Don’t give up completely. I just heard back from an application I sent out back in July. Not that I like that practice either. While I was looking for work then and was really interested in that position, I’m really booked up now and doubt I can handle another job on top of the four I have.

I haven’t had any problem with sending out my name when I apply for a job but if you are concerned, you could set up an alternate e-mail account and copy and paste your samples into the body of the e-mail.

@ Kristen: If the job involves appearing in a video, I can see why the employer may want to see a picture. They probably want to make sure they are not hiring Quasimodo’s less handsome brother for the gig.

@ Matti: It is normal to send out applications and not hear anything. Some people estimate that you might get one job in 10 that you apply for. And getting nastygrams that tell you how bad someone thinks you suck is not fun.

@ Christine: You are most welcome.

@ Matti – I’ve placed ads on Craigslist and have gotten over 500 responses, so it’s really not feasible for every potential client to send a response. It would be nice if they had an autoresponder, letting you know that your e-mail was received, but sending out anything more than a form letter would be too time-consuming for most people. I’m just now getting contacted about gigs I applied for in July and August, so don’t give up hope just yet.

@Ann–Someone from the Stowe area, good to see! Stowe is one of my favorite places to visit and snowboard. I had seriously considered moving there before I moved out west.

I’m relatively new to freelancing, and I have a newbie question. By the way, thanks for setting up such a fantastic Web site, Jodee.

Anyway, I’m going to apply for the history blogger job, but I’m a little concerned because of the anonymity of the poster. I have no problem giving out my name or e-mail to an established company. But in cases such as the blog job above should I set up an e-mail account that doesn’t use my last name? How about if I send published writing samples? Should I cover my name on them?

Or I’m I just being way too paranoid here?

They shot me down saying they had their own qualified team and didn’t need anyone else, but that they were happy I’d brought it to their attention that their ad had errors. In the end, I dislike that I helped some of them do their job for free.

If you do approach them, you might wish to stress how much time and money you’ll save them if they outsource their advertising (rather than talking about the quality of their current ads).

Good luck!
Bobbi

As always, you’re doing a great job–I love the listings you find!

Regarding “affection,” I already have a pet.

And, note this from the Wedding blogger listing:

Additionally, please take the time to give us a sample of your style by writing a brief article (less than 600 words) about this season’s hottest wedding gowns.

I’d be a bit concerned about writing a 600-word article as an applicant. Who’s to say the would-be employer isn’t using all of those application articles as a source of free content for the site?

Finally, Fiona–Yes, you’re on to something. I think it’s great you want to show some entrepreneurial spirit and help a business while helping yourself.

I’m not sure I’d use the approach you suggested–the company may think their current advertising is superb as is (especially if the owner created it).

You might want to consider paying the company a visit and have your business card and portfolio ready. See if they’re interested in outside services. (Maybe they can’t afford your services?)

Anyway, it’s great you’re noting potential customers, Fiona!

Bobbi

Restaurants are a little different, but if they want to be involved with the community: cooking tips, menu changes, fundraisers and public relations — then approach them.

If you feel comfortable approaching them, keep in mind, that they produced a terrible ad, which reflects their attitude and professionalism. Do you want to work with people like that?

They might create headaches, extra work that could have been avoided and so forth. Go with caution!

A new restaurant is getting ready to open in town and they ran an ad in the weekend newspaper that was HORRIBLE! Far too much text crammed into a tiny space – nothing to catch my eye and tell me it’s a restaurant (the name of the place is School!) and just an incredibly ineffective ad.

So it’s been bugging me all weekend that this ad was so bad and this is their opening publicity! I have been thinking of contacting them and seeing if they need someone to write copy, ads, etc for them but I’m not sure how to approach it. Should I call and say, “You know I saw your ad and think it could be better.”

Any suggestions?