Published on February 28, 2007
If you’ve never given a second thought to the idea of writing for a non-profit organization, it may be time to think again. In their never-ending search for funding, non-profit organizations are constantly in need of copy to promote their cause, update the public, and seek donations. Efforts to do this can require producing flyers, newsletters, pamphlets, booklets, and even radio and/or television spots – all of which require writing. That’s where you come in.
Published on February 28, 2007
Since I started writing for this site’s clients, my rating has been at the highest level, as I treat each client’s project with extreme care and respect, and give each one 100% effort.
My problem involves the rating I was given by a first-time client from Europe who wanted an ebook written about her unique business. I estimated that the project would take about one month. After accepting the project, my client became ill and couldn’t send the necessary material for me to begin working. Two weeks passed, and finally I received her material. I communicated regularly with her throughout this period and until I completed the project, incorporating her edits and comments. I also advised her that I would not meet the proposed deadline due to not receiving her material on time.
You can imagine my surprise and shock when she wrote in my rating that I was late finishing the project.
Published on February 28, 2007
When I first started as a freelance writer, rejection slips had a negative affect on my productiveness. Turning lemons into lemonade has increased my income.
Published on February 21, 2007
There’s a LOT more snow on the ground now. We got hammered by the blizzard and the boys (mostly Matt and Zach) spent a couple of hours cleaning up the mess last week. It’s still pretty deep out there but at least we can get the cars in and out of the driveway. As promised, here are some blizzard photos…
Published on February 21, 2007
One statement I often hear from new authors is, “Oh no! My book has the same name as another book!”
This is actually a common problem. There are lots of books with identical names. While you can’t copyright a name, you can trademark a name or phrase. Not many authors go to the trouble of registering a trademark. And, honestly, registering a trademark is pretty expensive so I wouldn’t advise doing it, unless you plan to roll out an entire business or line of books using a phrase from your title (i.e. Chicken Soup for the Soul).
Published on February 21, 2007
- EIN vs. Social Security Number
- Whose Fault is It That I Didn’t Get Paid?
- Simple Formula for Determining Writing Fees
- Balancing a Large Family while Working at Home
Published on February 21, 2007
I get a lot of work from graphic designers, and it usually starts with a phone call. “A client came in today and wants me to design a brochure. But, I told her, ‘You need some help with this copy.’ I gave her your number.”
Developing a good working relationship with one or more graphic designers can be like opening a wellspring of job opportunities for a writer. You’re going to have to be fast because when the designer hands the job off to you, it’s usually the midnight hour with a client expecting ink on paper in a few days.
Published on February 21, 2007
Dear Angela, I wrote a series of short articles for a national parenting website a couple of years ago. I was paid for first time use. Last week, an agency asked me for permission to use my articles as training resources for their prospective clients (as required by law in their state). They did not offer any payment.
Published on February 21, 2007
Actor Jim Carrey says desperation drove him into show business. Years ago he needed money and he knew how to make people laugh so he forced himself onto the stage at the comedy club, despite the inevitable rejection that would initially accompany his amateur attempts. Sometimes he admittedly stunk up the place but he kept going until he became one of the most successful comedians in Hollywood history.
Published on February 14, 2007
I’m writing this on Tuesday. We’re preparing for the blizzard, which should start on Wednesday morning. We’re supposed to get 8-14 inches of snow and the wind chills are supposed to be -20 – -40. Brrr! We’re sure there won’t be any school tomorrow, so the children are in a festive mood.
