about, you'll know what to charge, types of projects to expect and much more. I thought the query was kinda funny, so I've pasted a portion of it below:

NOTE: FYI, yesterday's post includes a link to the most recent issue of the newsletter, which means over a year of freelance writing news at your fingertips!

Reader Query about what SEO writing is. She wrote:

I'm a freelance journalist based in New Zealand. I have been perusing your website and am keen to purchase some of your e-books. But I have a query - nowhere does it explain what SOE [sic] means! Sorry if this sounds really stupid - but I have not idea what it stands for - if you could explain that would be great. (Here it means State Owned Enterprise).
I responded:

Thank you for your interest in my products/services. Regarding your query, there are no stupid questions in my book. If you don't know, the best thing you can do is ask. So, thanks for asking!

To learn the basics of what SEO copywriting is all about, start with the article How to Write SEO Articles in 4 Easy Steps. It's a link to one of my articles on AssociatedContent.com.

List of all the Pages on InkwellEditorial.com about SEO Writing

After you read this, you can find all of my articles on SEO writing on InkwellEditorial.com.

How to Find all the Pages on InkwellEditorial.com that Discuss SEO Writing

1) Simply go to the home page of InkwellEditorial.com and look for the Google Search box (bottom of home page).

2) Type "SEO" into the box and make sure "InkwellEditorial.com" is checked, NOT "Web".

3) Click "Search".

A list of pages will pop up. Be sure to cursor down and click on articles listed below this title bar:
Web Results 1 - 10 of about 67 from inkwelleditorial.com for "seo". (0.66 seconds)

FYI, some articles will be directly relevant; others will be peripherally so. But you'll have the complete library of what I've written on SEO copywriting right there in front of you.

Inkwell Editorial Now Has an Affiliate Program: Did you know that if you sign up, you can get all of Inkwell Editorial’s ebooks on freelance writing for one low price ($39.95)? You can! It’s a limited time offer, so check out the details.

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

SEO Copywriting Rates: How I Got to the $100/Article Mark & You Can Too!

In yesterday's post, I shared how I recently began to land $100/article SEO writing jobs. I promised to share with you how I got there.

I did so in a lengthy post over at BloggingTips.com today entitled, SEO Copywriting Rates: How to Get $100/Article or More. Enjoy -- and implement!

Inkwell Editorial News: Following are a few things I want to bring you up to date on.

I. New Blog: My new blog design has been completed, but I won't be unveiling it until around the new year. Why the delay? I'm not comfortable working with Wordpress, and will be taking a class this fall.

To explain in more detail, because I've used FrontPage for years, I'm used to customizing my sites the way I want. I don't like having to rely on a designer to implement every little change I need. So I've decided to go this route because there's tons of stuff that I will need for my site to do. It would cost a small fortune if I paid someone to implement everything.

II. Newsletter: I was supposed to publish the August edition of Inkwell Editorial's newsletter today with the affiliate interviews. I'm delaying this until September because I've been swamped with internal company projects this summer: ie, writing new ebooks; setting up Inkwell's affiliate program; and overseeing the blog redesign.

This hasn't left much time to properly interview the affiliate marketers I've lined up.

Also, Labor Day is coming up (Sept 1st) and I know many of you are already in end-of-summer, holiday mode. The next newsletter will be published on Wednesday, 9/24. By then, we'll be in the thick of the "get back to work season," when many of you will be fully focused on business again.

Publishing the newsletter today would have been a disservice to readers to some degree. And if I'd be paying attention when I marked the date, I would have realized that. My mea culpa.

If you haven't already, enjoy the latest issue of the newsletter, which contains links to all previous issues -- that's over a year of freelance writing news at your fingertips!

III. Inkwell Editorial Now Has an Affiliate Program: Did you know that if you sign up, you can get all of Inkwell Editorial’s ebooks on freelance writing for one low price ($39.95)? You can! It’s a limited time offer, so check out the details.

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

$100 for SEO Articles: How to Become a Highly Paid SEO Copywriter

SEO copywriting is very lucrative -- if you know how to get the most from your writing skill. The following happened to me recently, which proves this point:

$100 Per SEO Article; $50 Per SEO Article; $40 Per SEO Article

On Friday, August 8th, I opened my inbox and had an order for two SEO articles, 500-600 words: $100 each. On Wednesday, August 13th, I logged into my PayPal account and a client had pre-paid for a $50 article (350-450 words). On Tuesday, August 5th, I negotiated a $40/article rate (400-450 words) for three articles with a client.

SEO Copywriting Advice: How to Get the Most for Your Skill

As many of you know, when I first started out as an SEO copywriter, I charged $25 per article. For some clients, I still charge that. But, as I’ve gotten busier, my rates have steadily increased because it’s about maximizing my time to make the most.

SEO Copywriters: How to Hang Onto a Client When You Increase Your Rates

The one thing about working for money as opposed to passive income (which my ebooks provide) is that when you don’t work, you don’t get paid. Once my rate SEO writing rate increase went into effect, I had one client who kind of balked.

I patiently explained to him that while I was very glad to have him as a client and would hate to lose him, to grow my SEO copywriting business, I had to spend my time where it made the most money for me. I told him how I routinely put in 10-16 hour days and how I needed to still be able to make a living, but also have a life. I pointed out to him how a rested writer was a sharp one (adding a little humor never hurts).

As a business owner (he owns an internet marketing firm), he understood. And, I managed to retain him as a client -- although he orders fewer articles and blog posts. One thing I like about SEO writing clients is that they tend to be business owners, or account executives at marketing firms who understand paying for quality.

Explaining to my client why I was raising rates -- and appealing to him on a level that all business owners can understand (profit and time management) -- allowed me to keep him as a client.

Getting to the $100/Article Mark & How It’s Affected My SEO Copywriting Business

SEO Copywriting Average Article Rate: I average $40-$50/article now.

SEO Copywriting Marketing Results: When I market, I bring in fewer clients, but have actually managed to increase my hourly rate (this is how I chart what I make).

SEO Copywriting and Turning Down Work: I’ve turned down more work from potential clients who want to negotiate below what I think my time is worth. One of the reasons it’s easy for me to turn down work is that when I’m not working on client projects, I’m working on my ebooks. So, when I take into account what I would be making versus what I could be doing with that time (ie, building passive income via my own informational products), it’s a no brainer.

Inkwell Editorial Now Has an Affiliate Program: Did you know that if you sign up, you can get all of Inkwell Editorial’s ebooks on freelance writing for one low price ($39.95)? You can! It’s a limited time offer, so check out the details.

In tomorrow‘s post, I’ll divulge how I got to the $100/article mark-- and point out some things I did along the way that can help you get there too.

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Get all of IW’s Ebooks for Only $39.95: Ebook Affiliate Program Details

If you have a blog or website, one of the best ways to make passive income is to promote affiliate products. That’s why you see so many sites with those Google ads. Even though they produce mere pennies for most, it’s pennies that don’t have to be worked for (I make like “utility bill” and “girls night out” money from my site). Can you do better? Yes!

I’ve spent all day setting up the affiliate program for Inkwell Editorial’s ebooks. I’ll upload the freelance writing e-course to e-Junkie this weekend so it can be sold as an affiliate product. The price will be raised to $495, so you’ll jump for joy when you sell this “Freelance Writing Career in a Click,“ my tag line for it. But . . .

Affiliate Program Kickoff Deal

"Don’t sign up yet . . . I have a deal for you!"

One of the most effective ways to sell affiliate products is to try them out, right? But, who has the money to buy every affiliate product they may want to promote? I know I wouldn’t. Freelance writing is a niche where buyers are very discerning.

To ensure maximum success for affiliates, I’m going to give everyone who wants to sign up as an affiliate a chance to purchase everything in the IW library for one low price ($39.95).

That’s every product Inkwell Editorial currently offers for $39.95 (of course, you don‘t get the free website or marketing tutorial offered with the freelance writing e-course). Deal expires on Monday, August 25th at 9am.

What’s the Catch?

As I alluded to earlier, testimonials and reviews are the best way to promote an affiliate product. To write effective ones, you need to know what the products are all about. So there’s no catch at all. I just want to give you a chance to review the ebooks so you can tell potential purchasers about them in your own words.

A 100% Affiliate Payout?

And I’m even going one step further, you get a chance to make your money back on your first sale. You will keep 100% of your first sale. No matter how much it is, 100% of your first sale will be paid to you (minus payment processing fees charged by, for example, PayPal).

How much can that 100% payout* be? As an example, if you sell the freelance writing e-course for $495, you will keep all of that. Sometimes, purchasers will buy more than one item under your affiliate link. So, for example, if they buy the SEO writing ebook ($39.95), and the Freelance Writing Ebook Package ($37) you will make $76.95.

Note: You are NOT obligated to purchase anything to become an affiliate. It’s absolutely free. You can just refer purchasers to the informational page I’ve written for each product.

How Do I Sign Up?

It will really be as simple as cutting and pasting a link on your site (which I will provide when the program officially opens). The reason I don’t want you to sign up now is because I’m still fine tuning some of the affiliate sales tools (discussed below). The program will be ready to go on Monday, August 25th.

“If I can’t sign up now, why are you telling me about it?”

One reason is, I opened my big mouth and promised to bring you more info on it in Wednesday’s blog post. And I like to keep my word. Also though, I wanted to give you a chance to take advantage of the deal discussed above and start formulating your affiliate marketing plan.

Coming Monday 8/25! Affiliate Tools to Help You Sell More

How to Write Effective Ebook Reviews: Sell the Sizzle, Not the Steak

10 FREE Things You Can Do to Sell More as an Affiliate Marketer: A Special Inkwell Editorial Affiliate Report.

This detailed report will dispense techniques I’ve been using to successfully promote my ebooks since 2004. It will discuss for example, why it’s important to mix high-priced and low-priced items, why you should “niche” it, why you should mention the “bad” points of a product, and much more.

How to Set Up a Virtual Freelance Writing Bookstore: Sell More in One Fell Swoop!

How to Put Together an Affiliate Marketing Plan: Chart Your Way to Affiliate Success

How to Get all of Inkwell Editorial’s Ebooks for Only $39.95!

To take advantage of this affiliate kickstart offer, just purchase the SEO writing ebook found on the IW order page (IW-11) (it will be delivered instantly via automatic download). All other ebooks will be emailed on 8/25, after you've signed up as an affiliate (they will be manually processed). I’ll be able to track who’s eligible for the affiliate “give back” from the dates you place an order for this specific ebook.

Remember, this offer is valid until Monday, August 25th at 9am EST if you sign up as an affiliate.

*100% Affiliate Program Payout Note. You are only eligible for the 100% affiliate payout if you take advantage of the special offer that runs from today until 8/25 at 9am EST.

Comments, Feedback, Suggestions

I’ve done a lot of research on affiliate marketing since the beginning of the year -- from two perspectives: (i) as a product developer; and (ii) as an affiliate seller.

I say this to encourage comments, feedbacks and suggestions because it’s all new to me as a product developer. I’ve tried to put together the most comprehensive, rewarding program -- with the right affiliate sales tools -- to help participants succeed. I’m all ears for feedback though.

Have a good weekend everybody -- I’m exhausted (writing for 10 straight hours will take it out of ya boy!).

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Guest Blogging: How long should you wait for an answer?

Appearing as a guest poster on other blogs is a great way to build traffic to your blog. I've experienced this first-hand, as I've been lucky enough to be featured on a few high-traffic blogs in my niche (eg, Copyblogger.com, FreelanceWritingGigs.com and FreelanceSwitch.com, to name three). Read more on my guest blogging journeys.

The Problem with Guest Blogging

The one problem I have with guest blogging though is that sometimes you dont' get a response, and then it's like, "now what?" Do I use the post on my own blog? How long should I wait to hear back? Will they ever use my post? So, in my post over at BloggingTips.com today, I addressed the "guest blogging query" question. Enjoy it.

Inkwell Editorial Affiliate Program

Over the last four months or so, I've had a few inquiries about an affiliate program, as in, do I have one and if I plan to implement one. It will be up and running next Monday. What will it entail? You will be able to sell any and/or all of Inkwell Editorial's ebooks and the freelance writing ecourse and and earn 50% off of each sale. All sales material will be provided. Stay tuned for much more detail on Friday.

Freelance Writing Jobs Are Starting to Pick Up Again

I've seen an uptick in client orders over the last week or so (I'm swamped this week into next). Many clients are getting orders from their clients who are priming themselves for the upcoming fall season. The ball is starting to roll A few weeks after Labor Day, things really pick up, so continue to market (or start if you haven't been doing so). The orders should start to roll in if you've been marketing like you should.

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
P.S.: Did you know that InkwellEditorial.com is the authority site on freelance writing? From article marketing to saving for retirement -- if it deals with freelance writing, you'll find info on it here. Pass it on!
***********************************************
Freelance Success Stories! There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, “starving freelancer.”

Previous Issue. Spotlight on Newbie Freelancers. Want to learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? There are also some blog warning tips if you're looking to move your blog from one platform to another -- and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.

Current Issue. Spotlight on YOU: Questions from Readers. Want to learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebook software to use and concrete advice on how to land paid blogging gigs? I answer these questions, and a few more from readers who wrote in. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
***********************************************
Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com. Except where noted, no part of this site may be reproduced in any manner without the express, written consent of the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

New Site for Freelance Writers to Make Money

Yesterday, I was conversing via email with fellow freelance writer Jacob Malewitz, and he brought up the subject of a relatively new site where freelance writers can make money.

DailyArticle.com: A Good Place for Freelance Writers to Sell Content?

I’d run across this site a few months ago in my web surfing, but dismissed it because as I wrote to Jacob, “I tend to stay away from those sites -- with what I charge [as an experienced freelance writer], it would be a waste of my time to compete with those who are willing to write 500-words for $8.00.”

But, Jacob opened my eyes and proved to me that this just might be a good site for freelance writers -- especially new ones who want to know what it feels like to actually sell something (it’s a grand, grand feeling I still get a kick out of).

Why New Freelance Writers May Want to Check Out DailyArticle.com

One of the most frustrating things when you are just starting out as a freelance writer is landing that first client, completing that first job and seeing funds hit your PayPal account (ie, getting paid).

Once you experience actually getting paid for your work as a freelance writer, you feel official -- it’s like, “Yeah, I CAN make a living doing this!” It’s an amazing feeling. Sites like DailyArticle can make you “official” long before you land repeat, specific clients. They can even lead to repeat clients.

How DailyArticle.com Works

The site works very similar to Constant-Content ONLY. Jacob had the following to say about it, “They are much like Constant-Content, just newer, and you get a better rate for your articles. They accept just about everything, but unlike Constant-Content the articles are for ALL rights, not just USAGE or UNIQUE rights. That turns off some writers.”

What is this Usage and Unique rights? There are many different kinds of rights associated with freelance writing. In this case, what it basically means is that you sell all rights to the article when you post it to DailyArticle. Following is their official copyright policy.

“Upon verified purchase, full rights to the materials purchased are transferred to the purchaser. Upon purchase, the purchaser has the right to use the content in any way, including but not limited to publishing, distributing, reproducing, and amending the materials to suit the purchaser's needs. The content becomes the intellectual property of the purchaser.” [DailyArticle.com]

Read more on the various types of freelance writing rights/copyrights you should know about as it relates to freelancing.

Freelance Writers: Price Your Articles Right for Them to Sell

This is one reason I don’t like sites like this for freelance writers is because if you don’t set your price high enough, then you wind up selling a 500-word article (and all rights to it) for mere pennies. On the other hand, if you do set your price high enough, then it likely won’t sell. And by high, I’m not talking a whole bunch of money either.

$15-$30 Article?

So, why would I recommend DailyArticle? Jacob emailed me the following, and it gave me pause. He wrote, “Actually, while many articles just won't sell, and some are priced low, I have sold several pieces for upwards of $30. My highest sale was $35. But my average is around $15 an article . . .”

While this is certainly not a king’s ransom, it beats the $3 per article article writing gigs that many new freelance writers (especially SEO writers) get sucked into thinking that this is where they have to start.

Freelance Writers Can Get Paid Even When There are No “Clients”

DailyArticle and sites like it (eg, Constant-Content.com, AssociatedContent.com) are places for freelance writers to still get paid even when there are no “clients.” And, many times these can lead to more lucrative assignments? How?

Let’s say your specialty is insurance and you write a lot of insurance articles. Once a purchaser gets to know your work (your articles), they may request your services outside of the site. This is how relationships are born -- and freelance writing careers start.

So mosey on over to DailyArticle.com. While you’re sitting around waiting for “real clients,” you can start feeling official as a freelance writer before you even land your first one.

FREELANCE WRITER CAUTION: I just have to add that while I think sites like DailyArticle.com are great for newbies who want to get their feet wet and experience what it feels like to actually sell something, or for more experienced freelance writers who wants to pick up some extra cash during dry spells, it is NOT (in my opinion) the way to make a real living as a freelance writer.

To make good money as a freelance writer, you need to find your own clients. That means constantly marketing.

Thanks Jacob for the inside info on DailyArticle.com. Jacob can be found online at Smiles-Media.com and CoffeeAndHeroes.Wordpress.com.

Want to start a successful freelance writing blog? Get the latest ebook available in the Inkwell Editorial Freelance Writing Bookstore, How to Start a Profitable, Popular Freelance Writing Blog. If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to the newsletter.

Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
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