Wow.
I read and copyedited a very disturbing article this morning before I even had my morning coffee. It drove home the real reason I write for a living.
I often joke that I’ll write “anything that pays,” and to some degree, that’s true. In the past few months,, I’ve written about cosmetic dentistry, digital signage, make-up and diaper bags. Not that there’s anything wrong with any of these topics but, with the possible exception of diaper bags, , none of these topics exactly touches mylife or my passion. (Makeup used to fall into that category. Ah, how life changes!)
On the other end of that spectrum, I’ve interviewed the band director at Columbine High School, cancer survivors, and people whose lives have been changed in ways big and small by the charity efforts of others.
This morning, I copyedited an article about a little girl in India named whose father burned her mother to death. Sushmita suffered third degree burns on her body, and emotional scars—as you might imagine—that last to this day.
As a new mother, the very thought of this turned my stomach. An organization called the Asian Christian Academy, however, took Sushmita into their House of Joy for children, where she has begun the healing process.
When the ACA brochure comes out, which I contributed writing to and also copyedited, I hope and pray it will move people as that story moved me, to give ACA the funding it needs to continue to do God’s work and spread His Word. I’m honored that Dr. David Fletcher invited me to be a small part of ACA and its mission. I am grateful that God chose to connect me with Dr. Fletcher so that I could use my talents in this way.
Why do I write? I write for a living.
But why do I write? I write because I want to share stories that can change small pieces of the world.
Writers: What stories have touched you lately? Please tell us here.
A Freelancer’s Four Most Profitable Words
Most of the freelance writing and editing work I receive comes through word-of-mouth and personal connections. Every few months, I’ll hit pot luck with a gig through Craig’s List or another job Web site and really hit it off with the client. But most of the time, I get to know my clients before they become my clients.
The four most profitable words in my freelance career:
“Do you hire freelancers?”
Who do I ask?
1. Since I often do marketing work as well as writing magazine articles, blogging and writing Web content, I often ask people at PR firms who pitch stories to me if they ever hire freelancers. Many do.
2. If I hit it off with an interview subject who owns their own business and has their own Web site, I ask if they are looking for anyone to write for them.
3. And of course, I sometimes make cold-calls or e-mails to interesting trade magazines asking: “Do you hire freelancers?” Trade magazines often don’t have their writers’ guidelines posted online or listed in writer’s markets and sometimes you can’t tell by studying the masthead if they ever work with freelancers.
By asking this question in a cold call, I save myself the trouble of constructing a query, or even outlining my qualifications, only to hear, “Sorry, we do all our writing in-house.”
By asking interview subjects, I am targeting specific clients based on a rapport we’ve already developed. Since my gut instincts about people are pretty spot-on, this minimizes my chances of getting one of those “problem clients” we all dread.
If a PR agent is pitching me a story, chances are they are already familiar with my work and they like what they see. I have nothing to lose by asking if they’d like to work with me in a different capacity.
Sometimes, the people I ask aren’t hiring right now, but they will keep it in the back of their minds. Other times, they didn’t know they were looking for freelance help, but when I plant the idea in their mind, they grab it! Sometimes, you achieve that serendipitous moment when, indeed, a person is seeking freelance help, and there you appear, right in front of them!
Like so much freelancing advice, this, too, boils down to the JHS (Just Hit Send) philosophy.
“Do you hire freelancers?” Just. Ask.
The four most profitable words in my freelance career:
“Do you hire freelancers?”
Who do I ask?
1. Since I often do marketing work as well as writing magazine articles, blogging and writing Web content, I often ask people at PR firms who pitch stories to me if they ever hire freelancers. Many do.
2. If I hit it off with an interview subject who owns their own business and has their own Web site, I ask if they are looking for anyone to write for them.
3. And of course, I sometimes make cold-calls or e-mails to interesting trade magazines asking: “Do you hire freelancers?” Trade magazines often don’t have their writers’ guidelines posted online or listed in writer’s markets and sometimes you can’t tell by studying the masthead if they ever work with freelancers.
By asking this question in a cold call, I save myself the trouble of constructing a query, or even outlining my qualifications, only to hear, “Sorry, we do all our writing in-house.”
By asking interview subjects, I am targeting specific clients based on a rapport we’ve already developed. Since my gut instincts about people are pretty spot-on, this minimizes my chances of getting one of those “problem clients” we all dread.
If a PR agent is pitching me a story, chances are they are already familiar with my work and they like what they see. I have nothing to lose by asking if they’d like to work with me in a different capacity.
Sometimes, the people I ask aren’t hiring right now, but they will keep it in the back of their minds. Other times, they didn’t know they were looking for freelance help, but when I plant the idea in their mind, they grab it! Sometimes, you achieve that serendipitous moment when, indeed, a person is seeking freelance help, and there you appear, right in front of them!
Like so much freelancing advice, this, too, boils down to the JHS (Just Hit Send) philosophy.
“Do you hire freelancers?” Just. Ask.
“Filler” Income for Writers: Taking Surveys
I’ve always believed in diversification with my business. That’s why I write feature magazine articles for print and magazines, blog posts, catalog copy, press releases, keyword articles and, well, anything that pays.
But, for the past several years, I have also earned money taking surveys. This isn’t full time income for me, by any means. I equate the extra cash to the “cashback rewards” I earn by using certain credit cards (and then paying them off that month.)
Like cashback rewards, money I earn from surveys has a knack of showing up in my Paypal account or mailbox right on the day when I could really use that extra $10 - $50 for a treat.
I like surveys because I can do them while I’m drinking my morning coffee, before my brain is in gear to start anything that looks like a writing project.
Could I earn filler income by posting articles on Associated Content and the like? Of course I could. But the way I see it, my writing talents deserve better pay than what those sites offer at this stage in my career. If I’m writing, I want to be paid what I deserve for my writing. I don’t mind making a few dollars a day just for clicking buttons to take a survey, though. I hardly consider it work. I want something different—a diversion from writing—for my filler income. We've all seen the ads to "earn money taking surveys," and it turns out, you really can!
What survey sites do I currently use?
MySurvey.com
This was the first survey site I ever signed up for, and I’ve earned $120 total just for taking easy surveys. I do this while I’m watching T.V., drinking my coffee in the morning, letting story ideas percolate. There are no catches that I’ve found with this site, no money to lay out, nothing to ever purchase. You don’t need to supply a credit card number – ever.
When you earn 1,000 points (surveys range from 10 points to 200 points), you can “cash-out” for a $10 check, donate the money to a charity of your choice or “buy” merchandise from their rewards store. You can also put the money into a raffle to win prizes like flat screen televisions. I always cash out or, if I’m feeling generous, donate the money.
I’ve also received free samples of household goods like paper towels and cat food. The real money from Mysurvey.com comes from referrals, which earn 150 points each, but you have to send an e-mail to get people to sign up.
Bottom line: I definitely recommend this site, as it’s fun and hardly takes any time. Post a comment if you’d like an e-mail from me with a referral link.
Vindale Surveys
I recently signed up for this survey site through a link on Twitter and so far, I love it. In one week, I’ve earned $24, all while drinking my morning coffee and getting geared up for the day. If you’re sitting in front of the computer, anyway, and have a few minutes to spare, why not sign up?
In addition to cash for taking surveys, I have also received:
- all three of my credit reports FREE
- FREE business cards from Vista Print
- $5 in FREE Postage from Stamps.com
What should you be aware of?
In many cases, you need to supply a credit card number and sign up for a free service, which you must cancel before the trail period expires or your card will get charged. In my experience, you need to call an 800 number to cancel, so expect that to take a few minutes out of your day.
I simply jot down on my calendar the date I need to cancel (actually, I mark down a week earlier, to give myself some extra time.) As soon as the survey is “verified” and the money is in my Vindale account, I call and cancel.
Stamps.com put cookies on my computer that Spysweeper caught, so I would make sure all your spyware is up to date.
Like other survey companies, you can also earn money through referrals: $5 per referral.
Bottom line: If you are well-organized and not susceptible to sales pitches, you can earn $100 a month or more with Vindale and it won’t take a lot of time out of your day. Highly recommended! If you like what I have to say, please sign up through my referral link. Fortunately, I’ve kicked my cup-a-day Starbucks habit, but I’m sure I can find a good way to spend five bucks. Two canisters of organic baby cereal, maybe?
Valued Opinions
Like other survey companies, Valued Opinions sends notifications to your mailbox when you have a survey.
After a week of being a member, I just received the first survey I was eligible to participate in today. One of the “qualifying questions” asks if you are employed by a media firm or a member of the media, and disqualifies you if you are. I have to learn to lie on these surveys!
I just spent about 30 minutes taking a survey about frozen foods and earned $3. Not fantastic, but if I had nothing better to do, I wouldn’t mind. Again, if you’re vegging out in front of the television with no pressing chores, it’s some money. But realistic, $6/hour is nothing to write home about, even in the realm of doing surveys online.
Also, I wasted quite a bit of time answering survey questions only to find out, 5 questions in, that I didn’t qualify. If you don’t qualify for a survey at MySurvey.com, you still earn 10 points for trying.
When your account at ValuedOpinions reaches $20, you can redeem the money for a gift certificate to a popular online retailer, including Amazon.com. So you’re not earning hard cash, either.
Still, what writer can’t use an extra $20 to spend at Amazon?
I’ve been a member for one week, and have only earned $3 so far. There is no referral program that I can find for signing friends up at Valued Opinions.
Bottom line: If you have absolutely nothing better to do, $6 an hour to spend on books, magazines and other fun stuff isn’t bad. Or if you just enjoy taking surveys and sharing your opinion and feedback with product manufacturers, sign up. What have you got to lose? No credit card required.
Dollarsurveys.net
Dollarsurveys.net deposits $1 in your Paypal account weekly for each survey you take. A reminder arrives in your e-mail every day reminding you to try for that day’s survey. So far, I haven’t qualified, and, like ValuedOpinions, you waste time answering questions only to find out you don’t qualify.
In theory, you could earn up to $30/month if you qualify for every survey and take a survey every day. There is no referral program to increase your earnings. No credit card is required, in my experience, which is a benefit.
Bottom line: You have nothing to lose, why not start your morning with a short survey and earn a dollar?
But, for the past several years, I have also earned money taking surveys. This isn’t full time income for me, by any means. I equate the extra cash to the “cashback rewards” I earn by using certain credit cards (and then paying them off that month.)
Like cashback rewards, money I earn from surveys has a knack of showing up in my Paypal account or mailbox right on the day when I could really use that extra $10 - $50 for a treat.
I like surveys because I can do them while I’m drinking my morning coffee, before my brain is in gear to start anything that looks like a writing project.
Could I earn filler income by posting articles on Associated Content and the like? Of course I could. But the way I see it, my writing talents deserve better pay than what those sites offer at this stage in my career. If I’m writing, I want to be paid what I deserve for my writing. I don’t mind making a few dollars a day just for clicking buttons to take a survey, though. I hardly consider it work. I want something different—a diversion from writing—for my filler income. We've all seen the ads to "earn money taking surveys," and it turns out, you really can!
What survey sites do I currently use?
MySurvey.com
This was the first survey site I ever signed up for, and I’ve earned $120 total just for taking easy surveys. I do this while I’m watching T.V., drinking my coffee in the morning, letting story ideas percolate. There are no catches that I’ve found with this site, no money to lay out, nothing to ever purchase. You don’t need to supply a credit card number – ever.
When you earn 1,000 points (surveys range from 10 points to 200 points), you can “cash-out” for a $10 check, donate the money to a charity of your choice or “buy” merchandise from their rewards store. You can also put the money into a raffle to win prizes like flat screen televisions. I always cash out or, if I’m feeling generous, donate the money.
I’ve also received free samples of household goods like paper towels and cat food. The real money from Mysurvey.com comes from referrals, which earn 150 points each, but you have to send an e-mail to get people to sign up.
Bottom line: I definitely recommend this site, as it’s fun and hardly takes any time. Post a comment if you’d like an e-mail from me with a referral link.
Vindale Surveys
I recently signed up for this survey site through a link on Twitter and so far, I love it. In one week, I’ve earned $24, all while drinking my morning coffee and getting geared up for the day. If you’re sitting in front of the computer, anyway, and have a few minutes to spare, why not sign up?
In addition to cash for taking surveys, I have also received:
- all three of my credit reports FREE
- FREE business cards from Vista Print
- $5 in FREE Postage from Stamps.com
What should you be aware of?
In many cases, you need to supply a credit card number and sign up for a free service, which you must cancel before the trail period expires or your card will get charged. In my experience, you need to call an 800 number to cancel, so expect that to take a few minutes out of your day.
I simply jot down on my calendar the date I need to cancel (actually, I mark down a week earlier, to give myself some extra time.) As soon as the survey is “verified” and the money is in my Vindale account, I call and cancel.
Stamps.com put cookies on my computer that Spysweeper caught, so I would make sure all your spyware is up to date.
Like other survey companies, you can also earn money through referrals: $5 per referral.
Bottom line: If you are well-organized and not susceptible to sales pitches, you can earn $100 a month or more with Vindale and it won’t take a lot of time out of your day. Highly recommended! If you like what I have to say, please sign up through my referral link. Fortunately, I’ve kicked my cup-a-day Starbucks habit, but I’m sure I can find a good way to spend five bucks. Two canisters of organic baby cereal, maybe?
Valued Opinions
Like other survey companies, Valued Opinions sends notifications to your mailbox when you have a survey.
After a week of being a member, I just received the first survey I was eligible to participate in today. One of the “qualifying questions” asks if you are employed by a media firm or a member of the media, and disqualifies you if you are. I have to learn to lie on these surveys!
I just spent about 30 minutes taking a survey about frozen foods and earned $3. Not fantastic, but if I had nothing better to do, I wouldn’t mind. Again, if you’re vegging out in front of the television with no pressing chores, it’s some money. But realistic, $6/hour is nothing to write home about, even in the realm of doing surveys online.
Also, I wasted quite a bit of time answering survey questions only to find out, 5 questions in, that I didn’t qualify. If you don’t qualify for a survey at MySurvey.com, you still earn 10 points for trying.
When your account at ValuedOpinions reaches $20, you can redeem the money for a gift certificate to a popular online retailer, including Amazon.com. So you’re not earning hard cash, either.
Still, what writer can’t use an extra $20 to spend at Amazon?
I’ve been a member for one week, and have only earned $3 so far. There is no referral program that I can find for signing friends up at Valued Opinions.
Bottom line: If you have absolutely nothing better to do, $6 an hour to spend on books, magazines and other fun stuff isn’t bad. Or if you just enjoy taking surveys and sharing your opinion and feedback with product manufacturers, sign up. What have you got to lose? No credit card required.
Dollarsurveys.net
Dollarsurveys.net deposits $1 in your Paypal account weekly for each survey you take. A reminder arrives in your e-mail every day reminding you to try for that day’s survey. So far, I haven’t qualified, and, like ValuedOpinions, you waste time answering questions only to find out you don’t qualify.
In theory, you could earn up to $30/month if you qualify for every survey and take a survey every day. There is no referral program to increase your earnings. No credit card is required, in my experience, which is a benefit.
Bottom line: You have nothing to lose, why not start your morning with a short survey and earn a dollar?
My Resume
Dawn Allcot
DawnAllcot@gmail.com / www.allcotmedia. com
631.278.4217 (cell)
FREELANCE WRITER / EDITOR / PUBLIC RELATIONS / GHOSTWRITER
* My ability to generate ideas, create clean copy on tight deadlines and juggle multiple tasks has earned me thousands of writing credits and regular assignments. Since 2001, editors have counted on me to turn in complex assignments under strict deadlines.
* My background in magazine editing since 1997 means I know what editors want. I can take the reins of a project and guide it to completion, or write snappy copy to a client’s specifications.
* From press releases to web copy to feature articles, I approach every project with professionalism and enthusiasm.
NICHE SPECIALTIES:
Preferred topics include: audiovisual and lighting technology, particularly in the house of worship market; pregnancy & parenting; work-at-home business management; freelance writing; health/ fitness/beauty; Feng Shui; paintball; music & arts education.
ALLCOT MEDIA: Freelance writing, editing, proofreading, marketing
December 2001 – Present (full-time)
CURRENT / RECENT CLIENTS
* Regular contributor to print publications, including: Church Production, Worship Facilities Magazine, Sound & Communications, Club Business International;
* Blogger/writer for BabiesOnline.com;
* Columnist for Shooting Hot Magazine
* Published in Cup of Comfort for Sisters and Sacred Water, personal essay anthologies;
* Proofreader for LI Performance Poets Association Literary Review;
* Contributor to The Complete Guide to Paintball, fourth edition;
* Media Coordinator for Special Ops Paintball Elite Weekend and SPPL tournament series;
* Other clients include: iPrayerWorks, Aadvert International, the FitAdvocate, Ken Lauher, Makeup.com, BabiesOnline.com, AbsoluteWrite.com, and FamilyResource.com.
SOFTWARE
* Working knowledge of QuarkXpress, InDesign, Photoshop, Wordpress, Blogger
WEB 2.0
* Write and maintain writer’s blog at www.allcotmedia.com
* Well-versed in social media w/ strong existing social network
* Experience in writing keyword articles for SEO optimization
OFFICE EDITORIAL EXPERIENCE
Global Media (May 2004 – March 2007)
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 / 631.580.7772
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (May 2004 – March 2007)
Paintball Sports Magazine
* Re-designed monthly newsstand publication, in collaboration with art department;
* Improved editorial content, resulting in increased circulation and advertising sales income;
* Consistently met strict editorial/photography budget while maintaining the highest standards of creative quality;
* Created new features and departments designed to target our main demographic (males, ages 15 – 45) and showcase the “paintball lifestyle;”
* Generated article ideas, wrote multiple departments and features, managed freelance staff;
* Promoted magazine at dozens of national events.
Testa Communications (August 1997 – October 2002)
Port Washington, NY / 516.767.2500
Held several titles at multi-property, multimedia publishing firm. Details below.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (May 2000 – October 2002)
Band & Orchestra Product News
* Consistently completed magazine on time and under budget;
* Developed positive relationships with industry members, advertisers and readership through trade show presence and consistent phone contact.
* Oversaw production of all editorial content for magazine and companion website;
* Managed a staff of freelancers and two assistant editors;
EXECUTIVE EDITOR (April 2000 – July 2000)
Club Systems International
* Worked with publisher to launch, from concept and design to editorial content, monthly trade magazine focused on the sound, lighting and video systems in nightclubs;
* Edited first two issues of magazine while simultaneously editing B&O Product News;
* Promoted magazine at trade shows;
* Developed a freelance staff and fostered industry relationships.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR (July 1999 – May 2000)
Band & Orchestra Product News
* Introduced the “Making More Music Makers” scholarship program, coordinated the contest, secured sponsors and judged hundreds of entries;
* Worked closely with editor to generate story ideas, write features, report news, and establish an industry presence.
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT (August 1997 – July 1999)
Sound & Communications, DJ Times, Music & Sound Retailer, B&O Product News
* Spearheaded communication and idea trade between staff;
* Promoted to Associate Editor, B&O Product News, Staff Writer, Music & Sound Retailer and Managing Editor, Sound & Communications Blue Book, all within six months.
* Wrote news, product sections, and feature stories;
* Acted as Administrative Assistant to Editorial Director.
EDUCATION
Long Island University, Southampton
English/Writing major, staff writer for campus newspaper
DawnAllcot@gmail.com / www.allcotmedia. com
631.278.4217 (cell)
FREELANCE WRITER / EDITOR / PUBLIC RELATIONS / GHOSTWRITER
* My ability to generate ideas, create clean copy on tight deadlines and juggle multiple tasks has earned me thousands of writing credits and regular assignments. Since 2001, editors have counted on me to turn in complex assignments under strict deadlines.
* My background in magazine editing since 1997 means I know what editors want. I can take the reins of a project and guide it to completion, or write snappy copy to a client’s specifications.
* From press releases to web copy to feature articles, I approach every project with professionalism and enthusiasm.
NICHE SPECIALTIES:
Preferred topics include: audiovisual and lighting technology, particularly in the house of worship market; pregnancy & parenting; work-at-home business management; freelance writing; health/ fitness/beauty; Feng Shui; paintball; music & arts education.
ALLCOT MEDIA: Freelance writing, editing, proofreading, marketing
December 2001 – Present (full-time)
CURRENT / RECENT CLIENTS
* Regular contributor to print publications, including: Church Production, Worship Facilities Magazine, Sound & Communications, Club Business International;
* Blogger/writer for BabiesOnline.com;
* Columnist for Shooting Hot Magazine
* Published in Cup of Comfort for Sisters and Sacred Water, personal essay anthologies;
* Proofreader for LI Performance Poets Association Literary Review;
* Contributor to The Complete Guide to Paintball, fourth edition;
* Media Coordinator for Special Ops Paintball Elite Weekend and SPPL tournament series;
* Other clients include: iPrayerWorks, Aadvert International, the FitAdvocate, Ken Lauher, Makeup.com, BabiesOnline.com, AbsoluteWrite.com, and FamilyResource.com.
SOFTWARE
* Working knowledge of QuarkXpress, InDesign, Photoshop, Wordpress, Blogger
WEB 2.0
* Write and maintain writer’s blog at www.allcotmedia.com
* Well-versed in social media w/ strong existing social network
* Experience in writing keyword articles for SEO optimization
OFFICE EDITORIAL EXPERIENCE
Global Media (May 2004 – March 2007)
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 / 631.580.7772
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (May 2004 – March 2007)
Paintball Sports Magazine
* Re-designed monthly newsstand publication, in collaboration with art department;
* Improved editorial content, resulting in increased circulation and advertising sales income;
* Consistently met strict editorial/photography budget while maintaining the highest standards of creative quality;
* Created new features and departments designed to target our main demographic (males, ages 15 – 45) and showcase the “paintball lifestyle;”
* Generated article ideas, wrote multiple departments and features, managed freelance staff;
* Promoted magazine at dozens of national events.
Testa Communications (August 1997 – October 2002)
Port Washington, NY / 516.767.2500
Held several titles at multi-property, multimedia publishing firm. Details below.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF (May 2000 – October 2002)
Band & Orchestra Product News
* Consistently completed magazine on time and under budget;
* Developed positive relationships with industry members, advertisers and readership through trade show presence and consistent phone contact.
* Oversaw production of all editorial content for magazine and companion website;
* Managed a staff of freelancers and two assistant editors;
EXECUTIVE EDITOR (April 2000 – July 2000)
Club Systems International
* Worked with publisher to launch, from concept and design to editorial content, monthly trade magazine focused on the sound, lighting and video systems in nightclubs;
* Edited first two issues of magazine while simultaneously editing B&O Product News;
* Promoted magazine at trade shows;
* Developed a freelance staff and fostered industry relationships.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR (July 1999 – May 2000)
Band & Orchestra Product News
* Introduced the “Making More Music Makers” scholarship program, coordinated the contest, secured sponsors and judged hundreds of entries;
* Worked closely with editor to generate story ideas, write features, report news, and establish an industry presence.
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT (August 1997 – July 1999)
Sound & Communications, DJ Times, Music & Sound Retailer, B&O Product News
* Spearheaded communication and idea trade between staff;
* Promoted to Associate Editor, B&O Product News, Staff Writer, Music & Sound Retailer and Managing Editor, Sound & Communications Blue Book, all within six months.
* Wrote news, product sections, and feature stories;
* Acted as Administrative Assistant to Editorial Director.
EDUCATION
Long Island University, Southampton
English/Writing major, staff writer for campus newspaper
Finding Expert Sources to Enhance Your Articles
Many writers today find everything they need on the Internet to put together an article. But expert sources add validity to your points and professionalism to your story. If I find myself stuck on beginning an article, it’s often because I don’t know enough about the topic, or I don’t have enough information in front of me to find that perfect lead or –if it’s a longer article -- to outline the story from beginning to end.
How do professional freelance writers network with expert sources? Several ways.
Find experts.
Social networking makes it easier than ever before to find expert sources. Peter Shankman’s popular “HARO” network connects reporters to PR people who can connect you with experts or even experts themselves. Tweeting a query on Twitter will also connect you with people, or try Facebook. Perhaps a friend of a friend is an expert in the area you need.
You can find experts on message boards and forums, but people may be turned off if you just sign in announcing that you’re a writer and asking questions. Spend some time lurking on the forum, learn the rules of the land, and connect with the regulars. How long does this take? There’s no rule. You should know when you feel comfortable enough to start approaching members with questions for your article. You might do this through private messaging or, if you feel comfortable enough, start a thread asking for comments.
Finally, you can often find experts by doing a Google search on your topic and looking over the more popular blogs. Contact experts who write blogs via e-mail if you can’t find a phone number. Again, it helps to become an active member of their community, by reading and commenting on their blog, but chances are good they will want the positive publicity a reporter can offer, so they might be more than happy to speak with you even if you are a new reader.
Collect experts.
Keep a file in your computer, listing the names of different expert sources. As this file grows, you may want to break it up into several categories—public officials, technical directors, teachers, historians, or whatever categories best suit your needs.
List the person’s name, when you first spoke to them, and regarding what, their area of expertise, and any personal details that will help jog your memory so you can connect with them on a personal level. You may want to add a JPG to their file, too, because some editors request headshots of interview subjects.
Ping your sources.
As your writing experience grows, so will your file. Keep in touch with your expert sources on a regular basis, asking them what’s new in their industry. Soon, you’ll be the first one to hear about ground breaking news. “Pings” don’t take long. Simple notes on Twitter, Facebook or an e-mail once a month works. Some people prefer phone calls. Make a note in their file of each expert’s preferred contact method so you don’t intrude. You can also include special notes about the best times to reach them, like “always reachable by cell,” or “works from home Mondays and Wednesdays.”
Of course, these are just the basics. If you trust in synchronicity and the law of attraction, experts will come your way when you need them. These tips help that process along. If you would like to learn more about how I've been using the Law of Attraction to help in my writing career, please check out The Secret Abundance Files.
Writers: What’s the oddest way you ever found an expert source for an article?
How do professional freelance writers network with expert sources? Several ways.
Find experts.
Social networking makes it easier than ever before to find expert sources. Peter Shankman’s popular “HARO” network connects reporters to PR people who can connect you with experts or even experts themselves. Tweeting a query on Twitter will also connect you with people, or try Facebook. Perhaps a friend of a friend is an expert in the area you need.
You can find experts on message boards and forums, but people may be turned off if you just sign in announcing that you’re a writer and asking questions. Spend some time lurking on the forum, learn the rules of the land, and connect with the regulars. How long does this take? There’s no rule. You should know when you feel comfortable enough to start approaching members with questions for your article. You might do this through private messaging or, if you feel comfortable enough, start a thread asking for comments.
Finally, you can often find experts by doing a Google search on your topic and looking over the more popular blogs. Contact experts who write blogs via e-mail if you can’t find a phone number. Again, it helps to become an active member of their community, by reading and commenting on their blog, but chances are good they will want the positive publicity a reporter can offer, so they might be more than happy to speak with you even if you are a new reader.
Collect experts.
Keep a file in your computer, listing the names of different expert sources. As this file grows, you may want to break it up into several categories—public officials, technical directors, teachers, historians, or whatever categories best suit your needs.
List the person’s name, when you first spoke to them, and regarding what, their area of expertise, and any personal details that will help jog your memory so you can connect with them on a personal level. You may want to add a JPG to their file, too, because some editors request headshots of interview subjects.
Ping your sources.
As your writing experience grows, so will your file. Keep in touch with your expert sources on a regular basis, asking them what’s new in their industry. Soon, you’ll be the first one to hear about ground breaking news. “Pings” don’t take long. Simple notes on Twitter, Facebook or an e-mail once a month works. Some people prefer phone calls. Make a note in their file of each expert’s preferred contact method so you don’t intrude. You can also include special notes about the best times to reach them, like “always reachable by cell,” or “works from home Mondays and Wednesdays.”
Of course, these are just the basics. If you trust in synchronicity and the law of attraction, experts will come your way when you need them. These tips help that process along. If you would like to learn more about how I've been using the Law of Attraction to help in my writing career, please check out The Secret Abundance Files.
Writers: What’s the oddest way you ever found an expert source for an article?
Paintball Sports Launches New Web Site
Wanted to share this press release. I'm pretty psyched, as I have what you might call a "history" (a good one!) with this magazine.
I have a habit of continuing to work for my former employers as a freelancer, and this continues. My business & marketing column for paintballers launches in Paintball Sports Magazine's March issue, and I will also be blogging about scenario paintball and woodsball for the Web site.
Paintball Sports Magazine Launches Brand New Website
Deer Park, NY (PSM) March 18, 2009: Paintball’s fastest growing magazine launched a brand new website - PaintballSportsMag.com. The cutting-edge articles and full-color photos that capture the true essence of the sport of paintball at every level are not only available in print, but at Paintball Sports Magazine’s website.
We’ll also bring you weekly blogs from celebrity athletes like Greg Hastings, Mike Paxson, Nicky Cuba, Todd Martinez and Chris Lasoya, along with a Scenario/ Woodsball blog from Dawn & T.J. Allcot, “Montydoom”, “Blue & Deuce,” and other well-known players.
Some of the features within this newly designed website will be:
· PSM’s “On the ‘Net” virtual online magazine,
· Streaming video with a video archive,
· Web exclusive interviews and stories,
· Up-to-date industry news and press releases,
· Instant updates and images from major industry events submitted by our on-scene staff of reporters,
· Product reviews,
· New product announcements and more!
Paintball Sports Magazine – We strive to provide our readers with in-depth coverage of the hottest players, products, and events, while increasing the general public’s awareness of the world of paintball.
www.PaintballSportsMag.com
CONTACT:
Bea Youngs
Editor-in-Chief
Paintball Sports Magazine
513 Commack Road
Deer Park, NY 11729
Editor@PaintballSportsMag.com
www.PaintballSportsMag.com
I have a habit of continuing to work for my former employers as a freelancer, and this continues. My business & marketing column for paintballers launches in Paintball Sports Magazine's March issue, and I will also be blogging about scenario paintball and woodsball for the Web site.
Paintball Sports Magazine Launches Brand New Website
Deer Park, NY (PSM) March 18, 2009: Paintball’s fastest growing magazine launched a brand new website - PaintballSportsMag.com. The cutting-edge articles and full-color photos that capture the true essence of the sport of paintball at every level are not only available in print, but at Paintball Sports Magazine’s website.
We’ll also bring you weekly blogs from celebrity athletes like Greg Hastings, Mike Paxson, Nicky Cuba, Todd Martinez and Chris Lasoya, along with a Scenario/ Woodsball blog from Dawn & T.J. Allcot, “Montydoom”, “Blue & Deuce,” and other well-known players.
Some of the features within this newly designed website will be:
· PSM’s “On the ‘Net” virtual online magazine,
· Streaming video with a video archive,
· Web exclusive interviews and stories,
· Up-to-date industry news and press releases,
· Instant updates and images from major industry events submitted by our on-scene staff of reporters,
· Product reviews,
· New product announcements and more!
Paintball Sports Magazine – We strive to provide our readers with in-depth coverage of the hottest players, products, and events, while increasing the general public’s awareness of the world of paintball.
www.PaintballSportsMag.com
CONTACT:
Bea Youngs
Editor-in-Chief
Paintball Sports Magazine
513 Commack Road
Deer Park, NY 11729
Editor@PaintballSportsMag.com
www.PaintballSportsMag.com
Life Coaching: Scam or Road to Success?
Thanks to the generosity of fellow freelance writer Julie Fletcher, I received a free coaching session from Stacey Mayo. Since I wrote about coaching for DASH magazine several years ago, I had always wanted to have a session. But I wasn't sure what to expect.
Speaking with Stacey for 40 minutes was like having a brainstorming session with a non-judgemental, understanding, creative and highly intelligent friends. She was completely transparent, and I felt like she had no other motives other than the desire to help me succeed.
Why did I feel like I needed a life coach? Honestly, I don't. I have a wonderful husband, a beautiful daughter, the opportunity to work from home while raising my daughter, and I'm doing a job I love. I am earning an honest living in one of the most expensive regions of the country. But I wanted to take my business to the next level, while still managing the new demands of parenthood.
One of the first things Stacey mentioned (ah, here it is AGAIN) was the wisdom of bringing in someone to help me with the baby, even just a mother's helper for a few hours a day. It is increasingly difficult to run a business during naptime, and I try to resist the urge to plop Ashley in front of Baby Einstein DVDs. While breastfeeding, though, it doesn't make sense. I might wind up paying someone to take care of Ashley, but if it's her mealtime, I'll still be sitting there feeding her. (Please don't ask me about pumping.) Nonetheless, I have the luxury to choose.
Summer will be easier, with TJ working less hours. So after Ashley is weaned in the fall, I will bring in a mother's helper. Issue one, crossed off my concern list.
I spoke with Stacey about earning "passive income," through affiliate programs and the like. As I described my plan to earn passive income, she showed me the truth. "Now, none of that is very passive at all, is it?" I laughed at the truth of her statement.
We considered the possibility of my selling articles PLR (Private Label Rights). Again, not very passive to get it launched.
Then Stacey asked me about my various writing niches, and I rattled off my lengthy list. "Wow," she said.
"Well, I believe in diversification."
"But what's your passion?" she asked.
I thought for a second. "The writing." I explained where the title for this blog came from, and how my passion is in the craft and art of the writing, regardless of the topic.
That's when she reminded me of an idea I'd had about a year ago: to launch a course for beginning writers, to share my passion with them and hopefully help them to achieve a full-time income.
In between my various assignments for this month from multiple magazines and Web sites, I'm putting together the marketing material for my e-course, which I hope to launch come May.
Meanwhile, I'm still looking for other ways to achieve multiple streams of income on the Web. I found a site where I can get paid (about a dollar a minute!) for taking surveys. Check it out here: http://tryvindale.com/VJHjyXNP2
I'll also continue to add affiliate buttons if I feel they fit this blog and would help serve my readers. But I won't lose site of my passion: writing "anything that pays."
Thank you, Stacey for a wonderful coaching session. (Psstt... If you would like to learn more about Stacey's coaching, click here.)
Speaking with Stacey for 40 minutes was like having a brainstorming session with a non-judgemental, understanding, creative and highly intelligent friends. She was completely transparent, and I felt like she had no other motives other than the desire to help me succeed.
Why did I feel like I needed a life coach? Honestly, I don't. I have a wonderful husband, a beautiful daughter, the opportunity to work from home while raising my daughter, and I'm doing a job I love. I am earning an honest living in one of the most expensive regions of the country. But I wanted to take my business to the next level, while still managing the new demands of parenthood.
One of the first things Stacey mentioned (ah, here it is AGAIN) was the wisdom of bringing in someone to help me with the baby, even just a mother's helper for a few hours a day. It is increasingly difficult to run a business during naptime, and I try to resist the urge to plop Ashley in front of Baby Einstein DVDs. While breastfeeding, though, it doesn't make sense. I might wind up paying someone to take care of Ashley, but if it's her mealtime, I'll still be sitting there feeding her. (Please don't ask me about pumping.) Nonetheless, I have the luxury to choose.
Summer will be easier, with TJ working less hours. So after Ashley is weaned in the fall, I will bring in a mother's helper. Issue one, crossed off my concern list.
I spoke with Stacey about earning "passive income," through affiliate programs and the like. As I described my plan to earn passive income, she showed me the truth. "Now, none of that is very passive at all, is it?" I laughed at the truth of her statement.
We considered the possibility of my selling articles PLR (Private Label Rights). Again, not very passive to get it launched.
Then Stacey asked me about my various writing niches, and I rattled off my lengthy list. "Wow," she said.
"Well, I believe in diversification."
"But what's your passion?" she asked.
I thought for a second. "The writing." I explained where the title for this blog came from, and how my passion is in the craft and art of the writing, regardless of the topic.
That's when she reminded me of an idea I'd had about a year ago: to launch a course for beginning writers, to share my passion with them and hopefully help them to achieve a full-time income.
In between my various assignments for this month from multiple magazines and Web sites, I'm putting together the marketing material for my e-course, which I hope to launch come May.
Meanwhile, I'm still looking for other ways to achieve multiple streams of income on the Web. I found a site where I can get paid (about a dollar a minute!) for taking surveys. Check it out here: http://tryvindale.com/VJHjyXNP2
I'll also continue to add affiliate buttons if I feel they fit this blog and would help serve my readers. But I won't lose site of my passion: writing "anything that pays."
Thank you, Stacey for a wonderful coaching session. (Psstt... If you would like to learn more about Stacey's coaching, click here.)
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