get started writing
Scheduling A Telephone Interview
Keep in mind that when you are scheduling a telephone interview you will need to know where the person you will be talking to is located. For example, I’m on Central Standard Time (CST), so if I’m interviewing someone on the East coast (EST), I’ll need to clarify if we are doing the interview... »
Setting Up A Twitter Account
One of the best ways to get started with social media is to set up a Twitter account. It only takes a minute–you just provide a name, username, password and e-mail. Agree to the terms of service, and you are all set. Try to follow some people who are in the writing industry to... »
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. »
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 »
Find Your Good Quotes Here
If you are looking for a place to find reliable quotes, try education. University professors are very responsible and can often provide you with a great quote or two in a timely fashion. Just look for an expert in the area you need and send off an e-mail–or leave a phone message. One caveat–this... »
Prove, Prove, Prove
Your portfolio should not have claims on it, it should have proof. Instead of claiming that you are the “best copywriter” show your conversion ratios on some of your best pieces. Instead of claiming your are an “expert” this or that, show that you are by talking about your experience, the companies you’ve worked... »
Unproductive Time–Part of the Creative Process
Writers and other creatives can not be expected to perform on demand like trained seals. Sometimes, when I’m supposed to be writing, I find myself drifting off to websites like E! Online, CNN.com, PerezHilton.com and others. I used to feel guilty when I did this, like there was something bad about it. Then I... »
Form Healthy Work Habits Early
If you are a new writer you have a great opportunity–you can form healthy work habits from the beginning! Many writers get stuck in a rut and don’t take breaks to rest their eyes, or to get a bit of physical activity in during the day. Take advantage of the fact that you don’t... »
Breaking Through Writer’s Block
Wanna know how to bust through writer’s block? Just write. Don’t worry about whether or not what you write is good enough for your client, don’t worry about whether or not it makes sense, don’t worry about whether or not it’s spelling-challenged or grammatically correct, just write your thoughts about whatever topic you want. For... »
Free Business Cards
Need some business cards but all outta cash? Try this offer for 100 free business cards from Ooprint. Now look, no excuses not to network! »
