How to Deal with Rejection as a Freelance Writer
Success in Freelance Writing Means Never Giving Up
Nov 28, 2008
It’s difficult for writers not to become disheartened when they apply for jobs and don’t win the contracts. The important thing is to keep rejections in perspective; however, this is not always an easy task, given the solitary nature of a writer’s life.
Self-Doubt and Depression
Even successful novelists, who receive 100 great reviews for a book will focus on one single bad review and take the words to heart. If a writer is submitting proposals for articles, ghostwriting work, non-fiction or fiction book ideas, and receiving more rejections than contracts, it is easy to see how self-doubt and depression can set in.
Seek Support
It’s hard not to become discouraged when apply for writing jobs and not getting them. One of the ways to lift the spirits is to establish contact with other people in the same position. Remembering that you are not alone, that other people have the same experience, can relieve the pressure. Most freelance writing sites such as Suite101, have forums where writers can ask questions or simply participate in discussions with fellow writers. It’s possible to derive great support from the camaraderie to be found within the forums.
It’s Nothing Personal
For every freelance writing job out there, there are hundreds of freelance writers looking for work. The odds are stacked against the individual writer winning the contract, so it’s always important to remember that there is more chance that you won’t get the job. Be philosophical - expect nothing, and you’ll never be disappointed, but you could be pleasantly surprised!
Play the Numbers Game
Don’t wait for the result of one job before applying for the next one. It is always hard to build yourself up to put forward a proposal when you are feeling low or disappointed. The solution is to apply for jobs on a regular basis. Make a routine. Apply for one job every morning, or apply for three or four jobs every Monday morning. No matter how you are feeling, once a routine is established, you’re more likely to stick to it. And the more jobs you apply for, the more chance there is of getting one.
Always Give Yourself the Best Chance
Don’t apply for everything and anything. Take some simple precautions to ensure that you have the best chance of winning the contract:
- Read the advertisement for the job carefully, and be sure to follow the advertisers guidelines precisely
- Only apply for jobs that you are qualified for
- Don’t send out a standard application or proposal. Make sure that every application addresses the individual needs of the advertiser
- Explain how your unique qualities or experience can benefit the advertiser
- If pitching a book idea to a publisher, make sure that you present a package that shows you've done your research
Being a freelance writer means learning to be tough. Often, if you are not chosen for the job, you won’t hear anything at all. If this happens, remember to look on the bright side... at least it saves you from receiving a rejection letter!
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