The WMF Archives

By Carol Tice

I've always been a fan of making New Year's resolutions. They're goals really -- what do I want to achieve in the coming year?

I'm an especially big fan of setting goals in my writing business. It's so important to do. Otherwise, I know I'll likely just look up a year from now and realize I've ground along with the same pay level, the same types of clients, without advancing my own agenda of where I'd like to go in my writing career.

What is the next level of your career? Each year, every writer should add up their expenses and income and figure out what they netted. Drill down further -- which clients paid the best hourly or per-word rates? Which paid the worst? Which were the biggest pains to work with? Possibly most importantly, what types of marketing did you do, and how effective were they?

Writing Resolutions for a New Decade

By Kat Foust

It's time to face the fact that some people just don't take writers seriously, even our own families. How many times have you been in the middle of an article and one of your children shouts "Moooooom...can you look up a cheat code for me for my video game?" as you shake your head in disbelief. Don't they know you have a deadline? You're at work for crying out loud! Well, no, they really don't. We writers sometimes wish it was as simple as clocking in, completing so many tasks and waiting for the end of the buzzer.

To be fair, we can't really blame those that live with us. I know when my son looks over and I'm spacing out, he doesn't have any idea that I'm actually trying to plan my next words. He thinks I'm just...well, spacing out! While I am a mother as well as a writer and I'm bound to get interrupted by say, my child's need to be fed or something equally important, there should also be some sort of way to let him know I'm working. There is. I decided to list some tips today to help writers avoid disruption, but also to help us to create our own focus. For instance, I wear glasses when I read. When I put my glasses on and I'm sitting at my desk, it helps me to get "in the mode" for work. It also indicates to my son that I'm doing a bit more than just browsing the Internet. Check out the tips below and feel free to leave your own tips in the comments section. You never know what may help a fellow writer!
~Keep a small lamp on your desk. When the lamp is on, it's work time and disturbances should be limited.
~Turn off messenger services. Not only does this help you focus, but your family might take yo a bit more seriously than they would if they saw you chatting it up with one of your friends.
~Seclude your area. If you don't have a separate office space, hang a curtain for a divider so you aren't quite as easy to access.
~Take breaks to spend with those in the house. It's a good idea to step away from the computer every now and then simply to stretch your back and give your eyes a break anyhow. Spending that time with your family lets them know you consider them just as important as your work. If you have a set time for breaks, then your family knows when they can expect to get some time with you.
~Log your hours. By logging your hours, you give yourself a chance to see just how much time you spend working versus doing other things. Most writers spend more than 40 hours at their computer, but this can be narrowed down with some adjustments to focus.
~Create a visible to do list. Mark things off as you go, giving yourself a sense of satisfaction as well as letting others know how much more work you have to do before you're done.
~Create your own wall of fame. If all your work is online and your loved ones never actually get to see what you accomplish, it's hard for them to grasp the concept of you making any progress. In fact, it's hard for you to grasp the concept as well. This wall serves to display your work and accomplishments so that your family can see what you do and you can feel some pride. This also serves as a great way to build your spirits when you feel like you're fighting an uphill battle.

In short, the more you treat your writing like a job, the more your family will do the same. Try to keep a schedule and do what you can within those time limits. You'll find that you are more at ease and your family will get to see more of you. So, what tips do you have to offer that help keep you focused and/or let your family know that you are not to be disturbed?

"Do Not Disturb" Signs

Guest Blogger: Leon Sterling

By Angela Atkinson

Most working freelance writers have author websites these days. They're a great way to showcase and provide links to your work and tell potential clients more about you through an extended bio--plus, you can advertise your services, rates and throw in a blog for good measure. If you don't have an author website already, I recommend you get one. You can purchase a custom URL relatively inexpensively, and hosting can be free or super cheap. If it's not in the budget right now, you can set up a site through a free service like Webs.com and then convert it to a custom URL when you're ready. That way, your links will remain live even when you switch over to the new URL.

So, once you've got your site up and working, it's time to consider adding a testimonials page. Testimonials are brief comments or statements from colleagues, clients or other people with whom you've worked professionally which effectively endorse you and your services.

Why Do I Need Testimonials?

Simply put, testimonials afford you a certain amount of credibility. Potential clients and editors who are considering working with you are likely to feel more comfortable doing so if they know that others have had positive experiences. Plus, through a well-written testimonial, you can let your clients know how incredible you are without having to say so yourself.

Another great thing about testimonials? Clients who write them for you are statistically very likely to maintain a long term business relationship with you.

Who Do I Ask for Testimonials?

Start with people you're currently  working with (or have worked with in the past.) Include clients, editors and other writers or business owners and community members with whom you've collaborated on projects.

But what if you don't have a long list of clients or colleagues to choose from? Are you just out of luck? Where can you find testimonials when you're a new freelancer?

It can't hurt to get creative. Did you have a favorite teacher in school? Is there a professional friend or family member (with a different last name) who could vouch for your mad writing skills? Are you involved in an online writing community or writing group? Can you think of anyone within any of your social networks, "real life" or online that might be willing to help? Any of these are would be a good place to start when looking for a testimonial.

How Do I Ask for a Testimonial?

Once you've figured out WHO to ask, it's time to figure out HOW. The first and most obvious way to obtain testimonials for your website is to simply ask. In general, contact people via the usual method you communicate--so if you typically talk via email, send an email. If you usually speak to the person via phone or in person, do it that way.

Explain what you're looking for (a brief statement regarding the quality of your work, the experience of working with you, etc) and simply ask for their help. Most people are more than happy to lend a hand, especially because it benefits them as well.

What's In It for Them?

Besides brightening their karmic outlook, most people are honored to even be asked to provide a testimonial. Plus, you can offer link love (i.e. place a link on your site to theirs along with their testimonial.) And, of course, it certainly won't hurt their image.

You can also offer to reciprocate if the situation is appropriate. For example, one client of mine owns a business. He created a testimonial for my page, and I asked my husband to create one for his since we'd used his services in the past. Obviously, offering reciprocation isn't appropriate in every case, so be careful.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

Often times, clients or readers will send you a note or make positive comments about you or your work without being prodded. Usually, this happens informally. Starting now, take note of these compliments. Create a file in which you save each compliment or positive statement about your work. Be sure to note who said what.

You can use these compliments and statements as testimonials. As a courtesy, be sure to ask the person who said or wrote it whether they mind your posting it on your site.

One thing to avoid: don't make up testimonials. That doesn't mean that you can't help a well-meaning but writing challenged person to clarify their thoughts. Just don't falsify any statements or say things that just aren't true. You'll not only lose credibility, but you may lose potential business too.

Why You Need Testimonials and How to Get Them

By Kerrie McLoughlin


A couple of years ago I started noticing Jessica Fisher’s name in almost every issue of Kansas City Parent magazine under “contributing authors”. Her bio said she had five kids, and I COULD NOT UNDERSTAND how she had time to write and send off a publishable article every month. I had only one kid under my belt and couldn’t fathom ever getting another idea.


I assumed her kids were in school or that she had a nanny. So when I noticed her bio said she now has SIX kids and listed a website address, I ran to the computer and typed in the address. Turns out she HOMESCHOOLS, too.


Jessica has a great writing website and also a blog (she wants you to “join me on the Road to Joyful Motherhood”), as well as a book that you can order off of her blog called “Cooking With Children.” Below is a short interview with her.


I think she's a great example for any writer, not just those with kids. She shows that you can have lots of irons in the fire and still crank out some good writing. So you work full-time and are trying to write? You have 1 kid and can't even get your teeth brushed? You are a guy or gal who needs some motivation? Read on ...


WM: How do you find time to write with 6 kids and homeschooling? Do you have a schedule? Write when they sleep?
Jessica Fisher: Usually I take Saturday mornings off. That is when I have done the bulk of my writing, pre-baby. I would head to Panera as early as I could wake and come back at lunchtime. I got a lot done during those 5-6 hours. Since the baby was born, I just fit it in here and there, often in the mornings before the entire household is awake. It just doesn't seem productive to go sit in a coffee shop to hold a fussy baby when I could do it so much more comfortably at home. Since I started writing, I've simply put other hobbies (mainly scrapbooks and shopping) on the shelf. There is only a limited amount of time to devote to these things, so the other interests gave way for this one.


WM: When did you start your freelance writing business?
JF: I started writing for magazines in 2006.


WM: How many publications have you written for?
JF: My work has been printed in about 70 regional parenting publications in the US and Canada.


WM: How much time do you spend on it in an average week?
JF: That really depends. I don't have set hours. And I can't really control when I'll get a good idea. I have multiple notebooks here and there for notes. I write whenever I have a good idea and the time to implement it.


WM: What percent of your income would you guess is based on reprints?
JF: I have no idea of the percentage, but I usually sell the same piece many times since most of my clients are not in competing markets.


WM: Does anything suffer because you write? (e.g., the dishes sit for a while, the laundry piles up)
JF: Household chores certainly back up, but I don't think that is because I write. If I wasn't doing this, I'd have some other creative project to distract me from housework.


WM: Do you older kids help with chores so you can get writing done? (I am a
big fan of this!)
JF: Writing is something I've always loved, but it is by far a part-time job. I didn't go looking for another job. I love my day job. All my kids over 4 years old have regular weekly chores, but they would have that regardless. They were doing it long before I was writing.


WM: How do you keep the kids occupied while you write?
JF: My kids love their free time and since there are so many of them, they pretty much entertain themselves if I'm doing a task. But, I try not to sit down to write a piece if I know I will be interrupted many times. I try to wait until everyone is asleep for the night.


What I learned from this interview:
Strangely enough, I hadn’t thought of borrowing my husband’s laptop and heading to a place with WiFi and getting some writing done on Saturday mornings (he’s off every other Friday as well!). I guess with all his travel and then trying to catch up on home matters, I didn’t realize that our baby was one year old and that I could leave her for a couple of hours with Daddy and siblings.


What I love about Jessica and her family is that she MAKES the time to write, and her husband supports that by helping with the kids.


How about you? Do you have family and friends (and maybe even a spouse) who supports your writing? Who understands that you really don't just HAVE to write a piece, but that you WANT to? What if you DON'T have someone who supports you? How do you deal with that?


Much to ponder, fellow writers. Gimme some insight ... I'm here to learn from you as much as you are here to learn from me.

Writers to Watch: Jessica Fisher

By Pam Houghton

After I returned to work full-time (after working a part-time schedule when my children were young), I was able to telecommute from home two days a week. How I looked forward to the days I did not have to fight traffic on I-696. And how convenient it was to throw a load of laundry in the wash in between projects.

Once a corporate reorganization eliminated the business unit in which I worked, along with my job, I thought I'd try and turn a long-time writing hobby into a career as, yep, a freelance writer. Working from home. Would I have the discipline? The motivation? Could I be free enough from distractions to actually get things done?

I've learned it's harder to work from home when you don't have a defined workload. As a corporate telecommuter, I knew what I had to do every day, whether it was releasing products, or teleconferencing with colleagues (neither of which had much to do with writing).

As a "freelancer", it's easier to get distracted: you essentially work for yourself, alone and without anyone's expectation that you will perform a set amount of work each day. Which makes trips to Target for pretty paper towels all the more tempting.

So, as I do in times of crisis (heh-heh), I turned to the Internet for advice. If you are currently a work-from-home freelance writer, or considering making the transition, here are a few tips for freelancers (thanks to Google) that can help keep us all on track.

1. Set a working schedule. Don't be afraid to mold it to your natural schedule, especially if you are likely to be more productive at certain times of the day. So set it, and stick with it.

2. Establish a functional workspace. Make sure it has everything you need to get the job done - i.e. supplies, software, fast Internet connection - and represents a separation of work from home. (Or in my case, the laundry room.) You will be freer from the natural distractions of daily home maintenance.

3. If you have young children, consider putting them in daycare for a few hours each day.

4. Get dressed as though you are going to work. Or at the very least, shower shave and dress appropriately. Don't stay in your PJs lest you be tempted to turn on The View.

5. For those times that require sustained focus, turn off your phone, e-mail and IM privileges. And don't go on Facebook! (Oh, the self-discipline required here.)

6. Take breaks. Your brain needs a little refreshing after a couple hours of intense concentration. Reward yourself with a quick walk around the block or a game of "fetch" with your dog. Or whatever you define as a welcome break.

7. Since you won't have colleagues around to motivate you, you must rely on self-direction and self-motivation. Figure out ways to keep yourself motivated whether it's a long-term goal you are trying to achieve, or a sense that the work itself has its own rewards. Whatever works to keep you going.

How do you stay focused? Feel free to share your ideas with our readers in the comment section below.

Tips for Freelancers: Don't Get Distracted from Working at Home

By Rebecca Sebek

Businesses can save money by hiring freelance writers. Most business owners, especially small business owners, do not have time to write. They are too busy marketing and growing their business. Hiring freelance writers solves the problem of writing for the business.

Most freelance writers work from home, therefore, organizations do not have to budget office or cubicle space for them. The environment benefits because there are less emissions being spewed into the air. Businesses that hire freelance writers could say they are “going green” because they hire writers who telecommute.

Hiring freelance writers save businesses on health benefits because companies offer employees medical, dental, and vision (some pay this); they usually pay a portion of the benefits. By hiring freelance writers, companies do not have to pay writers medical benefits. This is a HUGE savings for organizations.

The biggest incentive to hiring freelance writers is they are objective. It’s not about them or the writing. It’s about the style, tone, and message being conveyed to customers. Freelance writers will do what it takes to ensure clients’ needs are met.

Hiring freelance writers guarantees that the project will be completed on or before the deadline for the price that was quoted. Most freelance writers work from home which means they work even if they are sick; there are no sick days.

Companies usually hire freelance writers to cover for vacationing staff writers. There is no PTO time for freelance writers. When freelance writers take vacation they let clients know in advance so there are no surprises.

Hiring freelance writers can improve the bottom line because freelance writers are not considered overhead like staff writers. Companies can save money in the long run by hiring freelance writers today. It’s a win-win situation!

Hiring Freelance Writers Saves Money

Well, 2010 is just around the corner. Time for my first pep-talk for writers for the new decade. Do we feel all fresh and shiny and ready to benefit from the economic recovery? I sure hope so!

Job one: it's time to raise your rates.

I can hear you quaking in your boots from here. And I live way up in the northwest corner of the U.S. But I want you to consider this. The approach of a new year is a naturally great time to break the news to existing clients that rates are going up. Ideally, you want to put the news out to them in the waning days of '09, but at worst the first week of '10. Message: it's a new year, an improving economy, and my rates are going up.

Maybe not for every client. But if you're going to keep raising your average hourly rate, you need to keep raising rates.

So it's time to take a look at who you're writing for, and what they are paying you. Who pays the least, on an hourly basis? Make a list of your lowest payers.

Now you've got a decision to make. There are only two ways to make rates go up: Either existing clients have to pay more, or you have to go out and find better-paying clients, and then drop the lower payers.

So first question: Do you think there is any chance you can get these clients to pay more? If you write for flat-rate content sites or bidding sites, that would be a big no. Their pay will likely remain exactly the same in the coming year. If your clients aren't negotiable on rates, it's time to look at your marketing plan for adding better-paying clients '10.

Will you write advice articles on Biznik? Attend in-person networking events? What's been working for you in the past? What do you want to try that's new? Figure out how you will attract new clients this year, and create a schedule for when you'll do your marketing.

If it is possible your existing clients will pay more, it's time to write them a letter. Let them know your business is growing and thriving, and rates are rising.

I actually just did this with a client I had on a two-month contract at $1,600 a month. The project suffered from massive scope creep as it went along and became really $3000 or more a month of work. When they let me know they wanted to extend the contract, I informed them I was happy to keep working for them, but not at that rate. I proposed a new rate -- not $3,000 as I was sure that would make them bolt, but one that gave me nearly a 30% raise, to the point where I felt the account would be worth continuing and wouldn't lower my overall average hourly rate.

I documented how the project had changed and what going rates were for the types of work I was now doing. I showed them the massive discount they would still be getting. I mentioned that the economy is turning around and many clients are competing for my time.

And bottom line, rates had to go up. Or I'm walking.

Feels scary, doesn't it? But you'll need a little courage if you're going to increase what you earn year to year.

At the moment I sent this proposal, in mid-December, January was only about half booked up, and a lot of assignments were still hanging and uncertain. But it had to happen, because the point of it all is I need to make a living.

With the economic upswing, now is the time to lock in better rates. You never know when the opportunity will disappear to talk rate increases. I had one hourly-rate client back in late 2007 that I was getting $85 an hour with. I had the sense other freelancers for them were making more, so I told them my rate was going up in the next year to $95 an hour. They grumbled a little, but went for it. (I later learned others were getting $120, so I was still a deal.)

Of course, my timing was great. By early 2008, the economy was collapsing, and I wouldn't have dared to broach a rate increase. The payoff: it turned out to be a very busy time for this client, and I earned more than $5,000 of additional income over the next 2 years. That's right, 5 large for doing exactly what I would have done...just getting paid more for it. Because I simply asked for it.

So ask for a raise -- you deserve it, and it's worth the risk.

How will you increase your rates for '10? Let us know your strategy!

It's Time to Raise Your Rates

By Kat Foust

Most of us starting writing when we were very young because it fulfilled some need we had. Maybe we wrote to express love or even grief or anger. Whatever the reason, it brought us some sense of comfort.

As professional writers we often lost sense of that. We write what we do because someone else has a need for it and that's what we're paid to do. In that respect, writing has the potential to become more like work and not something we always look forward to. It can also be disheartening because many people don't take writers seriously. YOU know how hard you work, but you can't expect your friends to if they aren't writers. Chances are that they may have little sympathy for you when you have writers block or begin to wonder how something you once enjoyed so much became like any other job.

Today I want to challenge you to remember your love of writing. Work today if you must, by take a minute to write something...just because. It can be a letter to a loved one, a fun poem or even just words written sporadically on a piece of paper. Just do it for the pure pleasure of writing.

I bring this up today because when I first began writing online I only wanted to share information. I never dreamed it would be my full time job. I hoped that people liked what I wrote, but what I really wanted to do was to have a positive impact on someone's life. I thought that if one thing I wrote benefited someone else, then my mission was complete.

The other day I received an email from someone who was suffering. They were living in a bad situation and it happened to be one that I had done some extensive writing on. They thanked me for being their "port in a storm" and I remembered why I had begun writing. It's important to remember the intrinsic value that can be derived from putting a few words on paper or online as it were. I encourage you to find the time today to do that for yourself. And since tomorrow is Christmas Eve and I won't be writing again before Christmas, I also want to wish you all a merry Christmas. I hope your day is filled with smiles and joy.

Intrinsic Writing

By Alyssa Ast

Thank you to all of our participants in this month's contest. This month's winner is Leon Sterling. Below is his winning entry, which can also be viewed in the WM Freelance Connection group. Check the blog on December 29th for a special guest blog post from Leon Sterling.

Second place for this months contest goes to David Suresh Marumudi. Thank you for your entry. A brief glimpse of David Suresh Marumundi post will follow Leon Sterling's entry. The full version can be viewed in the WM Freelance Connection group.

Third place is awarded to Kristie Navarette. Thank you Kristie Navarette for participating. A glimpse of Kristie Navarette's entry can be viewed after David Suresh Marumundi's. The full version is available in the WM Freelance Connection group.

Check back in January for next months contest!


How to keep your writing moving forward.
By Leon Sterling

The best writing advice I ever received was from E. L. Doctorow. No, I didn’t meet him (even though I lived in New Rochelle, New York at the same time that he did). I received this advice while listening to him discussing the process of writing during an interview with Charlie Rose. He was astounding.

E. L. Doctorow has actually said a great many helpful things about writing (I believe some have appeared on WM), but this one anecdote about the writing process stuck with me and has helped me beyond words (no pun intended) throughout the years. This is a close approximation of what he said:

“Writing is just like driving a car at night – you can only see as far as your headlights illuminate, but as soon as you’ve covered that distance, you can see what’s next, and so on and so on.”

How has this helped me? I used to drive myself nuts with “Where is this going? How will it end? What will happen to these characters?” Somehow, E. L. Doctorow’s advice allowed me to relax, to trust in the process and just keep moving forward, one word at a time. And that approach has remained with me.

Doctorow also provided an example of what he meant on the Charlie Rose show. When he sat down to write what would become “Ragtime,” he was in his house in New Rochelle staring at the wallpaper. Nothing was coming. So he simply began describing the wallpaper he was staring at (there’s a prompt). Then he began writing about what might be behind the wallpaper, and then about who might have lived in that house around the time it was built in the early 1900s. The story evolved and became a tremendous novel. How could one not pay attention?

A corollary to this was something that a friend said: don’t try to perfect each chapter, just keep moving forward then go back and edit. Tied with E. L. Doctorow’s advice, the combined advice allows me to trust in the process, to keep the story moving, through the dark, through the fog, without knowing exactly where I’ll end up.

The second best writing advice I received (is that allowed?) was during some classes at Sarah Lawrence College. I returned to school in my 40s and one of the teachers there was an advocate of allowing one’s characters to take part in their own development. That was an eye-opener and has helped me to step into the characters’ shoes and see things from their point of view. Very illuminating, particularly when it’s the opposite sex. Not easy to do, but far better than not listening at all.




The best writing advice I have ever received and why
By David Suresh Marumundi

I was eleven when I received my first and the best writing advice ever. It traveled with me in time, remembered even today—after 33 years. I must admit that, if not for the advice of his, I would not be writing here today. Venerable I consider it now. I call him as ‘him’ as I do not remember his name or his face today. But I can exactly recall the incident in the same fashion as it occurred that day. Click HERE to view the full version....




"What is the best writing advice you have ever received and why?"
By Kristie Navarette

All of my life, I have been told "you’re funny" or "you always look on the bright side". While I know this to be true, I also know that when I am in my deepest, worrisome thoughts, what better place to hide all of these deep thoughts than in my writings. Click HERE to view the full version...

December's Contest Winner: Leon Sterling!

By Angela Atkinson

When I decided I was a writer (I believe I was six or seven), I was in it for the art, the craft of it all. Even at such a tender age, I envisioned myself writing some insanely important something that the whole world needed to read. Over the years, I would scribble in a notebook I kept in my purse when I was out and about and got a good story idea. I filled notebooks with every event, emotion and concern that I dealt with in my day-to-day life. Later, I bought a little tape recorder and babbled endless deep and philosophical thoughts and story ideas into it.

Back then, I said didn't believe in "selling out", and if you'd have suggested to teenage me that an editor might ask me to cut out my favorite line or a pivotal point in a story, I'd have told you that I'd rather not have it published. In fact, I'd likely have gone on some crazy rant about how the publishing industry clearly didn't understand my work,listing several reasons why they were in just plain wrong in their assessment. I'd have said that no amount of money was worth ripping apart one of my stories. Poor me, I'd lament, a misunderstood artist (who, coincidentally, could have been labeled a starving one had it not been for the graciousness of my parents who fed me in those days.)

Even in college, I found myself writing dramatic short stories (some even got published) about dark subjects, often featuring girls who seemed to be just like me, only with better apartments and cooler wardrobes. I had amazing professors who encouraged me to write, who took special interest in me. I had classmates who were equally passionate about their crafts, and together we breathed in all that the muses had to offer.

Through it all, though, I studied my first love, journalism. Of course, that's about the time I started envisioning myself traveling the world with my non-husband and kids having self. I wrote for a little regional magazine, interviewing local business owners and writing on health and insurance topics.

After that, hubs and the kids showed up in my world and changed it forever.

So, as I spent several years in corporate hell a corporate job while attending to this beautiful family I'd been given, I continued to scribble in my notebooks and pound out stories on my PC. I shared them with no one, save for a writing class I took for fun one year. I wrote letters, business plans, manuals, training programs, articles for the company website--I was the "go-to" girl when something needed to be written. It satisfied me, for awhile.

Then one day, I got the chance to leave my corporate job.

This would be great, I thought, and I wasn't wrong. I could focus on my writing, make a full-time career of it. Of course, it wouldn't be the world-traveling with no kids kinda career--but a writing career nonetheless.

But the writing world had sort of moved on without me. There were all kinds of new things to learn--social networking, web writing and SEO skills and more.

I found my way to a certain website (which shall remain nameless, because I don't recommend it) that would publish my articles. They offered me next to nothing in pay and (I learned later) would let anyone publish nearly anything on the site. I accepted assignments and wrote articles that were, to say the least, uninspired.

Over the next several months, I learned a lot about the world of online writing, and found some higher paying gigs. I created an author website and started working with private clients, and actually started bringing in a decent income.

Finally, I thought, I had officially re-started my writing career! And it has been good--plenty of work, decent income--recession be damned!

Now, here's the downside--as I got deeper and deeper into the business, the passion waned at times. So what, right? I was making money doing something I loved, and wasn't that the most important thing?

Well...the thing is, writing ONLY for money was a sure-fire way for me to forget that I loved writing. And when that happens, the best case scenario is that productivity can slow waaaay down. In the worst case scenarios, writer's block and other ugly confidence issues can crop up.

So what's the answer? How can one maintain passion while still bringing in the big (or little) bucks?

Make Time for Creativity

Being a professional writer doesn't mean never writing for yourself. Make room in your schedule for a little passion. You can do this by starting a personal blog, writing in a journal or even working on the great American novel in your spare time. Feel free to write about something that makes you passionate. Use a bunch of gratuitous 50 cent words if you want. It's just for you. It doesn't have to be much--ten minutes may even be enough to get your creative juices flowing. Try some of the writing prompts in our WM Freelance Connection community group to help you get started.

Network

Getting involved with other writers can help fuel your writing fire. You'll share ideas and teach each other new things. You may find a critique partner or even someone with whom you can check in each day to discuss your progress. Join local writing groups and online writing communities to stay up to date with the haps in the writing world.

Love the One You're With

Develop a passion for the business end of writing. The fact is, if you want to make a living doing what you love, you have to understand every aspect of it. Why not learn to love the publishing business, warts and all? After all, contrary to what teenage me might have told you, it is literally our bread and butter. And what's not to love? (Ok, we'll go there another day...)

Change It Up

Try a new writing style, even if only for yourself. If you're a journalist, try writing a short story. If you're into novels, pound out a poem or two. It doesn't have to be great, just have fun with it.

Crack a Book

Read books, blogs, articles, poetry--whatever floats your boat. Just keep reading. Read stuff you love, and read stuff that pisses you off. (If it makes you too mad, why not write a contrasting opinion piece?) And remember what Jane Evershed said:

"To read is to empower
To empower is to write
To write is to influence
To Influence is to change
To change is to live."

Write Like You Mean It

Strive for excellence in your work. Even if you're taking an assignment to write about underwater basket weaving, research it and write the crap out of it. Don't just pump out substandard drivel because you're not interested in the topic--really write it. Make it the best damn underwater basket weaving article ever written. And if you can't do that, then don't take assignments that don't call to you. Fact is, somewhere out there, there's a writer who would love to write about underwater basket weaving. So leave the jobs you don't really want for writers who do--and maybe you'll open yourself up to those opportunities you really want.


What do you think? What are some techniques you use to keep the passion going in your own writing career?

Bring Home the Bacon (With a Side of Passion)

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Are you a parent who is dying to write about daily life? Do you live in Austin, Texas and could write about local people, restaurants and activities? Parent:Wise Austin may be just the regional parenting publication for you to gain your first (or 50th!) clip from!

Guidelines: Before you send anything, I would highly recommend that you read back issues of the magazine, also available online. We accept full articles ONLY for the "Essay" and "My Life as a Parent" sections. Essays should have an over-arching theme -- generally serious -- while the My Life as a Parent article should be laugh out loud funny. It is possible to be published if you live out of the area. Parent:Wise Austin happily welcomes unsolicited articles for inclusion in the magazine. However, it’s a lot easier if you first jot us a quick email with a brief description of what you’d like to write about. A couple of paragraphs could save you from writing an article that isn’t appropriate for the magazine.

Our magazine seeks to inform parents with quality articles depicting some aspect of the parenting journey. We publish articles that are thoughtful and intelligent — but not boring or pedantic. Simply put, articles must well researched (we require a list of sources), tightly written, and directed at an audience of parents who want to be educated. We focus only on Central Texas: all articles must be centered in, or about, Austin and its environs. We prefer local writers, especially those with experience in the subject about which they’re writing. Having said that, we’re willing to take a chance on new writers — so don’t be afraid to query us with an idea even if you’re not Dr. Know–It–All.

Here are the main articles we print each month:
• Cover Story: An in–depth piece exploring an item of import to the Austin parenting community. Cover stories generally run 2,000 to 2,500 words and contain multiple interviews, facts, statistics and other information to support the premise of the article. Cover stories are assigned months in advance, usually to experienced journalists or other writers with extensive experience in the field being explored.
• News Articles: We usually include at least one secondary news article. This article can be hard news or feature — but it must be local. We accept unsolicited manuscripts and queries for secondary news articles. Maximum length: 1,000 words (with approval).
• My Life as a Parent. There’s no real format for this one — we like anything that makes us laugh out loud. If it has to do with parenting and it embarrassed/humiliated/surprised you (or simply made you laugh) send it to us. Maximum length: 600 words (according to web site).
• Restaurant Reviews: We like a good kid-friendly place to eat just as much as the next parent. So, if you have a place that’s fabulous but not well known, let us know about it. Maximum length: 500 words.
• Parent:Wise Profile: Each month we spotlight one person in the community who works to better the lives of others — be they children, families or parents. We want to recognize deserving volunteers, community leaders and others who give of their time but receive little public recognition for it. The subject of the profile need not be famous. Indeed, we look for people who are like our readers: interesting and involved in our community. This article not only serves to recognize deserving people, it also should inspire others to follow their example. Maximum length: 600 words.

Approximate pay: Nonfiction 500-5,000 words pays $50-200. $50 for My Life as a Parent (humor) 500-700 words (according to Writer’s Market 2009); Essay (first-person narrative) 500-1,000 words.

E-mail submissions to: storyideas@parentwiseaustin.com

*Not what you were looking for? Check out other WM writing opportunities!

Writing Opportunity: Parent:Wise Austin

By Pam Houghton

Sometimes a story I've written is so far from perfect I can't figure out how to make it work. Rather than toil with it anymore, I feel like deleting the story from my hard drive; then my inner drama queen wonders, what made me think I could write for a living?

If you have ever let perfectionism paralyze your writing, just remember: not every piece of work spills out like fifth graders on the last day of school. Don't give up! Here are a few tips for writers that might help get your fingers back on the keyboard.

1. The process of writing is just that - a process. Everyone writes a clunker now and then. That's okay. But if you want to improve, you have to keep writing. Rarely have my pieces flowed out whole - I usually tinker and fiddle and sit on them for a while until I figure out what the stories are really about. Then I write.

2. Take a break and do something productive. When I'm feeling fuzzy-headed and not sure what direction to take my writing, there's nothing like cleaning house. If cleaning's your thing, go ahead: spray some Pledge, Swiffer floors, organize a pile of messy shoes; you'll get real, concrete results. That feels good. Once you've regained a sense of accomplishment from your activity of choice (doesn't have to be housework), bring that attitude back to your writing.

3. Try re-writing sections by hand. I have to admit, I never fully adapted to writing raw on the computer. I usually start with a notebook and a pen to flesh out my story before I transfer it to the computer. (Old-fashioned, I know.) But then - when I get stuck on a particular section - I find it's easier to fix when I go back to paper and pen. It just seems to flow more naturally.

4. Look at your past accomplishments, whether you've been published, pleased a client with good work or successfully blogged. Did they come easily? Probably not. You almost certainly worked hard to get those things in the shape they needed to be successful. You'll do it again!

5. Maybe you're piece just isn't working. For now. Admit it and move onto to something else. Something easier. Update your bio. E-mail a friend. Jot down a grocery list. You have to shake off that stiffness that comes when you're stuck. Quick, informal writing can bring you back into the groove and get your literary juices flowing again.

Tips for Writers: How to Get Writing Again When You're Stuck

By Rebecca Sebek

The standard format of a business letter varies from country to country. However, standards are flexible. The best way to learn about business writing is by example. Whenever you receive a letter, read it, and file it away for future reference. The more samples you have the better because you’ll be able to “replicate” the business letter by inserting your information into the format.

Fonts for business letter writing

Use a simple font such as Arial or Times New Roman (10-12 pt) when you write a business letter. You may have the urge to use another font such as Verdana, Helvetica, or Tahoma, but it’s best to stick with the basics.

Using a larger font can look sloppy. You don’t want to take up an entire page with a large font because the reader may get the impression that you’re an amateur writer. You want to make a good “first” impression so use a standard font.

Professional business letter writing

It’s more professional to send a typed business letter versus a handwritten one. The only letter you’d want to hand write is a “thank you” note because it’s more personal. A typed business letter will show your professionalism.

Before you write your business letter, think about your audience. Who are they? How will they perceive your letter? For example, don’t use business lingo when you’re writing to customers because they may not understand it. Keep your business letters short. If you need more than one page, you may consider sending a brochure.

Proofread all of your business writing. Before your letter goes out in the mail, double check it. Have someone else proofread your work because it will ensure the letter is free of mistakes. It’s amazing how mistakes are overlooked, just read any printed publications such as books, newspapers, and magazines!

Cover letters

Sometimes you may be required to send a cover letter with your resume or application. Make sure you have the proper spelling of the hiring manager. It's suggested that you use a salutation such as “Mr. or Mrs.” when you address a cover letter. However, unless you are 100% certain of the salutation, forgo it and use the person’s name.

Tip: Some employers will hire candidates based on their cover letter; they may not look at the resume. Make sure your cover letter hi-lights points from your resume and shows what you can do for the organization.

Before you begin writing your cover letter, make sure you read the requirements. What information does the employer ask for? When you send your employment information by mail, indicate the enclosures that can be found within the envelope.

Business letter writing and thank you letters

As mentioned above, do not type a thank you letter. Many hiring managers have indicated that a written thank you note gives candidates an edge over the competition because they took the time to write NOT type a thank you note. Send the thank you letter within two business days.

Make it clear that you are writing to thank the recipient. Mention the date and gratitude for the time they took to speak with you. When you send a “thank you” letter for a job interview, mention the position and how much you’d like to work for the organization. Promote yourself because if you don’t the recipient may get the impression that you don’t want the job.

Business letter writing doesn’t have to be scary

Don’t let business writing frighten you. Once you write one letter, you’ll be a pro at it. You could purchase some books to help you hone your skills. If you unsure about your business letters, have someone else read them and ask for feedback. Take the constructive criticism you receive and apply it to your writing. You may find that you enjoy business writing and become a freelance business writer!

The Art of Writing Business Letters

By Carol Tice

I received a very moving email message from a longtime professional writer and single mom of two. She'd recently been laid off from a lucrative editing job.

Now, looking out on today's freelance world full of $15-an-article assignments, she doesn’t know how she will support her family. She'd have to work around the clock at content-mill rates to make ends meet, and doesn't want to do that kind of work anyway.

"I am just not capable of slapping things together and calling it writing," she says. "I'm truly afraid that things will not get better."

Well, she wrote to the right person. Because I'm not afraid. And she needs to be fearless too, and so do you.

In this economy and fast-changing writing landscape, attitude is everything. I believe prospective employers can smell the fear and negativity on applicants from miles off, and they steer clear. And that feeds the cycle of no work, and more fear.

I think the secret of why I've had such a successful year is that I never feared. I believe that I am really a talented writer, and that I will continue to find paying clients, no matter what. Somewhere in the enormous, multi-million-dollar sea that is the freelance writing market, there's enough lucrative work to provide a good living for one little me. I believe it. I'm such a small part of the whole marketplace, that there doesn't have to be a recession for me. That's my belief. And that's why I've found good-paying clients, all through this recession.

I am not sitting around mourning the shrinking world of traditional journalism. I'm wide open to new possibilities in my field, so I find them. I sign my cover letters for jobs with "Enjoy!" I am communicating my excitement to everyone I meet at the new opportunities that are arising in the world of writing. I think editors find it refreshing – I've often gotten responses with an hour.

When I talk with writers, the ones in the worst shape have very negative attitudes. They don't believe there's good-paying work out there for them anymore. They waste time mourning the loss of a job, the loss of the old world of journalism, they want to vent about their raw deal, and mostly they can't stop wishing things would go back the way they were.

That's never going to happen. And hiring editors don't want to hear it. The negativity becomes self-fulfilling prophecy, and when I check back in with them, usually they've given up and are looking for full-time jobs, or have decided to be stay-at-home moms and forget about having a writing career for now.

Do you believe in your writing abilities? Do you think there's a place for you in the new media order – and are you excited by that? Then find the good-paying work that's waiting for you. I believe it's out there. Do you?

Do you believe?

By Kat Foust

As the year comes closer to an end, I thought this would be the perfect time to post this writing opportunity. Most of us reflect on the year and how it compared to previous years. In doing so, we may also feel the need to purge ourselves. Some of us do that with a priest, friend or family member, but sometimes the act or thought that we committed may be too much for us to offer to someone we know.

The Confessions part of Unsent Letters is a way to express yourself in such a way as to purge yourself, expose what you have done to the world, but not bring any harm to yourself or family by doing so. It's a great way to end the year. As a writer, what better way to relieve some of your pent up anxieties than by releasing some of them in the form you love best? Though this is not a paid opportunity, it may be a great method to take you back to the joy of writing, the ability to apply what and who you are to pen and paper as it were. Below is an excerpt from the Unsent Letters Blog explaining the details.

Unsent Letters would like to open up a new section of our blog to people who have things on their mind they want to say, don’t care about getting paid, and want to remain 100% anonymous. We are calling this section Unsent Confession Letters, where you can share a letter to anyone about anything and you can email it to us completely anonymously – make up an email address, send it to us from one of the proxy free emails, whatever you want.

We require it be in letter format, addressed to someone or something, and if it is approved, we will post it on the blog for all to read. Maybe it’s something you’re afraid someone else will know, or something you don’t want the editors at Unsent Letters to know you sent, but you feel the need to get it off your chest or to share it with others who might be helped or touched by it.

These anonymous Unsent Confession Letters can be sent to the same address as the regular submissions, but be sure to put UNSENT CONFESSIONS LETTER SUBMISSION in the subject line. We will not look at or care what email address you send them from, so create a new one or use a fake one, whatever makes you feel comfortable. You can also snail mail your submissions to the address listed on the Unsent Letters contact page, if you don’t want to send email.

There is no payment for these letters, because it makes it impossible for you to stay anonymous.

Writing Opportunity: Confessions

By Alyssa Ast

• Synopsis- An overview of your article narrowed down to one paragraph.


• Samples- Include links or samples of your work. If emailing, explain if they are attached files or web links. Keep it down to 2-3 samples. (And double check the writer's guidelines to be sure you follow instructions.)
  


• Closing- A strong closing statement with contact information. Do not forget contact information!!

Other Tips of the Trade






Photo: "Magazines 2" By Lusi Stock.xchng

Tips for Submitting to Magazines

By Angela Atkinson

Are you a cabin or cottage dweller? Do you know about home building, design or maintenance? Environmental issues, projects, entertainment or cooking? What about legal or financial issues? Outdoor activities?

If any of the above topics call to you, today's writing opportunity* may be just what you're looking for. Cabin Life Magazine is accepting queries for articles on all of these topics.

Writer's guidelines reprinted from the website, below:

CABIN LIFE, CABIN LIVING mostly uses articles by freelance writers working on assignment. We are interested in working with qualified writers with expertise in these areas:

* Home building
* Home design
* Home maintenance
* Home projects
* Lakeshore and environmental issues
* Outdoor entertaining
* Cooking
* Legal & financial issues
* Outdoor activities

Queries
Have a story idea? Send us an e-mail. (We can respond more quickly to e-mail than snailmail.) Query should outline the scope of the story as well as resources to be used. And give us a flavor of your writing style, while you're at it. Please, no phone calls. We prefer seeing a query rather than a finished manuscript because we are looking for a specific style and approach to stories. Sorry, but we cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photos.

The Market
Our readers love their vacation homes, whether it's a rustic cabin in the woods or a showcase timberframe on the lake. And those who are just dreaming use CABIN LIFE to plan their future retreat. Your own cabin experience will help immensely in writing about the unique culture and experiences encountered at this home away from home.

Writing Style
We want professionally written stories that are witty, informative and smart! Stories should be infused with authority, not full of quotes from sources and surveys. We're looking for a writing style that comes from first-hand experience, thorough research and personal knowledge of a topic.

Topics
From very practical to very imaginative, and dealing with the whole range of cabin culture, from home improvement, maintenance and finance to entertaining and dining as well as recreation and boating. If you've been there, you know what we're talking about.

Deadlines
We work approximately 6 months ahead of publication schedule, which means we need queries at least 8 months before publication date. It's best to contact us a year in advance for seasonal material.

Length
400-800 words for departments. 1,000-3,000 word for feature articles. Up to 700 words for a one-page story.

Photo Guidelines
Digital photos must be hi-res: 4x5.5 @ 300 dpi for quarter page; 8x5.5 @ 300 dpi for half page; 8.5x11 @ 300 dpi for a full page. We work with jpg and tiff files. Slides, transparencies and prints also are acceptable.

Contract and Payment
Pay varies depending on the article, the writer and the amount of research involved. Payment is made upon acceptance. All work submitted must be original property of the writer and should not have appeared in another publication. CABIN LIFE contracts for all rights.

Contacting Us
Send writing samples to Editor, CABIN LIFE, CABIN LIVING, 1001 E. Ninth Street, Duluth, MN 55805 E-mail to editor@cabinlife.com

Sample Issues
For a sample issue, please send a check for $7 to Sample Copy, CABIN LIFE, CABIN LIVING, 1001 East Ninth St, Duluth, MN 55805.

Thank you for your interest in CABIN LIFE,
CABIN LIVING magazine!

*Not your thing? Check out other WM writing opportunities!

Writing Opportunity: Cabin Life Magazine

By Kerrie McLoughlin

I knew I wanted to be a writer from an early age but lacked the confidence to pursue it until I was in my thirties. Jenna White is a 15-year-old not-yet-published writer from Mississippi I found out in Bloggy-Land. I was impressed that a teenager was so confident about being a writer and was actually acting on it. She writes fiction, as well as for FIVE blogs, including the Writer's Chronicle and As the Plot Thickens. Let's show her some support, shall we?

WM: What made you decide to start writing?

Jenna White: Reading. When I was in about fourth or fifth grade, I picked up a book called The School Story, by Andrew Clements. It’s about a girl named Natalie who writes a book and who has a best friend named Zoe who thinks it should be published. So Zoe becomes Natalie’s agent and they navigate the publishing industry, proving that you don’t have to be “grown up” to be a writer. That really stuck with me, and ever since I’ve dreamed of finding my Agent Zoe and getting something published. I actually keep a copy of The School Story at my desk so I can look at it when I get stuck and remind myself that, hey, writing isn’t just for the grownups.

WM: How much of your writing is for you and how much is for other people?

JW: I always write for myself first. If I don’t like what I’m working on, nobody else will, either, and besides that, I’m the one who has to put up with the story and the characters for God knows how long. Edits are when you think of the readers and the “other people,” but writing is for the writer.

WM: What sort of reaction do you get when you tell people you’re a writer?

JW: Stunned silence, disbelieving glances, some amused chuckles, and a lot of raised eyebrows. A lot of people in my age group declare that they want to be writers, but don’t mean it or don’t think it will be a lot of work. That sort of irks me, especially since everybody tends to lump me with that group. But I try my best to ignore the skepticism—I know I’m serious, and eventually they’ll all see they were wrong to think otherwise.

WM: Do you ever think about quitting?

JW: Oh, heck yes. But thinking about quitting and actually quitting are two different things.

WM: What do you like to wear when writing?

JW: Pajama pants and a tank top, I think, make for the best writing costume. And a hat. I have lots of hats, and I’ll switch them out every so often, if I feel like it. My current writing hat is topped with cat ears.

WM: You push out an incredible amount of work in a short time—for example, you wrote 50,000 words in thirteen days last November. How is that possible?

JW: A complete lack of any form of social life. Seriously. I’m not a band geek, a debate nerd, a drama chick, or a jock. When everybody else is at club meetings or at the ballgames, I’m in my office writing. Aside from that, I set goals. They range from lenient to just touching on evil, but I have a goal of a set number of words every day, usually one to two thousand on weekdays and three to five per day on weekends.

WM: What are your thoughts on writer’s block?

JW: I think that writer’s block is more a state of mind than anything. Sure, it can really mess with you, but if you’re really committed to the writing, you can push through and get over it, around it, or just break it down. Whenever I get “blocked,” I just keep writing and trust that I’ll get through it eventually. It always works.

WM: What advice would you give to other teens interested in writing?

JW: Just get out there and do it. Set goals and meet them. Be prepared to get frustrated, be prepared to deal with skeptics and people who think that you’re cute or funny or just plain stupid, and be prepared to spend many, many months on projects that might not ever see the light of day. Know that it’s not easy to write, but it’s always worth it. And know that writing is a journey, not a race, and that each step of the way involves growth and learning. Even the best writer in the world still has room to grow. You don’t learn everything there is to know about history or math or science or English overnight, and you can’t learn everything about writing in such a short amount of time, either.

WM: What sort of things do you prefer to write about?

JW: I’m a fantasy addict. From epic to urban, I’m there. If it’s got magic or paranormal goings-on, I’m there. In my writing, I like to work with things that toe the boundaries between fantasy and other genres, like science fiction, horror, or historical fiction. But no matter what I write, there’s always something a little too fantastic for reality.

WM: Which do you find more interesting to write about, good or evil?

JW: Oh, neither. The grey area is so much more fascinating. Call me a Romantic writer (and by that I mean like Hugo or Shelley, not Katie MacAlister), but plumbing the depths of morality is way, way more fun than just sticking to right and wrong. And, to me, villains are so much more frightening when you know that somewhere in there they have reasons and rationalizations. What’s even more frightening is when you agree with some of what they think and don’t know quite what side of the continuum they fall on.

WM: If you could possess any psychic/magical power what would it be?

JW: Ooh, I don’t know. Telekinesis, I think. It’s such a versatile power. Plus, think of all the “may the Force be with you” jokes I could crack!

WM: If a genie granted you 3 wishes, what would you wish for?

JW: An unlimited supply of sunflower seeds, an office paneled in dry-erase boards, and a tree house that I could move my writing studio into.

WM: If everything in the world had to be one color, what would you pick and why?

JW: Well, I rather like having a full rainbow of colors to paint the world with, but I guess I’d choose shades of green. Purple is my favorite, but too much of it sort of shocks the system. But green is a nice color, and I think different shades of it would suit the world nicely.

Writers to Watch: Jenna White

By Pam Houghton

Writing can be painful because you don't always know what to write about, or aren't satisfied with the words that are coming out. It's tempting to use your unfocused brain as an excuse to run to Starbucks for a skinny vanilla latte than to actually sit down and write. Not that I've done that. Uh-huh.

If you are a writer who has trouble gluing your behind to the chair, here are a few tips that might boost your productivity.

1. Join a writing group. Groups may vary in format, but the main purpose is for members to receive feedback on their writing. Which means - if you want feedback - you have to write something! The frequency with which groups meet varies. They may meet once a month (all year long), or once a week for shorter periods before taking a short or substantial break. Some groups read their pieces at the meeting followed by a critique session; others submit material prior to the meeting, giving members time to think about their response. Groups force you to write, especially since you lose out on valuable feedback if you arrive empty-handed. And a weekly or monthly meeting gives you practice writing for a built-in audience ready to read your work. (Check out our very own WM Freelance Connection writer's group!)

2. Start a blog. When I was having trouble coming up with new ideas for writing, I started a blog, thinking it a novel way to grind out a few sentences. I'd force myself to post something every day, even if it was nonsense. It helped get me in the habit of writing daily, to the point where I felt confident taking on other writing gigs. I eventually deleted the blog, because upon re-reading, it sounded like a teenage girl's diary without the naughty details. But it served its purpose.

3. Get a regular writing gig (even if you have to write for free). Yes, I think it's okay to write for free (for a while). Especially when you are starting out, trying to prove you can write quality stuff in quantity. It's important for editors and other future clients to know that you can reliably churn out material that's readable, lively and engaging. Examiner.com and Suite101.com provide opportunities for writers to write and publish frequently on the web. (Just don't expect to get rich.) If you are unpublished, websites such as these are good sources for building clips - and regularly exercising your writing chops. Most importantly, you acquire a comfort level with daily writing.

Tips for freelance writers: Ways to Boost Your Productivity

By Rebecca Sebek

Travel writing is a niche market that has exploded is the last couple of years. If you have a passion for travel and writing, you could marry the two and become a travel writer. You may believe that writing travel is difficult, but breaking into travel writing is easier than you think.

Many travel writers begin by writing about where they live. For example, if you live in Phoenix, Arizona, drive out to the Grand Canyon and explore every inch of the magnificent park. Be brave and take a white water rafting expedition down the Colorado River. Your travel article will be of interest to someone in your state or country. The words your write could entice someone from Paris, France to visit the Grand Canyon. You could have a significant impact on your part of the world!

How to get started

Getting started in travel writing is easy. The first step is to setup a blog using Blogger, WordPress.com, or WordPress.org. These are free blog websites. Note: WordPress.org requires you to have a domain name. Once you set-up your blog, you can begin writing about your favorite travel destination, adventure travel, women’s travel, men’s travel, solo travel, or whatever type of travel you enjoy.

When you begin in travel writing, choose a “niche” market. Being too broad can drive visitors away from your website. After all, you want visitors to know and understand what it is you’re writing or blogging about on a daily basis. Plus, it can be a challenge to be everything to everyone.

Tip: For your website, choose a pleasing color scheme, add media such as graphics, videos (short form content is best), podcasts, and write posts on a regular basis. If you can’t post every day, three times a week will be fine. Google loves to see content on a website – unique content is king.

After you got your feet wet with a blog, you can contact your local newspaper editor and ask if they’d be interested in your travel articles. Some newspapers have shrunk or gone under, but you can still find open markets. Make sure you include a photograph with your travel article. If you don’t, the editor will ask you for one.

Another way you can get started in travel writing is to go on media trips. Sometimes you must pay for the flight, but you can receive vouchers for hotels and resorts. You may not get paid for the trip, but you’ll be able to list the credentials on your website and meet other travel writers. Media trips can put you in touch with other travel writers who can give you advice with your travel writing. You could run into travel editors who can give you pointers on how to get published in magazines and newspapers.

Travel writing is a learning experience

Travel writing has many forms. You could write guidebooks, memoirs, journals, blogs, magazine and newspapers articles, and travel literature. It’s a good idea to read the works of other travel writers. Well known travel authors are Paul Theroux, Bill Bryson, and many others. Read travel writing books such as L. Peat O’Neil’s See the World, Sell the Story or Lonely Planet Guide to Travel Writing. You can also take classes and workshops to hone your travel writing skills.

Travel writing is fun, but it’s also a learning experience. Traveling can teach you about yourself and the world at the same time. You’ll travel to far-off destinations and meet people you never thought you’d before in your life. You may not make a ton of money at first, but travel writing will open the doors for many other writing opportunities. It can take you places and broaden your horizons at the same time.

Travel writing will touch the depths of your soul; it will make you question your belief systems. You will view the world from a different perspective and think twice about what you read and hear in the media. You will never be the same – you’ve been warned!

Imagine Yourself as a Travel Writer

By Carol Tice

Gripes about pay are an epidemic these days in the writing world. But there's still a lot of good-paying assignments out there. So why aren't you making more money? In my experience mentoring writers, there are three main reasons:

#1. You're not marketing. When I talk to writers who're stuck making $10,000 or $20,000 a year, I usually begin by asking them about their marketing. Are they not getting responses to their queries? Feel they don't do well at in-person networking? Need help with their cold-calling skills?

The answers are always the same. It isn't that they need help improving how they do these things – they simply aren't querying, aren't networking, and aren't cold-calling. To sum up, they're not marketing their business, aside from perhaps shooting the occasional resume to an online job ad.

You've got to constantly be looking for new and better clients to keep your slate full. This is also how you raise rates – you find better-paying clients, and then one day you look at your roster and realize you're so busy you can drop the lowest-paying account. If you're actively prospecting, you get more new clients and can drop low payers faster, leading to higher average pay. If you're writing for $15 an article, it's because you're not taking the time to market your business and find better-paying markets.

#2. You're getting assignments instead of building relationships. New writers often get so excited about having an assignment that they forget -- every assignment should be, like they say at the end of Casablanca, the beginning of a beautiful friendship. You should link in social media to that editor so that you never lose track of them, even if they change jobs.

When you turn in your story, don't let the relationship momentum die. You should be ready with two or three additional story ideas. If you don't have ideas, at least ask the editor what their needs are coming up. Instead of a one-off, try to turn each relationship into a steady gig.

#3. You're not reselling. One great way to maximize your earnings is to take each story idea you have and sell it multiple places. Personally, I've recycled story ideas so much this year I'm dizzy. I'll write about a business topic for a Canadian conglomerate, then a U.S. magazine, then a corporate Web site. Reselling accelerates earnings because you leverage the research and expert interviews you did once across many paychecks, making you more efficient. You can interview one source and sell the story to their university magazine, a business magazine, a local newspaper…and so on. You fit more articles into each year more easily, you bill more, you make more.

What's it all boil down to? Be willing to go out and actively look for better-paying clients, and do your writing assignments more efficiently. Do that, and your income is bound to rise.

3 Reasons Why Writers Don't Earn More