The writing world is a big one. Venues, clients, and gigs are in abundance. So what makes Associated Content stand out? Why do I constantly tell people it's the go-to place for writers? Since I've been a member for years, I could sit here all day listing things. Instead, I'll only discuss a few of my favorite reasons.
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More Time With My Family
My family means the world to me. Whenever I was working a 'regular' job, I had no time to spend with my kids. There were days when the only time I saw them was in the morning just before school and at night with just enough time for dinner and a story before bedtime. To me, that's not a good definition of family time. I was working harder then for less money than I currently make writing. Now I homeschool my kids. I see them all day every day, including when I'm working. Are they in the way of my work? No. The kids come first. Writing for Associated Content helps make that possible. I can work when I want, choose what I work on, and I don't have to file paperwork when I need a day (or even months) off. I don't have to let my kids get raised by someone else while I'm at work. I realize not all people have that choice and childcare is necessary for some parents. But, I am certainly appreciative to have found AC, so that I do have a choice.

Choose Your Own Topics
When working with most clients, the topic needs to conform to their standards. That's great and I love the satisfaction of producing something that fits a client's exact request. However, there are times a writer needs to just write down whatever comes to mind, what interests them, or even what they feel will make a difference in helping someone else. AC is awesome for that. I get paid well and consistently for my own ideas at AC. You sure can't beat that.

Residual Income
I absolutely love writing and will likely be doing it until I die. In fact, when that fateful day comes, I'm sure I'll have a pen and notebook or the latest computer in my hands in the process of writing something. However, if anything ever happens, I like knowing that my family has some residuals to depend on. It's also just great to have income I no longer have to do anything to receive but keep my AC account active. Unlike some clients, AC not only pays an upfront payment on qualifying content, but all content published at AC (and following submission guidelines) earns a performance bonus. This means that every single day, I have content earning money for me - content that I already wrote previously. If I were to stop writing today, the work I've already done is still earning money.

Variety of Ways to Earn
Another reason I like AC is the multiple ways in which I can earn money. I can submit my own ideas, accept assignments, and even write news. I can choose one, all, or a combination thereof. Also, with each of these options, there are assorted ways to go about it. For instance, some assignments are targeted to everyone, some to a specific group of people, and some are even for outside opportunities with other venues. Because of the multiple ways to earn with assignments, there also are varied amounts to make and some are pretty generous.

Exposure
For years, I was keeping my work in notebooks or posting it to personal blogs and web groups, with a limited audience. AC is one of the top content sites and based on my experience, is absolutely amazing for exposure. I cannot count the number of opportunities I have been blessed with since joining the site. Any writer in the process of building a brand or even those with an established brand could potentially benefit from the free exposure AC offers.

No Gimmicks
Ever read those get-rich-quick schemes that offer all these glamorous payouts, citing examples of people becoming millionaires every day? That's not AC. There is decent income to be made at AC, but it's not going to happen by spamming people with pyramid schemes and the like. They also are not going to pull a fast one where you sign up free and then have to pay for something later. You shouldn't have to pay your writing clients. They should be paying you and that's exactly what AC does when they see quality content.

Wealth of Knowledge
By interacting on AC via the forums and networking with fellow writers, a vast amount of knowledge can be gained. Not only will you learn what works for AC by communicating with others and reading their work, but there is much to be learned about writing, in general. I highly recommend getting involved in the forums and also connecting with fellow writers on Associated Content. It has definitely been well worth it for me and I appreciate each and every person I came across on AC who helped make a difference in my life.

Be Rewarded for Efforts
Ever had one of those jobs where you do all you can, but get recognized for nothing and criticized for everything? Yeah, me too. Unfortunately, many of us have. In my experience, Associated Content is exactly the opposite of that. The comments readers leave are rewarding and the staff is very supportive. Also, there are a mix of programs and opportunities available for deserving writers.

Further Reading on Some of My Success at Associated Content:
Business and Personal Benefits of Being an AC Contributor
2009 PMA Acceptance Speech: Community Spirit
I'm an AC Millionaire! You Can Be One Too!

How to Sign Up for AC and Where to Go For Help
Interested in signing up at AC to see where your writing can take you? Simply go to TinyURL.com/JoinAC (don't worry, it's free). If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to message me at AC once you sign up. I'm one of the Community Guides and would love to help.

UPDATE: AC has now been acquired by Yahoo! The deal is set to close in the third quarter. More details can be found in our post that will be updated as necessary.


~~ Written by Lyn Lomasi ~~