Archives for June 2008

by Jodee

I heard from an employer who recently posted a job on FWJ recently and this individual has kindly given me permission to post some comments about the applications that were submitted by FWJ readers. [Read more…]

by Jodee Redmond

It occurred to me the other day that freelance writing is a lot like dating. Check out this list and see if you agree with me.

You Make an Effort to Make Yourself Attractive

When you are going out on a first date, you take extra care to make sure you look your best. The same thing applies when you are looking for freelance work. You send the prospective employer the latest version of your resume and you take care to submit samples that you feel showcase your best work. [Read more…]

by Jodee Redmond

I think that most people who write are also voracious readers, and I’m no exception. I enjoy reading books and magazines on topics that I find interesting. Since freelance writers should always be open to finding new leads, I want to suggest a few things that you can try the next time you are looking at a magazine to help you find new clients for your business. [Read more…]

by Christie Halmick

The next time a non-paying writing opportunity slithers by offering fame, exposure, and good karma stop and answer this question: Is there something better I could do with my time and writing talent than give them away to a stranger? I think so. [Read more…]

by Erika-Marie Geiss

Your idea is great. No, it’s fabulous. The content is good, you’ve spell-checked and proofread — even read it aloud. It’s perfect, and you are ready to send the article or query. You’re excited, because you are positive that this is definitely going to get published. You’ve even run through your mental submitting check-list and everything suggests that this baby is ready to take flight. But is it? [Read more…]

By Contestant #3

Sometimes getting the gig is the easy part. A well-crafted cover letter and a couple of good clips will get your foot in the door, but what you do after you land it?

10. Keep it Old School
Nothing pleases a client/editor more than writers who are still working on dial-up and don’t believe in “fly-by-night” technology like Twitter or in home fax machines. Your clients lead busy lives, teach them how to slow down by waiting an hour for you to get to the local copy store and pick up their fax. Announce with a giggle that you’re technologically challenged and can’t open their PDF file. They’ll appreciate your honesty. [Read more…]