Should you write on spec?
No, you should write on *paper*.

How is a raven like a writing desk, eh?

If there’s no money in it, I write what I want. If I can sell it later, Mazeltov! But I’m not writing something for someone else unless I see the greenstuff first (and that’s not a reference to Kermit).

I have had that problem, too. Not moderated posts, just ones that disappear. When I try to submit it again, I get a wordpress message that says something like “looks like you already said that” but the comment never shows up. Maybe a wordpress bug?

James,

I tend to agree with you about the shopping analogy (particularly for web-based writing). Except I see it more like asking a variety of farmers to grow me an apple and I’ll pick the one I like best. I’m not saying no one should ever work on spec. It’s a decision that works for some people and not for others. But I do think new writers should take caution and know the risks, especially if doing spec work for the web.

I’m not talking about writing on spec as much for the established writer, but for someone trying to get his foot in the door. I don’t need to write on spec at this point in my career and I have no interest in doing so. It helped me get my start and might prove beneficial to to others.

Certain comments do go to moderation – if they have a link in the post they’re automatically moderated. If this is your first time commenting (I know it’s not) you need approval for the first comment only. Also certain vulgar words are moderated.

I don’t see you in the moderation queue, however. I’m not sure why your comment got stuck.

Deb

An editor is looking the article over to see if it’s a good fit, if it’s not he doesn’t buy it.
It’s not published so you can sell it somewhere else.

It’s sort of like you looking over apples and oranges but passing on them because they’re a bit bruised or not what you wanted in the first place.

I still maintain it’s not terrible to get your start writing on spec. Especially since that’s the only way some magazines and newspapers will take new writers. Who knows where I’d be if I didn’t get my first “on spec” assignment?

A man walks into a new grocery store. He browses, takes a look at the fruits and vegetables, goes to the meats, picks up a chicken, and asks the clerk, “I’ve never shopped from you before. May I take this chicken, go home and eat it, and if I like it, I’ll come back and pay you?”

Hmm… makes you think, doesn’t it?

One of the problems with it is that often the editor asks you to do it because you’re unknown to them. So, if you don’t know them either, then you can’t really gauge the likelihood of them accepting it and paying you on time. If you’re just starting out, it can be an OK way to get clips, but you already have strong clips, there should be no need for editors to ask.

Essays are an exception, because those depend so much on voice and are almost always written on spec.

It’s a very individual decision. It worked for me, though.

It works sometimes, other times it doesn’t. But, it never hurts to take a chance.

I ask for “clippings” either the hard paper kind, or more often just links to previously published online material.

When the linked to material is substantially different that the kind of writing that I’m hiring for, I’m on the horns of a dilemna. I need to know that the writer can consistently deliver the goods that I’m looking for. If it’s not readily apparent from the links, I ask for a sample post — in essence, writing on spec.

I’m generally talking only about a 300-500 word piece, broad based rather than substantially researched and indepth. I don’t rip anyone off by using it, I just use it as a litmus test for writers with whom I’m unfamiliar. And, I don’t ask this request of everyone, just a writer that I’m serious about hiring, but still dealing with a bit of doubt.

When I’ve failed to do this, it’s been disastrous. Not every writer is cut out for every form and genre of writing.

I’m on both sides of the equation, and this wouldn’t offend me if I was asked to do this when breaking into a new market or genre. If someone gets outraged or angry about this request, it’s probably not someone I want to work with anyway.

*raises hand* I’ve written for magazines – on spec – very few times. I’m very ambivalent about doing so, as the results have been so-so. Even when things went well, the surrounding tension and stress I felt while I waited sucked.

Since I’m a web content writer, though, us folk tend not to write on spec. Those who do see their work often ripped off. I sit squarely in the “no specwork” group.

I recently posted on this topic on my blog, about writing on spec for those placing ads on job boards. I’d never suggest a writer to submit a spec article for a web-based publication, unless it’s reputable. In my experience, most reputable online publications aren’t trolling CL with ads.

Regarding writing on spec in general, I’d say if you’re going to do it it’s a good idea to start with a very detailed query to make sure the idea is a good fit and something the editor would even consider. If the editor says go ahead and write it on spec, then the chances are greater that it’ll be accepted. As Katharine said, if it’s a piece that can easily be sold elsewhere, maybe it’s not such a waste of time.

I salute those of you who write on spec, though. That’s a tough game, but I know it pays off for some of you.

I remember when I would temp every summer in college. I would always have to go in to the temp agency, do a couple of hours of timed typing testing, alphabetical order stuff, just general clerical testing. I didn’t get paid for it – but it proved how proficient I was and I got higher paying temp positions because I did it. Most jobs have interviews you don’t get paid for that can take hours and cost you money in transportation costs. I see writing on spec when it is a definite good career move on the same lines. Sure the spec piece takes your time, but if it’s a magazine or newspaper that will help establish your professionalism and credibility, it’s a smart career move.

Spec articles from writers we held relationships with was typically used, and sometimes required a new slant. Only a few pieces from new writers was taken… but yes, everything was read and considered.

Best of luck should you tackle the on-spec route!