general freelance advice
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... »
Clutter
I am not someone who works well around clutter—but I am someone who invariably collects it. I never read newspapers on the day they come out, but can’t bear to recycle them before I’ve read them; same thing with the mail. The resulting piles of unread crap make me feel pressured and disorganized when... »
Social Media Tip
If you are short on time but still want to be a part of the social media networking scene, join LinkedIn. It is one of the most “pro” networking sites out there and it will make you easier to find on the web. »
It’s All Relative
Once your relatives realize you are a writer, it may be come open “free work request” season. From proofreading your nephew’s term paper to writing an online dating profile for your newly divorced brother, your talents will be called upon. When this happens, remember that your time and your talent is valuable. If you want... »
Time Wasters
Beware the time waster oh writer! There are things that can get you off-track and keep you from focusing on what is most important–your writing. Here are some that you’ll want to watch out for: E-mail. Don’t check it all the time. Schedule it and it won’t suck your time. Phone. If you are working, turn... »
Tip for Finding New Clients
If you are on the prowl for some new clients, do a quick Google search of your specialty followed by the words, “writers needed.” You will find many websites and blogs that have need, at least occasionally, for writers like you. »
What’s Your Backup Plan?
Ever see a Twitter post from a freelancer who is basically out of business because their computer suddenly died? Maybe you haven’t experienced something that extreme, but what happens when the power goes out and you’re running low on battery power? It’s always a good idea to have a backup location with free wi-fi scoped... »
Become a Better Writer
Not all writers have all grammar rules memorized. In fact, I bet 90% of them don’t. Here are some quick resources to help improve your writing, from a grammatical standpoint: Grammar Girl Online Writing Lab from Purdue (umm…no, not like the chicken) Guide to Grammar and Writing »
