Comments on: Writing Samples: What to Show a Potential Client

By: To Niche or Not to Niche? | Freelance Writing Jobs

To Niche or Not to Niche? | Freelance Writing Jobs — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 15:24:17 +0000

[...] just wrote a great post on choosing [...]

By: Sue

Sue — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:21:57 +0000

I’ve had editors tell me that they like seeing a sample before it was edited, so they have a more clear idea of the quality of work they’ll be receiving. I send something that has already been published. I’ve gotten a few jobs — including one posted here last week — because I do this.

By: Rachel .:.A Step Ahead.:.

Rachel .:.A Step Ahead.:. — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 23:32:20 +0000

I created an online portfolio to hold the majority of my samples. When emailing a potential client, I am sure to tell them about my online portfolio and I attach other samples that relate to their subject if needed.

By: Kristy

Kristy — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 22:54:21 +0000

@ Kerry – Sometimes I do that; however, when the client asks for a resume, it is better to provide a resume than a narrative paragraph. I’m a stickler for following their directions.

By: Kristy

Kristy — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 22:53:18 +0000

Thanks Jodee! And I’m glad to see I’m not to the only one that is interested in the topic! Whew!

By: Amanda Nicole

Amanda Nicole — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:24:23 +0000

PS: I have a writer’s resume that I’ll paste into the email if a posting specifically asks for one, but I’m not entirely happy with it, so I’d also be interested in coverage of that topic. Specifically, how to include website content creation on a resume. Thanks!

By: Amanda Nicole

Amanda Nicole — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 16:21:24 +0000

I include up to 3 relevant samples in my response to a job posting, as well as mention my relevant experience in the cover letter. I also add a link to the portfolio page of my website at the end of the email; I’ll say something like, “And here’s a link to my full portfolio. Please feel free to have a browse around my website to get to know me a bit better.” That way, they also get an idea of my rates and why I charge what I do.

By: Cherrye at My Bella Vita

Cherrye at My Bella Vita — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 13:40:36 +0000

I’m glad you asked this question, Aurora. I’ve encountered this a few times, as well. I would do it as long as the client knew the article could not be used unless I was hired/payed. From my limited experience with this the clients who are honest appreciate the fact that you respect yourself and your work and it opens the door to clear communication. If a potential client balked or was non-responsive, I would move on.

By: Kerry Dexter

Kerry Dexter — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 13:29:32 +0000

just a comment to Kristy’s situation: perhaps a paragraph of narrative biography would work better than a resume?

By: Sandi

Sandi — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 06:50:46 +0000

Thank you so much for this! Extremely helpful!