PUBLISHER NOTE: If you are a regular reader of this blog, then you know about the upcoming freelance writing seminar in October. Details.
Many have inquired about what will be discussed at the seminar. So, in order to answer your questions and to get you prepared for what to expect, I've started a series of posts entitled "40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career."
To start at the beginning, click here. And, welcome to the blog. Now, on to today’s post . . .
The Big Lie Surrounding “Company Image”
Many freelancers assume that it’s the size of the client company that dictates the image of their company. Eg, if you write case studies, for example, your target market is most likely going to be mid- to large-sized companies. Hence, one could easily assume that your company’s image would be professional and reserved.
However, in my experience, this isn’t necessarily true. In my experience, it's the type of industry served that could dictate your company’s image. The reason could is italicized is that I’d even go a step further and say that it is the company’s owner (you) who decides the image. Why?
Because I don’t believe in forcing yourself to be something you’re not. If you naturally have more of an artistic edge, but like finance, then meld that. You could bring a fresh, fun image to the world of finance.
When you are yourself, you free yourself to naturally be better – without worrying about what image you should be trying to project. Instead, you just – project.
What Do You Think of Me?
I attend a lot of networking events and meet a ton of people – really nice people. People I like and wouldn’t hesitate to help out at the drop of a hat. EXCEPT when it comes to business. Huh? What do I mean?
Today’s topic is your company’s image. AND, I want you to forget terms like branding and image. These are Madison Avenue terms that look good on a glossy brochure, but don’t help you grasp the seriousness of the issue. So, I’m going to relay a story to illustrate exactly what I mean.
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Want to learn exactly what to do to earn $100, $150, $200/day or more as a freelance writer, editor and/or copy editor? Inkwell Editorial's upcoming Freelance Writing Seminar will tell you how. Details. It's a career anyone who can read and write can start -- with the right information.
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What Is the Difference Between a Bun and a Ponytail?
When I ran my staffing agency in New York City, for our outsource division, we used a staff of independent contractors (freelancers) to complete projects. Sometimes, the client would request that the person who worked on their project come into the office for the day.
I had one editor/copy editor/proofreader who was phenomenal – I mean, I never had to check her work because it was always top-notch. She always completed projects on time – usually a few days before, like clockwork. And, she turned projects in with detailed notes that usually gave the client ideas for how to make the project better. She was simply amazing.
BUT, I hesitated to give her projects where a client would likely want her to come onsite. I’d usually give the project to another freelancer. Why? Because she was slightly rumpled.
Her personality – outstanding. Work – impeccable. But, her look was one of disorganization. Let me stress, she didn’t break any overt grooming habits (eg, dirty clothing, body odor, bad breath, etc.).
So, what was “wrong” with her? For example, she had cats and invariably you could see stray cat hairs stuck to her clothing. She usually wore her hair in a ponytail that streamed down the middle of her back – but it wasn’t a neat ponytail. The hair had split ends and usually many of the hairs escaped her scrunchy. She tended to dress in “comfy” clothing that were more weekend wear than office attire (eg, sweatsuits or long, billowy dresses).
My agency’s clientele ranged from biggies like Random House and McKinsey & Company, to small, one-person graphic design firms.
I hesitated to send her onsite at the larger firms because her dress was not professional, and I hesitated to send her to smaller clients because I wanted to leave them with a certain impression of my company. Specifically, we are a professional company with professional workers who do impeccable work.
There were many times I wanted to grab her, put her hair in a simple bun and dress her in a monochromatic suit or simple business dress. But, I never did. I simply didn’t pass some projects her way.
The Lesson Here: Many people will never tell you what they think of you, your company or your customer service. They will simply stop using – and you won’t have a single clue as to why.
Why You Should Develop a “Company Culture” Before You Have a Company
While you may think that your company’s work speaks for itself, everyone you deal with – and refer – speaks to who you are as a company. So, it’s up to you to always make sure that you:
(i) have an idea/image/company culture in mind that you want to present to customers – before you open your doors;
(ii) take steps to foster and grow that image (eg, make sure your advertising and marketing efforts are in tune with your company’s image); and
(iii) ask customers how they perceive your company. This can be done via surveys, feedback solicitation, and/or a simple emailed questionnaire.
Tip: Before you start lining up clients, workers, vendors, etc., think about the type of person/company you’re bringing to your company (or the type of person you refer to others). A prospective client can think the world of you personally, but will hesitate to recommend or use you if you’re lacking in some areas – areas that aren’t even relevant to the job at hand.
NEXT POST: In Post #11 tomorrow, I’ll go over some business tips I got from Keith Bishop of Pitch Graphics, who will be a panelist at the upcoming seminar in October. He’s been in business for 25 years and he was kind enough to let me pick his brain over lunch today.
Note: Seminar attendees -- you're in for a real treat. Keith has a wealth of information that I don't think even he realizes the true value of. And, he shares so freely. I was soaking it all up -- to share with you, of course!
What do you think? If you have questions, comments or observations about this post, send them in. Email them to info [at] InkwellEditorial.com.
Editorially yours,
Yuwanda (who is this person?)
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Coming Next in the Inkwell Editorial Newsletter
September 12: Gordon Graham. We ring in the “editorial season” by interviewing Gordon Graham, aka “that white paper guy.” Gordon writes and edits white papers and case studies. He charges $90/hour just to edit a white paper and a minimum of $4,000 to produce a white paper from scratch.
Most freelancers don’t even dream of making this type of money. Now, do you see why I had to interview him?! I can’t wait for this interview.
Missed the latest issue of Inkwell's freelance writing newsletter? The 8/15 issue featured an interview with B2B freelance writer, Meryl K. Evans. Want to break into this very lucrative market? Meryl's interview sheds some detailed light on how. Sign up to receive your copy to read what Meryl had to say.
Gain clients, web traffic and brand awareness. How? Let us interview you for our popular newsletter? Full details. Read the first issue here.
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Thursday, September 06, 2007
POST #10: 40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career
Thursday, June 14, 2007
I Hate My Freelance Writing Career! (Part II of II)
Part I of this post examined how doing too much can make you hate your writing career – and how you can combat that.
Here, in Part II, two more reasons you may hate your writing career will be examined – and offer solutions to the problems.
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Freelance Writing Seminar: Employers tell exactly what they're looking for in freelancers -- and more! Get the details here.
Want to be featured in Inkwell Editorial's popular newsletter? Full details. Read the first issue here.
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2 More Reasons You May Hate Your Freelance Writing Career
Working on Projects I Don’t Care For: Lately, I’ve been working on a lot of projects that just don’t excite me.
To be honest, a lot of what I do doesn’t excite me, per say, but it’s work I don’t mind. During my slump though, it just seemed that the projects – one after the other – were things that I just didn’t like at all.
It was mentally exhausting gearing myself up to work on them.
The reason I’ve been taking on practically any and everything is I want to get out of debt within the next two years – all except for my mortgage. Read about that goal here.
While I have a reason for buckling down and doing work I really don’t enjoy, it was taking a toll on me mentally.
Solution: Either reset goals, or change your mindset. I opted to change my mindset by refocusing on my goal and really ingesting how it’s going to feel to be debt free except for my mortgage.
Now, I have to admit, this is hard -- really hard. And, this is where being a Type A Personality really comes in handy. We’re really good and setting goals and achieving them – no matter the sacrifice.
Putting Dreams on Hold: During this whole process – taking on projects I didn’t like, doing too much – I wasn’t doing anything that gave me personal joy. I was putting my dreams on hold. Eg, training for this year’s marathon.
I had a car accident in February that’s interrupted my training schedule. I don’t know if you know anything about athletes, but when we’re unable to work out, we can get cranky and depressed.
I’d forgotten this. Even though I’m only able to train at a measured pace, now that I’m back on the track, I feel joyous again!
Solution: Do something just for you; chase a dream. This is particularly important when you’re going through trying times.
The Most Important Thing You Can Do To Break Out of a Writing Funk
One of the things I’ve noticed is that I get frustrated when I work without a plan. Many of us go through life without one. We just kind of do our thing – day after day, week after week, month after month.
But, have you ever stopped to think, “Where is this road I’m on taking me? Where do I want to be in 3 years, 5 years, 10 years?”
If you don’t have a life plan – get one – now! It can center you like never before. I talk about how having a life plan helped me make a decision when an “opportunity of a lifetime” was dropped in my lap. Read about it here.
Planning forces you to focus on what’s really important to you. If you’re in a writing funk, it usually has nothing to do with writing, and everything to do with your life.
Here's hoping you never "feel the funk," or get out of it soon if you're already there.
Monday's Post: How Googling Your Name Can Lead to Cash
EXCERPT: There are billions (yes, billions!) of websites on the Internet. Getting noticed is extremely difficult -- if not impossible. Googling your name and leveraging those contacts who already know about you can go a long way to increasing your income. We'll examine three ways to leverage this name recognition -- and put cash in your pocket!
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Monday, June 11, 2007
Editor-in-Chief Job Opening: An Opportunity of a Lifetime, Or Not?
I recently had what some would refer to as the opportunity of a lifetime. My blog led to an Editor-in-Chief’s job offer. Read about it here. I turned it down. You can read why here.
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Don’t be a schizophrenic entrepreneur: As I said in the aforementioned post, I’m somewhat of a schizophrenic entrepreneur. Meaning, I like to try many different things.
Many freelancers/entrepreneurs/small business owners fail at this one simple thing. They flit from one thing to the next – hoping the next idea will be “the one,” never giving their all to any one thing – over a period of time.
Think of it this way, if trickling water – over time -- can reduce a mountain to pebbles, why would you assume it couldn’t make you successful?
Form a plan, work it consistently and watch your business grow. That's the real key to success.
And this is fine – just make sure the change is something you want because it will lead to greater happiness, not because of the opportunity at hand. Why? Because if, for whatever reason, the opportunity doesn’t pan out, you still have your life plan to contend with.
Even if an opportunity only takes you a little farther down that road, at least you’ll be a little closer to your end goal – not off on a detour that takes you farther away from it.
Getting older is a blessing: I don’t know if this holds true for everyone, but I delight in getting older. I see my truth more clearly. Hence, I’m able to choose wiser what is right for me – not my family, my friends, or my professional associates.
Being comfortable in my own skin, which for me, has come with age, has made me treasure and value me – a lot more than I ever did before.
When you think that the earth is billions, perhaps trillions of years old, and we get 70, 80 or 90 years on it – if we’re lucky – you want to make every decision count – towards happiness.
TOMORROW'S POST: How to Divide Your Marketing Budget for Maximum Success
EXCERPT: I was listening to the Dave Ramsey show on the radio one day. The show’s focus that day was on small business owners. a caller asked a really interesting question that I think freelancers could learn from. He said that he had set his marketing budget for the year, and he wanted to know how to spend it for maximum effect.
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Monday, May 21, 2007
5 Things You Must Look for in a Freelance Writing Mentor (Part I of III)
Over the years, I've been asked many times by freelancers if I would be their mentor. I'm always flattered, but have never done it simply because I don't have the time. I usually refer inquirers to my website and blog, as it is all about the business of freelancing.
For those who want one, following are some things to look for in a freelance writing mentor.
POST CONTINUED BELOW
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1. Tech Savvy: You want a mentor who is tech-savvy. They don't have to be Bill Gates tech-savvy, but at least be up on the latest technology.
How do you determine this without outright asking? Look for their website, their blog, see if they publish a newsletter, or air material via a podcast.
Also, scour their writings. Have they written on tech, referred to it in a newsletter, eg, "I recently attended a teleseminar," etc.
Why is it important that your mentor be tech savvy? As I discussed in the article Lessons I've Learned from 19+ Years as a Freelancer & Recruiter in the Editorial Industry, "I had to know enough [technology] to be able to stay competitive. This meant not only getting a [web]site, but learning how to update it myself."
Technology saves you time and money - two things freelancers are usually very short on. If you don't have a website, how are you going to sell yourself? Potential clients expect one nowadays - it's like trying to do business without a telephone.
Updating Your Website: You always want to have the latest sample on your site. Also, things like media blurbs, speaking engagements, testimonials for clients, etc.
All of these are individual updates - and, it can get very expensive to have someone constantly update it. So, learning enough HTML, or creating a site with a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) software like FrontPage will save you thousands of dollars over time.
2. Variety: I don't necessarily mean across genres, although this is a nice bonus, but I mean variety in the types of projects they take on.
For example, I do freelance writing, editing, copy editing, word processing and copywriting. I also create newsletters, brochures, postcards, write sales letters and provide web content.
Why is variety important? Quite simply, clients will approach you with different projects once they are pleased with your initial work.
I started doing brochures and newsletters because clients started requesting them. For example, years ago I had a client who was a web marketer. She initially hired me to copyedit her web content.
One time, when I turned a project in, she asked me if I could develop a monthly e-newsletter for her prospect list. She asked because she liked the way I copyediting her material. Basically, I rewrote a lot of her stuff - rearranging material for more impact and deleting material that I thought was excess.
When she asked, I said sure. Although I had never developed a newsletter for a client before, I knew what they were and also that I could go on the Internet and find good samples.
NOTE: Never turn down work that you can easily find out how to do. Most small business owners (who are the majority of my clients) are very busy and usually whatever you come up with will be so much better than they expected that they will be forever grateful.
The web is packed with templates, how-to information, easy-to-use software, etc., that it is relatively easy to pick up a new skill/software and teach yourself how to use it - usually within a matter of hours.
This is another reason you want a mentor who is tech-savvy.
I heard a quote on the radio the other day that's stuck with me. It went, "Years ago, workers advanced in society based on how they performed their job; today, workers advance because of what they know, not what they do."
Technology has made this so, so true. So, choose a mentor wisely.
Tomorrow: Part II of this article will discuss two more things you should look for in a freelance writing mentor, and the third part will reveal the number one thing you want to look for in a mentor - and why.
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Thursday, May 10, 2007
What to Do When You're Tired of Writing
I'm going through a phase right now where I'm tired of writing. Literally, it's all I can do to update my blog and turn out client projects. It's not spring fever - that usually passes in a few days - this is something more like exhaustion and boredom (not for client ears!).
So, when freelance writing is your job, what do you do when something like this happens? Following are three things that help - until you can take that week off and head to the beach.
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P.S.: All e-books are written from first-hand experience, or are told from first-hand accounts. So, you get concrete advice straight from those who have been where you are -- and are now where you want to be.
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1. Examine the Slump: If you find that "I don't feel like writing" feeling turning into a "I don't like writing" feeling, then it's time to examine if your slump is something more.
For each person, the timeframe for examining when it's more than a slump will be different, but listen to your gut.
Every writer goes through periods where they can't stand their computer. This usually passes in a relatively short period of time.
But, like every other profession, maybe your "writing" career has run its course. Or, maybe it's time to take your skill in another direction. Eg, instead of business writing, maybe you'd like to try fiction writing. Or, maybe you'd like to be a researcher instead.
Freelance writers may experience some sense of guilt if they find that they don't like their job because everyone thinks they're crazy - after all, you get to work in your jammies and be home all the time. Who wouldn't love that?
But, this life is not for everyone. So, don't be afraid to face this possibility if that's what it really is.
2. Just do it: Like any other job, you just have to sit down and get to it. I can be the biggest procrastinator in the world, especially when I'm working on a project that doesn't interest me.
I will find 90 different things that need my attention - except for the one that pays my bills. BUT, eventually, I plop my derriere in a chair and bang out what I need to bang out.
And, you know what? Once I get started, I usually find the inspiration to do more than is required. Sometimes, just sitting down and getting started is all that's needed.
So, just do it!
3. Work on Other Stuff: I've been wanting to update my website, but haven't had time to. I still don't really, but, I've allotted a portion of my week to working on this now that I'm in this little "I don't want to write phase."
I don't have the luxury of outright not writing, much like many don't have the option of not going to work when they don't' feel like it. BUT, I can shift my attention. As for writing, I do only what's absolutely necessary, then work on other projects.
Make these projects work related, so you don't feel like you've abandoned your career altogether. Eg, tackle marketing.
Many freelance writers shove this to the side all too often. So, if you don't want to write - for whatever reason - make marketing your priority. Submit old content to free article directories, re-design your website, send out copies of your free e-book, etc.
This serves a double purpose: (i) you get the word out about your product/services; and (ii) you get inspired when you start getting orders and/or more work from your marketing efforts.
Sometimes, all you need is a little push, a little validation to get you inspired again.
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career
I did it -- I finished! The e-books I've been promising to re-list on InkwellEditorial.com have all been officially revised and uploaded. I may look like the guy pictured here, but I don't care -- I finally got it done -- woooohooooo!
OTHER TITLES:
How to Really Make a Living as an Editorial Freelancer
How to Get Your Biz on the Web Quickly & Affordably: An Easy-to-Follow Guide in Plain English for Those New to Internet Terminology & Web Technology
How to Break Into Medical Editing/Copyediting
NEW -- Recently Published! Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Article Marketing: Results of a 30 Day Article Marketing Experiment
NEW -- Recently Published! 7 Ways a Freelance Writer Can Expand Your Profits – No Matter What Your Business Is! [FREE giveaway to potential clients, subscribers, seminar attendees, etc.]
And more! Click here to access the full list and to read detailed excerpts.
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P.S.: There are some combination deals that save you 50-70%.
P.P.S.: All e-books are written from first-hand experience, or are told from first-hand accounts. So, you get concrete advice straight from those who have been where you are -- and are now where you want to be.
Log on to order. It's fast, simple, safe and secure.
NOTE: All e-books are delivered as .pdf files within 24 hours of purchasing (excluding weekends), usually much less.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Blogs That Make You Think . . .And/Or Do Other Stuff
On April 26th, Lillie Amman awarded this blog the Thinking Blogger's Award. As described on her blog:
Needless to say, I was flattered beyond belief. So, for my five picks:Iker Yoldas at The Thinking Blog* created the award and describes the award and the rules in Thinking Blogger Awards. The award recognizes blogs that make people think, and those who receive the award then pass the award on to five blogs that make them think.
*NOTE: This blog is no longer online, but the award lives on. Tres cool! {NOTE: Cartoon courtesy of www.weblogcartoons.com.}
1. Problogger.net: If you want to know about blogs, this is THE blog to go to. Darren (the blogmaster) is a six-figure blogger and the depth of information to be found on this site is astounding -- especially about monetizing a blog.
Other things I like about this blog -- it's professionally written; the topics are timely and relevant; and the best thing about this blog -- the information is in-depth and helpful.
Darren doesn't gloss over topics like a lot of blogs do. He really goes into detail so you always come away feeling like you got a new, better and/or different take on an issue.
2. The Golden Pencil: This blog reminds me of my own in the sense that it relays helpful information to freelance writers via articles. It also lists jobs for freelance writers and has links to other blogs on freelance writing.
3. Paula Mooney's Blog: I first encountered Paula's writing on AssociatedContent.com. A black woman who knows tech stuff -- I was jealous and incredulous all at once.
Paula writes across a broad spectrum and her pieces have great headlines that just suck you in. Eg, a recent entry is Paula's List of Blogger Salaries...Are you on the list? Who wouldn't click on that?! NYU School of Journalism, you should tag her blog to teach how to write effective headlines.
FYI Paula, I'm going to tap you to help me cowrite a book on tech stuff -- as soon as I can finish formulating the idea in my head -- this should be before the year 2020.
4. Hot Diggity: This is Jenna Glatzer's blog. She's a successful freelance writer who's collaborated on a book about Celine Dion, has authored children's books and was the founder and editor-in-chief of AbsoluteWrite.com, one of the best freelance writing sites on the web.
Even though I first ran across Jenna's writing while doing some research on freelance writing for an article a few years ago, I read her blog not because she is a fellow freelance writer, but because her sense of humor cracks me up.
On her blog, she writes about almost everything but writing -- which is the blog's purpose -- to get away from writing about and promoting writing.A sample of Jenna's humor can be found in the following missive from her 2/7/07 post:
I love my electronic toothbrush, but it seems I can't handle it. I manage to get toothpaste on myself about every other day. And toothpaste has this supernatural quality-- you can rinse it off, really rubbing the fabric so it looks like it's all gone, and when it dries, poof! The toothpaste is still there. Taunting you. Like those birthday candles you can never blow out.
Jason's been blogging almost daily since 1998 -- which is a major feat, when you consider that most bloggers give up after a few months. During the year that he blogged full-time (he gave it up as a full-time gig in 2006), he raised $39,900 from 1,450 donors. Read an update in this piece.
Jason blogs about any and everything and his blog is neat and well organized -- always a big hit with me. I check it out from time to time out of loyalty and admiration.
So, there you have it -- my picks.
I don't spend too much time reading blogs because as a full-time freelance writer, time is money and I'm usually trying to beat a deadline.
To Darren, Anne, Paula, Jenna and Jason -- continued success with your blogs.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda
InkwellEditorial.com
InkwellEditorial.blogspot.com
P.S.: Re the freelance writing e-books that I've been promising will be back online forever and a day now. Finally, finally got them proofed and ready to upload. BUT, what happens. Software problems -- arrgghhhh! Got the kinks worked out last night and -- fingers crossed -- just have to put in the PayPal codes for payment and back up they will be by tonight (I pray!).
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Friday, April 27, 2007
Freelance Writers: How to Turn Negative Comments into Cash
The Wrath of the Poison Pen
As a freelance writer, the more you churn out, the greater chance you have of someone spewing venom your way. This can crush the spirit of even the toughest freelancer. I'm starting to get more and more of these because I've been writing and publishing a lot lately - on my blog, to free article marketing directories, etc.
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WORK-FROM-HOME E-BOOKS: Freelance from home! Just a reminder, Inkwell Editorial's work-from-home, how-to freelance writing e-books will be back on InkwellEditorial.com this weekend.
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BUT, instead of letting it get me down, I've created a system of rules that turns negative comments into cash - in a roundabout way. What are the rules?
1. Thou shalt not respond: Instead of wasting my time - which is money when you freelance for a living - responding to these, I just read them and let them go.
On the few occasions where I have responded, I haven't felt much better. So, I figured, why waste my time. I look at it this way, people who have the time to viscerally attack my writing - without making any salient points to the contrary - really aren't worth my time.
If you write for a living, you literally don't have time to work up such anger over someone's writing -- so much so that you sit down and spew out an attack. In my expereince, if you have this kind of time, then you're not making a full-time living writing.
2. Use it to spur me on: This is a mental tactic. The more people criticize, the more it makes me want to do better. After all, success is the best revenge.
Let me say, I don't mind when someone disagrees with what I wrote. It's when there are personal attacks, or those comments that just seem to come out of left field for no apparent reason, that drive me batty. Correction: Used to drive me batty.
After I made my resolution - around the beginning of the year - I've noticed that it takes me less and less time to "get over" one. I have a pretty quick temper, so things rile me pretty easily (don't worry, I'm working on it).
But, "stress kills" as my 13-year-old nephew is fond of saying. As an African American woman, I'm all too aware of how prevalent stress tends to affect my health anyway. So, I "relax, relate and release."
3. Search for the grain of truth: When I'm feeling like a really big girl, I look for the grain of truth in what some ranter has written.
I recently got a comment on one of my articles on Digg.com. The poster noted that my website was "crowded." And, it wasn't said in the nicest way.
In spite of how pissed off it made me, I thought, "you've been meaning to clean up the site for some time, Yuwanda," so this poster is not too far off the mark. I just wish they'd been nicer about saying it is all.
AND, I didn't write a word back. Good girl, gooooddd girl, Yuwanda.
So, the next time someone points their poisonous pen at your much-beloved work, tell'em to go to . . . I mean, ah, use it constructively - find a way to turn it into cash!
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Wednesday, April 25, 2007
How to Organize Your Day to Become a Successful Freelance Writer
$1,000/Week is Very Possible Putting the Following into Motion
If you want to become a successful freelance writer, you have to first begin by organizing your day to make it happen. If you focus on organizing one day, then follow that plan for three weeks to make it a habit, you'll have no problem achieving success in this field.
NOTE: Most experts agree that for something to become a habit, you should do it for at least three weeks - continuously - before it will stick.
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WORK-FROM-HOME E-BOOKS: Freelance from home! Just a reminder, Inkwell Editorial's work-from-home, how-to freelance writing e-books will be back on InkwellEditorial.com this weekend.****************************
1. Block Out Hours for a 10-hour Workday: I know, I know, this is not popular, but for the first year or so, you are going to have to put in 9 or 10 hours a day (sometimes more) to make it happen. So, just get used to it.
People wonder how I do all that I do and the my answer always is organization and willpower. I know what I want and am not afraid to work hard to get it. So, 10 hours - wrap your brain around it and move on.
2. Create a Marketing Plan: A marketing plan is like your map to success. Without it, you will be like a dog chasing its tail - going around and around in circles making no progress at all.
Of course, creating a marketing plan means deciding what type of writing you want to do, who your target market is, how you will reach them, how much it's going to cost you, what your pricing schedule is, etc.
This doesn't have to be fancy, and it doesn't have to cost a bundle - but it is a must. Remember, marketing is a numbers game. If send out 50 mailers a week, that's 200 hundred a month. A 1-3% return will bring in 2-6 prospects.
If you close half of these, that's 1-3 new clients a month. When you look at the numbers like this, it's really not so hard, is it?
Build up your client list to 25 or 30, and you should stay fairly busy.
3. Create a Realistic Pricing Schedule: Many freelancers work for peanuts. Hey, I still do sometimes. But, it all depends on my goal. I have an income goal that I set each month. If I feel like I'm falling behind that, you betcha I take on low-paying projects.
Stipulations for Low-Paying Projects
I don't do it on a regular basis and I have certain stipulations that must be met (eg, is this going to be a repeat client, a bottom line (I do have a rock-bottom minimum), what the project is, how long it's going to take, etc.
Industry Wage Minimum
I've given up on this market having a stable industry norm, as discussed in my 11/7/06 post, Should Freelance Writers Have a Minimum Wage?
Some writers are going to rail that you're low-balling; some clients are going to say that you're too high. I say create a pricing schedule that works for you. As discussed in 2/8/07 post, Are You a High Stakes or Low Balling Freelance Writer?, only you can decide what "price" is right for you.
4. Diversify Your Income Streams: As I said in my 1/31/07 post, How to Make $100/Day as a Freelance Writer, "Choosing two or three different types of writing you can do well. For example, you might do resumes, articles and web copy."
Also, create your own products to sell, eg, e-books; use write-for-pay sites like AssociatedContent.com; and/or set up a website on sites like CafePress.com to sell t-shirts, mugs, etc.
Diversifying your income streams means that when projects dry up, you're not left out in the cold.
5. Market, Market, Market: While this point could fall under Tip #2, I wanted to write it as a stand alone - last.
Make it your business to get out a certain number of marketing messages a week. Whether this means mailing out 100 postcards, sending out 200 emails or, attending two networking events and passing out 20 brochures.
You can't get business unless you get in front of prospects. Staying home, surfing the net, lamenting about why no business is coming in will not make you successful.
For the first year at least, you're going to have to work your butt off to get business in the door.
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com.
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Thursday, April 19, 2007
How to Increase Your Freelance Writing Income by 25% or More (Part I of II)
I've been a freelance writer since 1993 and have learned a few tricks of the trade. I wrote an article in 2006 entitled "10 Lessons I've Learned from 19+ Years as a Freelancer & Recruiter in the Editorial Industry."
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WORK-FROM-HOME E-BOOKS: Freelance from home! Just a reminder, Inkwell Editorial's work-from-home, how-to freelance writing e-books will be back on InkwellEditorial.com this weekend.
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1. Don't read your own material online. Why? Quite simply, because it wastes time. A lot of my work is done virtually, but once I hand the project off to the client, it's rare that I see it again.
Sometimes they use it as is, and sometimes they rework it. Usually, it doesn't carry my byline, so I have no way to search for it unless I go to the client's website and type in certain key phrases I know it should contain.
But, I rarely, if ever do this.
But, article directories, press releases and blog posts are a different thing. I've built up quite a body of work in these arenas in the past couple of years. And you know what? I've found that I have a tendency to read my writings online - as if I don't already know what it's going to say.
Colossal waste of time! And not for nothing, when I read a piece, I invariably spot a phrase I wish I'd written differently, or gosh darn it - a typo or misused word (eg, who's for whose).
So, I've made a concerted effort in the last month or so to say away from my work online - eg, articles submitted to online directories, blog posts and press release.
Of course, website pages are different - you can - and should - update these. But, this type of nitpicking kills precious, income-producing time.
2. Incorporate "Template Writing" Into Your Writing Routine: What is this? Quite simply, where you create a formula (a template) to use for writing you do on a regular basis.
I outlined how you can increase your income by up to 50% using template writing in the article, Increase Your Freelance Income by 50% Immediately -- How "Template Writing" Can Help You Become a Prolific Freelance Writing Machine.
If you regularly write, for example, restuaurant reviews, how-to articles, product reviews, press releases, etc., creating a template will speed up your output.
In the freelance writing game, the more you produce, the more you make. Income is almost always directly linked to production. As most of us are not Stephen King-royalty-and-residual-blessed, we have to grind out copy.
As I state in the subtitle, template writing can turn you into a freelance writing machine! The second part of this article will discuss three more ways you probably haven't heard of to increase your freelance writing income - by at least 25%.
Tomorrow's Post: 3 More Ways to Increase Your Freelance Writing Income by 25%: How to turn into a freelance writing machine (Part II of II).
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com to learn how.
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Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Networking No No's: What NOT to Do when You Network
I usually, I write about freelancing issues. After all, this blog is about the BUSINESS of freelancing. However, I've decided to start devoting one post a week to full-time career issues, as I've been peppered since the beginning of the year with these types of questions.
Sincerely,
Y. Black, Publisher
InkwellEditorial.com
InkwellEditorial.blogspot.com
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NOTE: The following advice can be used if you are promoting yourself as a potential employee, or if you're networking as a business owner.
TODAY'S ARTICLE
If you're serious about building a business, or landing a new job, networking can help you reach your goal faster than any other form of marketing or advertising.
Following are three things you should not do when you are networking. Remember, you are building relationships that can, ostensibly, pay off for years to come. Don't ruin it by doing the following:
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1. Represent the "right" business (or career aspiration): What I mean is, don't introduce yourself under one business and network under another. Or, if you're seeking a full-time position, talk about your side business Let me explain.
I belong to two chambers of commerce in my area. Chambers of Commerce, by the way, are excellent venues for networking. Want to know more, click here.
Many times, I've been at a networking event and someone will approach me with their "side" business, eg, I work for XYZ corporation, but I have an event planning company I want to talk to you about.
This is unprofessional, for a couple of reasons: i) it's unethical. If your company has paid for you to be a member of a chamber, don't promote your side business on their dime. Join the chamber under your own company name.
If you're networking to land a new position, tell the Chamber representative that. Ask if you can come as a one-time guest. Or, find a member who will bring you along as their guest and introduce yourself as a professional looking for a new position.
Not only will your company benefit from the advertising the chamber does for members (eg, mailings, website listing and e-mail blasts); ii) it shows that you are serious about growing this side venture.
I often wonder if I will get paid if I do work for a company that doesn't have enough leadership to recognize the above-mentioned points.
2. Give Before Receiving: Networking is a slow build. It's rare that you will get immediate business from this type of marketing. Find out how you can become a resource for members - eg, recommend others who may be great contacts for businesses in the group; start a referral newsletter; pass along other networking opportunities.
Nine times out of 10, most of the people you meet at networking functions are there to sell something. Everyone knows this. BUT, if you are constantly asking for business, without giving leads to others, you will become known as a taker.
Karma works in all aspects of life. What you give comes back to you; so instead of being on the lookout for those who can help you, look for ways you can give to the group. Even if the majority of leads you pass out never work out, people remember those who take the time to give them leads or recommend the services of others.
3. Don't Be a Pest: I've met some extremely aggressive people in my networking circles. And, I cut them a wide berth. If you approach someone and they are not interested in hiring you as an employee (or express an interest in your product/service), stay in contact, but unobtrusively so.
Don't continue to call when they've clearly "brushed you off" a few times. That's why I like newsletters; they allow you to stay in touch without being a pest.
Don't publish a newsletter? Try passing along "Business Tips of the Day;" "Sales Tip of the Day;" or a "Community Events at a Glance" calendar.
In the case of job hunting, a brief touch-base email or phone call every few weeks will suffice.
All of these are viable, unobtrusive ways to keep your business top-of-mind - for the right reasons.
The fact is, depending on your profession and/or business, there will be very few people you actually meet while networking who can give you business (or hire you) directly. BUT, you're really building a line of trust so that when they "know someone who knows someone" who needs your product/service, you will be the first one they think of.
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Copyright Notice: May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of InkwellEditorial.com: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to InkwellEditorial.com to learn how.
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