I blogged about a situation I had with one client recently where I stuck to my pricing guns. It's a scenario all freelace writers will have to deal with at some point. I hope it proves insightful.
Read, Freelance Writing Rates: How to Stick to Your Pricing Guns, at BloggingTips.com.
Wanna appear on this blog? Submit a guest post.Nothing more than that to say today dear readers. Hope y'all (yep, I'm southern) had a good weekend.
Yuwanda (anytime you wanna know what I'm up to, check me out on Twitter)
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
P.S.: Where are all the freelance writing jobs? Find out in the 2008-2009 Freelance Writing Jobs Report
Hot Stuff Around Here!
Freelance Writing Job: Write 4 Pages for $1,500
$100 for SEO Articles: How to Become a Highly Paid SEO Copywriter
How to Start a Freelance Writing Career in Less than 24 Hours for $0
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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.” Current Issue: How to Make the Most Money as a Freelance Writer. 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, December 17, 2008
How to Stick to Your Freelance Writing Rates
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Why Being Told Your Freelance Writing Rates are Too High is a Good Thing
Yesterday, I sent a proposal over to a client who wanted me to rewrite a home page for one of his client sites. I was told that my rate was too high. I politely thanked him for thinking of me and promptly forgot about it.
Client Background: This is a client that I work with on a regular basis. He tends to be a bit of a stickler on rates, so I quote him with that in mind -- to a certain degree.
How to Take It When You Lose a Project Because Your Rates are "Too High"
It didn't bother me to lose the project because I know what it would have required. Instead of a rewrite, it would have required me to start from scratch. I had written some SEO articles for the site -- at the request of this same client -- so was familiar with it.
While I was writing the SEO articles, it had occurred to me that the site needed a complete overhaul, as it was disjointed and didn't spell out the benefits to the clients. Instead, it talked about the company and what they did.
This is one of the major mistakes many clients make -- they try to sell themselves based on what they do -- instead of what their product/service will do for their target market. But, I digress.
When I'm told that my rates are too high, I don't fret, for the following reasons:
Striking a Balance: I know it's a sign that I've struck a good balance. If you don't hear from clients every once in a while that your rates are too high -- you should probably be charging more. The reason is, you’re not challenging the market -- ie, charging what it will bear. You always want to push this envelope to be paid what you're truly worth.
Higher-End Clients: Clients run the gamut -- from simple price shoppers to high-end, "value-oriented" clients. Price shoppers will almost always be looking for the cheapest rates. Higher-end clients put a premium on the value that you as a freelance writer bring to their business.
They won't quibble as much about rate -- they just want the project done right. Strangely enough, many higher-end clients won't even consider using freelance writers who charge too little because they're skeptical about the value you can provide.
Therefore, when you set your freelance writing rates, set them with higher-end clients in mind, not lower-end, price-shopping clients. Why? Because as soon as price-shopping clients find another freelance writer with lower rates (and they always can), they will jump ship.
Higher-end clients tend to be more loyal because, again, they look at the long-term value you bring to their business, not what a particular project is costing them.
Freelance Writing Rates: How to Price Your Services Right
When deciding on your freelance writing rates chart, one of the best ways to know what to charge is to actually do a project. For example, if you’re an SEO copywriter and want to know how long it takes to churn out a 350-500 word, keyword-driven article -- write one.
If you want to know how long it takes to pull together a case study, research and write one. FYI, this doesn't have to be work you do in vain. For example, you can write a case study on your business and use it as a marketing piece.
There's nothing like first-hand knowledge. With this in hand, you will be able to comfortably come up with competitive freelance writing rates.
Just some food for thought.
Sincerely,
Yuwanda
Contact: info *at* InkwellEditorial.com
Recent Hot Blog Topics
Marketing Advice for Freelance Writers: How to Create “Sticky” Clients & Make More Money
Why SEO Articles are the Best Free Marketing Tools on the Web
How Would You Like to Make $1,000 in an Hour?
How to Start a Freelance Writing Career in Less than 24 Hours for $0
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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.”
Current Issue: How to Make $500/Month or in Passive Income. Unlike a 9-5 job, freelance writers don't have company-sponsored 401K plans, medical benefits, paid days off, etc. All these are paid for by us. Wouldn't it be nice to create a passive income stream that brought in $1,000, $3,000, $5,000 a month or more? Affiliate marketing can do this. Interviews with three successful affiliate marketers reveal how. One is only 25 years old and is working on his first five-figure month after only 9 months! 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 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
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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.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Have Freelance Writing Rates Degenerated into an Elitist/Classist War?
Two things today dear readers:
1) 10 wet noodle licks for me: I'm going to get Parts II and III of the How to Write Content that Generates Traffic series to you next week. I've gotten three rush projects in the last two days that have just thrown everything off. And, being right in the middle of a web redesign hasn't helped either . . .
Couple that with the fact that I'm trying to leave a clean desk b/c I'm off to Chicago this weekend for a graduation party for my girlfriend. Single mom, mid-40s, completed nursing school (chemistry, physics and biology) near the top of her class. I couldn't be more proud -- or in awe. If I had to take physics at my age . . . well, just go ahead and flunk me right now! I barely passed 10th grade chemistry. :-)
2) The Freelance Writing "Rate Debate" Rages On: I received the following email from someone today who just ran across my blog, so I wanted to get your take. After you read it, I'd like to know your feelings regarding the following:
Are some writers shooting themselves in the foot by not being flexible on rates?
Are "higher-end" freelance writers hurting more now? [Boy, this smacks so much of classism/elitism to me that I cringe even typing it]
Should long-time freelance writers accustomed to charging more adjust their rates?
Are you having a hard time landing new gigs?
Click here to read the entire post.
FYI, I'm see you back here next Tuesday -- to perhaps continue this debate -- but for sure to crank out the rest of the traffic-generating content series (a thousand mea culpas for delaying this).
Useful Freelance Writing Links
Ebooks on How to Start a Freelance Writing Career
Need to Drive Traffic to Your Website?
Get Affordable Content for Your Website, Ezine, Etc.
Advice, Tips, Case Studies & More on Freelance Writing
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
P.S.: Want the liberty of working from home as a freelance writer in your PJs, getting assignments via the internet? Click here for more on How to Make $250+/Day Writing Simple, 500-Word Articles. All you need is a computer and an internet connection to get started.
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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. Wanna learn how one freelancer landed enough clients to quit his job in just 12 hours? And, 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. Wanna learn about ghostwriting, how cut to the chase and "get started" as a freelance writer, which instant download ebooks 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: Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! 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, May 06, 2008
Is it Time to Raise Your Freelance Writing Rates? 5 Signs That Signal "Yes!"
Today's post is about recognizing when it's time to raise your freelance writing rates. Yes, there is a time for this! When was the last time you raised rates? Why did you do it? Did you get more business, or less? Read the five signs I outline here and share your insight. NOTE: As of 4/30/08, Inkwell Editorial's blog has moved to WordPress. Please bookmark this and visit us regularly at our new home.
P.S.: Want to learn how to make $250/day or more as an article writer? Get full details here and check out freelance writing job leads here.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Writers: How to Ask for More Money & Get It (3 Case Studies)
Week before last, I had a helluva week. So, I'm delivering the posts I promised from then this week. If you wanna know what's on tap the rest of the week, see the end of this post. Today's topic is about money, as in how to ask for -- and get -- more of it as a freelance writer.
During my busy time a couple of weeks ago, I had three occasions where I had to confront the “rate question.” Lessons can be learned from each of them. Some reinforced long-ago lessons learned; some taught me new ones.
Here’s how to handle the following rate question and all of its variations, ie, “How much do you charge?” or “How much should I charge?” or "What are your freelance writing rates?"
Case Study #1: How I Asked for More Money and Got It When the Parameters of the Project Changed Midstream
One was with the client I wrote about in the post How to Handle Clients Who Leave Projects "Hanging in the Wind". In essence, the client was throwing more work my way and the project was progressing as we had discussed.
When this happens, it costs you money, so you have every right to ask for more money. I’m usually not a real stickler on charging clients for every little thing. Writing is a creative endeavor, so I understand that every teensy, weensy element can’t be covered in a proposal. So, some things I’ll just let go. But, you have to have parameters.
This reinforced the following lesson: Make air tight proposals. And this includes setting your fee schedule to cover wiggle room in your proposal. In the fee that I’d quoted this client, I’d built in a certain number of hours for consultation, so that if the project “runs over” (and a lot of them will, especially with sales copy), then you’re still covered. And by being covered, I mean that your average hourly rate evens out to what you’ve set as an annual salary for yourself.
To keep it really simple, if your goal is to make $100K/year and you calculate using a 50 week year (build in two weeks time off), then you need to make $2,000/week. At 35 hours, that means you have to bill roughly $58/hour. [$100,000 / 50 (weeks/year) = $2,000 week (target salary). $2,000 / 35 hours per work week = $57.14]
Takeaway Lesson: Learn how to write tight proposals. This is why clients who leave projects hanging in the wind can cost you. BUT, if you learn how to write tight proposals, they don’t necessarily have to.
Tight proposals include listing the major details of the project, your specific duties, turnaround time, payment terms, number of changes, etc. This way, if there’s every a problem, you can always point back to the specifics as they were outlined initially. This will keep you and the client on the same page.
By the way, I handled this client by simply asking for more money. He simplified his requests and agreed to pay more if the project ran over. In the end, it worked out to both of our satisfaction, which is always the end goal.
Click here to read two more case studies like this.
Tomorrow's Post: Learn How to Think Like a Marketer.
FYI, tomorrow's post was inspired by a great email I got when I turned on my computer this morning. A college student who bought my ebook this past weekend has already landed 4 clients! My mouth dropped. But, what really excited me was that he goes on to say that he thinks he can replace his income and be a FT writer. Now THAT'S making an impact on somebody's life (it made my whole day). He wrote me the following:
SEO Work Success!!! (The title of the email)
Hi Yuwanda,
I just wanted to share with you my story, briefly. I am currently a 5th year senior in college, and I’ve been running a (failing) copywriting business for the last year, trying to get work from local businesses in the area. I stumbled across your website last week and bought your eBook because it seemed interesting (and was only 10 bucks). After reading it, I decided to give SEO writing a try.
This afternoon (Monday), I sent out 24 emails to SEO companies requesting work after setting up an SEO page on my website (he listed his website) . Within an HOUR, I had one email requesting samples, and a phone call requesting my services! Within twelve hours, I had FOUR companies asking me to write for them!!! (emphasis added) I’m officially a writer now!
And, because I serve tables for a living, replacing my income won’t be that hard! By the end of this week, I should know whether or not I can go freelance FULL TIME! (emphasis added) And I just wanted to send you an emphatic “thank you” for providing me the blueprint for this. The guy that called me today said I was “in the right profession” right now. I have a profession! And I don’t graduate for another month!
I am terribly thankful that this is working, and I can’t wait to see what other work I can dig up this week. Thank you so much for providing direction for my freelance writing! If there’s any way I can repay you, let me know!
TM
Don't forget to view freelance writing job leads below!
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
http://inkwelleditorial.com/
http://inkwelleditorial.blogspot.com/
http://seo-article-writer.com/
http://seo-articles-for-sale.com/
How to Start a Successful Freelance Writing Career Newsletter
P.S: Want to learn how to make at least $250/day writing simple 500-word SEO articles? Read how here.
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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." Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
Previous Issue. Spotlight on How to Make Money Online: An interview with internet marketer Pat B. Doyle. Pat shares tips on how to make passive income online via affiliate marketing; some common mistakes online entrepreneurs make; and some free and low-cost methods to make money online. There's more also. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
Current Issue. Spotlight on Multiple Streams of Income for Freelance Writers: An interview with multi-talented freelancer Shel Horowitz. Shel shares tips on how to market your freelance writing services on a shoe-string budget (he's written five books on grassroots marketing); how he created multiple streams of income (writing, speaking, consulting) and more. Subscribe to read this, and all previous, issues.
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Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com: Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! 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.
Today’s Freelance Writing Jobs / SEO Writing Jobs
SEO blogger/writer to write weekly articles
Freelance Writer for Online Women's Magazine ($25/article)
Freelance Financial Editor/Writer
Thursday, January 10, 2008
How to Set SEO Writing Rates to Make $250-$500+/Day
As I contemplated writing this article, I thought, another one on this dreaded topic (freelance writing rates). “Why can’t we all just get along,” is the motto that is running itself over and over in my head right now.
BUT, I’m going to tackle this anyway. Sometimes, progress just takes a while.
As frequent readers of this blog know, I started to take on SEO writing projects last year. It was a new niche for me, so I researched every aspect of it. Rates, of course, was at the top of the list.
Almost all of the research I did was disheartening. Much of what I read about rates on SEO writing was low – very low. Most of the assignments offered rates like $1-$4 for 350-500 word articles. And that’s not a typo. If $5 was offered, it was like – woohoo! – a “good rate.” I was horrified and this almost put me off entering the SEO writing niche.
But, with 15 years of freelance writing experience under my belt, and almost a dozen as a small business owner, I had a gut feeling that this was a niche where some real money could be made (I recently logged over $500 in one day in orders and had to hire help, so my gut was right).
Freelance Writers: How to Stop Competing on Rate & Win as Many Clients as You Can Handle
So, why am I telling you all this? Because when it came time to set my rates, I didn’t even try to compete with what others were offering. I took the following into consideration when I set my rates for writing SEO content.
Read the rest of this post here.
NOTE: I changed the title of this post because I'm trying to get better at writing these. I think this one is more effective than the original title, How to Stop Competing on Rate & Win as Many Clients as You Can Handle?
What do you think?
RE: Response to yesterday’s request for interview subjects: I received quite a few responses and will be going through them this evening. I’m up against a couple of deadlines that have to be met today.
So, if you wrote in, sit tight. I’ll be in touch even if you aren’t selected for this month’s newsletter (there’s a good chance I’ll want to interview you for a future issue).
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
http://inkwelleditorial.com/
http://inkwelleditorial.blogspot.com/
http://seo-article-writer.com/
http://seo-articles-for-sale.com/
http://money-making-videos.blogspot.com/
How to Start a Successful Freelance Career Newsletter
P.S.: Read about my $250/day as a freelance writer -- with less than two weeks of marketing!
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Read 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." Subscribe to read all previous issues.
Current Issue: How Much do Freelance Web Writers Really Make? This issue features a roundup of freelance writer income from around the web. Features salaries from a few hundred a month, to a website that earns over $30,000/month -- and the site owner doesn't even sell anything! Subscribe to read this inspiring issue.
Previous Issue. Ghostwriting: Want to know what type of work is out there in this genre? How much it pays? Where to find it? How to go about getting it? Ghostwriter Amanda Evans gives us the skinny on this freelance writing niche.
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Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com: Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Get the e-report, How to Make $100/Day as a Freelance Writer -- free! Log on to http://www.freelancewritingwebsite.com/ for details. 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, January 09, 2008
SEO Writing Job; Seeking Freelance Writers to Interview
Two things today folks:
1. Newsletter Notice
Inkwell Editorial’s newsletter was supposed to be published today. The interviewee, however, stood me up (ie, did not return the questionnaire). So, I’ll publish it next week (Wed, 1/16).
In five years of publishing newsletters off and on, this has never happened to me, so I’m a bit perplexed. So, I need some help! Hence, the following:
Seeking Freelance Writers to Interview
I'm seeking a freelance writer who writes SEO content to interview for this month's issue. Questions (8-10 of them) will be emailed and you will have 3-4 days to respond. If interested, please respond and you will be sent the questions right away (info [at] inkwelleditorial.com: Put "Interview Me" in the subject line so I can get to it quickly).
FYI, newsletter is emailed list of over 17,000 subscribers and the most recent copy can be accessed here: http://www.inkwelleditorial.com/Newsletter/12-5-07-freelance-writing-newsletter.pdf (links to all previous issues are included in this most recent issue).
NOTE: I'm always looking for successful freelancers to interview for the newsletter, which comes out every 3-6 weeks. So, if you're a creative professional (eg, writer, newsletter publisher, ebook author, cartoonist, illustrator, logo designer, etc.), who wants to be featured in a future issue, please email a link to your website/blog so I can check you out and get back to you.
I respond to all queries, usually within 3-4 days.
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2. Freelance Writing Job: Seeking SEO Writers
I placed an ad on Craigslist last night for freelance SEO writers. I got myself into a bit of a pickle with deadlines, so needed some immediate help.
From that ad, I’ve lined up three to start outsourcing projects to on a regular basis. If you want to be on the list for future consideration, just email me a short note (info [at] inkwelleditorial.com: Put SEO Writer in the subject line).
Sometime the next few weeks, I’m going import all email addresses of interested parties in a freelance database that I will send job notices out to when I need work done. As I said, I’m set for right now, but this is for future consideration.
I have clients who request articles on every conceivable topic -- from wedding accessories to recording equipment -- so need writers with various types of writing expertise.
I look forward to the possibility of working with you.
For reasons I don't understand, Craigslist flagged my post for removal (they say sometimes this happens for the wrong reason, so I can just repost). But for all those who've written to me asking, following is what the ad said:
Freelance Writing Job: 500-word SEO Articles
I'm a busy SEO writer looking for new SEO writers who want intermittent work (eg, 5-10 articles/week at $15/piece).
All are 450-500 words and have 2-4 day turnaround times. IMMEDIATE ASSIGNMENT -- 2 ARTICLES ON ROUTERS DUE TODAY (1/9) AT 2PM. 450-500 words each. $15/per article. Paid immediately upon receipt.
FYI, the bulk of the work I have right now is for articles on real estate, mortgages and tech stuff. Although, I have SEO clients who request articles on every conceivable topic -- from wedding accessories to recording equipment.
I pay via PayPal, so please have a PayPal account (it's free to get one if you don't already have it). I'm looking for writers I can form a relationship with for the long haul. If interested, contact me for further details.
Tomorrow's Blog Subject: Freelance Writers -- How to Stop Competing on Rates & Win as Many Clients as You Can Handle
Sincerely,
Yuwanda Black, Publisher
http://inkwelleditorial.com/
http://inkwelleditorial.blogspot.com/
http://seo-article-writer.com/
http://seo-articles-for-sale.com/
http://money-making-videos.blogspot.com/
How to Start a Successful Freelance Career Newsletter
P.S.: Read about my $250/day as a freelance writer -- with less than two weeks of marketing!
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Read 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." Subscribe to read all previous issues.
Current Issue: How Much do Freelance Web Writers Really Make? This issue features a roundup of freelance writer income from around the web. Features salaries from a few hundred a month, to a website that earns over $30,000/month -- and the site owner doesn't even sell anything! Subscribe to read this inspiring issue.
Previous Issue. Ghostwriting: Want to know what type of work is out there in this genre? How much it pays? Where to find it? How to go about getting it? Ghostwriter Amanda Evans gives us the skinny on this freelance writing niche.
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Copyright © 2008 InkwellEditorial.com: Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Get the e-report, How to Make $100/Day as a Freelance Writer -- free! Log on to http://www.freelancewritingwebsite.com/ for details. 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, November 26, 2007
SEO Article Writing Rates--How to Determine What to Charge: Post #8 of Freelance Writer's Technology Month
I hope everyone had a happy holiday and are keepng busy working off the calories. I know I am!
I apologize for not posting on Friday. I'm in the process of setting up the affiliate program for Inkwell Editorial's ebooks and launching two new sites (SEO-Article-Writer.com and SEO-Articles-for-Sale.com) and was knee deep in content writing for them. More on this in the full post.
Today's post is extra long and talks about SEO article rates, eg, how to determine what to charge, where the industry is headed, why this is the next "hot" sector for freelance writing and why the rates are going up. FYI, I spoke with two industry experts who gave some valuable insight into this hot niche. Read on.
FYI, the holidays are a great time to launch new projects, fine tune old ones and test new money-making niches. Why? Because there's less work distraction this time of year. So, while everyone's mind is on the holidays, get a leg up on your marketing, advertising, new product launches, etc. You'll be well positioned to march ahead of the competition in late January/early February when everyone turns their attention back to work.
Editorially yours,
Yuwanda
P.S.: What's Freelance Writer's Technology Month all about? Click here for details.
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Last year I made $3,489.07 from a simple 1-page website. Click here for details.
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UPDATE 11/30/07: Following is a link to every post in the Freelance Writer's Technology Month series.
Intro Post: New Series - Freelance Writer's Technology Month
Post #1: The 4 Fundamentals of Making Money Online
Post #2: SEO Content Development: How to Drive More Traffic to Your Website
Post #3: Niche Marketing: How to Choose a Profitable Niche
Post #4: Software Tools for Niche Websites
Post #5: Turn $1/Day into an Online Empire: How to Make Money with Minisites
Post #6: 4 Controversial Ways to Get More Traffic for Your Website
Post #7: 5 Ways to Get a Job Writing SEO Articles
Post #8: How to Determine What to Charge as an SEO Article Writer
Post #9: How to Optimize Your Website to Get More Traffic
Post #10: Social Bookmarking Software & 9 Money-Making Conclusions from Freelance Writer’s Technology Month
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Freelance Success Stories: There are freelancers who make very good livings at what they love. Inkwell Editorial's newsletter, How to Start a Successful Freelance Career, features these successful professionals who put to rest the phrase, "starving freelancer." Read the first issue here and subscribe to read current and previous issues.
Current Issue: Ghostwriting. Want to know what type of work is out there in this genre? How much it pays? Where to find it? How to go about getting it? Ghostwriter Amanda Evans gives us the skinny on this freelance writing niche. Subscribe.
Previous Issue: Sue Fagalde Lick, author of Freelancing for Newspapers. Whether you are an experienced or inexperienced freelance writer, this is one market that eagerly accepts freelancers, as Sue outlines in her book. Subscribe.Gain clients, web traffic and brand awareness. How? Let us interview you for our popular newsletter? Full details.
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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. Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Get the e-report, How to Make $100/Day as a Freelance Writer -- FREE! Log on to http://www.freelancewritingwebsite.com/ for details.
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Monday, October 29, 2007
Post #36: 40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career
PUBLISHER NOTE: This series was started to answer questions from seminar attendees about what was going to be taught at the Freelance Writing Seminar. Details. I entitled these posts "40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career".
To start at the beginning of the "40 Days" series, click here. And, welcome to the blog. Now, on to today’s post . . .
Question
If you could do another post about what you should say in your proposal, and even include an example of a proposal, that would be great (I learn best from seeing examples).
Finally, would you do this same thing when responding to a writing gig where they asked you to send a quote with your response? For example, there are many projects posted on Craigslist that ask you to send clips/samples, your resume and your quote.”
Current Issue: Sue Fagalde Lick, author of Freelancing for Newspapers. Whether you are an experienced or inexperienced freelance writer, this is one market that eagerly accepts freelancers, as Sue outlines in her book.
Next Issue (11/7/). Ghostwriting: Want to know what type of work is out there in this genre? How much it pays? Where to find it? How to go about getting it? Ghostwriter Amanda Evans will give us the skinny on this freelance writing niche.
Gain clients, web traffic and brand awareness. How? Let us interview you for our popular newsletter? Full details. Read the first issue here.
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. Freelance success stories, e-courses, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Get the e-report, How to Make $100/Day as a Freelance Writer -- FREE! Log on to http://www.freelancewritingwebsite.com/ for details.
Like what you read here? Find the content useful and informative? Make us a Technorati Favorite. Simply click the Technorati icon in the right-hand column of this page.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Post #35: 40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career
PUBLISHER NOTE: This series was started to answer questions from seminar attendees about what was going to be taught at the Freelance Writing Seminar. Details. I entitled these posts "40 Days to a Successful Freelance Writing Career".
Freelance Writing Seminar Cancelled: Unfortunately, due to my stepfather's illness and subsequent death, the seminar was cancelled, but this series continues. FYI, you can still take a class on how to start a freelance writing career. Click here for details.
To start at the beginning of the "40 Days" series, click here. And, welcome to the blog. Now, on to today’s post . . .
Freelance Writers: How to Quote Rates So You Land Projects – Almost Every Time
You’ve done everything right. You sent out marketing materials, the client made contact and they ask you – point blank – how much you charge. Now what! What to do . . . what to do. . . ? Believe it or not, this is where many freelancers panic – especially newbies.
Following is some sound advice on exactly how to handle the "How much do you charge?" question. You’ll not only land this project; you’ll land future ones as well. Read on.
First, DON’T quote a rate. That’s right, don’t! Why? It's been my experience that quoting rates off the bat scares the bejeezus out of clients. Why?
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Because they only see dollars signs, not the value you provide. So, how do you get around this?
Quite simply by turning the conversation into a fact-finding/research mission. Say something to the effect of, “Because I want to develop a long-term relationship with your organization, I’d like to learn more about the project so that I can put together a proposal that fits your long-term needs."
Tip, Tip: You’re doing a little upselling for future projects here. Some of the questions you might want to cover are:
1. How often does this type of work come around?
2. Do you usually produce this type of work in-house? If so, why are you outsourcing it now? If not, why are you looking for a new freelancer now.
3. Will I be working in concert with someone else (eg, an in-house graphic designer); a researcher, etc.
And a few others; but, you get the gist. My point is, get as much info as you can upfront so that you can truly judge the parameters of the project.
Many freelancers are so afraid/intimidated about asking questions (boy, I remember I was terrified the first few times I had to do it) that they leave themselves open to all types of problems later. It's normal to feel this way.
As a service provider, society has groomed us to give immediate feedback to our "customers." But, you are not a mere service provider here. You're a business owner. So, while it may seem strange not to provide an immediate response, trust me, it's almost never in your best interest to do so.
To alleviate your fear of giving an immediate response, tell the prospective client that you like to get as much upfront information as possible so that the project can go smoothly -- saving her time and money on the backend. Clients appreciate it when you ask a lot of questions up front. It makes you look and sound professional and knowledgeable about your craft.
Many times, you will ask a question and get a response like, "I'd never thought about that." Right there, you've practically gotten the job. Why? Because it makes them feel comfortable that they're hiring an "expert" who knows what he/she's doing.
Once your fact-finding mission is done, tell the prospective client that you will send her a proposal in 24-48 hours, along with a proposed start and completion date.
Sending a proposed start/completion date is very important because it “subliminally” sets the project in motion, getting it off the client’s desk. If a client has made contact with you, a freelancer, they’re ready to start (and finish) the project.
Following the above suggestions will ensure that you secure most of the clients who ask you for “rates.”
FYI, click here for a list of places you can research the "What to charge?" question.
Sincerely,
http://www.inkwelleditorial.com/
http://www.inkwelleditorial.blogspot.com/
How to Start a Successful Freelance Career Newsletter
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What’s in Inkwell Editorial’s Newsletter? 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." Subscribe to read all previous issues.
Next Issue: 11/7. Ghostwriting: Want to know what type of work is out there in this genre? How much it pays? Where to find it? How to go about getting it? Ghostwriter Amanda Evans will give us the skinny on this freelance writing niche.
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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Like what you read here? Find the content useful and informative? Make us a Technorati Favorite. Simply click the Technorati icon at the top right-hand corner of the page.
Friday, October 05, 2007
The Rant on Freelance Writing Rates Heats Up
I don't post on Fridays very often, but thought this too interesting a discussion not to pass on.
Yuwanda (who is this person?)
P.S.: FYI, you can purchase the report for $5, or get it free with this special offer.
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