Freelance copy editor (Telecommute): Sharp copy editor with proven editing skills needed to edit daily investment newsletter, The Bull Market Report, published by Indie Research, a leading independent research company. Requires 2 hours of editing work per day and we pay hourly market rates. This has the potential to grow into a full time position if you do high quality work, as Indie publishes three different newsletters and is quickly growing. Must have experience with financial writing and terminology, and enjoy editing in a fast paced environment. Knowledge of HTML and publishing systems a plus. Send letter, resume, clips to: editors@findprofit.com. Must be available each day during market hours. No phone calls please. Indie Research partners with industry experts to deliver both individual and institutional investors with first-rate, unbiased research, analysis and commentary across a range of investment sectors.
(Posted 12/21/04)
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Quote for Wednesday
In utter loneliness the writer tries to explain the inexplicable…The writer must believe that what he is doing is the most important thing in the world. And he must hold to this illusion even when he know it is not true.
- John Steinbeck
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Researcher-writer: Are you a writer with a detective’s skills to dig for a good story? Can you bring the past to life through compelling stories in documentaries, exhibits, books, and Web sites? Can you track down facts, figures, and photos? Can you analyze historical trends and facts and relate them to current business climates? Are you a creative individual who can work in a fast-paced environment? The History Factory is a heritage management firm that helps organizations discover, preserve and leverage their history to meet today's business challenges. For 25 years we’ve helped tomorrow’s leaders use yesterday’s stories, lessons and accomplishments to gain a competitive advantage … today. We are looking for researcher¬–writers to develop creative heritage-based multimedia programs for our clients. Requirements include creative, message-driven writing experience; published articles or stories; experience in utilizing primary and secondary source materials such as photographs and artifacts; the ability to identify/obtain historical materials for use in multimedia programs; an understanding of social, economic and business history; and well-honed skills in researching online, on-site and in historical repositories. If you’re intrigued by the idea of developing heritage-based business solutions and have superior historical research and writing skills, please e-mail us your resume and a cover letter, or apply online at www.historyfactory.com. NO PHONE CALLS mlane@historyfactory.com
(Posted 12/20/04)
(Posted 12/20/04)
Quote for Tuesday
My task which I am trying to achieve is, by the power of the written word to make you hear, to make you feel – it is, before all, to make you see. That – and no more, and it is everything.
- Joseph Conrad
Monday, December 20, 2004
Holiday publication schedule
Just a reminder that the final issue of Freelance Daily before the holiday break will be delivered on Thursday, December 23. Publication will resume on Monday, January 3. If history holds true, there will be a limited number of job postings that week (and lots of skiing on my part). All missed jobs will be included in the January 3 make-up issue.
Have a safe and happy holiday season.
Have a safe and happy holiday season.
Freelance Job of the Day
Medical writers: 1099 Medwriters is currently looking for new talent for on-call freelance work. Two or more years experience required. BA in English or BS in life sciences needed. MS, MA or Ph.D encouraged to apply. Work is sporadic. E-mail resume with credentials and word count rate. medwriters@yahoo.com, Web site: http://www.wholesalebridalusa.com/index1.html
(Posted 12/17/04)
(Posted 12/17/04)
Quote for Monday
Nouns, verbs, are the workhorses of the language. Especially in dialogue, don’t say, “she said mincingly,” or “he said boisterously.” Just say “he said, she said.”
- John P. Marquand
Friday, December 17, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Earth science writer: If a student asks "why should I care about the Coriolis effect," would you have an answer that would engage the student? When you're driving and you pass a road cut in a hillside, do you look over to see the rock strata, and can you help students be interested as well? Are you a skilled writer who knows about oceanography, geology, and meteorology? Apex Learning is looking for creative and dynamic teachers who can write engaging inquiry-based earth science activities for grades 9-12. The activities will use existing resources such as the USGS website and online weather reports. Qualifications: • High school teaching and/or curriculum design experience • familiar with NSES and AAAS science education standards: http://www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/nses/html/ http://www.project2061.org/tools/benchol/bolintro.htm • expertise in earth science concepts taught in high school in the topic areas of geology, meteorology, oceanography, and space science • strong writing skills, able to write within deadlines • able to see the possibilities of multimedia, and to write content that uses its capabilities and also works within its limits • available for at least 20 hours per week • an up-to-date computer (PC or Macintosh) that can run the latest version of Internet Explorer or Firefox, and a broadband internet connection If this sounds like a job you'd love, e-mail your resume to Tom Baer, tomb@apexlearning.com.
(Posted 12/16/04)
(Posted 12/16/04)
Quote for Friday
Experienced writers rarely begin a first draft until they hear in their heads – or on the page – a voice that may be right…Voice carries the writer’s intensity and glues together the information that the reader needs to know…We speak differently at a funeral or a party, in a church or in the locker room, at home or with strangers. We are experienced in using our individual voices for many purposes. We love to do the same thing and hear a voice in our head that may be polished and developed on the page…Keep reading aloud as you draft and edit.
- Donald M. Murray
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Female writers for technology newsletter: We are looking for female freelance writers to write about technology from the female perspective. These articles would be featured online on our website and newsletter. These articles would target mothers, working mothers and the female exec conveying how technology affects their lives, their routine, their job, their family and more. Please forward resume, links and all applicable materials and information.
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/wrg/52415462.html
(Posted 12/15/04)
http://newyork.craigslist.org/mnh/wrg/52415462.html
(Posted 12/15/04)
Three things you must do to be a more successful writer
by Jennifer Minar
A friend of mine is a novelist who is in the midst of writing a second novel while her agent markets her first. I admire her. Not only did she write what, in my opinion, is a brilliant mystery, she hasn't missed a beat setting the second one in motion.
She's not a full-time writer...yet. In fact, she works a fifty-hour work week, most weeks. And outside of work, she has responsibilities--probably many of the same responsibilities as you.
But she finds a way to make the time. When the kids are tackling their homework, or tucked away in bed, when she's commuting back and forth, or taking the rare lunch break, she makes time to write. She even wakes up an hour early on the weekdays to pound out a few hundred words.
Do her writing habits remind you of yours? Even just a little? If not, do you really want to become a published author? Successful freelancer? Award-winning essayist? Then work toward it; become more serious about your writing. And take the advice many writers have imparted to newbies over the years: There are three ways of learning to write: Write. And write. And write. Here are some tips to remember:
Don't Wait Until You Feel Like Writing. Write even when you don't feel like it, because, most times you won't. And don't wait for an epiphany. Gather all your notes and sit in front of your PC and draft something. It doesn't have to be any good at first. What's important is that you are going through the motions. It's no secret that a lot of writers hate to write--at least first drafts. But there wouldn't be any books, articles, or essays if it weren't for first drafts, right?
The More You Write, The Easier It Gets. As with anything, writing takes practice. Feel proud when you have more words on paper at the end of each day. After a while, as the process becomes second nature, the words will flow.
Schedule Writing Time. This is important! Write every day with few exceptions. And don't wait until your schedule slows down because chances are, it won't. There will always be a room to vacuum, a friend to meet, a movie to catch, overtime to put in.
Schedule the time. And stay on schedule. Commit a small portion of your day to writing as you do other aspects of your life. Drag yourself to the keyboard and just stare at your monitor if you have to; half the battle is just getting there.
Schedule as little as half an hour a day. Believe me, the words will add up.
Be Persistent. Ask a writer what it took for her to become a success. Chances are, she'll say that persistence is what got her where she is.
Becoming a success at anything is about prioritizing those things you deem important in your life and being persistent at achieving them. Don't write only when you can get around to it, because often you won't.
Develop a writing schedule that works for you and take it seriously. Write even when it pains you to do it. Later you'll be thankful! And be persistent. You'll find yourself a more prolific writer and a good deal closer to achieving your writing dreams.
Jennifer Minar is a Washington, D.C.-based freelance writer and the managing editor of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
A friend of mine is a novelist who is in the midst of writing a second novel while her agent markets her first. I admire her. Not only did she write what, in my opinion, is a brilliant mystery, she hasn't missed a beat setting the second one in motion.
She's not a full-time writer...yet. In fact, she works a fifty-hour work week, most weeks. And outside of work, she has responsibilities--probably many of the same responsibilities as you.
But she finds a way to make the time. When the kids are tackling their homework, or tucked away in bed, when she's commuting back and forth, or taking the rare lunch break, she makes time to write. She even wakes up an hour early on the weekdays to pound out a few hundred words.
Do her writing habits remind you of yours? Even just a little? If not, do you really want to become a published author? Successful freelancer? Award-winning essayist? Then work toward it; become more serious about your writing. And take the advice many writers have imparted to newbies over the years: There are three ways of learning to write: Write. And write. And write. Here are some tips to remember:
Don't Wait Until You Feel Like Writing. Write even when you don't feel like it, because, most times you won't. And don't wait for an epiphany. Gather all your notes and sit in front of your PC and draft something. It doesn't have to be any good at first. What's important is that you are going through the motions. It's no secret that a lot of writers hate to write--at least first drafts. But there wouldn't be any books, articles, or essays if it weren't for first drafts, right?
The More You Write, The Easier It Gets. As with anything, writing takes practice. Feel proud when you have more words on paper at the end of each day. After a while, as the process becomes second nature, the words will flow.
Schedule Writing Time. This is important! Write every day with few exceptions. And don't wait until your schedule slows down because chances are, it won't. There will always be a room to vacuum, a friend to meet, a movie to catch, overtime to put in.
Schedule the time. And stay on schedule. Commit a small portion of your day to writing as you do other aspects of your life. Drag yourself to the keyboard and just stare at your monitor if you have to; half the battle is just getting there.
Schedule as little as half an hour a day. Believe me, the words will add up.
Be Persistent. Ask a writer what it took for her to become a success. Chances are, she'll say that persistence is what got her where she is.
Becoming a success at anything is about prioritizing those things you deem important in your life and being persistent at achieving them. Don't write only when you can get around to it, because often you won't.
Develop a writing schedule that works for you and take it seriously. Write even when it pains you to do it. Later you'll be thankful! And be persistent. You'll find yourself a more prolific writer and a good deal closer to achieving your writing dreams.
Jennifer Minar is a Washington, D.C.-based freelance writer and the managing editor of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
Quote for Thursday
In composing, as a general rule, run your pen through every other word you have written; you have no idea what vigor it will give to your style.
- Sydney Smith
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Seeking narrative nonfiction on Pittsburgh by Pittsburghers
Call for proposal submissions. PROPOSAL DEADLINE: Feb. 28, 2004 Separate call for artists to follow. See link below for complete guidelines.
A book project about Pittsburgh people, by Pittsburgh writers for Pittsburgh readers…
What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?
The three rivers and the topography they produce, which has been favorably compared to San Francisco? The Steelers, Pirates and Penguins? The bridges, tunnels and traffic? How about [insert name of your favorite neighborhood here]? The steel-making heritage and the region’s two-decade efforts to remake its economy?
Well, yes, all of that and so much more.
P.O.P.: Pittsburghers On Pittsburgh is the working title for this yet unnamed project, which is based loosely on the 1991 book Pittsburgh Characters: As Told By Pittsburgh Characters (it’s out of print but you can find copies at the Carnegie Library or on Amazon.com). The goal of the project is to produce a book of narrative nonfiction that will document the people, places and things that make Pittsburgh unique, as well as showcasing some of the region’s many talented writers and artists.
With luck, the final product will be produced by a who’s who of Pittsburgh writers and artists, as well as some fresh voices. It is envisioned that one editor, 10-12 writers and one to six artists will produce the book. Each writer will produce a story on a person, place or thing that is distinctly Pittsburgh. Artists would produce cover and perhaps other art to illustrate the book.
If grant funding or a publisher’s commitment is obtained, writers and artists whose work is selected for the project would receive small, upfront stipends. Additionally, proceeds and royalties from the book would be split equally among the people participating in the project.
Without a publisher’s commitment, we’ll use the wonders of on-demand publishing to maximize profits for everyone involved, and sweat equity to promote the book through a series of readings, parties and in-store promotions. This is a paying gig – it’s only a question of how much or how little it will pay. Don’t put a down payment on a new car with your anticipated proceeds from your contribution just yet, but please consider being a part of this exciting project by requesting the complete guidelines by sending an email to the address above.
Guidelines: http://www.davecopeland.com/popguidelines.doc
(Posted 12/15/04)
Call for proposal submissions. PROPOSAL DEADLINE: Feb. 28, 2004 Separate call for artists to follow. See link below for complete guidelines.
A book project about Pittsburgh people, by Pittsburgh writers for Pittsburgh readers…
What makes Pittsburgh, well, Pittsburgh?
The three rivers and the topography they produce, which has been favorably compared to San Francisco? The Steelers, Pirates and Penguins? The bridges, tunnels and traffic? How about [insert name of your favorite neighborhood here]? The steel-making heritage and the region’s two-decade efforts to remake its economy?
Well, yes, all of that and so much more.
P.O.P.: Pittsburghers On Pittsburgh is the working title for this yet unnamed project, which is based loosely on the 1991 book Pittsburgh Characters: As Told By Pittsburgh Characters (it’s out of print but you can find copies at the Carnegie Library or on Amazon.com). The goal of the project is to produce a book of narrative nonfiction that will document the people, places and things that make Pittsburgh unique, as well as showcasing some of the region’s many talented writers and artists.
With luck, the final product will be produced by a who’s who of Pittsburgh writers and artists, as well as some fresh voices. It is envisioned that one editor, 10-12 writers and one to six artists will produce the book. Each writer will produce a story on a person, place or thing that is distinctly Pittsburgh. Artists would produce cover and perhaps other art to illustrate the book.
If grant funding or a publisher’s commitment is obtained, writers and artists whose work is selected for the project would receive small, upfront stipends. Additionally, proceeds and royalties from the book would be split equally among the people participating in the project.
Without a publisher’s commitment, we’ll use the wonders of on-demand publishing to maximize profits for everyone involved, and sweat equity to promote the book through a series of readings, parties and in-store promotions. This is a paying gig – it’s only a question of how much or how little it will pay. Don’t put a down payment on a new car with your anticipated proceeds from your contribution just yet, but please consider being a part of this exciting project by requesting the complete guidelines by sending an email to the address above.
Guidelines: http://www.davecopeland.com/popguidelines.doc
(Posted 12/15/04)
Five steps to goal setting
by Jennifer Minar
What would you like to achieve in your lifetime?
Author Basil S. Walth once said, "If you don't know where you are going, how can you expect to get there?" These are words well spoken, because whether you're working toward freelancing full-time or selling your novels, you need a roadmap.
Goals are indispensable. They provide direction, long-term vision and short-term motivation. They separate the important from the irrelevant. Goals also build self-confidence by helping you grow as an individual.
Olympic athletes, successful business people, and (hint…) bestselling writers are goal setters. You aspire to greatness too, don't you? If you do, and you're not already setting goals, now is the perfect time to start.
Five Things to Remember When Setting Goals:
1. Write Goals Down. Always jot down your goals-this is powerful. The process of physically seeing your goals helps crystallize them in your mind. This process also better enables you to commit to them. Interesting Fact: A popular Harvard Business School study once found that only 3% of the population records their goals in writing. Another 14% have goals but don't write them down, whereas 83% do not even have clearly defined goals. More interesting is that this 3% earned an astounding ten times that of the 83% group!
2. Make Goals Short, Attainable, & Measurable. Set attainable short-term goals that can be measured. This means setting quantifiable goals.
Here are some examples:
- Commit to writing a certain number of words each week
- Submit at least two articles a week
- Find two new markets each week
- Take at least one writing course a year
- Attend at least one writer's conference a year
Make your goals attainable so you won't get discouraged. The short-term goals above are attainable for me, but they may not be for you. Or maybe for you, my short-term goals aren't challenging enough. Goals are very individual. You have to set your own goals…remember, you're charting your own course to success!
On the other hand, don't set wimpy goals simply because you're afraid to fail. Talane Miedaner, author of Coach Yourself to Success (McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books, 2002) notes: "People sometimes give themselves 'weeny' goals-they play it safe so they don't fail…But the bigger the goal, the more likely you are to achieve it."
3. Create Deadlines. Without deadlines, your goals are merely dreams. Set deadlines for both short- and long-term goals, and I promise, you'll get there sooner!
Remember that deadlines can be flexible. Life changes and so do goals. Never be afraid to adjust the timeframe for a goal. What's important is to keep moving forward.
4. Look at your goals everyday! Visual aids are an effective way to program your brain. Reading and re-writing goals are two very effective visual aids. By physically rewriting your goals and pasting them in places you regularly frequent, you make them more real in your mind.
I read an article in this month's Shape magazine that inspired me. The author mentioned that before Sarah Ban Breathnach, author of the bestselling book & Oprah Pick Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy (Warner Books, 1995) became a bestselling author, she pasted her name on the #1 spot of the New York Times bestseller list and posted it on her computer. Visual Aids like these give you that extra ammunition that will make a difference.
5. Make Goal Setting a Routine. Begin every morning with a "To Do" list. This will help you organize and better manage your time. Plus, your goals will be right smack under your nose every day. Do not get discouraged over any unfinished items. Simply transfer them to the next morning's list.
The above said, keep your goals front and forward in your mind. Remember...you only get one chance to live your dreams!
In the words of Cecil B. De Mille: "The person who makes a success of living is the one who sees his goal steadily and aims for it unswervingly. That is dedication."
Jennifer Minar is a Washington, D.C.-based freelance writer and the managing editor of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
What would you like to achieve in your lifetime?
Author Basil S. Walth once said, "If you don't know where you are going, how can you expect to get there?" These are words well spoken, because whether you're working toward freelancing full-time or selling your novels, you need a roadmap.
Goals are indispensable. They provide direction, long-term vision and short-term motivation. They separate the important from the irrelevant. Goals also build self-confidence by helping you grow as an individual.
Olympic athletes, successful business people, and (hint…) bestselling writers are goal setters. You aspire to greatness too, don't you? If you do, and you're not already setting goals, now is the perfect time to start.
Five Things to Remember When Setting Goals:
1. Write Goals Down. Always jot down your goals-this is powerful. The process of physically seeing your goals helps crystallize them in your mind. This process also better enables you to commit to them. Interesting Fact: A popular Harvard Business School study once found that only 3% of the population records their goals in writing. Another 14% have goals but don't write them down, whereas 83% do not even have clearly defined goals. More interesting is that this 3% earned an astounding ten times that of the 83% group!
2. Make Goals Short, Attainable, & Measurable. Set attainable short-term goals that can be measured. This means setting quantifiable goals.
Here are some examples:
- Commit to writing a certain number of words each week
- Submit at least two articles a week
- Find two new markets each week
- Take at least one writing course a year
- Attend at least one writer's conference a year
Make your goals attainable so you won't get discouraged. The short-term goals above are attainable for me, but they may not be for you. Or maybe for you, my short-term goals aren't challenging enough. Goals are very individual. You have to set your own goals…remember, you're charting your own course to success!
On the other hand, don't set wimpy goals simply because you're afraid to fail. Talane Miedaner, author of Coach Yourself to Success (McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books, 2002) notes: "People sometimes give themselves 'weeny' goals-they play it safe so they don't fail…But the bigger the goal, the more likely you are to achieve it."
3. Create Deadlines. Without deadlines, your goals are merely dreams. Set deadlines for both short- and long-term goals, and I promise, you'll get there sooner!
Remember that deadlines can be flexible. Life changes and so do goals. Never be afraid to adjust the timeframe for a goal. What's important is to keep moving forward.
4. Look at your goals everyday! Visual aids are an effective way to program your brain. Reading and re-writing goals are two very effective visual aids. By physically rewriting your goals and pasting them in places you regularly frequent, you make them more real in your mind.
I read an article in this month's Shape magazine that inspired me. The author mentioned that before Sarah Ban Breathnach, author of the bestselling book & Oprah Pick Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy (Warner Books, 1995) became a bestselling author, she pasted her name on the #1 spot of the New York Times bestseller list and posted it on her computer. Visual Aids like these give you that extra ammunition that will make a difference.
5. Make Goal Setting a Routine. Begin every morning with a "To Do" list. This will help you organize and better manage your time. Plus, your goals will be right smack under your nose every day. Do not get discouraged over any unfinished items. Simply transfer them to the next morning's list.
The above said, keep your goals front and forward in your mind. Remember...you only get one chance to live your dreams!
In the words of Cecil B. De Mille: "The person who makes a success of living is the one who sees his goal steadily and aims for it unswervingly. That is dedication."
Jennifer Minar is a Washington, D.C.-based freelance writer and the managing editor of www.WritersBreak.com. She can be contacted at jminar@writersbreak.com.
Quote for Wednesday
[What to do when a sentence stinks:] Change it. How? Easy. Read a stinky sentence over. Figure out what it means. Now…put the sentences meaning in your own words…You may have to expand the sentence into two or three sentences. That’s allowed.
- Bill Scott
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Temporary newsletter writer/editor (Canton, Mass.): Massachusetts Nurses Association. Temp 6-mo. position responsible for assisting the Director of Communications as the editor & principal writer for the MNA's monthly newsletter, including: copywriting & organization of all editorial content, copy editing & proofing through final production. QUALS: BA & 3+ yrs. exp. in public/media relations, journalism, or marketing communications. Exp. in newsletter editing/writing preferred. Both positions report to the Director, Department of Public Communications. MNA (AA/EOE) represents over 22,000 registered nurses & healthcare professionals. Application deadline is January 7, 2005 Excellent benefits; salary commensurate with experience. Send resume to: S. Thompson, Massachusetts Nurses Association, 340 Turnpike St., Canton, MA 02021; sthompson@mnarn.org; Fax: 781-821-4445
(Posted 12/13/04)
This is one of 30 job leads subscribers to Freelance Daily received this morning. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
(Posted 12/13/04)
This is one of 30 job leads subscribers to Freelance Daily received this morning. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Setting Your Hourly Rate
by Rachel Goldstein
owner of Allfreelancework.com
Determining how much to charge for your services is often one of the biggest challenges for a new freelancer. If you are a new freelancer, you have probably searched the Internet trying to look for average rates of professionals in your field. Don't even bother. I will let you in on a secret … now that the Internet is here; there aren't any "average" rates because demographics are too widespread. With this in mind, I will show you how to figure out what your rates should be by using a formula.
Start by figuring out what you want your annual salary to be. To determine your salary, you might want to pay yourself what you earned as an employee, or take a look at salary.com to find out what an average salary for your profession is.
For this formula, you will need to figure out what your overhead is. Overhead is an expense that cannot be found billable to a client, it is just a cost incurred by running your business. Please fill out the following form. If you aren't sure what your overhead is, then look back on last year's credit card bills and checking account statements.
MONTHLY OVERHEAD:
Rent
Income Taxes (Use 45% of your annual salary)
Utilities
Insurance
Office Supplies
Marketing
Postage and Shipping
Telephone
Accounting / Legal
Travel
Office Furniture
Dues & Memberships
Licenses
Health Plan / Medical Insurance
Disability Insurance
Retirement Savings
Multiply by 12 to get yearly Overhead
Now you will need to figure out how much of a profit you wish to make. I recommend between 10% and 20%.
Follow these steps to figure out what your hourly rate should be.
1. Add Salary and Overhead Together
2. Multiply Total By Profit Margin (10% - 20%)
3. Add Total (1) and Total (2) Together
4. Divide Total (3) by Billable Hours (2,000)
For example, if the following is true: 1. Salary = $30,000 2. Billable Hours = 2,000 3. Profit Margin = 20% 4. Overhead = $15,000
Then this is how you figure out the hourly rate: 1. $30,000 + $15,000 = $45,000 2. $45,000 X 20% = $9,000 3. $45,000 + $9,000 = $54,000 4. $54,000 / 2,000 = $27 / hour
The bottom line to your freelance business is that you want to make a good living. If your hourly rate seems too low then raise your rate till you feel comfortable with it. If several clients are way too eager to hire you as a freelancer, rethinking your hourly rate might be a good idea. On the other hand, if clients are very interested in you at first and then stop communicating with you after they hear what your hourly rate is, then you need to lower your rates. In other words, feel customers out to see whether your fees are correct or not.
If you have determined that your fees are too high then you might need to lower your overhead in order to lower your fees. Try cutting some of your unnecessary expenses in order to make ends meet. When you make the change over to freelancing, sometimes there is a little suffering at first. Don't worry; it doesn't usually last long if you know how to save when times are good.
Good Luck.
http://www.Allfreelancework.com - 1000s of freelance jobs, articles, and resources.
owner of Allfreelancework.com
Determining how much to charge for your services is often one of the biggest challenges for a new freelancer. If you are a new freelancer, you have probably searched the Internet trying to look for average rates of professionals in your field. Don't even bother. I will let you in on a secret … now that the Internet is here; there aren't any "average" rates because demographics are too widespread. With this in mind, I will show you how to figure out what your rates should be by using a formula.
Start by figuring out what you want your annual salary to be. To determine your salary, you might want to pay yourself what you earned as an employee, or take a look at salary.com to find out what an average salary for your profession is.
For this formula, you will need to figure out what your overhead is. Overhead is an expense that cannot be found billable to a client, it is just a cost incurred by running your business. Please fill out the following form. If you aren't sure what your overhead is, then look back on last year's credit card bills and checking account statements.
MONTHLY OVERHEAD:
Rent
Income Taxes (Use 45% of your annual salary)
Utilities
Insurance
Office Supplies
Marketing
Postage and Shipping
Telephone
Accounting / Legal
Travel
Office Furniture
Dues & Memberships
Licenses
Health Plan / Medical Insurance
Disability Insurance
Retirement Savings
Multiply by 12 to get yearly Overhead
Now you will need to figure out how much of a profit you wish to make. I recommend between 10% and 20%.
Follow these steps to figure out what your hourly rate should be.
1. Add Salary and Overhead Together
2. Multiply Total By Profit Margin (10% - 20%)
3. Add Total (1) and Total (2) Together
4. Divide Total (3) by Billable Hours (2,000)
For example, if the following is true: 1. Salary = $30,000 2. Billable Hours = 2,000 3. Profit Margin = 20% 4. Overhead = $15,000
Then this is how you figure out the hourly rate: 1. $30,000 + $15,000 = $45,000 2. $45,000 X 20% = $9,000 3. $45,000 + $9,000 = $54,000 4. $54,000 / 2,000 = $27 / hour
The bottom line to your freelance business is that you want to make a good living. If your hourly rate seems too low then raise your rate till you feel comfortable with it. If several clients are way too eager to hire you as a freelancer, rethinking your hourly rate might be a good idea. On the other hand, if clients are very interested in you at first and then stop communicating with you after they hear what your hourly rate is, then you need to lower your rates. In other words, feel customers out to see whether your fees are correct or not.
If you have determined that your fees are too high then you might need to lower your overhead in order to lower your fees. Try cutting some of your unnecessary expenses in order to make ends meet. When you make the change over to freelancing, sometimes there is a little suffering at first. Don't worry; it doesn't usually last long if you know how to save when times are good.
Good Luck.
http://www.Allfreelancework.com - 1000s of freelance jobs, articles, and resources.
Quote for Tuesday
One of your first jobs, as your write for money, will be to get rid of your vocabulary.
- Jack Woodford
Monday, December 13, 2004
Writing group for women
Check out Writing Women, voted one of the 10 best writer’s Web sites by Writer’s Digest magazine. From the group’s description:
“No clips are necessary, but if you haven't been previously published, you should be actively working toward that goal. We have writers representing almost every genre, and at all levels of experience. No matter how new you are to this profession you have much to offer the group and are welcome here.
”BEWARE! This is a proactive list so we expect participation from members. We maintain a large database of paying markets and publishers in various genres, links to writing resources and websites, and a photo album for members use. We participate in polls and writing challenges and cajole, apply good natured peer pressure and even the occasional nudge to help members toward publication. We also encourage professional standards.”
“No clips are necessary, but if you haven't been previously published, you should be actively working toward that goal. We have writers representing almost every genre, and at all levels of experience. No matter how new you are to this profession you have much to offer the group and are welcome here.
”BEWARE! This is a proactive list so we expect participation from members. We maintain a large database of paying markets and publishers in various genres, links to writing resources and websites, and a photo album for members use. We participate in polls and writing challenges and cajole, apply good natured peer pressure and even the occasional nudge to help members toward publication. We also encourage professional standards.”
Freelance Job of the Day
Medical writer, 3-6 month contract, $30/hour (San Diego): ~ TALENTED MEDICAL WRITER NEEDED ~ 3-6 month contract position *Will assist in creating, formatting and editing multiple clinical study reports, package inserts, posters, and manuscripts. *BS in life science or equivalent plus 2 years of med writing experience prefer with Vitro diagnostics, therapeutic devices or drugs. *Demonstrated ability to create or assist in the creation of clinical protocols or reports for at least one of the following FDA submissions: 510k, PMA, IND and BLA. *Also one year creating posters and presentations using desktop pub tools such as MS power point effective written and verbal skills, and strong science background. *Able to integrate complex medical and scientific concepts into cohesive and readable clinical documents and reports. *Advanced skills in the use of MS Windows, Excel, PowerPoint and Word. allison.sandoval@iqpipeline.com
(Posted 12/10/04)
This is one of 27 leads subscribers received today. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
(Posted 12/10/04)
This is one of 27 leads subscribers received today. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Quote for Monday
If you alter your writing to pander to a market trend – or a supposed trend – then you’re compromising your craft, number one, and number two, you’re no longer a writer, you’re a hack. The only concession a writer should make to the market is to maintain a contemporary style and view point, since there’s no market for Victorian prose. Be aware of what’s going on in the world so you don’t make outrageous faux pas about things. If you know nothing about rock ‘n’ roll, find out something about it. Do your research.
- James Kisner
Friday, December 10, 2004
Exclusively on Freelance Daily
Call for submissions – new online travel magazine
TimeTravel-Britain.com is a combination of a travel e-zine and a travel database. The emphasis of the site is "historic destinations." We want every article on the site to give the reader an idea of the history of the site or area being covered, as well as a glimpse of what the visitor to that site can see today. Articles can approach topics from the historical side (e.g., a historical overview of an event, along with a discussion of locations associated with that event that a visitor can see today), or from the travel side (focusing on a destination and what one can see today, along with some background history on the site). The site is expected to "go live" in early spring 2005. We're looking for a variety of travel features, including:
"All About the Town..." Historic highlights of a specific town in England. The article should begin with an overview of the town as a whole (e.g., what makes this town interesting historically and as a travel destination?), and discussions of several key sites within the town, such as historic houses, the best museums, etc. Query first to make sure the town hasn't already been covered. 2000-3000 words, $200-$300.
"Destination Feature." Focuses on a particular "must-see" single historic destination. The destination could be a single stop or (like Hadrian's Wall) include multiple stops. 1500-2000 words, $100-$200
"Miscellaneous Feature." This could include profiles of artisans/crafters involved in a historic craft; "hands-on" travel such as participating in an archaeological dig; round-ups of "best" destinations (such as best haunted inns), seasonal articles (where to experience a Victorian Christmas), etc. 1500-2000 words, $100-$200.
"Worth a Stop." Short features on destinations that may not merit full-length coverage -- e.g., a place you'd visit if you're in the area, but might not drive out to see all by itself. 500-1000 words, $50.
"Short Miscellany." Short features on interesting, quirky, unusual topics. This section could include articles on food, recipes, costumes, crafts, recent historical/archaeological discoveries, etc. 500-1000 words, $50.
We're also interested in column proposals. Columns will initially run bimonthly; pay is $100 per column.
Photos are strongly recommended. Please see our online guidelines for more details.
LENGTH: See above.
PAYMENT: See above.
RIGHTS: First electronic rights; exclusive electronic rights for three months after publication; nonexclusive archival rights thereafter.
REPRINTS: Yes, PLEASE. Pays $25-$100 for reprints.
SUBMISSIONS: Submit query or complete manuscript by e-mail to editors@writing-world.com. If photos are available, submit 1-3 low-resolution sample jpgs as attachments; do NOT attach large photo files.
GUIDELINES: http://www.timetravel-britain.com/adm/guidelines.shtml
(Posted 12/10/04)
TimeTravel-Britain.com is a combination of a travel e-zine and a travel database. The emphasis of the site is "historic destinations." We want every article on the site to give the reader an idea of the history of the site or area being covered, as well as a glimpse of what the visitor to that site can see today. Articles can approach topics from the historical side (e.g., a historical overview of an event, along with a discussion of locations associated with that event that a visitor can see today), or from the travel side (focusing on a destination and what one can see today, along with some background history on the site). The site is expected to "go live" in early spring 2005. We're looking for a variety of travel features, including:
"All About the Town..." Historic highlights of a specific town in England. The article should begin with an overview of the town as a whole (e.g., what makes this town interesting historically and as a travel destination?), and discussions of several key sites within the town, such as historic houses, the best museums, etc. Query first to make sure the town hasn't already been covered. 2000-3000 words, $200-$300.
"Destination Feature." Focuses on a particular "must-see" single historic destination. The destination could be a single stop or (like Hadrian's Wall) include multiple stops. 1500-2000 words, $100-$200
"Miscellaneous Feature." This could include profiles of artisans/crafters involved in a historic craft; "hands-on" travel such as participating in an archaeological dig; round-ups of "best" destinations (such as best haunted inns), seasonal articles (where to experience a Victorian Christmas), etc. 1500-2000 words, $100-$200.
"Worth a Stop." Short features on destinations that may not merit full-length coverage -- e.g., a place you'd visit if you're in the area, but might not drive out to see all by itself. 500-1000 words, $50.
"Short Miscellany." Short features on interesting, quirky, unusual topics. This section could include articles on food, recipes, costumes, crafts, recent historical/archaeological discoveries, etc. 500-1000 words, $50.
We're also interested in column proposals. Columns will initially run bimonthly; pay is $100 per column.
Photos are strongly recommended. Please see our online guidelines for more details.
LENGTH: See above.
PAYMENT: See above.
RIGHTS: First electronic rights; exclusive electronic rights for three months after publication; nonexclusive archival rights thereafter.
REPRINTS: Yes, PLEASE. Pays $25-$100 for reprints.
SUBMISSIONS: Submit query or complete manuscript by e-mail to editors@writing-world.com. If photos are available, submit 1-3 low-resolution sample jpgs as attachments; do NOT attach large photo files.
GUIDELINES: http://www.timetravel-britain.com/adm/guidelines.shtml
(Posted 12/10/04)
Freelance Job of the Day
Part-time News Writer (Washington, D.C.): Part Time Only The incumbent researches and writes news copy for the central news file of VOA's News Division that is written for foreign audiences. Accuracy and balance are paramount in writing central news stories, summaries and in-depth special news reports designed to explain and supplement recent news developments. These are part time only positions within the newsroom that require mostly night, weekend and holiday hours. Telecommuting is not available. Must be able to pass a writing test. Resumes should be sent within the body of an e-mail to newswriter@voanews.com. Do not send attachments, which will be deleted without opening. No phone calls. Only selected applicants will be contacted.
(Posted 12/9/04)
Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
(Posted 12/9/04)
Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Quote for Friday
Whoever wants to be creative in good and evil, he must first be an annihilator and destroy values.
- Friedrich Nietzche
- Friedrich Nietzche
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Poker magazine paying bounties for celebrity interviews: We’re looking for writers who can interview one of the below individuals. This interview would be the cover story for a poker magazine that will be launching in Spring of 2005. In order to receive the “bounty,” the article would need to meet the following criteria: -be approximately 3,000 words related to this person’s love of or career in poker. -have art (photos, etc) that we could use for the cover and interior -include a signed release (from person, for art, etc) We will pay you the “bounty” upon publication, but are willing to pay 10% of that amount up front if we decide to use your article. This is a great opportunity to get your name published in the next, leading poker magazine, or make a quick buck if you have a lot of contacts. This is an ongoing project. The list below is our current “wish list.” We are open to exploring other cover story opportunities (as long as they meet the above criteria.) Please contact us if you have an idea. Ben Affleck: $2000, Annie Duke: $2000, Greg “Fossilman” Raymer: $2000, Norm MacDonald: $1800, Jennifer Harman: $1800, James Vogl: $1800, Tobey Maguire: $1600, Kathy Liebert: $1600, Phil Ivey: $1600, Dennis Rodman: $1600, Cyndy Violette: $1400, Julian Gardner: $1400, Mekhi Phifer: $1400, Barbara Enright: $1200, Barry Greenstein: $1200, Kirill Gerasimov: $1200, James Woods: $1000 jmelnik@bossdev.com
(Posted 12/7/04)
(Posted 12/7/04)
Improving Your Work Space
By Roberta Beach-Jacobson
Are you feeling your home office is the absolute pits? Not to worry. Here are some tips to pep things up and make smarter use of your working space at the same time.
1. Make use of that unused corner by getting a corner table with shelves. No space for a table lamp? Simply clip on a gooseneck desk lamp.
2. Keep on your desk only those reference books you frequently use. Get the others out of your office space and store them in your regular bookshelf.
3. Remove the wheels from your desk chair. You'll avoid scooting into walls.
4. Consider stacking your two-drawer file cabinets. Just be careful not to open too many drawers at once, or they could tip.
5. Handle your correspondence promptly and then file away. Remember, there's insufficient space to store it all indefinitely - no matter if it's paper or e-mails. Tack notes and messages onto your bulletin board so you don't have those little papers fluttering about and getting lost.
6. At the end of each month (or calendar quarter), box up your old notes, reports, manuscripts and other finished work-related paperwork and store away from your office area. Label the cartons clearly so you can find things later.
7. Remind family members (adults as well as children) not to clutter your working space with their belongings.
8. Buy only a reasonable amount of office supplies to keep on hand. Don't clog up your desk drawers with outdated business cards or other unnecessary items. Trust me, you don't need a hundred rubber bands and three staplers.
9. In and out-boxes take up precious desk area. Switch to hanging baskets above your desk. For the same reasons, you may want to consider installing a wall phone. What good is a telephone if it's hidden under a stack of papers?
10. Add a mirror to one wall and your tiny office space will appear larger. Have a look in it to make sure it's straight and then give yourself the "thumbs up" signal. You're doing a great job!
Roberta Beach Jacobson started out writing and selling short romance fiction (confessions), graduated to travel articles, then moved on to greeting card verses and humor essays. Her publishing credits include Woman's Day, Natural Home, Playgirl, Transitions Abroad, JustSayGo.com and I Love Cats. She is an American who has lived in Europe for three decades and she makes her home on a tiny Greek island.
Are you feeling your home office is the absolute pits? Not to worry. Here are some tips to pep things up and make smarter use of your working space at the same time.
1. Make use of that unused corner by getting a corner table with shelves. No space for a table lamp? Simply clip on a gooseneck desk lamp.
2. Keep on your desk only those reference books you frequently use. Get the others out of your office space and store them in your regular bookshelf.
3. Remove the wheels from your desk chair. You'll avoid scooting into walls.
4. Consider stacking your two-drawer file cabinets. Just be careful not to open too many drawers at once, or they could tip.
5. Handle your correspondence promptly and then file away. Remember, there's insufficient space to store it all indefinitely - no matter if it's paper or e-mails. Tack notes and messages onto your bulletin board so you don't have those little papers fluttering about and getting lost.
6. At the end of each month (or calendar quarter), box up your old notes, reports, manuscripts and other finished work-related paperwork and store away from your office area. Label the cartons clearly so you can find things later.
7. Remind family members (adults as well as children) not to clutter your working space with their belongings.
8. Buy only a reasonable amount of office supplies to keep on hand. Don't clog up your desk drawers with outdated business cards or other unnecessary items. Trust me, you don't need a hundred rubber bands and three staplers.
9. In and out-boxes take up precious desk area. Switch to hanging baskets above your desk. For the same reasons, you may want to consider installing a wall phone. What good is a telephone if it's hidden under a stack of papers?
10. Add a mirror to one wall and your tiny office space will appear larger. Have a look in it to make sure it's straight and then give yourself the "thumbs up" signal. You're doing a great job!
Roberta Beach Jacobson started out writing and selling short romance fiction (confessions), graduated to travel articles, then moved on to greeting card verses and humor essays. Her publishing credits include Woman's Day, Natural Home, Playgirl, Transitions Abroad, JustSayGo.com and I Love Cats. She is an American who has lived in Europe for three decades and she makes her home on a tiny Greek island.
Term paper tussle
I got more email yesterday for Freelance Daily than I have on any other day, and almost all of it revolved around the great term paper dispute. My policy has been to always post any paying or potentially paying job, regardless of the ethics and morals involved. As a job site screening service, if I get too heavy handed, then it defeats the primary purpose of FD, which is to visit 200+ writing sites each day so you don’t have to.
Still, a lot of people feel strongly the other way. Among the arguments for keeping the ads:
· Please don't be swayed by your more "morally sensitive" readers -- I'm an adult and can make my own choices. I'd hate to lose out on jobs because of other readers' squeamishness.
· I feel that writers should be allowed to make up their own minds. Objectively I'll say this: Subscribers who are offended by your listings, or take an overly PC view of the world have the choice to UNSUBSCRIBE. I don't accept, nor do I buy content that I find offensive; they shouldn't either.
· Personally, I cringe whenever I see those ads, but everyone's not me, and I don't expect them not to apply just because I don't. Similarly, I don't expect you to screen the notices you post based on my personal preferences. Keep doing what you do!
And some of the views opposing them:
· I'm always worried that some who are not involved with universities do not know that it is "illegal" to write a paper for someone else.
· I’m a struggling freelancer myself, but it’s sort of disturbing to think that someone like me might choose to fill their time by writing a paper for a student who can’t get his work done. Perhaps I’m wrong on this posting and it’s purpose, but wouldn’t that violate a lot of morals? Should this sort of thing be encouraged?
· Looking for new projects while working on existing projects, having to do all the administrative stuff for the business, writing fiction, and then juggling my personal life in there somewhere has me running out of day before running out of things to do, so if you do start eliminating the ads based on a pre-set criteria you could in fact be doing me and others like me a favour. You could save us some time.
Again, I’m leaning towards continuing to include them with – as one reader suggested – a disclaimer. But I don’t want this to be the type of newsletter that offends or alienates anyone (which is now next to impossible with close to 1,000 very different subscribers).
One reader suggested a poll. Let’s call it a nonbinding poll, and I’ll use it to gauge views on the issue without having my email inbox flooded (apologies to everyone who emailed yesterday – there was no way I could respond to everyone individually).
So here’s the question:
“Should advertisements that are obviously from students looking for writers to complete term papers and other assignments be included in Freelance Daily?”
And here’s where to click to respond:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/freelancedaily/surveys?id=1538345
Thanks for your time and interest. Polling will close on Friday; results in this space on Monday.
Still, a lot of people feel strongly the other way. Among the arguments for keeping the ads:
· Please don't be swayed by your more "morally sensitive" readers -- I'm an adult and can make my own choices. I'd hate to lose out on jobs because of other readers' squeamishness.
· I feel that writers should be allowed to make up their own minds. Objectively I'll say this: Subscribers who are offended by your listings, or take an overly PC view of the world have the choice to UNSUBSCRIBE. I don't accept, nor do I buy content that I find offensive; they shouldn't either.
· Personally, I cringe whenever I see those ads, but everyone's not me, and I don't expect them not to apply just because I don't. Similarly, I don't expect you to screen the notices you post based on my personal preferences. Keep doing what you do!
And some of the views opposing them:
· I'm always worried that some who are not involved with universities do not know that it is "illegal" to write a paper for someone else.
· I’m a struggling freelancer myself, but it’s sort of disturbing to think that someone like me might choose to fill their time by writing a paper for a student who can’t get his work done. Perhaps I’m wrong on this posting and it’s purpose, but wouldn’t that violate a lot of morals? Should this sort of thing be encouraged?
· Looking for new projects while working on existing projects, having to do all the administrative stuff for the business, writing fiction, and then juggling my personal life in there somewhere has me running out of day before running out of things to do, so if you do start eliminating the ads based on a pre-set criteria you could in fact be doing me and others like me a favour. You could save us some time.
Again, I’m leaning towards continuing to include them with – as one reader suggested – a disclaimer. But I don’t want this to be the type of newsletter that offends or alienates anyone (which is now next to impossible with close to 1,000 very different subscribers).
One reader suggested a poll. Let’s call it a nonbinding poll, and I’ll use it to gauge views on the issue without having my email inbox flooded (apologies to everyone who emailed yesterday – there was no way I could respond to everyone individually).
So here’s the question:
“Should advertisements that are obviously from students looking for writers to complete term papers and other assignments be included in Freelance Daily?”
And here’s where to click to respond:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/freelancedaily/surveys?id=1538345
Thanks for your time and interest. Polling will close on Friday; results in this space on Monday.
Quote for Wednesday
A great storyteller is never just a sort of out-of-work actor who has nothing else to do. He is somebody for whom storytelling is a vocation, a vocation that is related to his search through life. It is an act of devotion for him. Now, that doesn’t make him tell a story in any pretentious or holy way. But it means that in the moment of telling, he is listening, with all that he has in him, to the overtones of the story, rather than stopping at the face value of the tale.
- Peter Brook
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Headline writer: Did-it.com is the market leader in Paid Search Campaign Management. Our CEO has spearheaded techniques and technology that allow marketers to out-market and out-maneuver their competition. Our firm had been around since the beginning of search engine marketing, 1996. We seek a freelance / temporary headline writer to assist us in freshening up client campaigns. In search engine marketing, a powerful headline and short relevant and compelling description can add significantly to the sucess of a campaign. If you enjoy the challenge of writing short yet powerful ad copy targeted to the keywords that a consumer searched, then perhaps you are the right candidate. Interested in learing about the SEM industry, check out our SEM WhitePapers or the Paid Search Strategies column written weekly by our CEO. The following are a major PLUS:►Experience writing DM headlines; ►Understanding of search engines and how they display sponsored results ►A willingess to learn based on empirical data of what works and what doesn't ►Ability to learn new information about a businesses quickly At Did-it.com we deliver on our promise of profit lift and ROI improvement... You can play an important role in that mission. Company Overview: Did-it.com combines technique and technology to manage paid search marketing campaigns for maximum performance for top marketers and agencies. Clients rely on Did-it strategies to deliver proven results. The reality in the search marketing landscape is that you must optimize all the engines differently, many in real-time. At Did-it.com, your campaigns are automatically optimized based on your real-time conversion data and ROI objectives. Did-it.com, an innovator in SEM since 1996 prides itself on client successes based on our objectives-centric profit maximization systems. Our CEO Kevin Lee speaks at industry conferences internationally and writes a weekly Paid Search Strategies ClickZ.com column, plus articles for CatalogAge, DMNews and other publications.
http://newyork.craigslist.org/lgi/wrg/51418546.html
(Posted 12/6/04)
This is one of 23 job leads subscribers to Freelance Daily received this morning. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
http://newyork.craigslist.org/lgi/wrg/51418546.html
(Posted 12/6/04)
This is one of 23 job leads subscribers to Freelance Daily received this morning. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Technical difficulties
Apologies to anyone who had problems with yesterday’s issue. I was traveling, which made things difficult. You should have received a corrected copy last night, but if you didn’t get it and you want it, let me know.
Term paper ads?
Two readers raised concerns yesterday when I posted ads that were obviously from students looking for people to write their term papers.
Much like the adult ads we discussed last week, my goal is to not make decisions for you on what is ethically right and wrong, but to screen close to 200 Web sites each day and deliver to you all paying and potentially paying freelance leads I can find. My fear is if I start eliminating ads based on pre-set criteria, you’ll end up having to visit the sites on your own to see what I skipped, which would pretty much defeat the purpose of the service.
That said, I’m open for input on this one. If you have strong feelings one way or another, let me know.
Much like the adult ads we discussed last week, my goal is to not make decisions for you on what is ethically right and wrong, but to screen close to 200 Web sites each day and deliver to you all paying and potentially paying freelance leads I can find. My fear is if I start eliminating ads based on pre-set criteria, you’ll end up having to visit the sites on your own to see what I skipped, which would pretty much defeat the purpose of the service.
That said, I’m open for input on this one. If you have strong feelings one way or another, let me know.
Multiple sales are not two dirty words
By James Raia
http://www.ByJamesRaia.com
Life was simpler, but it was also more boring during my newspaper career. I was given an assignment. I wrote the story, it appeared in the newspaper and I went on to the next assignment.
I never once considered writing the same story for more than one publication or writing different versions of the same story for different publications. That approach always sounded unethical, and for most of the 10 years I worked strictly for newspapers, I wanted no part of such practices.
I can even remember commenting once to a fellow staffer who was also a successful freelancer: “Why would you want to rewrite something or use the article elsewhere? It seems like a lot of work to make another $50 or $100.”
But we all learn. In my instance, I have come to realize what I do best is market. I believe a competent writer with great marketing skills will have greater financial freelance success than a very skilled writer who has no marketing savvy.
I have simply learned to write about sports, health & fitness, recreation, leisure, business and lifestyle subjects that appeal to wide audiences. And unless I’m writing a piece for a publication that pays enough not to worry about multiple sales, I believe an article that’s purchased only once is unsuccessful.
As an example, I’ve covered bicycle racing since 1979. A few years ago, however, my sister gave me an idea outside of the competitive vein when she mailed me an article about the bicycle built for two.
The article reminded me how much I’ve enjoyed the bicycle built for two (more commonly called tandem) competition during the four World Cycling Championships I have covered in four different countries.
The newspaper she mailed me gave me the idea to write about tandem cycling - its history, the exercise involved, etc. The idea has worked surprisingly well. Nearly every editor to whom I’ve written or called thought the article proposal was unique and gave me an assignment. As a result, I have now written more than 20 news service, syndicate, newspaper and magazine articles about tandem cycling.
The reason the article has generated nearly $3,500 in income is because it appeals to a varied audience. I’ve sold articles to senior publications, in-flight magazines, general interest newspapers, cycling magazines, fitness magazines, national health and fitness syndicates, a running magazine and a women’s sports magazine.
The New York Times and USA Today to Runner’s World and Retired Officer, a military lifestyle magazine, the editors all liked the historic, lifestyle and uniqueness of tandem cycling as a sport or recreation. I simply had to take the subject and craft the story to fit the various publications’ needs. I now jokingly call the tandem article, “the story that won’t die.”
While the article on the bicycle built for two has sold more often than any other article I’ve written, I have had numerous other multiple-sale successes. A piece on Dr. Eric Heiden, who has had careers as an Olympic gold medal speed skater; a professional cyclist, a television commentator and is now an orthopedic surgeon in Sacramento, Calif., has sold eight times. An article on golfers’ back problems and exercise, has been purchased seven times. Most recently, an article I wrote about
sunglasses has sold six times.
The point is, if you pick subjects that have wide appeal, your chances will improve. In the instance of my sunglass article, the American Optometric Association estimates that $2 billion was spent on 105 million pairs of sunglasses last year in the United States. With that simple fact alone, there’s plenty to expand upon and a wide audience to attract.
Multiple sales can also work with a slightly different approach. Instead writing a feature and selling the article several times, freelancers can also attend events and set up what amounts to their own news service.
I have used this strategy many times over the years while covering such events as the U.S. Open Golf Championship, the National U.S. Cycling Championships, the Tour DuPont (the U.S. version of the Tour de France), the Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii and the Winter Olympics.
If there’s an event I decide to attend, I write to a variety of publications I contribute to with ideas several months in advance, if an editor accepts an idea, I ask them for a letter of assignment to mail to the tournament or event organizers. After I’ve been accredited, I then look for additional assignments. I also call the tournament headquarters and ask if there’s an official hotel. Most often the hotel will offer a media rate.
If that scenario isn’t available, I find a hotel in the area and begin to weigh my assignment(s) value against my expenses. I’ve never gone on a trip or an assignment knowing that I’m going to lose money.
One of my greatest experiences as a sportswriter was covering the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. As a former stringer for United Press International, I had acquired a press pass and had my flight and room accommodations paid for by the worldwide service.
At the time, UPI was barely solvent. And so while the news agency had provided my room and board and travel expenses, it couldn’t pay me to cover speed skating and figure skating.
But for me, it didn’t matter. As soon as I was told what sports I was going to cover, I wrote letters to the sports editors of several athletes’ hometown newspapers.
Soon enough, I received several return phone calls and negotiated a series of independent contracts. Knowing that France was eight hours ahead of West Coast and five hours ahead of East Coast, I had plenty of time to work on other articles after filing my deadline UPI stories.
So on a daily basis for two weeks, I not only covered speed skating and some figure skating daily for UPI, I filed stories on individual athletes for the Anchorage Daily News, Sacramento (Calif.) Union and Champaign News-Gazette (Illinois). I also contributed several magazine articles to Olympian upon my return. Ironically, two of the publications - The Sacramento Union and Anchorage Daily News - are no
longer published.
But that’s also an ironic beauty of freelancing. Had I been employed full-time by either of the defunct newspapers, I would have been in the job market. But since I don’t rely on only one paycheck, I can replace two lost markets with two other outlets.
On numerous other occasions, I have used this same multiple-market strategy to cover golf tournaments, boxing matches, track and field meets and bicycle races.
A few years ago, I covered the Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon for the 10th time. After negotiating an airfare and accommodation agreement with race organizers, I contributed articles to seven publications, including the Dallas Morning News, Detroit Free Press, Portland Oregonian and Bicycling Online.
Of course, there is one potentially serious pitfall to avoid. All publications purchase various article rights and you must be careful not to sell any conflicting rights by selling to competing publications.
For instance, if you try to sell an article on old baseball cards to the in-flight magazine of United Airlines, you can’t sell the same article to the American Airlines magazine. But if you write your baseball card article for a local newspaper, you can certainly sell the same piece to 10 other regional newspapers.
If you write an article for the New York Times, you can’t sell the same article to USA Today since both are national newspapers. But you can sell the same article to two different regional newspapers, since the publications’ circulations don’t overlap.
There are also syndicates, the Los Angeles Times and New York Times, for example, that purchase only the second rights to articles already published. In these cases, however, the syndicates will likely either purchase the second rights for six months or a year. During that time period, you can’t sell the same piece elsewhere.
If Playboy, The New Yorker, Smithsonian or some other major national magazine buys your original baseball card article, they’ll likely ask to purchase first rights or all rights. Payment will also be at a high-enough rate that you won’t have to worry about multiple sales.
If this case occurs, you’ll have to decide what route to pursue. If you agree to sell the piece to the national publication buying all rights, don’t sell the piece anywhere else. If the piece does appear elsewhere, it’s unlikely you’ll ever work for the editors involved again. Which, of course, defeats the purpose of being a freelance writer.
The multiple-sales market approach has also worked in two other ways for me, but to a lesser degree. Occasionally, I have written features on well-known athletes - triathlete Dave Scott and cyclist Greg LeMond, for instance. I take the article and mailed photocopies of the features unsolicited to as many as 25 newspapers around the country.
On both occasions, I sold the articles several times, although I had hoped for more success. And after writing, editing, photocopying and paying postage to mail the manuscripts, your success rate needs to be fairly high - let’s say at least five sales each - to make a worthwhile profit.
Since endurance sports are my specialty, I once wrote self-syndicated running column for more than a decade. The column covered the full spectrum of the sport. It has appeared in as many as nine publications at one time and I now have many of the articles posted on my website, http://www.byjamesraia.com/.
Since every freelancer should have a specialty area, my running column could just as easily be your stamp, pets, antique, and business or computer column. And although there’s no sure-fire way to approach editors with a column idea, I sent the following the document along with several column clips to nearly 50 editors in three West Coast states. Keep in mind, the newspaper market is tough. Any offer, regardless of price, should be considered.
James Raia is a freelance writer based in Sacramento, Calif. He's also the publisher of the free electronic newsletters Endurance Sports News (http://www.byjamesraia.com/?page=endurance), Tour de France Times (http://www.byjamesraia.com/?page=france) and several other e-books available on his web site: http://www.ByJamesRaia.com
To purchase How To Be A Successful Sportswriter & Publicist, visit:
http://www.writersweekly.com/books/1522.html
http://www.ByJamesRaia.com
Life was simpler, but it was also more boring during my newspaper career. I was given an assignment. I wrote the story, it appeared in the newspaper and I went on to the next assignment.
I never once considered writing the same story for more than one publication or writing different versions of the same story for different publications. That approach always sounded unethical, and for most of the 10 years I worked strictly for newspapers, I wanted no part of such practices.
I can even remember commenting once to a fellow staffer who was also a successful freelancer: “Why would you want to rewrite something or use the article elsewhere? It seems like a lot of work to make another $50 or $100.”
But we all learn. In my instance, I have come to realize what I do best is market. I believe a competent writer with great marketing skills will have greater financial freelance success than a very skilled writer who has no marketing savvy.
I have simply learned to write about sports, health & fitness, recreation, leisure, business and lifestyle subjects that appeal to wide audiences. And unless I’m writing a piece for a publication that pays enough not to worry about multiple sales, I believe an article that’s purchased only once is unsuccessful.
As an example, I’ve covered bicycle racing since 1979. A few years ago, however, my sister gave me an idea outside of the competitive vein when she mailed me an article about the bicycle built for two.
The article reminded me how much I’ve enjoyed the bicycle built for two (more commonly called tandem) competition during the four World Cycling Championships I have covered in four different countries.
The newspaper she mailed me gave me the idea to write about tandem cycling - its history, the exercise involved, etc. The idea has worked surprisingly well. Nearly every editor to whom I’ve written or called thought the article proposal was unique and gave me an assignment. As a result, I have now written more than 20 news service, syndicate, newspaper and magazine articles about tandem cycling.
The reason the article has generated nearly $3,500 in income is because it appeals to a varied audience. I’ve sold articles to senior publications, in-flight magazines, general interest newspapers, cycling magazines, fitness magazines, national health and fitness syndicates, a running magazine and a women’s sports magazine.
The New York Times and USA Today to Runner’s World and Retired Officer, a military lifestyle magazine, the editors all liked the historic, lifestyle and uniqueness of tandem cycling as a sport or recreation. I simply had to take the subject and craft the story to fit the various publications’ needs. I now jokingly call the tandem article, “the story that won’t die.”
While the article on the bicycle built for two has sold more often than any other article I’ve written, I have had numerous other multiple-sale successes. A piece on Dr. Eric Heiden, who has had careers as an Olympic gold medal speed skater; a professional cyclist, a television commentator and is now an orthopedic surgeon in Sacramento, Calif., has sold eight times. An article on golfers’ back problems and exercise, has been purchased seven times. Most recently, an article I wrote about
sunglasses has sold six times.
The point is, if you pick subjects that have wide appeal, your chances will improve. In the instance of my sunglass article, the American Optometric Association estimates that $2 billion was spent on 105 million pairs of sunglasses last year in the United States. With that simple fact alone, there’s plenty to expand upon and a wide audience to attract.
Multiple sales can also work with a slightly different approach. Instead writing a feature and selling the article several times, freelancers can also attend events and set up what amounts to their own news service.
I have used this strategy many times over the years while covering such events as the U.S. Open Golf Championship, the National U.S. Cycling Championships, the Tour DuPont (the U.S. version of the Tour de France), the Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii and the Winter Olympics.
If there’s an event I decide to attend, I write to a variety of publications I contribute to with ideas several months in advance, if an editor accepts an idea, I ask them for a letter of assignment to mail to the tournament or event organizers. After I’ve been accredited, I then look for additional assignments. I also call the tournament headquarters and ask if there’s an official hotel. Most often the hotel will offer a media rate.
If that scenario isn’t available, I find a hotel in the area and begin to weigh my assignment(s) value against my expenses. I’ve never gone on a trip or an assignment knowing that I’m going to lose money.
One of my greatest experiences as a sportswriter was covering the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. As a former stringer for United Press International, I had acquired a press pass and had my flight and room accommodations paid for by the worldwide service.
At the time, UPI was barely solvent. And so while the news agency had provided my room and board and travel expenses, it couldn’t pay me to cover speed skating and figure skating.
But for me, it didn’t matter. As soon as I was told what sports I was going to cover, I wrote letters to the sports editors of several athletes’ hometown newspapers.
Soon enough, I received several return phone calls and negotiated a series of independent contracts. Knowing that France was eight hours ahead of West Coast and five hours ahead of East Coast, I had plenty of time to work on other articles after filing my deadline UPI stories.
So on a daily basis for two weeks, I not only covered speed skating and some figure skating daily for UPI, I filed stories on individual athletes for the Anchorage Daily News, Sacramento (Calif.) Union and Champaign News-Gazette (Illinois). I also contributed several magazine articles to Olympian upon my return. Ironically, two of the publications - The Sacramento Union and Anchorage Daily News - are no
longer published.
But that’s also an ironic beauty of freelancing. Had I been employed full-time by either of the defunct newspapers, I would have been in the job market. But since I don’t rely on only one paycheck, I can replace two lost markets with two other outlets.
On numerous other occasions, I have used this same multiple-market strategy to cover golf tournaments, boxing matches, track and field meets and bicycle races.
A few years ago, I covered the Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon for the 10th time. After negotiating an airfare and accommodation agreement with race organizers, I contributed articles to seven publications, including the Dallas Morning News, Detroit Free Press, Portland Oregonian and Bicycling Online.
Of course, there is one potentially serious pitfall to avoid. All publications purchase various article rights and you must be careful not to sell any conflicting rights by selling to competing publications.
For instance, if you try to sell an article on old baseball cards to the in-flight magazine of United Airlines, you can’t sell the same article to the American Airlines magazine. But if you write your baseball card article for a local newspaper, you can certainly sell the same piece to 10 other regional newspapers.
If you write an article for the New York Times, you can’t sell the same article to USA Today since both are national newspapers. But you can sell the same article to two different regional newspapers, since the publications’ circulations don’t overlap.
There are also syndicates, the Los Angeles Times and New York Times, for example, that purchase only the second rights to articles already published. In these cases, however, the syndicates will likely either purchase the second rights for six months or a year. During that time period, you can’t sell the same piece elsewhere.
If Playboy, The New Yorker, Smithsonian or some other major national magazine buys your original baseball card article, they’ll likely ask to purchase first rights or all rights. Payment will also be at a high-enough rate that you won’t have to worry about multiple sales.
If this case occurs, you’ll have to decide what route to pursue. If you agree to sell the piece to the national publication buying all rights, don’t sell the piece anywhere else. If the piece does appear elsewhere, it’s unlikely you’ll ever work for the editors involved again. Which, of course, defeats the purpose of being a freelance writer.
The multiple-sales market approach has also worked in two other ways for me, but to a lesser degree. Occasionally, I have written features on well-known athletes - triathlete Dave Scott and cyclist Greg LeMond, for instance. I take the article and mailed photocopies of the features unsolicited to as many as 25 newspapers around the country.
On both occasions, I sold the articles several times, although I had hoped for more success. And after writing, editing, photocopying and paying postage to mail the manuscripts, your success rate needs to be fairly high - let’s say at least five sales each - to make a worthwhile profit.
Since endurance sports are my specialty, I once wrote self-syndicated running column for more than a decade. The column covered the full spectrum of the sport. It has appeared in as many as nine publications at one time and I now have many of the articles posted on my website, http://www.byjamesraia.com/.
Since every freelancer should have a specialty area, my running column could just as easily be your stamp, pets, antique, and business or computer column. And although there’s no sure-fire way to approach editors with a column idea, I sent the following the document along with several column clips to nearly 50 editors in three West Coast states. Keep in mind, the newspaper market is tough. Any offer, regardless of price, should be considered.
James Raia is a freelance writer based in Sacramento, Calif. He's also the publisher of the free electronic newsletters Endurance Sports News (http://www.byjamesraia.com/?page=endurance), Tour de France Times (http://www.byjamesraia.com/?page=france) and several other e-books available on his web site: http://www.ByJamesRaia.com
To purchase How To Be A Successful Sportswriter & Publicist, visit:
http://www.writersweekly.com/books/1522.html
Quote for Tuesday
Better to write for yourself and have no public, then write for the public and have no self.
- Cyril Connolly
Monday, December 06, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Production company offering $5,000 for scripts: Production company is looking to buy low-budget, feature length scripts that can be made for $50,000 - $250,000. Buy-out is $5,000. If you can use the extra cash and you have a low budget comedy, horror, or urban script sitting on your shelf then we'd like to talk with you. We're also looking for spec writers to create low-budget scripts that can be shot using our various locations. Pay is 5K if we use your script. Serious inquiries please. Respond via email, leave your contact info and someone will get back to you right away. Thanks.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wrg/51041618.html
(Posted 12/3/04)
This is one of 34 leads subscribers received today. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wrg/51041618.html
(Posted 12/3/04)
This is one of 34 leads subscribers received today. Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Quote for Monday
You only learn to be a better writer by writing. I don’t know much about creative writing programs. But they’re not telling the truth if they don’t teach, one, that writing is hard work and, two, that you have to give up a great deal of life, your personal life, to be a writer.
- Doris Lessing
Friday, December 03, 2004
Writing for Newsletters
by John Riddle
Founder, I Love To Write Day
If you have never written for the newsletter market, you don’t know what you have been missing. I wrote for my first newsletter as a freelance writer nearly 20 years ago, and since that time I have been a fan of newsletters as a real money-making opportunity for writers….no matter what their experience level.
Up until a few years ago, the most common type of newsletters were the traditional “print” ones, but these days the newsletter market has exploded with opportunities for freelance writers, thanks to the thousands and thousands of electronic newsletters that are published.
If you are interested in writing for the newsletter markets, you need to surround yourself with as many resources as possible before you begin. Here are a few:
· The Directory of Business Information Resources 2002: Associations, Newsletters, Magazines & Journals, Trade Shows, Directories & Databases, Web Site. Grey House Publishers. Price: $312. But don’t go out and purchase one; any large library will have a copy.
· Oxbridge Directory of Newsletters 2001, published by Oxbridge Communications for only $795. Also available at large libraries.
· A website that includes links to hundreds of newsletters can be found at http://www.newsletteraccess.com/. There are hundreds of other Websites that feature newsletters. Search and find your favorite.
Writing for newsletters is no different than writing for magazines, trade journals, Websites, etc. The first step is to determine where your interest levels are. In other words, if you are a gardening expert, and want to write for any number of the hundreds of gardening newsletters that are available, you should concentrate your efforts in that area. Or if you are interested in sports, music, parenting, etc., no matter where your passion lies, that should be where you target your newsletter marketing.
The best advice I can give is to follow the directions. Look for their writer’s guidelines. If they ask for articles that are no longer than 400 words, don’t write a 429 word article. Newsletters don’t always have the luxury of having extra space. Read and study back issues of any newsletter you want to write for. Use those other articles as your samples, and you will succeed in writing for newsletters!
Pay rates for newsletters will vary. I have been paid $25 for writing a few hundred word article for a small newsletter, while the larger ones have paid $500 and higher. The secret to writing for newsletters is easy: find subjects that you are passionate about, and find newsletters in those topic areas.
Some writers may even decide to launch their own newsletters. A few years ago I published a series of newsletters for the nonprofit industry. I even sold ads to fundraising companies, so you never know what lies ahead.
For more information about Freelance Writing, visit www.ilovetowriteday.org
If you are not selling articles to Websites, you don't know what you are missing. For the past 4 years I have been selling content to Websites all across the country. Many of those sites are paying $1.00 per word, and higher. Complete instructions can be found in the e-book, "How I Made $66,270 in 9 Months Writing for Websites." It costs only $14.95, and when you purchase it, you receive a second e-book, absolutely free: "Getting a Book Contract in 30 Days or Less." Learn how to find publishers that have ideas for books, and who are looking for new authors. I wrote 34 books in three years, and you can too. Visit www.ilovetowriteday.org for more info.
Founder, I Love To Write Day
If you have never written for the newsletter market, you don’t know what you have been missing. I wrote for my first newsletter as a freelance writer nearly 20 years ago, and since that time I have been a fan of newsletters as a real money-making opportunity for writers….no matter what their experience level.
Up until a few years ago, the most common type of newsletters were the traditional “print” ones, but these days the newsletter market has exploded with opportunities for freelance writers, thanks to the thousands and thousands of electronic newsletters that are published.
If you are interested in writing for the newsletter markets, you need to surround yourself with as many resources as possible before you begin. Here are a few:
· The Directory of Business Information Resources 2002: Associations, Newsletters, Magazines & Journals, Trade Shows, Directories & Databases, Web Site. Grey House Publishers. Price: $312. But don’t go out and purchase one; any large library will have a copy.
· Oxbridge Directory of Newsletters 2001, published by Oxbridge Communications for only $795. Also available at large libraries.
· A website that includes links to hundreds of newsletters can be found at http://www.newsletteraccess.com/. There are hundreds of other Websites that feature newsletters. Search and find your favorite.
Writing for newsletters is no different than writing for magazines, trade journals, Websites, etc. The first step is to determine where your interest levels are. In other words, if you are a gardening expert, and want to write for any number of the hundreds of gardening newsletters that are available, you should concentrate your efforts in that area. Or if you are interested in sports, music, parenting, etc., no matter where your passion lies, that should be where you target your newsletter marketing.
The best advice I can give is to follow the directions. Look for their writer’s guidelines. If they ask for articles that are no longer than 400 words, don’t write a 429 word article. Newsletters don’t always have the luxury of having extra space. Read and study back issues of any newsletter you want to write for. Use those other articles as your samples, and you will succeed in writing for newsletters!
Pay rates for newsletters will vary. I have been paid $25 for writing a few hundred word article for a small newsletter, while the larger ones have paid $500 and higher. The secret to writing for newsletters is easy: find subjects that you are passionate about, and find newsletters in those topic areas.
Some writers may even decide to launch their own newsletters. A few years ago I published a series of newsletters for the nonprofit industry. I even sold ads to fundraising companies, so you never know what lies ahead.
For more information about Freelance Writing, visit www.ilovetowriteday.org
If you are not selling articles to Websites, you don't know what you are missing. For the past 4 years I have been selling content to Websites all across the country. Many of those sites are paying $1.00 per word, and higher. Complete instructions can be found in the e-book, "How I Made $66,270 in 9 Months Writing for Websites." It costs only $14.95, and when you purchase it, you receive a second e-book, absolutely free: "Getting a Book Contract in 30 Days or Less." Learn how to find publishers that have ideas for books, and who are looking for new authors. I wrote 34 books in three years, and you can too. Visit www.ilovetowriteday.org for more info.
Quote for Friday
Who casts to write a living line, must sweat.
- Ben Johnson, “To the Memory of My Beloved, The Author William Shakespeare”
Thursday, December 02, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Part-time energy reporter (Puget Sound): Celilo Group Media Inc., a five-year-old media and consulting firm with offices in Portland, Seattle and Minneapolis/St. Paul, seeks a Puget Sound area-based journalist to serve as a correspondent for two of its publications: SIJ (Sustainable Industries Journal), a monthly Pacific Northwest business publication focused on environmental innovation; and a new monthly email and web site focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy. The position is currently part-time, requiring at least 20 hour per week. It is perhaps best suited for a freelance journalist seeking a marquee contract on which to anchor his or her reporting work. Qualities we seek in a candidate ► Top-notch journalism skills: the proven ability to uncover original and compelling storylines; ask tough questions; establish a reliable network of insider contacts; write succinct, engaging prose that ranges in style from punchy newswriting to literary journalism; and consistently meet deadlines. ► A working knowledge and ardent interest in energy, business and environmental storylines throughout Puget Sound, Washington state and the Northwest at large. The ideal candidate will have experience reporting on more than one of the following beats: energy, business, environment, development, sustainability, and/or technology. ► Self-motivation, organizational skills, people skills, entrepreneurial spirit and an inherent drive to take risks and make good things happen. About the publications SIJ’s mission is to explore interrelations, report economic trends and foster community amongst various industries and businesses that are legitimately working toward environmental innovation. The two-year-old journal focuses on four core sustainable business sectors: energy, green building, recycled markets and agriculture. Its goal is to contribute lively and hard-hitting business news to emerging regional economic sectors otherwise ignored or awash in superficial media coverage. In February 2005, SIJ is incorporating a sophisticated web site with rotating news and features, as well as rebranding its print edition with glossy covers and full-page photographs. For more information, see www.sijournal.com and www.celilo.net. In January 2005, Celilo Group Media is also unveiling a dynamic web site and monthly email newsletter focused on efficiency and renewable energy in the Northwest (Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana). The effort is part of a Celilo Group Media contract with the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, and the target audience includes electric utility executives, energy efficiency professionals, policymakers and renewable energy professionals. The web site and newsletter will offer feature stories, breaking news briefs, guest commentaries, and more. Monthly workload The position is currently part-time, requiring an estimated 20 hours per week. It is perhaps best suited for a freelance journalist seeking a marquee contract on which to anchor his or her reporting work. Monthly workload includes producing an average of two feature stories and 10-12 news briefs ranging in size from 250-600 words. The most common topic will be regional energy efficiency, though the journalist will be expected to explore the full range of subject matter in the two publications. The correspondent is also responsible for assembling relevant photography and art for his or her stories. The journalist will be expected to contribute Puget Sound- and Washington-area information for various segments such as a monthly calendar, “Tactical Maneuvers” section and business leads, etc. The position also requires consistent communication and periodic meetings with both an editor and managing editor based in Portland. Pay The position begins with a three-month “trial period” in which the correspondent will earn 30 cents per word for the features and news briefs. If the relationship works out, a consistent monthly pay rate will be established in the range of $1,500-$2,000 per month. Potential opportunity also exists for future growth with the company.How to apply Interested applicants should send a brief cover letter, resume and no more than three of their most relevant clips to Brian J. Back, Celilo Group Media, 3941 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214; email: brian@celilo.net; fax: 503-226-7917. Email is preferred. Interviews will take place in December, and the position will be filled by the start of 2005
(Posted 12/1/04)
Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
(Posted 12/1/04)
Want more freelance job leads, delivered to your email inbox every morning? Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter by sending an email to freelancedaily-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Freelance Job of the Day
Spanish fashion writer/editor: Are you a cosmo fashionista who know what's currently hot on the beauty and fashion scene? If you speak and write Spanish fluently AND can write/edit about beauty with a flair, I want you! I’m looking for a fun-loving BEAUTY magazine editor. Fashion and beauty magazine publishing company in Greenwich/Westchester county area seeks smart, sassy Spanish/English writer/editor for a freelance position to write articles for a latina beauty magazine publishing in 2005! One-on-one interview required and telecommuting possible if it works out. New magazine scheduling 2nd issue next spring seeks a motivated individual to write on subjects ranging from cosmetics (nail, lips, face, etc.), hair, fashion-related appliances and beauty health awareness. The ideal candidate should be an experienced writer with the proven ability to convey the beauty/fashion “story.” As our freelance Spanish editor, parts of the freelancing job will include: copy changes; addressing queries; ensuring that copy fits and breaks properly; checking facts to maintain accuracy; collaborating with art director to resolve copy/design conflicts and reading composite proofs. This position reports to the creative art director. Ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2 years writing/editorial experience but I’m willing to look at your current track record. You’ll need superb command of the Spanish and English language and have some previous exposure/experience with the beauty/fashion industry. Must be a self-starting team player who is somewhat detail oriented, has excellent research skills, can produce interesting articles and works well within deadlines. Solid knowledge of MSWord and Outlook Express required. QuarkXpress layout knowledge and experience a REAL plus, along with Spanish marketing experience. Interested and qualified persons ONLY, please email resume plus several of your best articles/editorials you've written. I promise I will try and contact everyone who replies. jesse@beautyhandbook.com
(Posted 12/1/04)
(Posted 12/1/04)
Writing Book Reviews
by John Riddle
Founder, I Love To Write Day
Writing book reviews can be a great way to break into print. If you have never been published, a book review can help launch your freelance writing career. (My very first byline was a book review!)
Let’s begin creating a list of publications that use book reviews:
1. Newspapers
2. Magazines
3. Trade Journals
4. Websites
5. Newsletters
Book reviews are also used by many radio programs, but if you are just starting out as a freelance book reviewer, you should concentrate your efforts on those five categories first. You can find potential markets for your book reviews by looking through Literary Marketplace. It is a rather expensive reference book, but most libraries will have a copy in their reference section. There are several sections in Literary Marketplace that list newspapers and magazines that publish book reviews. You will find the name of the book review editor for each publication, but before you send a query letter asking if they need any additional book reviewers, visit the publication’s Website first, to make sure the editor is still there.
You can also look through Writers Market and Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers’ Market Guide to find additional publications that use freelance book reviews. Another good way to find publications and Websites with book reviews is to use your favorite search engine. If you live near a large university visit their library and you will find hundreds of publications that feature book reviews. Also, spend time at a large bookstore, such as Borders or Barnes and Nobles, and browse through the many publications they have available. Before you know it, you will have compiled a rather large prospect list of book review editors to contact.
If you are just getting started as a freelance writer, you should contact your local newspaper and see if they need any freelance writers. Check and see if they are using freelance writers in their book review section. If they do not have a book review section, why not write to the editor and offer to write a weekly book review column? Some newspapers will not pay freelance writers for book reviews; it varies from newspaper to newspaper. When I wrote my first book review for the News Journal, they had a book review section, but no budget to pay freelance writers. However, they did give me a free copy of the books I reviewed, and once my byline started to appear as a freelance book reviewer, I took those clips and went after book reviewing markets that paid. After publishing three book reviews for free, I contacted The Washington Post, and they let me write a book review for their Health section. They liked it, and gave me a new assignment each month.
How to Find Books You Want to Review
The best place to find new books that will be in the bookstores over the next few months is by looking at Publishers Weekly. As a freelance writer, you will find that publication a goldmine of information about the book world. You will learn who has just signed the latest book deals, what’s happening at different publishing houses, and of course, reviews of forthcoming books. You can subscribe to Publishers Weekly for about $175 a year; several times a year they always have a half price subscription offer, so it pays to shop wisely. If you don’t want to spend that much money, you can usually find the magazine at a larger bookstore, like Borders and Barnes and Noble. You can always browse through the issues while you sip your favorite beverage. Or you can visit your local library and make friends with the librarian. Every library subscribes to Publishers Weekly, because they use it to decide what new books to order. You may have to ask the reference librarian for the most recent issue; odds are it will still be on their desk.
When you see a review of a book you would like to obtain, write down the name of the book, the author and the publisher. Then visit the Website of the publisher and look for a link or an e-mail address for their publicity department. If you can’t find the name of the publicity director, you can simply send an e-mail to the publisher and ask them to forward it to their publicity department. When someone requests a review copy of a book, a publicist will act quickly to get the book into your hands. A good publicist knows the value of a freelance book reviewer, which is why they are always willing to work with them. Here is how your e-mail should read:
Dear Publicity Director:
I would like to obtain a review copy of “Be Still America...I Am God” by Amy Bartlett. Two copies of each tearsheet will be forwarded upon publication. Please send the review book and a media kit to: Your name, your address, etc.
That’s all there is too it! Within a few weeks (sometimes even a few days) the review copy of the book will arrive at your home. While you are waiting, you should be looking for places to sell your book review. As I already mentioned, the best place to try and break in as a freelance book reviewer is with your local newspaper. But don’t stop there, because there are hundreds of places that publish book reviews everyday.
Here is how your e-mail or letter to the book review editor should read:
Dear Book Review Editor:
I am a freelance book reviewer and would like to submit a review of (name of book). The publishing company will be sending a review copy to me. Would you like to see a review of (name of book)? The book is scheduled to be released in bookstores on (give the date that the book will be available in bookstores), and I can have the book review to you before the release date.
See how easy it can be? Once you obtain the review copy of the book and find a place to sell your book review, you are on your way to a new chapter in your freelance writing life. I reviewed books for over ten years for a variety of newspapers, magazines and even Websites. Some book reviews have paid as little as $25, while others have paid as much as $500 and more.
After you have written a few book reviews you might want to check out “book summary” companies. They hire freelance book reviewers to write “summary reviews” of the books, which can range in length from 3 to 10 pages. Those companies pay an average of $1,000 for each summary. One summer I earned a bundle from writing those summary reviews. If you love books, and love to write, the sky is the limit!
For more information about Freelance Writing, visit www.ilovetowriteday.org
If you are not selling articles to Websites, you don't know what you are missing. For the past 4 years I have been selling content to Websites all across the country. Many of those sites are paying $1.00 per word, and higher. Complete instructions can be found in the e-book, "How I Made $66,270 in 9 Months Writing for Websites." It costs only $14.95, and when you purchase it, you receive a second e-book, absolutely free: "Getting a Book Contract in 30 Days or Less." Learn how to find publishers that have ideas for books, and who are looking for new authors. I wrote 34 books in three years, and you can too. Visit www.ilovetowriteday.org for more info.
Founder, I Love To Write Day
Writing book reviews can be a great way to break into print. If you have never been published, a book review can help launch your freelance writing career. (My very first byline was a book review!)
Let’s begin creating a list of publications that use book reviews:
1. Newspapers
2. Magazines
3. Trade Journals
4. Websites
5. Newsletters
Book reviews are also used by many radio programs, but if you are just starting out as a freelance book reviewer, you should concentrate your efforts on those five categories first. You can find potential markets for your book reviews by looking through Literary Marketplace. It is a rather expensive reference book, but most libraries will have a copy in their reference section. There are several sections in Literary Marketplace that list newspapers and magazines that publish book reviews. You will find the name of the book review editor for each publication, but before you send a query letter asking if they need any additional book reviewers, visit the publication’s Website first, to make sure the editor is still there.
You can also look through Writers Market and Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers’ Market Guide to find additional publications that use freelance book reviews. Another good way to find publications and Websites with book reviews is to use your favorite search engine. If you live near a large university visit their library and you will find hundreds of publications that feature book reviews. Also, spend time at a large bookstore, such as Borders or Barnes and Nobles, and browse through the many publications they have available. Before you know it, you will have compiled a rather large prospect list of book review editors to contact.
If you are just getting started as a freelance writer, you should contact your local newspaper and see if they need any freelance writers. Check and see if they are using freelance writers in their book review section. If they do not have a book review section, why not write to the editor and offer to write a weekly book review column? Some newspapers will not pay freelance writers for book reviews; it varies from newspaper to newspaper. When I wrote my first book review for the News Journal, they had a book review section, but no budget to pay freelance writers. However, they did give me a free copy of the books I reviewed, and once my byline started to appear as a freelance book reviewer, I took those clips and went after book reviewing markets that paid. After publishing three book reviews for free, I contacted The Washington Post, and they let me write a book review for their Health section. They liked it, and gave me a new assignment each month.
How to Find Books You Want to Review
The best place to find new books that will be in the bookstores over the next few months is by looking at Publishers Weekly. As a freelance writer, you will find that publication a goldmine of information about the book world. You will learn who has just signed the latest book deals, what’s happening at different publishing houses, and of course, reviews of forthcoming books. You can subscribe to Publishers Weekly for about $175 a year; several times a year they always have a half price subscription offer, so it pays to shop wisely. If you don’t want to spend that much money, you can usually find the magazine at a larger bookstore, like Borders and Barnes and Noble. You can always browse through the issues while you sip your favorite beverage. Or you can visit your local library and make friends with the librarian. Every library subscribes to Publishers Weekly, because they use it to decide what new books to order. You may have to ask the reference librarian for the most recent issue; odds are it will still be on their desk.
When you see a review of a book you would like to obtain, write down the name of the book, the author and the publisher. Then visit the Website of the publisher and look for a link or an e-mail address for their publicity department. If you can’t find the name of the publicity director, you can simply send an e-mail to the publisher and ask them to forward it to their publicity department. When someone requests a review copy of a book, a publicist will act quickly to get the book into your hands. A good publicist knows the value of a freelance book reviewer, which is why they are always willing to work with them. Here is how your e-mail should read:
Dear Publicity Director:
I would like to obtain a review copy of “Be Still America...I Am God” by Amy Bartlett. Two copies of each tearsheet will be forwarded upon publication. Please send the review book and a media kit to: Your name, your address, etc.
That’s all there is too it! Within a few weeks (sometimes even a few days) the review copy of the book will arrive at your home. While you are waiting, you should be looking for places to sell your book review. As I already mentioned, the best place to try and break in as a freelance book reviewer is with your local newspaper. But don’t stop there, because there are hundreds of places that publish book reviews everyday.
Here is how your e-mail or letter to the book review editor should read:
Dear Book Review Editor:
I am a freelance book reviewer and would like to submit a review of (name of book). The publishing company will be sending a review copy to me. Would you like to see a review of (name of book)? The book is scheduled to be released in bookstores on (give the date that the book will be available in bookstores), and I can have the book review to you before the release date.
See how easy it can be? Once you obtain the review copy of the book and find a place to sell your book review, you are on your way to a new chapter in your freelance writing life. I reviewed books for over ten years for a variety of newspapers, magazines and even Websites. Some book reviews have paid as little as $25, while others have paid as much as $500 and more.
After you have written a few book reviews you might want to check out “book summary” companies. They hire freelance book reviewers to write “summary reviews” of the books, which can range in length from 3 to 10 pages. Those companies pay an average of $1,000 for each summary. One summer I earned a bundle from writing those summary reviews. If you love books, and love to write, the sky is the limit!
For more information about Freelance Writing, visit www.ilovetowriteday.org
If you are not selling articles to Websites, you don't know what you are missing. For the past 4 years I have been selling content to Websites all across the country. Many of those sites are paying $1.00 per word, and higher. Complete instructions can be found in the e-book, "How I Made $66,270 in 9 Months Writing for Websites." It costs only $14.95, and when you purchase it, you receive a second e-book, absolutely free: "Getting a Book Contract in 30 Days or Less." Learn how to find publishers that have ideas for books, and who are looking for new authors. I wrote 34 books in three years, and you can too. Visit www.ilovetowriteday.org for more info.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
Freelance Job of the Day
Writers, editors for restaurant trade pub: SLAMMED Magazine is looking for extremely talented writers/editors for assignments/freelance work. Please forward samples and/or queries to annie@slammedmagazine.com. Editors must be reliable, fast, exacting and care more about enhancing the story than about writer's egos. Writers need to be tight, edgy, fresh and honest...with an insider's understanding of the restaurant industry. Writers who are working/ have worked in the restaurant industry are preferred. Gifted writers will earn better paying assigments. Please contact annie@slammedmagazine.com and ck out slammedmagazine.com.
(Posted 11/30/04)
(Posted 11/30/04)
Exclusively on Freelance Daily
San Diego Film & Screenwriting Festival call for entries: Isn’t Your Dream Worth 45 Bucks? Download the application for the country’s fastest-growing Screenplay Competition today at www.sdff.org, or call 818-891-2223. Last year’s Best Screenplay Award winner signed by judge Craig Perry (“American Pie,” “Final Destination”). Deadline For Entries: July 15, 2005. Submit as many screenplays as you like, and we’ll see you at the 2005 San Diego Film and Screenwriting Festival, to be held September 21-25 in San Diego's historic Gaslamp District (www.sdff.org for details). Attendance for winners not mandatory, but we hope to see you there!
(Posted 12/1/04)
(Posted 12/1/04)
Budgeting for Freelancers
by Rachel Goldstein
owner of Allfreelancework.com
For people with a salaried job, budgeting their income and expenses is an easy task. A regular paycheck comes in for them every two weeks with taxes and benefits already taken out. For them it is easy to predict how much income will come in and what expenses will go out. But when you leave your full-time job for a freelance career, you also leave behind your stable paycheck. So how do you make sure that you have enough money to pay your rent? You need to learn how to create a budget. This article will explain to you the basics of budgeting for your freelance business.
ADD UP YOUR EXPENSES
The first step in creating a budget is to add up your monthly expenses. If you are new at freelancing, then calculating your expenses the first few months is going to be tough for you, but stick with it. Below, I have provided you a chart to fill out. For the personal expenses listed, take a look back on last year's checks, bills, and credit card statements to see what you paid out last year. Figure out what the average month was for each expense by writing down all twelve month's expenses and then dividing this number by 12.
You are going to need to guess or estimate for business expenses unless you have a full year of freelancing under your belt. Don't worry if your estimate is off, you can always readjust your budget next month. If you have been in business for more than a year, then use previous year's records to estimate this year's expenses.
In order to figure out taxes, first you need to come up with your target monthly income. Let’s assume that your monthly target income is $2,500. The government wants about 45% of this money. But, this will depend on what tax bracket that you fall into and what state that you live in. Your taxes each month would be about $1,125. (When you are self-employed, you will need to pay quarterly taxes on April 15, June 15, Sep 15, and Jan 15.)
REQUIRED INCOME
After you have estimated what all of your monthly expenses will be, you need to figure out how much income you need to bring in. It is quite simple to figure this out. All that you need to do is add your target monthly income and your monthly expenses together. The number that you get is your required income. For example: If your target income is $2,500, and your monthly expense is $3,200, then your required income is $5,700.
Once you figure out how much income you are required to make to keep budget, figure out if your target income was too high or too low. Are you going to be able to make this amount of money each month? Review your numbers to assure that they match your goals.
Now you have an idea of what your cash flow should be like this year. As the year goes on, you will probably readjust your budget a few times to meet new goals, increase your profit line, and anticipate problems.
http://www.Allfreelancework.com - 1000s of freelance jobs, articles, and resources.
owner of Allfreelancework.com
For people with a salaried job, budgeting their income and expenses is an easy task. A regular paycheck comes in for them every two weeks with taxes and benefits already taken out. For them it is easy to predict how much income will come in and what expenses will go out. But when you leave your full-time job for a freelance career, you also leave behind your stable paycheck. So how do you make sure that you have enough money to pay your rent? You need to learn how to create a budget. This article will explain to you the basics of budgeting for your freelance business.
ADD UP YOUR EXPENSES
The first step in creating a budget is to add up your monthly expenses. If you are new at freelancing, then calculating your expenses the first few months is going to be tough for you, but stick with it. Below, I have provided you a chart to fill out. For the personal expenses listed, take a look back on last year's checks, bills, and credit card statements to see what you paid out last year. Figure out what the average month was for each expense by writing down all twelve month's expenses and then dividing this number by 12.
You are going to need to guess or estimate for business expenses unless you have a full year of freelancing under your belt. Don't worry if your estimate is off, you can always readjust your budget next month. If you have been in business for more than a year, then use previous year's records to estimate this year's expenses.
In order to figure out taxes, first you need to come up with your target monthly income. Let’s assume that your monthly target income is $2,500. The government wants about 45% of this money. But, this will depend on what tax bracket that you fall into and what state that you live in. Your taxes each month would be about $1,125. (When you are self-employed, you will need to pay quarterly taxes on April 15, June 15, Sep 15, and Jan 15.)
REQUIRED INCOME
After you have estimated what all of your monthly expenses will be, you need to figure out how much income you need to bring in. It is quite simple to figure this out. All that you need to do is add your target monthly income and your monthly expenses together. The number that you get is your required income. For example: If your target income is $2,500, and your monthly expense is $3,200, then your required income is $5,700.
Once you figure out how much income you are required to make to keep budget, figure out if your target income was too high or too low. Are you going to be able to make this amount of money each month? Review your numbers to assure that they match your goals.
Now you have an idea of what your cash flow should be like this year. As the year goes on, you will probably readjust your budget a few times to meet new goals, increase your profit line, and anticipate problems.
http://www.Allfreelancework.com - 1000s of freelance jobs, articles, and resources.
Quote for Wednesday
It was from Handel that I learned that style consists in force of assertion. If you can say a thing with one stroke, unanswerably you have style; if not, you are at best a marchande de plaisir, a decorative litterateur, or a musical confectioner, or a painter of fans with cupids and coquettes. Handel had power.
- George Bernard Shaw
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