Reasons Why Freelance Writers are Not Successful
Lack of Commitment and Marketing are Big Pitfalls for a Writer
Oct 23, 2009
Everyone out there who is thinking about becoming a freelance writer or who already is one would love to write tantalizing articles that grab the attention of editors. How can one achieve this? Having the discipline to write every day certainly helps.
Other factors include keeping up with technology trends and knowing how, and where to make connections with other writers. Freelance writing is a career that many people would like to have, but one that few individuals actually make a living on. Here's why a career in freelance writing can end before it begins.
Writers Who Do Not Stick With Writing Long Enough
Some people who have small businesses will give up early when they don't see their efforts producing the magic they expected. Writers are no different. The first few years will be lean. Persistence will pay off but only if a writer is consistently looking for new sources of work and making connections.
Writers Who are Lazy
Laziness will be the kiss of death for any writer. Fiddling the time away on Facebook or MySpace will add up to an untold number of hours that could have been spent doing more important things, like networking and creating passive income.
Writers Who Do Not Understand the Importance of Technology
More companies are looking for writers that are web savvy, simply because those same companies are transferring their marketing budgets, i.e. their dollars, online. The reason why some writers are behind the times when it comes to technology is because it moves so quickly and it takes time to learn about it. That being the case, writers who don't know about SEO and RSS feeds will be struggling a lot harder than those that do.
Writers Who Do Not Find a Niche
To get more clients who want information about specific areas of knowledge, a writer should become an expert in at least one or two fields. If not, what is to set that writer apart from the rest of the pack?
Writers Who Do Not Have a Website
Success as a freelance writer will be elusive if there is no professional presence online to promote the writing and make it attractive to clients. This shows potential clients that the writer is serious about his/her profession and that's what they like to see.
Writers Who Complain Without End
For unsuccessful freelance writers, it's all about the other guy who is getting the bigger clients and better rates of pay. They write every misfortune off as bad luck and pass up every opportunity no matter how small it may seem.
Writers Who Don't Know How to Negotiate
Negotiation is a vital skill for freelance writers. Time is the most important commodity that a writer trades, so he/she must know what rates are needed to make ends meet.
Writers Who Have No Talent
Not all writers need to produce Nobel Prize winning material, but those who can't write in a way that keeps readers interested will struggle to make a living with written communication.
Writers Who are Rude to Editors
This is a big no-no. It's frustrating to get turned down but the editor has the right to modify a piece and ultimately, has a better idea of what people like to read. Making threats or insults will ruin a writer's reputation and when that happens, the work will dry up.
Motivation, hard work and good business sense will ensure success as a freelance writer. Using one opportunity and succeeding will bring more chances to build a reputable profile. Hopefully, freelance writers who are just beginning their trade will avoid the common pitfalls like laziness and not treating writing like a business.
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