Once a writer is established it is easy to give examples of published work and use them to secure writing gigs with new editors or publications; but how does a new or relatively inexperienced writer secure work in the first place?
Whether writers are just starting out, or are experienced in one field of writing and trying to switch to another type of writing, they face the problem of establishing their credibility. How does a writer without a curriculum vitae showing an impressive list of published work, or a large selection of cuttings or clips, convince an editor or client to trust them with a writing job?
It is not as difficult as it sounds.
Choose the Right Freelance Writing Marketplace
It will be hard, but not impossible, for an inexperienced writer to sell an idea to a major magazine. A much easier marketplace in which to compete is a freelance bidding site. Bidding sites such as Elance may attract many thousands of writers who are willing to work for very little money, but they also attract a huge number of clients who are genuinely looking for writers. The trick is to ignore the extremely low-paid work and examine carefully the jobs which offer higher pay and may require specialist knowledge of some sort.
Break into the Book Market
There are many business people who are willing to employ writers to write a book for them. The variety of subjects is enormous, from investment or mortgage advice, to medical or health issues, or spiritual advice. The books are usually being sold through the client’s own website in either “Print On Demand” or E-book form.
Use Your Specialist Knowledge
Seek out jobs for which you are uniquely qualified or have a particular interest, and can bring some sort of specialist knowledge to your writing.
Create an Attractive Profile
Remember to take some time making your profile as professional as possible on the bidding site. Don’t apologize for lack of experience, but instead highlight your talents and abilities. If possible, upload samples of your writing, published or unpublished. Finally, always write your profile in third person.
Have a Website
A website is the essential online calling card for all writers. It’s important that you have your own website.
Put Your Time and Talent Where Your Mouth Is
Be prepared to do what it takes to get a break and some experience.
- Offer to write a sample chapter on spec (at no charge) to demonstrate that you have what it takes to write the book
- Be prepared to lower your price to get the job - having a book on your CV may be worth more in the long run.
Demonstrate your professionalism.
If you are dealing with a client who wants a book ghost-written, and intends to self-publish, remind them that before a book goes to publication it requires to be properly formatted and proof-read. Point out what it would cost for a proof reader, copy editor, or to have a book formatted, and offer a price which includes everything to make their book ready for publication.
Write a Killer Bid
The key to a great bid is not what the writers say about themselves, but what they say about the client and the job in hand.
It goes without saying that no potential client will be impressed with a “cut and paste” bid that could be applied to any job. E.g. “My writing skills are second to none, if you employ me you will be extremely satisfied with my work”.
The key to winning a bid is to make sure that the bid refers specifically to the job that the client wants done.
- Give the reasons that this job appeals particularly to you, and describe the special qualities that you will bring to it.
- Show evidence that you are uniquely qualified for the job, attaching examples of any work you have done in similar style, or field.
- Demonstrate that you have given the job a considerable amount of thought and suggest ways in which you would tackle it. For example, draw up a sample table of contents, showing how you would organize the chapters.
- Offer extras, as suggested above, and offer to be open to discuss the various possibilities with the client.
Remember that striking up a rapport with a potential client is very important. As well as the fact that it could lead to other work, good communication with a client makes the process of doing the job and ironing out any wrinkles much easier.
Read more about winning bids on freelance writing sites, or the basics of becoming a successful freelance writer.
 |
