Applying for Online Writing Gigs
When to Submit Writing Samples to Publishers and When to Pass
Aug 26, 2009
Before a writer can land an opportunity, however, the buyer of the online writing services must ensure the freelance writer is a capable writer. How online publishers go about determining the freelance writer's abilities differ from site to site.
Many writers new to the online writing field are often too anxious and excited to be considered for an actual paying writing gig that they don't stop to think of what they're giving up. A writer's time is all she has and she must use it wisely.
Providing Writing Samples
There are generally two ways in which to provide writing samples:
- A resume of work along with clips or links to pre-written online content.
- A writing 'test' whereby the applicant must write a new article on a topic as chosen by the online publisher.
Both methods listed above are perfectly legitimate ways for publishers to get a good feel for the author's writing ability and style. By reading one or two clips or reviewing a newly written piece on the chosen subject matter an online publisher can determine if the writer is a fit for the publication.
Freelance Writers Beware
Providing a resume and pre-written work samples is straight forward, however writing a new piece should make the writer ask a few questions. Some of the questions are obvious and others, not so obvious.
- Find out the terms of the contract before writing a sample. Writers must know what is expected of them if they land the position. Find out how many articles are expected, word count for each article, payment amount, payment terms and deadlines. Never write samples for an online publication without knowing how much the job is worth.
- Understand the true scope of the sample writing assignment. Inquire about the sample word count, keywords, if any, and the preferred keyword density.
- Who owns the sample? Some publishers retain exclusive rights to all written work, including samples. Freelance writers must understand at the outset whether or not she retains the rights to her work.
- Payment for samples. If a writer is asked to write a 500 word piece on a topic of the publisher's choosing as a sample for 'employment,' then the writer should be paid for her efforts. Time is a freelance writer's greatest asset. She should not waste time writing free articles even if there is the promise of employment.
Perform Online Publisher Due Diligence
It is a writer's responsibility to research an online publication before applying for a position. It's unfortunate, but there are a few unscrupulous publishers who promise steady work at favorable rates. All the writer has to do is submit two samples on a particular topic using certain keywords.
After applying and submitting the work, the publisher either makes excuses as to why they haven't been able to respond to the writer or, the writer never hears from the publisher again. To avoid such scam artists, writers should spend time in the freelance writing community to read up on which sites are legitimate and which are not.
There are plenty of freelance writing opportunities available online, but the writer has to pick and choose her venues carefully.
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