One Goal At a Time

One big thing I learned last year is that to go big, you have to start small. If you are like me, you probably have 50 goals, but it is impossible to work on all of these simultaneously. There are simply not enough hours in the day. So, my 2012 goal is to take one goal at a time and get it started and going while working on my paying work. Of course, I plan to get each of these goals to become paying too, but they are going to need nurturing to get there as they are blogs that will eventually become websites, e-books, novels and art projects.

Since I am working on beefing up my celebrity and entertainment writing, I figure getting my celebrity and entertainment blog off the ground will be my first goal. I will work this throughout January. Then, I will work my Cleveland news blog and NBA blog (both play into each other) throughout February. From there, I will work on building a new blog up each month as I maintain previously built blogs, move them onto domains, keep up with paying work and of course, keep my grades up in school. I will post links to the blogs here as I get them built up.

So, what are your goals for 2012 and how do you plan to tackle them?

Great Show Last Night

Last night fellow freelancer Amy Browne and I did our thing and hosted our radio show, The Freelance Connection, on Blog Talk Radio. We discussed a person who we have received several reports on that is not paying her clients. This is the very first thing we discussed at the very beginning of the show. Check it out and if you have had any experience with this client, feel free to drop a line in the comments and/or check out the ongoing thread about her over and Absolute Write and share your experience to help your fellow writers out.

Amy talked about Bestcovery, a great writing site that many freelancers are not familiar with and shared some info on the work they have available now.

I talked about the process of being hired on with LoveToKnow and the wonderful women I have had the pleasure to communicate with via email and phone so far during the process.

We also talked a bit about the new Writer's Evaluation Program taking place at Demand Media Studios. It ain't pretty, but it's honest folks. I will share some more thoughts on this program in a separate post this week because I am gathering information from folks who I know who were put into it.

Then, we chit-chatted about some other random writer stuff. Also, writers, editors and everyone else who spends a lot of time sitting for work, or just sitting, get up and move around. Do not sit for more than two hours at a time as it can have significant and dangerous health consequences. We talked about this at the end of the show. Amy herself was the victim of multiple heart attacks and her being a writer forced to sit a lot was a major cause of this. She, and I, want to encourage all of our fellow freelancers to get up and move. You just need to take 5 minutes every 2 hours and walk through your house, jump up and down, stretch, or anything that involves some movement. Please, your body and those who love you will thank you.

If you missed the show, you can click the link above and catch a recording of it at your convenience. The next show will be the second Friday in September at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time (I'll post a reminder closer to that time). We are also always excited to have our fellow freelancers as guests on the show, so if you are a freelancer and would like to chat with us in September, send me an email at kitchen.rose@yahoo.com and put "The Freelance Connection Guest" in the subject line and we will talk about getting you on the show.

Until next time. Write on!

Freelance Writng Challenge End of Week One

So, week one is over and let me tell you it was a long week. Like I said in my last post, I now remember how hard it is being a new freelance writer. As you know my weekly goal for last week and the next four weeks is $875 per week. I end last week with....drum roll please....$873. Yeah, somehow I miscalculated by $2.00. Did I mention that math was not my thing? I ended up working a full day on Saturday and some hours yesterday to hit that goal due to wind-related power outages and something else I had to take care of that cropped up. For the challenge last week, I used the following sites: Yahoo Contributor Network, Demand Studios, BrightHub and Skyword (Daily Glow and Gather).

Okay, so let's talk about this week. I am going to focus on the sites I used last week of course, but I also decided to try and give Examiner another go. Not sure why yet, but I have had a gut feeling for a few months now that I should revive my Examiner page and post at least two to three times a week. Call it women's intuition I guess.

I am also going to add some WriterAccess articles to the mix.

The month at a glance. I will continue to work the sites I discussed above. I will also be applying to new sites and private clients. As promised, any private client income will not be included in the $875 per week total. I will be doing the queries and sharing the experience and results with you only as a way to help you learn to do it. I will also share my experience and results with other sites I choose to apply to.

I also have several new blogs, and a few old, but neglected ones, that will take off this month thanks to Marie Anne St. Jean's new blogging challenge for May. I highly recommend checking that out if you did the A to Z Challenge and just are not ready to stop with the blogging challenges yet.

So all in all, week one was a success, minus $2.00 due to my severely lacking math skills. I am ready to take on May head on and am looking forward to all of you and your individual challenges and goals too. Please comment and share your goals and progress with all of us here on the blog. As always, if you have any questions, drop a comment and I will do my best to answer it.

So I leave you with a beautiful tropical beach. I cannot think of a better way to start a new month and a new week!

Image Credits: Image Source

$3,500 a Month Challenge

I always see writers talking about how they just are not making money. How they keep getting distracted or they had a bad day so they didn't write, etc, etc, etc, the list goes on. Let me pose a question. If you were working a brick and mortar, would you call off of work every time you had a bad day? No, you wouldn't. You would be fired if you did. You absolutely have to take the same approach with freelance writing or else you will not make any money. I am not saying this to be harsh and trust me, I have the opposite problem: I never take days off. Never taking a day off isn't exactly healthy either, but that is an issue I will tackle at a later date. My point is, freelance writing is a real job and has to be treated like a real job. We will discuss this more throughout the next five weeks as well.

So, I am going to show you how to be a full-time freelancer. No excuses. If you have the sniffles, get the Kleenex. If you are having a bad day, take that energy and turn it into productivity. If you want to be a full-time freelancer you have to treat it like a full-time job. Taking off willy nilly is not helping you at all.

Why $3,500 you ask? Well, it is $875 a week. $875 is an amount of money that is achievable and it is an amount that the majority of people could live off of. Now, for the next 5 weeks (rest of April and all of May) I am only going to write online content. No hospital work, no pharma work, no fancy stuff. I am going to make sure this is fair. Online content only. To make it even more fair and more in tune to really new writers, I will concentrate my efforts on content mills and farms. I will not even include my private client work in the $3,500 total. Basically, I will be farming it to show you that a no excuses, hard-working writer can make a living do this.

Now, for the last week of April, we will just look at making $875 of course. Then, for the month of May, we will focus on making the full $3,500. This is based on the online content terms. No medical trials, pharma, etc. I will take PayPal screenshots and all that so you will see where the money is coming from.

I am also a full-time student so I will talk about the challenges this presents. I will provide tips to shorten research and writing time, tons of links to cool resources, helpful tips and advice for you, info on the clients I am writing for during the challenge, etc. By the end of May, you should be able to mimic exactly what I did and succeed at it.

Main sites I will be concentrating on for this challenge include: Yahoo and YCN, Demand Studios (both Livestrong and Ehow to keep it fair because not everyone has Livestrong permissions), BrightHub, Daily Glow, Gather, Examiner (yes, I decided to give it another go), TextBroker, Content Current, Writer Access and I believe that is it. I will also be applying for new gigs throughout this time and will be reporting to you on this because all freelance writers should also be always applying for new gigs.

I will be reporting in several days a week letting you all know about my income, energy levels, who I have been writing for, gigs I've applied for, tips and advice, etc, etc, etc. You will basically be living vicariously through me for the next 5 weeks. I highly suggest you either follow my blog or bookmark it so you can find it easily.

Shortly, I will be providing you with my writing arsenal. Some sites I use religiously to ensure I am on point and on my game that provide tips and points that are critical for online writers.

I hope this helps some folks. I know I preach often about how you CAN be successful as a freelancer. Well, now I want to show you how it is done. Also, if you have questions or comments, drop a comment. I am happy to address them.

Photo Credits: Jorg Greuel

Announcement

So many new things will be going on on the blog.  First, I will be rolling out a new feature today called "Freelance Writing Motivation and Inspiration".  This feature will be contributed by fellow writers, new and old.  I will ask a question and current freelance writers will provide their insight on all things freelance writing.  I got some fantastic insight this week so be looking for this post very shortly.

More freelance writing gigs.  I have been trying really hard to find the time to research and post about reputable freelance writing gigs.  I will finally have some time this week to do so.  So keep an eye out for some information on writing gigs.

Print gigs.  Here on the blog I will be posting information on some print gigs.  I will post editorial calenders, links, and guidelines for a variety of print gigs.  I will start posting a few here and there, but this feature will officially roll out in January 2010.

Is there something you would like to see on the blog?  Head over to the Ning and tell me about it.

Word of the Day for September 28, 2009

Today's word is sinuous.

Sinuous:
Definition #1:Characterized by many curves or turns, winding.
Definition #2: Characterized by graceful curving movements.
Definition #3: Not direct; devious.

How to Balance Time for Writing, Networking and More at AC

CLICK HERE TO READ ARTICLE

The article I linked to above provides some of the best insight and advice I have ever read about balancing your time for writing, networking and everything else involved with being a freelance writer. This advice can also be applied to just about any writing site you write for. It can also be applied to private clients. If you are a freelance writer, new or old, read this.

Lyn Lomasi discusses the importance of determining your best writing time and how important it is to stick to it. She also discusses how beneficial carrying around a notebook can be. I carry a notebook everywhere I go. It doesn't matter if I am running to the store for cat food or going to a doctors appointment, I carry my notebook. Your next article could come from anything such as the price of milk, a pamphlet you read in your doctors waiting room or that car accident you just witnessed. She also discusses taking advantage of your free time to write. If you are bored, write. The more you write the better your articles will be and the more you will learn about writing and yourself.

She also discusses research. So many writers see research as daunting. Personally, I love researching, but I am a nerd. I will discuss my research techniques in another post, but Lyn offers excellent advice in this article.

Lyn also talks about reading and commenting. I also avidly read and comment on articles on AC and most of the other sites I write for. I get an average of 100+ articles everyday to read and comment on. This is however impossible with my writing obligations so I pick and choose and try to read at least 2-5 articles from each person I subscribe to per week. Read Lyn's article that is linked above for some fantastic advice on how to balance reading and commenting. Her methods are much better than mine.

Forum participation. This is pretty important and can greatly benefit you. She talks about this in the above-linked article as well.

She also discusses how to balance your time helping fellow AC'ers. I personally feel that helping others is very important and it actually benefits you as well. Keep in mind that you were new once and most likely had your questions answered by another Contributor so why not take a few minutes a day to give back and share your knowledge with new Contributors?

This article also discusses using the AC tools and promotion. I suggest you take a few minutes and read this article. I have been freelance writing for a while and I still learned several new things from this article. It provides a wealth of information and is perfect for new writers and old writers alike.

To read more from Lyn Lomasi check out her Associated Content Contributor page HERE

Here are some other fantastic articles written by Lyn Lomasi to help you with your freelance writing career:

Tips on Writing for AC and the Web Part 1: SEO Tips: CLICK HERE TO READ

Tips on Writing for AC and the Web Part 2: CLICK HERE TO READ

Why Am I Working so Hard with Little to No Results?: CLICK HERE TO READ

This next article by Lyn Lomasi is a must read for anyone who participates in forums, on social networking sites and well anywhere where you interact with other humans.

How to Be an Objective Reader in Social Writing Circles: CLICK HERE TO READ

Happy Writing!

Avoid These Five Associated Content Writing Mistakes

This article was written by on of my fellow AC Contributors, Jolie du Pre. I thought this article would be useful for new writers regardless of whether or not they write for Associated Content. Avoid These Five Associated Content Writing Mistakes discusses many common mistakes that I hear many newbies and even some veterans discussing in the AC forums. I also discuss many of these mistakes with new Associated Content Contributors through PM's. This article is excellent and I think many aspiring freelance writers and current freelance writers will benefit from it.

CLICK HERE TO READ THIS ARTICLE

Associated Content

What is Associated Content?
Associated Content is a writing site that is perfect for beginning writers. Associated Content was the spring board to my freelance writing career. Though there are guidelines, this site allows you to learn while being able to make some money. This is the perfect site for those seeking to make money writing while still learning SEO and other web-writing techniques.

The Associated Content Concept

Associated Content's concept is simple. "Everyone has a voice". You can sign up and earn as you learn the ropes of the web-writing world. It is important to remember, however, that this site is not a blog site nor is it Facebook or Myspace. Though you do not need to be a professional writer to write for AC, to be successful you need to have the drive to learn and basic writing abilities. As you can see the concept is quite simple: if you have basic writing abilities and the desire to learn web-writing while earning some money, then Associated Content may be a good fit for you.

The Associated Content Community
Another major plus to Associated Content is its community. Without the AC community I doubt I would know all I do about web-writing and writing in general. The forums host a variety of amazing people that are always willing to help and help to keep your spirits up. I must tell you that if it wasn't for the AC community I may not have developed my freelance writing career. The folks in the community kept me going and taught me just about everything I know. The AC forums offer a wealth of information about all things freelance writing and they also help to keep you motivated.

What Works, What Doesn't on Associated Content
On AC several things work and several things don't. So, what doesn't work? For example, simply stuffing an article with keywords will pretty much get you no where except banned from the site. Not appreciating the advice you ask for will prevent you from learning what you need to know about web-writing. Not following AC's simple guidelines will get you banned. Not trying to learn to write for the web will leave you making very little money. Also, writing short stories and poetry, while many are excellent on AC, often do not make you much money and they do not qualify for upfront payment.

What works? First and foremost, thoroughly read the FAQ's, TOS, submission guidelines and photo guidelines before you start publishing. Just about everything you need to know is there. If you need further information or help stop by the forums, introduce yourself and ask any questions you may have. Next, write what you know. If you are in the healthcare field and enjoy healthcare, write about it. If you love gardening or crafts, write about them. If you are a parent and have some unique insight that you would like to share with other parents, write about it. Write about your passions, interests, hobbies, life experiences etc. and you will find success at Associated Content. Learn as much as you can and incorporate it. When citing sources make sure that they are credible sources. For example, if you are writing an article on one of the types of hepatitis do not cite Wikipedia it's just not a credible source. Instead cite the CDC or another similar health organization. In fact, ignore Wikipedia completely when doing research or fact-checking your AC articles. Use proper web-writing techniques, use good grammar, spell-check, proofread and follow all of AC's guidelines and you will find success at Associated Content.


Tips for Associated Content Success
Basically everything I said above in the "What Works" area will help you find success at AC. Being successful at AC all depends on how successful you want to be. The more you strive to learn the more you will know. Write what you know, write about what you love, follow all AC guidelines, use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation, practice sold web-writing techniques, use credible sources and be active in the AC community. Most of all, do not give up. You will not make hundreds of dollars over night. Keep at it and your efforts will surely pay off.

Basic Associated Content Rules and Guidelines
Like all writing sites, AC has some guidelines. First and foremost, all articles must be at least 400 words. The exceptions are poetry, prose and assignments that say otherwise. In order to make money you must be a US citizen or resident and be at least 18 years of age. All writing must be your own; you cannot copy anyone else's writing ever. If you are caught you will be banned. You must follow the submission guidelines, photo guidelines and TOS. This may sound like a lot, but it really isn't.

Who Writes for Associated Content?
All types of people write for AC. Doctors, lawyers, other professionals, stay-at-home moms, stay-at-home dads, college students, blue collar workers, those who are retired and everyone in between.

How Can I Get Started on Associated Content?
To get started on AC all you need to do is sign up, complete the simple verification process, read the FAQ's/submission guidelines/TOS/photo guidelines and start submitting articles. When you sign up be sure to stop by the forums and stop by the "Welcome to AC" thread to introduce yourself to the community.

How Much Money Can I Make on Associated Content?
As much as you want. This is very true. The more you work, the more you earn. How much you earn is completely up to you. There are some Contributors making thousands a month and others less than a hundred. Associated Content is completely what you make of it. I try to make at least $500.00 per month between upfront payments and my performance bonus and typically exceed this every month. I could definitely make more if I had more time to dedicate to AC alone. The key is to write well and write often.

At AC you have the choice of making money through a monthly performance bonus, through upfront payments or a combination of both. Upfront payments are only available to US citizens or residents, but anyone can join and make performance bonus money regardless of where you live or what your citizenship status is. Clouts 1-6 make $1.50 per 1,000 page views and clouts 7-10 get a bonus which tops out at $2.00 per 1,000 page views. Now this may seem daunting at first, but once you get rolling you can easily get at least 1,000 page views everyday and it will only increase from there.

When it comes to upfront payments the average seems to be $0.99-$8.00 per article. However, some Contributors do make more. If you are selected to complete Partner or Targeted Assignments you can make up to $25.00 per article.

Let's just say you are a clout 5 making an average of $4.00 per article and 1,000 page views a day. You submit one article a day, five days a week to AC. In an average month of 30 days you will have made $165.00. Not bad for only working maybe 20 hours a month. If you submit more articles, you will make more money. If you are making an average of $4.00 per article and you submit 5 articles a day, 5 days a week that's an extra $400.00 per month in upfront payments alone as long as they are all submitted for upfront payment and accepted. Then you will also have your monthly page view bonus.

In closing, Associated Content is a great site to write for with an amazing community. If you are an aspiring freelance writer, whether you are seeking to write professionally, as a second job or as a money-making hobby, Associated Content is definitely worth your time. I am a writer, community guide, health and wellness category editor and advisory board member for Associated Content. I have been there since December of 2007 and my only regret is that I didn't start writing there sooner. Good luck to you if you choose to start writing for AC.

To visit Associated Content please CLICK HERE

To check out some comprehensive tutorials about Associated Content and web-writing CLICK HERE

To check out Associated Content's FAQ's CLICK HERE

Writer's Resumes

I have been helping a lot of freelance writers lately with creating a writers resume. Many writing sites don't require them, but some do. For example, Demand Studios requires one and this website can be quite lucrative. A writer's resume should focus on your writing experience. Things such as your niches, sites you write for and/or have written for, your education history, technology abilities, private clients and any awards should be included on your writers resume. If I ever send a "cold application" to a private client I always make sure to attach a copy of my writers resume. In your writers resume I also highly suggest providing links to some of your libraries of content. I personally provide links to two libraries of content: a link to my AC page and a link to my BrightHub page.

Your writer's resume should highlight your expertise and accomplishments. Many writer's also elect to add some of their past non-writing work experience. This can be beneficial, especially if you have limited writing experience.

Once you have a writer's resume be sure to update it often. Every time you start with a new private client or website, add it to your writer's resume. A solid and complete writer's resume is priceless for freelance writers. It can mean the difference between getting the client and not getting the client.

If you would like to see my writers resume template please send an email to americanbanana@aol.com. In the subject line please put "Writer's Resume Help" so that I know it isn't spam. I will not open any emails from an email address I am not familiar with so make sure to put "Writer's Resume" in the subject line.

Be sure to check out the Online Writing Opportunities Ning as well. I'm still getting it together, but the more members we get the more we can all learn.


Click here to check out my Online Writing Opportunities Ning

Update

I will be working a lot on this blog in the coming weeks. It will start to really come to life with tons of online writing opportunities and writing resources. Once it gets rolling, this will be the only blog that you will need to read to get your freelance writing career started. This blog will also discuss my experiences with different sites and will provide information about how to better your writing and further your career. I will also discuss the many online writing scams out there that you need to avoid. This blog will be updated frequently so check back often for new content and new online writing opportunities.