Comments on: Freelance Writing Jobs for Wednesday, July 16, 2008

By: Ann G.

Ann G. — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:19:36 +0000

Re: Writing Samples.

I had another last night, but this time I did the sample only because it was the only way I knew if I could actually do the work. It was for that beer blog post a day or so ago and the guy said he’d pay if the work was going to be used. I have my finger’s crossed that I am selected because though the searching government databases was different, I learned quite a bit while doing the search.

By: Cyn

Cyn — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 02:23:56 +0000

I used to write for Content Quake and they do pay a low amount per post and there is a limit for how many posts they’ll pay for – so it’s more like a base pay. I believe there was an incentive for traffic but no access to traffic reports so you just have to believe them when they tell you how many hits you got.

I left after the first month due to a number of issues. If you’re starting out, it’s a good place to learn the craft.

By: Jodee

Jodee — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 01:03:17 +0000

@ Tish: I started posting internships, paid and unpaid/college credit, in the spring because we had a few students asking if we could find leads for them. I make a point of indicating that they are internships and whether or not they are paid so that those of you who are not interested in those kinds of opportunities can skip them. They are posted here in an attempt to give the people who visit this site the kinds of leads they are interested in. I hope that helps to clarify things.

By: Tish Davidson

Tish Davidson — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:33:52 +0000

I know we had a round just last week about the appropriateness of posting low-paying jobs, so I have hesitated to bring this up, but what is your rationale for posting unpaid internships. I have noticed more and more of them in the job list. Today, for example, there were two of them. I understand that internships often provide a springboard to a job, but unpaid ones seem to come awfully close to exploiting aspiring writers.

By: shellsw

shellsw — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 23:51:31 +0000

@Amanda I use to give out several writing samples at one point when starting, but was stung hard when someone used my sample without paying me and said I was not right for the job. I guess it all depends on things. I have links to sample writing and that’s all I give anymore.

By: Stacy

Stacy — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:37:11 +0000

I usually don’t do samples, but did one for the Prevention Contributor Program and for that “saucy new site” blogging lead. Each employer only wanted a 200-word post, so I figured there was little to lose. Plus, I was actually able to use the same sample for both leads.

Though, I’m still wondering (just a teensy weensy bit) if I did the right thing.

By: Amy

Amy — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:04:45 +0000

The only time I’ll write a specific sample (tailored just for that client) is if they’re willing to pay for it. I’ve had a few clients tell me they will pay for samples, and they have. Otherwise, I don’t. We don’t expect other professionals to audition for a job; why should writers be expected to? Maybe that’s a bad attitude, but oh well.

By: Kristy

Kristy — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 21:02:36 +0000

That Japanese editor gig does sound fun…I’m thinking of applying!

Great list Jodee, as always!

By: Amanda Nicole

Amanda Nicole — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:56:05 +0000

Thanks Ann and Marlene. It’s always been my stance not to write the sample, as I feel the clips I send are telling enough of my writing abilities, areas of expertise, etc. But seeing it as an increasing trend has me wondering if I need to get a little flexible on the subject. I think I’ll stick with my stubbornness for now!

By: Marlene

Marlene — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 20:49:58 +0000

I know where you are coming from with writing samples. I did one just before the 4th, followed up twice, and have not heard a word from anyone. It was a legit site, so I keep checking to see if my work mysteriously pops up on their site!