Content Sites for New Writers

March 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you are just getting started with writing on the web, you may be overwhelmed at first by the large amount of choice available to you when it comes to content sites.  Here are a few sites that beginners may find helpful.

Associated Content / Yahoo Contributor Network

If you have literally never  written an article before, Associated Content is the perfect place to start because you don’t need to apply with a writing sample.  You can simply log in and begin to write.  AC allows writers to self-publish content or to submit content and have an editor review it. The advantage to the second option is that if an editor reviews it, you may be eligible for upfront pay.  Self-publish articles are only paid on a revenue share scale.  Upfront payments are usually made in 24 hours once an article is reviewed and revenue share payments are made once a month if a writer has reached the $1.50 minimum.

Hub Pages

Hub Pages is a self-publish website where writers can make money through Amazon affiliates and Google Ad Sense.  Once you create a user name, your next step is to simply write your content, add your pictures and post your hub.  To monetize your hub, you will have to follow the proper steps to obtain Adsense and affiliate accounts.  Once on Hub pages, you can experiment with different topics to see which types of content can earn you the most money.

Examiner.com

Examiner.com is a website based on regions.  These jobs ,must be applied for using a writing sample.  Once accepted you will have your own area that you are free to self-publish in.  For example, you can be declared The San Diego Amusement Park Examiner  or the Nashville Restaurant Examiner.  Payment is made based on page views.

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Social Networking Tips for Writers

March 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you’re going to be writing for the web, social networking can play a large part in your level of success.  Joining multiple sites and using them properly can help your career.

Twitter

Twitter is a great place to network with other writers, look for jobs and obtain readers and page views.  Always tweet links to your articles, especially if you getting money for page views or ad clicks.  But remember, it is important to also connect with your Twitter followers.  Have conversations with people, re-tweet others links and comment on others articles.

Facebook

Use your Facebook account to share your articles with your friends.  This can help you to gain a following and increase your traffic.  It is also a great way to let your friends know that you are transitioning into a freelance career, you never know who might have some connections for you.  There are also many fan pages on Facebook where you can find fans of the subjects that you write about.

Writer Forums

Going on writer forums can help you to connect with other writers and share feedback and tips.  New start up companies will also visit writer forums and post ads for employment opportunities.  Feel free to ask questions to others writers and share tips of your own.  Remember to promote your blog or website in your forum signature.  Be friendly and polite to other forum posters.  Putting down the work of others is never a good way to expand your online networking circle.

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The Challenges of Being a Freelance Writer

February 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Freelance writing can be a lucrative profession, but can also have many challenges.  People who wish to be  freelancers need to possess good time management skills, drive and dedication.

Time Management

Freelancer writers can make their own schedules. While convenient it is important to stick to some type of routine.  You need to remember that unlike a 9 to 5 job, if you are not working you are not making money.  So although it can be tempting to sleep until 11:00 or spend an afternoon watching movies, your monthly income can suffer from this behavior.  Some work-a-holics can also be effected by making their own schedules. Some people become so dedicated to their writing that they don’t know when to take their work hat off and turn their relaxing hat or fun hat on.

Multiple Streams

As a freelance writer it is vital to have more than one stream of income.  You are an independent contractor and no one owes you anything besides payment for the work done.  If you rely only on one website or one client, you could find yourself in a dangerous bind if that website shuts down or if that client runs out of work for you.  Write for multiple websites and a few private clients and your income stream will be steady.  It is also good to mix up some clients that pay frequently with some clients that only pay once a month or have a long billing cycle.

Health Insurance

Some new freelancers have trouble obtaining health insurance.  If you are fortunate enough to have a spouse who has a plan, that is one of the best and easiest ways to obtain healthcare.  If you do not have this option, you will need to budget to join an independent plan.  Decent plans can be available for around $250 a month.  You will need to budget for this when setting your monthly goals.

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Benefits of Being a Freelance Writer

February 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Being a freelance writer can be a fun and challenging career.  Although freelancing takes a lot of hard work and dedication there are also a lot of benefits to being a freelance writer.

Be Your Own Boss

As a freelancer you are your own boss.  You can set your own hours and your own rates.  You don’t have to punch a clock or answer to anyone.

Flexible Time

Freelancing can be a good career for mothers with young children and other people who need a flexible schedule.  You don’t have to worry about being penalized for spending an afternoon at the park or taking your child to a doctor’s appointment.  You can choose to work standard hours, work while your child is sleeping or at school or mix up your schedule on a week by week basis.

Unlimited Earning Potential

As a freelancer, the harder you work, the more money you will make.  If you have the dedication to work quickly and find new clients, you can bring in a very lucrative income for your family.  Writing is a great business because you don’t have any overhead costs.

Mix it Up

Working at the same job for years and years can be boring an momentous.  As a freelancer, you have the ability to work on a variety of different projects.  This freedom can keep your career fun and diverse.  You can work on a brochure one day and web content the next day.  You can be writing about health care one hour and theme parks the next.

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