Business Advice
The Writer And Contracts
Do you need a contract in order to write an article? The short answer to that question is no, but in reality it is better for you if you can get one. Contracts spell out all of the terms, and give you a way to stand up for yourself if something should go awry. If... »
Tax Time Tip: Saving Receipts
With April 15th right around the bend, can you honestly say that you saved every receipt that you could have written off? If not, try a simple technique that works. Grab a jar, a shoebox or another container and set it on your desk or by the door. When you come home, empty your pockets,... »
Blog Traffic
Looking up to pick up some extra traffic to your blog? Create a list of valuable resources for your readers. Not only will you attract traffic from the blogs you link to, but your post (if useful enough) could become viral. »
Your Pride and Your Prejudice
There is a difference between valuing your time enough to set reasonable prices for your work and thinking that you are some omnipotent ruler’s gift to the industry. There are many amazing writers nipping at your heels who simply don’t know how to value their own writing. Many of them are just as smart,... »
Put a Bull’s Eye on Your Target Client
Everything you do in your business should be to appeal to, attract, and score your target client. When you create a portfolio, network, market, query, whatever, your goal is to be appealing to your client. So before you make any decisions or take any action, try to think about how your target client will... »
Free (or almost) Marketing Resources
Trying to market your business on a shoe string budget? Here is a list of free, or almost free, resources to help. Remember though, nothing beats elbow grease when you are trying to market your business. »
Nichify Your Niche
You probably know that it is easier to find clients, charge decent prices, and establish yourself as an authority when you choose a niche to write in. But did you know you can make your niche even…nichier? For instance, let’s say you are a science writer. What if you instead became an earth science... »
Paypal Invoices
If you want to get paid quickly, use Paypal for your invoicing. It’s free, allows you to give a full breakdown of the charges, and the invoice is emailed to your client along with a big “Pay it now” type button that makes payment super easy. The only problem I have with them is... »
Working Alone
Once a week, I meet a telecommuting friend at Panera or in my home and we work together for about four hours. We’ve been friends for almost 20 years and we’ve shared many jobs during that time, so we know how each other likes to work and we manage to get in a lot... »
Specialize
It’s almost universally agreed that writers who specialize have an easier time making more money than those who don’t. But how do you know what to specialize in? In order for your pick to be successful, you must be able to come into the specialty with authority. Think about your hobbies and your work... »
