Article by Wendy McCance
I wrote a previous article on getting writing assignments, but there was still more I wanted to mention. I thought a second article was needed to share a bit more information with you. I think this information is so valuable in helping you create a career out of writing.
I had emphasized networking and prospecting in my previous article, but didn’t go into a lot of detail. In this article, I will explain how those two words, when applied mean all the difference in getting assignments.
Lets discuss Networking.
I’m sure you have set up several social media accounts, but are you really using them? The internet is full of incredible amounts of possibilities. It’s so much easier now than ever to connect with the right individuals and get advice, a recommendation or a job offer.
Let’s take LinkedIn as an example.
LinkedIn is full of groups where you can showcase your talent. If you are intent on becoming a writer, sign up for writing groups and blogging groups. Showcase your talent for writing by submitting relevant articles. An example might be a writing group for parents. Writing an article about choosing a school for your child might be a good topic for this group.
The more you are able to submit articles to different sites you participate in, the quicker your name will get out there as a writer.
Now let’s talk about prospecting.
Prospecting needs to be a natural part of your daily routine. Prospecting can mean the difference between getting several assignments, or none at all.
There are two good ways to go about prospecting for business:
1. Use those social media groups that you have joined and write a quick message to some of your connections stating that you are a writer and was wondering if they were in need of a freelance writer.
When writing to these connections, you will need to make sure that the person you are writing to could make that decision, and that the company they are working for might be in need of a writer.
Another thing to consider is that you should have an angle. How would you be able to help that company by writing for them? If you have a solution to a need they might have, you are more apt to get a response.
2. The second way to prospect is to join writing groups and professional networking groups in the area you live in. People like to work with someone who is local much better than someone who might be hours a way or out of state.
Think about joining your local chamber of commerce, a professional writing association that will take in emerging writers or after work professional organizations geared towards networking.
The point here is that the more you expose yourself, the more you will get noticed. It’s incredible who you will meet along the way. If you are serious about writing, like it or not, a big portion of getting your career off the ground and keeping it rolling will depend on the amount of effort you put into meeting people and asking for work.
Wendy McCance
To contact Wendy McCance about a writing assignment, interview or speaking engagement, please email her at: [email protected]
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Thank you for this article. I am always trying to learn whatever I can.
I hope it’s helpful.
Thank you Wendy for sharing resourceful information. I appreciate you.
You’re welcome.
These are all excellent tips. It’s all about marketing, except we’re marketing ourselves and our respective talents.
I agree.
Question for you, Wendy:
I’ve gotten many LIKES on my blogs and even have over a dozen followers (young men usually) whose sites say only “I’ve made thousands of dollars through blogging (or online) and you can, too. Click here to watch video and learn how.”
I’m extremely suspicious. If there are thousands of people making thousands of dollars each, every month, who’s paying? Are they copying my stuff and selling it to others? Are they agents sending you to some link that will hack your e-mail? They don’t post much on their own blogs, except what all exotic locations they’re visit because they’re making a mint.
Have you ever looked into this? Lately I’ve considered shutting down my blogs or going private and sending out invitations to legitimate followers only, just because I have so many of these types following me and it makes me nervous. Does everyone get these?
It sounds like you need a good spam filter. Even when I began seeing over 1,000 followers I didn’t get comments like that. I use Askimet and it works fabulously. Always go with your gut. If it sounds to good to be true, it usually is. If you still aren’t sure, research the heck out of the offer.
They aren’t leaving these comments on MY site. But when I get a new subscriber or someone who LIKES my post, I usually take a peek at their site and this is what I often see. They are “make-a-mint” promoters and there’s a link to the explanation of their scheme-I’ve never clicked on these links, just in case I do get spammed.
Oh, I still haven’t really had that issue. I wish I had some advice, but I don’t.
I checked in WordPress Support. this is called “referrer spam” and is a violation of their WordPress blog contract. There’s a link where they can be reported, somewhere in Traffic>Spam
I’m so glad you got it figured out. I hope it gets fixed quickly for you.
I’m so glad you got it figured out. I hope it gets fixed quickly for you.
Some great tips here they will really help those who need to write assignments and such
Thank you.
Thank you Wendy. The idea of connecting with local professional
individuals is very appealing. I had never given that option any thoughts. I do belong to the local Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I will contact them. Thank you for opening these half shut eyes. Blessings.
Your are so welcome. Wishing you the best.