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Private Clients, Contributor Communities, or Yourself? What's Best for Online Article Writers?

1/27/2015

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer
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Image © Javier Bedrina via Flickr.com/jbedrina
As a mentor among my online writing peers, I often get asked which route to go when it comes to freelancing. People want to know if they should take on private clients, write for content sites or contributor communities, or start their own niche sites. I have tried several different strategies. What's best for online article writers? I recently made the decision to slow down on certain work with private clients and dedicate myself mostly to my own venue, which also happens to be a contributor community. I am the happiest when mentoring peers and providing content for the Write W.A.V.E. Media network. I see the most income for the least amount of stress when I focus solely on projects that help others and make me happy, as far as writing goes. While this works for me, the best choice will vary for each person.

Know your work habits.

In any online writing, you need to be able to work independently. But if you are working for clients or content sites, you may need to pair that with teamwork. If you don't work well with others, you may want to go solo and write for your own blog or domain. But even then, you might still need to deal with people in one way or the other. If you like to be the only one to correct the work and will accept no changes to your material, you're better off writing for yourself. But keep in mind that even if you don't have to bend for editors, you still need to consider what your readers want.

Pay attention to your writing style.

What style and voice is present in your work? Can you change it up some to fit what clients want? If not, you may be better off either finding clients or content sites that align with your style or writing for your own venue. Check out contributor communities and content sites to see what the top writers are doing. Does it look like something you'd be interested in doing? If not, move on to the next or create your own venue that matches your style. When writing for private clients, I learned that analyzing their needs based on their audience and existing content helped me provide the best content for them. If you'd rather write freestyle without analyzing things, your own website may be the best option, providing you will still cater to the audience.

Consider your schedule.

Managing time and deadlines will be of more importance when writing for content sites and private clients. You'll need some sort of schedule when writing for yourself. But it will likely be more flexible that way. Some private clients may prefer to speak with you about projects during certain hours. Usually it will be normal business hours. If you cannot commit to that or are unavailable during the day, content sites, contributor communities, and your own domains may be the better option. Most contributor communities do not require you to be available during specific times. There can be deadlines if you claim certain assignments, but it is up to you at what time you write the material.

Think about your goals.

Are you looking to get your byline featured across multiple sites? Would you rather keep your name to its own venue? Do you not want your name out there at all? What are your revenue goals? Writing for private clients can sometimes involve a great deal of ghostwriting, which means your byline will not be featured with the content. Content sites generally feature your byline with the content. Some also offer opportunities to be featured on high quality web properties. It could take more time to build up a reputation on your own venue. But if that is what you prefer, the hard work can pay off, if done right.

The best fit for you is the closest to covering your main desires.

Consider all of the above, as well as any other factors that are important to you. Then, decide which option most fits that mold. You could be like me and choose a combination of two methods, choose just one, or go for something else together. Regardless of which choice you make, be sure it is one that aligns with your individual goals and dreams for the future. Remember that not everyone will have the same needs. Just because one plan works for your friends does not mean it will do the same for you. Align your writing career with your unique plans for the best results.


*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network
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8 Musts on a Freelance Writer's Website

8/5/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

When freelancing for a living, a business website to refer clients to is a must. This is a simple and professional way to let clients know what services and expertise you can provide. But what information is essential to share? As one who has been freelancing for years, here are 8 things I feel are absolute musts on a freelance web writer's website.

Bio
A bio describing some of your experiences, interests, and areas of expertise should be included in a prominent area. This lets potential clients know exactly what you are all about. You want them to know this because it helps them decide if you may be what they are looking for. Would you rather hire a construction contractor who was upfront with their skills and experience or one who simply stated he was a contractor with no additional information? Freelance writing is no different.

Experience
Experience is touched on briefly above, but you may be wondering what to include. Experience can refer to degrees and it also can refer to work or research that you've done. For instance, are there special clients or media agencies you have worked for? Do you have a degree that contributes to what you produce as a freelance writer? How many years have you been freelancing? These are just some of the things you can discuss on your website.

Writing Samples
Potential clients will need to see what type of work you are capable of. It also is a good way to show your professionalism and skills to more people. You can still email samples to potential clients, but it will be much easier for both of you (and provide a wider reach) if you make these easily available on your website. Some may choose to display these as files that can be downloaded. Others may choose to link to work they've done around the web for various clients and content sites like Associated Content.

Contact Form
A contact form is an easy way for potential clients, as well as readers, to communicate with you. These are easy to set up and can be customized to fit your purpose. These forms will forward directly to your email address. It makes contacting a simple and quick process for those who visit your website. They also can help to cut down on spam requests, as many can be customized to track IP addresses, ask for a captcha code, and other preventative measures.

Blog
This is where you can engage and interact with your audience. It's where you can talk about different aspects of the writing business, give writing tips, and also give updates on your business ventures. Don't be afraid to add some fun things in every now and then. Who you went out with last night and what you did may not be a good topic for a blog on your business website, but adding an appropriate personal touch is good. It helps followers and potential clients connect with you.

RSS and Email Subscriptions
Freelance web writers should always have a way for their audience to stay updated on their work. RSS feeds and email subscriptions can be extremely helpful here. Some content sites that freelancers may write for already have RSS feeds available to the writer. These can be placed in widgets that allow readers to view or subscribe to the content via email or feed readers. Each time a piece of content is published to the feed, those who are subscribed will be updated. Making this available on your website can be helpful in building a following.

Social Media Connections
If you are using social media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc) to increase your online presence or to make connections in the writing world, place those links on your business website. This will help people connect with you around the web and can be useful in creating a following. Not everyone is comfortable with every form of communication. Social media helps create a variety of ways to connect with your readership.

Interaction
Every freelance web writer should have some form of interaction on their website. RSS, blogs, and social media links are a few ways people can interact with you and the site. You may also want to have an advice page where readers can use a simple contact form to put in suggestions or ask advice that you can answer in upcoming articles. A forum is also a good source of interaction, but only create one if you have time to keep up with it. The main point is to have some way that readers can interact with you and/or your website. This will keep people coming back.


RELATED:
Web Writing Tips: Why You Need a Website
Why All Web Writers Need a Website
Why All Web Writers Need an Online Resume Page


*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network



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When One Door Closes ...

8/1/2014

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by A.L. Woods, Contributing Writer

As many of you in the online writing world know, a number of us were displaced due to the unexpected closing of the Yahoo! Contributor Network. When one door closes though, another one always opens. Many former Yahoo writers, including me, have already found new writing homes and haven’t missed a beat in generating continuing income. Unfortunately, others are still trying to replace this most needed source of revenue for their household.

There’s a lesson to be learned here for those of you who are new to freelancing, a lesson that many vets have continually tried to convey – that is, that it’s important that you diversify your income streams. Whether this means to always be in a circumstance that you’re working for multiple clients, that you’ve created a number of passive revenue sources (books, ebooks, writing for revenue share sites, having monetized online writing properties), or that you might even have an offline part-time gig or two on the side, it’s important that you understand that you must always have a mindset to diversify.

If Yahoo had been my only source of income when they announced their closing I would have literally been washed down the drain because even though they may be turning their interests to other projects, my financial obligations still require a source of income to be fulfilled.

Take the time today to research at least two other potential income streams that might be a good fit for you, develop a plan to get started with them, and actually work your plan. And then like those of us who had the wisdom to know that we couldn’t totally depend on Yahoo, when your day comes, you too will one day be able to dodge your own bullet and shrug your shoulders and say, oh, well, when one door closes …

Happy writing!

Writing sites that I recommend:

Textbroker
Writer Access
Writers Domain
Blogmutt
Write W.A.V.E Media (of course!)

*Photo:  F Delventhal via Flickr


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A.L. Woods has been working as a freelance commercial writer since 1989. She is an author, editor, and lover of all things tech. When asked about her writing mantra, she states, "Building my own little corner of the world one word at a time."

Her writing interests include technology, health and fitness, medical, religion and spirituality, cars, Jeeps, Internet, digital and social media, and lifestyle.

Twitter: @writerangela
Pinterest: writerangela

"Wordsmithing is the spice of life." ~A.L. Woods


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Online Writer Key to Success: Create Your Own Online Real Estate

7/14/2014

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by A.L. Woods, Contributing Writer

This article is a part of the Online Writer Key to Success series: a series of articles specifically written for the new or aspiring freelance online writer.

Much has been written all over the Web about how online freelance writers should find good writing sites and get good private clients, but there is little direction on one fundamental online writer key to success: create your own online real estate. As freelancers, our mindset should shift from that of an employee to that of an independent entrepreneur, always evaluating opportunities that bring us maximum productivity and output with the most efficient level of effort.

Be sure to do you

While you’re writing daily for your chosen sites and servicing your private clients consider setting up your own blog, website, or even a revenue share site where you allow other writers to contribute and share in the profits.

Why is this important, you may ask

1.       Writing can be a strenuous mental task, even more so when for whatever reason you are creating multiple work pieces daily. If you aren’t careful, burnout will ensue, and since you are in essence the sole source of your paycheck you’ll find yourself in the very unhappy position of a halted income stream. You want to create a passive source of income that still pays, and pays around the clock, even when you aren’t actively writing.

2.       The only person that you can depend on is yourself. Many of us experienced this painful truth when one of our most beloved online writing venues -- Yahoo! Voices / Yahoo! Contributor Network – sent us all notices that they would be closing the doors at the end of the month. When you are in control of your own online property it is your own determination, effort, and creativity that fuels the site and the profits that ensue from it. You are the sole profiteer from your labor, and If you’re successful your site will be successful.

3.       You are the one who makes the important decision of deciding how to monetize your site. There are many ways to profit from your online properties: Google Adsense, Amazon Affiliates program, Commission Junction, Clickbank, to name just a few. Find the program that best fits the personality of your site and you have the potential of generating an outstanding income there.

In summary, make sure that as you work your online writing strategy that you include an action step for creating and working your own online properties. There’s money on the table. Make sure that you do what needs to be done to get your share of it.   

Important ‘secret’ to remember: Having your own online real estate is an important component of establishing a profitable and secure financial future.

Happy writing!

Writing sites that I recommend:

Textbroker
Writer Access
Writers Domain
Blogmutt
Write W.A.V.E Media (of course!)

*Photo:  Mike Licht via Flickr



Picture
A.L. Woods has been working as a freelance commercial writer since 1989. She is an author, editor, and lover of all things tech. When asked about her writing mantra, she states, "Building my own little corner of the world one word at a time."

Her writing interests include technology, health and fitness, medical, religion and spirituality, cars, Jeeps, Internet, digital and social media, and lifestyle.


Twitter: @writerangela
Pinterest: writerangela

"Wordsmithing is the spice of life." ~A.L. Woods


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Online Writer Key to Success: Diversification

7/11/2014

3 Comments

 
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by A.L. Woods, Contributing Writer

This article is a part of the Online Writer Key to Success series: a series of articles specifically written for the new or aspiring freelance online writer.

Online writing can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. It offers unlimited income potential, freedom, flexibility, and creativity. When you apply the correct components in your writing life you can achieve massive success in this field.

Diversification

One of the most important components of an online writer’s life is that of diversification. To use an old adage: don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. Workloads at writer sites fluctuate daily, sometimes even hourly. In addition to that, sites come and go with alarming frequency. Finally, different sites have different timetables for payment. When you write for more than one site you can hop from one site to another as your needs require.

Content marketplaces

When I first started taking on writing assignments from content marketplaces I focused on only one: Textbroker. Unfortunately, I ranked in at only a level 3 (that’s a whole other article in itself). At this level, the assignments were sporadic, and to make matters worse, the pay was only, to put it kindly, mediocre.

Making the change

I figured out early on that this was not going to work for me. As a full-time freelance writer I don’t have the luxury of waiting for assignments and waiting for small payments to dribble in. I knew that I was going to have to be proactive if I didn’t want to sink my financial ship. I began to network on a number of freelance writing discussion boards and took note of the sites that were favored by the most premium writers, compiled a list of four or five, made application, was accepted, and began to write furiously.

Keep it moving

When one site doesn’t have work I move to another. When I know that I absolutely must meet a financial goal for the day I tier who I write for that day – write a few articles for the highest-paying site, move to the next highest paying site and write a few articles, and so on. In this way, I’m able to keep from burning out because the diversification of the assignments (he he, see what I did there) keeps me from burning out.

Conclusion

Add diversification to your online writing strategy and you should never have to be held hostage again to a scarcity of work, low-paying assignments, or inconvenient pay schedules. As a freelancer, you must change your mindset. You no longer work for a job; you work for yourself, and when you work for yourself diversification is a fundamental element to developing multiple income streams.

And here’s a very important ‘secret’ to remember: Multiple income streams = a greater level of financial stability and independence.

Happy writing!

Writing sites that I recommend:

Textbroker
Writer Access
Writers Domain
Blogmutt
Write W.A.V.E Media (of course!)

*Photo: Pablo Rulz Muzqulz



A.L. Woods has been working as a freelance commercial writer since 1989. She is an author, editor, and lover of all things tech. When asked about her writing mantra, she states, "Building my own little corner of the world one word at a time."

Her writing interests include technology, health and fitness, medical, religion and spirituality, cars, Jeeps, Internet, digital and social media, and lifestyle.

Twitter: @writerangela
Pinterest: writerangela

"Wordsmithing is the spice of life." ~A.L. Woods
3 Comments

Maximizing Upfront Payments at Yahoo Contributor Network

3/6/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Many factors go into determining upfront offers and those factors can differ depending on several things. While following this guide may not guarantee that you will receive higher upfront payments, you may see greater opportunities within the network by adhering to the following suggestions. The key is not necessarily to increase every single upfront payment, but to maximize the opportunities available, as well as maximize performance payments.

What is an upfront payment and what content is eligible?
An upfront payment is an initial payment for rights to the content. This is any payment that occurs outside of (and before) the Performance Payment that most content is eligible for. An upfront payment can be made for both solicited and unsolicited content. Assignments for various Yahoo! verticals can come with a higher upfront than unsolicited content. Exclusive, Non-Exclusive, and Display-Only are the three most common rights options. However, there can be others as well, such as Work for Hire. Display-Only content is not eligible for an upfront payment, whether solicited or unsolicited.

Focus on a specific issue
When you have a tight focus on one topic, readers are more likely to be looking for your content. Think about the things you look for when searching the Web. For instance, instead of general tips on pet adoption, you may want something geared specifically toward the pet you are considering adopting. Write your articles on specific subjects that will be relevant and useful to readers looking for that topic.

Follow assignment details
If you claim an assignment (targeted or general), be sure you follow the exact instructions. That means if the instructions say something different from any advice herein, defer to the assignment. When editors see that you can follow all assignment details reliably, they may be more likely to offer you future opportunities.

Do your research
When you need to back up your content with facts, be sure they are from reliable sources. Also, make sure to cite those sources properly, according to submission guidelines and any assignment guidelines. Using multiple sources also helps to build credibility. Wherever possible, use Yahoo! sources, especially within the vertical for which you're writing (excluding user-generated sources, such as Associated Content).

Examine the intended website
Study the Yahoo! website you are interested in. Think of topics that could work well there but are not yet covered. Having an idea of what could potentially align with a particular property can give you a greater chance at upfront opportunities. Being unique is key. That means that you don't want to submit something you already see covered on the property. Instead, try submitting something that works well alongside existing content, provides a new angle, or has not been covered at all but could appeal to that property's audience.

Consider the audience behind the topic
Are you writing about parenting? What stages? Think of the age of the kids you're writing about - and then think of what ages the parents are likely to be; they are your most likely audience, and you should cater your content to them. The tone and style used in your article should be something readers can identify with. For instance, if you are writing an article for kids, using complicated business terms is not going to keep them reading. Upfront payments are more likely on content that shows attention to detail in this and other areas.

Personalize the experience
When you write an article, readers should see the real person behind the story. At the same time, you don't want to ramble about something that has nothing to do with the subject matter. Find that perfect level at which the article provides the information needed with relevant personalization where it fits in with the main point of the article. For instance, if I'm writing an article about picking the perfect daisies, instead of telling a long story about a time when I picked daisies, I would mention how I determine which daisies to pick. I would do that in a way that readers can tell I am knowledgeable and passionate. But it would also need to be something readers can benefit from to answer their questions. When you can use your own unique experience and style, readers can relate more easily. But at the same time, you don't want to say so much that they get bored and click away.

Focus on evergreen material
Focusing on evergreen material is one way to maximize upfronts. Evergreen content is that which will draw a reader's interest for long periods of time, such as unique ways to solve common parenting issues. Evergreen slants can also be applied to trending topics. Some editors may value those topics that have a longer shelf life. This is not to say that other content will not be valued, as articles with a shorter shelf life can be useful as well. They each have their own place and are both great ways to maximize upfronts in different ways. Getting the most out of upfront opportunities often involves taking advantage of more than one way to earn.

Pay attention to spelling, grammar, and style
Category and vertical style guides are used for many assignments that offer upfront pay. For the best chances at getting those assignments accepted, be sure to follow them closely. This also goes for any and all other instructions mentioned within the assignment details. Proofreading, even after using spelling and grammar checkers, has always been a lifesaver for me when writing for Yahoo!. Programs can miss little things, such as skipped words or typos that are actual words but not words you intended to use.


Optimize your content for the Web
Studying "The Yahoo! Style Guide" is a great way to learn basic html, grammar, editing, formatting, and style as it all pertains to writing for the Web. Content submitted via Yahoo! Contributor Network must be publish-ready. While some content may be edited slightly, never rely on editors to fix poor writing. If your writing needs to be thoroughly edited, it is much better to study up so that your submissions are more likely to get upfronts than declines. You can then submit at a later date when your skills allow you to submit content that is more in line with the platform's needs. Good Web content displays certain qualities. Apart from being interesting, it must be easy for a wide audience to read. It also must be easily found by search engines. Keep your articles concise and informative in an easy-to-scan format. Web readers often look for something that answers their question quickly and accurately in an engaging manner. For more on writing for the web, start with the Contributor Academy course titled "Writing for the Web 101". The Yahoo Style Guide is also an invaluable resource.



Maximizing upfront payments is about taking advantage of the many ways to earn. It's also about covering your bases all-around. A solid article is not just well written, but also speaks to the intended audience, giving them exactly the information they expected and needed in a clean, easy-to-scan format.

More from Lyn:

Maximizing Performance Payments on the Yahoo! Contributor Network

How Much Money Can I Make Writing for Yahoo! Contributor Network?

Why Am I Not Making Money at Yahoo! Contributor Network? Page Views, Offers, and More

**Image credit/copyright: Lyn Lomasi

***I originally published this content at Yahoo Voices on 10/5/2011:

http://voices.yahoo.com/maximizing-upfront-payments-yahoo-10149317.html

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Web Writing Tips: Make More Money

2/19/2014

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

As a long-time web writer who now also helps fellow writers succeed, people often ask me how to make more money. What are the best ways to succeed in web writing and how does one apply them for the maximum reward?

Maximize your content. Keep the rights to your content as often as possible and re-purpose it when you can. Many publications will accept non-exclusive work, which means you can do the work once and get paid for it repeatedly. Just be sure that the information stays up to date and syncs well with each publication it's submitted to. Even if you have ti make a few changes now and then, it will be easier than writing new content every time. While new content has its place as well, there's no reason you can't re-purpose existing content when appropriate.

Be flexible. We all have our own habits and methods. However, sometimes it pays to bend personal rules if it makes a client happy to do so. You of course want to always let a client know when you feel what they want isn't what's best for them. However, you should also be flexible in some of the ways you work so that may better provide the service in the way clients expect. They each will expect something different. Therefore, it pays to listen, keep an open mind, and be able to adapt to varying situations.

Meet or exceed deadlines and expectations. Happy clients will often be repeat customers, which means there will be more money lining your pockets (or your PayPal funds). A big part of keeping clients happy is meeting the deadlines and guidelines laid out in the contract. When you can do this every time -- and exceed expectations when possible, clients are more likely to use you again or even recommend you to others. Just like any other business, word of mouth can be paramount to making more money in web writing.

Spread your talent. Some people will be content with just one client. I've been there before. However, no matter how well one client pays, it's always good to have more than one. That way, if something happens unexpectedly, you don't lose all of your income. Keeping a variety of clients also provides more experience writing upon request in varying styles and topics.

All web writers need a website. I've said this many times before. But I will say it again and again. All writers need a website. Your website is where clients can find more about what you do and contact you for services. A good writer's website should include at the bare minimum a contact form, an online resume, samples, and a blog. For more on what to include, please read "8 Musts on a Freelance Writer's Website." If you use your site correctly, you'll be making more money just by having an easy way for clients to interact with you.

Maintain a blog on your professional website. As mentioned above, a blog is an essential part of a writer's website. In addition to helping fellow web writers succeed, keeping an active blog helps showcase what you can do to clients, which can lead to more money. Some things successful web writers can blog about include writing tips, marketing tips, information for clients, book releases, tour/book signing dates, events, and special features of your work. The possibilities are endless. Just keep it active and keep it relevant. The more you blog, the more traffic your site will get if you do it right. This can lead to more clients. Active writers generally make more money than those who are simply waiting around without action.


RELATED:

Web Writing Tips: Why You Need a Website

Why All Web Writers Need a Website


How This Writer & Advocate Gets Both Exercise & Productivity Without Going 100% Insane

How to Make the Most Money in Web Writing

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Web Content

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Being a Freelancer Isn't Easy But It's Worth It

9/11/2013

2 Comments

 
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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Try doing a Yahoo search on anything related to freelance writing jobs and you’ll pull up a multitude of opportunities, many of them scams. The simplest way to tell if one’s a scam is that it usually starts with “make easy money” just like any other scam. While it’s true that some aspects of a freelance writing career will become easy to an experienced writer over time, freelance writing as a whole is NOT an easy full time career path. But it’s worth it.

As a full time freelance writer, I used to spend countless sleepless nights thinking, researching, and typing out the results endlessly. Wait, “used to”? If I’m no longer a full time freelance writer, what do I know? The thing is, I spent years as a full time freelance writer and I slowed down, not because of the lack of money or interest, but because I wanted to help other freelance writers. That’s right. Now my full time job is helping others do what I did. But I still write almost full time as well. Therefore, I assure you, you can trust my experience.

Some people think “Oh, I can write. My poems from high school are great. I should be a writer.” And if that’s you, writing might be a good career choice for you. But just keep in mind that writing for the web and writing a poem here and there are two entirely different things. Freelance writing as a full time career path will involve writing for a considerable amount of time most days. Decide which you REALLY want to do and do that.

Writing for the web as a full time freelance writer is hard work. Yes, work. Forget all those scammers out there telling you it’s easy. Yes, it’s easy for them at first because they’re copying and pasting the text that I (or another talented writer) put real time and heart into in order to create it. But it no longer becomes easy for them when we decide to pursue it legally.

Ah yes, there’s another thing about freelance writing. You’re not JUST a writer. You’re a writer, researcher, marketer, CEO, manager, self-appointed attorney, and many other things.

The first part – the actual writing – may come easy to you sometimes and maybe even most of the time. But there will be days when you may not be able to form a complete sentence no matter how many deadlines you’re facing or how much money is on the line. Even for writers who seem to just sprout creative words in an instant, writing all day every day can become difficult. And you WILL need to write very often (among other things) in order to make the most money at web writing.

I know what you’re thinking because it’s me as well. I definitely said it too. You’re saying “but I love writing. I already write all day long, nonstop. I can do this.” If so, then you probably can, just like me. However, keep in mind that even you will likely have days where you just can’t. Also keep in mind that everything you write, though it may come from your heart, is for someone else. And, while you are in charge of yourself, you do still have to actually work. Otherwise, what are you getting paid for?

Up until this point, I may have turned some people off already because it sounds like a big complaint. But heck no! I love what I do and wouldn’t trade it for the world. The thing is, if you’re going to be in the business, someone needs to tell you the real facts. Yes, I can spend more time with my kids (human and fur variety). Yes, I make a fairly decent income when I’m consistent with it. But it does take real work and effort and if you can’t commit to that, this is NOT the career for you because if you stop working, the money stops coming.

For me, the benefits of staying home with my kids, the satisfaction of knowing my words may help people, being able to finally start saving some money, and some of the other things directly related to being a freelance writer are worth the hard work. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

Still want to be a freelance writer? If you said yes, I commend you. Feel free to reach out to me on my Facebook page for help getting started: facebook.com/LynLomasi

(No, I’m not going to charge you anything for advice, unlike those scammers out there looking for a quick buck. NEVER pay for work. You’re the one working. YOU should be the one getting paid.)

**Photo Credit/Copyright: Lyn Lomasi

I originally published this here on BUBBLEWS (no longer published there)

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What Does My Pen Name Mean? How Did You Come Up With Yours?

9/3/2013

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

How many of my friends use a pen name when publishing their work? The name I use for the majority of my published work right now is Lyn Lomasi. If you use a pseudonym, do you have a creative way that you came up with your name or does it have special meaning? Mine is both creative and sentimental.

The name Lyn means "waterfalls" or "rain showers" and the name Lomasi is generally used as a first or middle name in a Native American language. It means "pretty flower". I chose to use it as a last name to be different. A good writer buddy also used to call me "pretty flower" so I purposefully chose a native name that meant as much. Lyn is my birth middle name. Combined, the two names mean to me "When the rain falls, a pretty flower emerges".

It holds significance to me because I identify with it on many levels. Obviously, one reason is because of my friend. Another is because I have been through quite a bit in my life. But, like a flower, I always emerge strong and beautiful no matter what kind of storms life brings into my life.

Tell us about your pen name in the comment section.

Photo Credit: Lyn Lomasi
(Yep, it's another pic of me)

(I originally published this on BUBBLEWS (no longer published there)

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Web Writers, Update Your Profile Often

7/25/2013

2 Comments

 
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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

No offense meant to the writers this applies to. But I have been doing this a long time and am a natural observer. I've noticed that oftentimes the writers who have the most interaction from readers are those that update their profiles, especially photos. I mean, who wants to look at the same picture for years, no matter how good looking it might be?

When you update your profile photo often, it shows that you are active and it also gives readers something fresh to look at. Think of your profile photo just as you would your written content. Random browsers may find an older photo or piece of content interesting. But those faithful followers need something new to look at or they might wander somewhere else more interesting. Yes, most of what readers will be focused on is the written content. However, it does help when the author photo is shiny and interesting. People on the interwebs like shiny things. It's a given -- and new shinies appear often.

How often do you update your profile photo? Have you observed the same things I have? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section.

Photo Credit/Copyright: Lyn Lomasi

2 Comments

Online Writing Submission Templates Fail - Save Your Work Offline

6/24/2013

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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Oh no! You were just submitting an article or blog post and poof! Now your hard work is gone! What happened? That's right, you didn't back up your work and you typed it up online instead of on your computer. Online submission templates are awesome, but they aren't fool proof.

Save your work offline first. Before ever placing your work in any online template, you should be typing it in an office program first. If you're like me and either hate Word or their price, try OpenOffice.org instead. Whatever program you use, write and save it there and then copy/paste t into the online submission template. I learned this years ago – the hard way, of course. I lost an incredibly awesome post (because all of my work is amazing, right?). Never again.

Websites crash. Computers crash. Servers time out. Submission processes malfunction. Just because you've submitted fine by typing into the template for years doesn't mean it's foolproof. When I had my revelation, I was submitting my daily piece to a site I had been using for a couple years already. I always typed into the template directly. That day when I hit the submit button, the site went down at that exact moment and my article that I spent two hours researching was completely lost.

Trust me. Save the work offline or at the very least in an online office program. I personally triple save my work. I work in OpenOffice and save the work on my computer from there. Then, I also upload a copy to an online file database, as well as save it to a flash drive. This way, if anything happens to any of those copies, there's likely to be another one saved somewhere. I actually lost an article just yesterday because I hadn't made it to the other steps yet and my computer malfunctioned and had to be restarted. Always save in more than one place.

How do you submit and save your work? Tell us in the comment section.

Photo Credit: Lyn Lomasi
(my original artwork)

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Empower Your Peers

4/5/2013

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(c) Lyn Lomasi
by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Are you competing too much with your peers? Trying to keep up with their writing success so you can match or exceed it? If so, you're doing it wrong. Completely. Why are you in competition with your writing peers when you can empower them instead?

But Lyn, if I empower my peers, they'll beat me at my own game, won't they? I know that's what you're going to ask because it's been asked of me countless times.

I've been in web writing a long time. There is no competition. I repeat, we are not here to compete with each other. Be unique. Be you. Be true. Be helpful. But don't be a poor sport. The most successful web writers work together as a team to help each other succeed. Trust me, there is plenty of work for us all and then some. There is no shortage of content needs and each writer has their own style and topic strengths.

Empower your writing peers by teaching them what you know, as well as encouraging them when you can tell they need a push. What's in it for me, you say? If you're actually asking this question, you just don't get it. It's not about credit or paybacks. It's about working together to empower each other and build something awesome, be it a large venue or a small blog where a few of  you contribute.

What if someone helps you and can't help them? Once again, this isn't about paybacks. It's about working as a team. If you want to be of service, pay it forward to another writer who could use the kind of help you offer.

have you empowered a fellow writer today? If not, get on it!

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Bubblews.com - Worth it for Freelance Writers? 

4/2/2013

5 Comments

 
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by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

UPDATED 1/4/2014

I was browsing around Facebook and came upon a site called Bubblews. A friend had been posting content from there, so I decided to try it out. Is Bubblews.com worth it for freelance writers?


Is Bubblews worth it? The answer to that question will depend on each individual person's writing needs. However, I personally find it both fulfilling and profitable. I can speak my mind about whatever I wish and get paid to do so. I can also interact with fellow writers.

What is Bubblews?
The best way I can describe Bubblews is that it's like blending Facebook
and your own blog together with some simple submission guidelines -- and getting paid to use it.

How much money can you make? Earnings at Bubblews are based on page views, comments, and other activity on your postings. How much you earn depends on the effort you put in, as well as how much people are interacting with your work. It is also based upon the ad revenue being generated by the site. Therefore, it does fluctuate now and then. I generally earn an average of around $13 per 1000 views, give or take. When I am receiving more activity on my posts, that number is higher. Bubblews also pays for referrals. But the amount per referral is low, fluctuating based on a variety of factors and credited each time a referral makes their first post. I've seen it at anywhere from a penny to just under a dollar. Therefore, the real earnings are in the writing, as it should be on a writing site.

How do I get paid? Payout is achieved as soon as enough is earned. The minimum redemption amount is low and there are several payment options, currently including PayPal, check, Visa Gift Card, and an option where you can shop online and choose to have Bubblews pay the bill with your redemption. While the other options are listed, last I checked, PayPal payment was encouraged/preferred.

What do I do besides write? Networking is a big part of the site and you will find it integrated into pretty much all actions there. On the articles themselves, you can like or dislike, leave comments, click on tags that lead to related content, find other members to interact with via their comments, share to other social sites, and more. Profiles display a member's posts, offer more personal commenting, and display other activities as well. You can also connect to your favorite Bubblews members to get notified of their newest posts. Though not required, networking is heavily integrated and can be beneficial in many ways.

Would I recommend Bubblews? After being a member of the site for a while, I would definitely recommend other freelance writers try it out and see how it works for them. It's an experience that must be examined by each person individually to see if it's right for them. Like any other site, it's not everyone's cup of tea. I know people who do well with it and I also know people who found their experience less than enjoyable. As for me, I am enjoying putting the site motto "Speak Freely. Write Your World." into action and have received many payouts already. Looking to try it out? Sign up today! 

5 Comments

Web Writing Tips: Why You Need a Writer's Website

11/2/2011

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by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff
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Image © Lyn Lomasi; All Rights Reserved
Why would online article writers need a website if many article submission sites allow a professional profile? This is a question I get asked often when I mention the idea. Learn some of the many reasons all freelance web writers need a website of their own.

Writer's Resume

When applying for online writing jobs and gigs, reference links and/or a resume are often required. This will be much simpler for those with a website. Some may create an area where a client can download their resume by requesting the link. Others may post links to samples. Yet others may do both or handle it another way. Online article writers need a website in order to reference their work all in one place.

Professionalism

Professionalism is key, even though you don't see your clients face-to-face when writing online. A freelance writer's website is like a virtual resume, meeting place, and office at the same time. This is where you can let your clientele know you are professional by including all of the right things. A bio, samples, and a contact page are just a few. Read "8 Musts on a Freelance Writer's Website" for more details on those and other must-include items for professionalism.

Info Source

Even if a client finds your work elsewhere, they may want to know more than they can find in a limited bio attached to your profile on a content site. This is where your website comes in handy. Many content sites allow article writers to place a link to their website in their profile or bio. Also, be sure to link to it from any blogs or other profiles you have. Giving clients (both potential and current) a place to find more information about you as a person and as a writer is very beneficial to them as well as to your writing career.

Announcements

If you have any big writing projects, off days, exciting news, etc it can be posted to your website. Of course you don't want to announce information that is too personal, but a web writer's website can serve as a great way to spread the word. Doing this has many benefits. Some include letting clients see that you are accomplishing things, engaging with your audience, and also depending on the announcement it might bring in more readers or clientele.

File Storage

Depending on how much bandwidth your site allows, this can be a great place to store certain files. Of course you still need a hard copy backup, but storing them in a secure, hidden location on your website can help you keep everything related to your online article writing all in one spot. This also can free up space on your computer if you'd rather not have the files there. Just be sure, as mentioned above to keep a hard copy if you go this route.
0 Comments

Quick Web Writing Tips: How To Offer Reprints For Sale

11/2/2011

0 Comments

 
by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff
Coins
Do you have non-exclusive writing lying around collecting dust? If you write for a living, chances are that not everything you submit or publish is exclusive to one party. What are you doing with the work that you still hold publishing rights to? If you answered "Nothing" you are not making the most of your work.

Offer reprints.

What are reprints? Put simply, reprints are pieces that have been previously published but can be published again.

If you submit your work to someone non-exclusively, you still have publication rights. Always read the fine print everywhere that you publish your work to be sure who has the rights. Just because you still hold the copyright, does not always mean you still hold publication rights.

Once you have determined that you do hold publication rights, there are several ways you can offer reprints.

Here are some of my favorites:

  • Get them published with online venues that accept non-exclusive content and customize the content to each venue.
  • Have a reprints page  on your website or offer it on your regular services page.
  • Republish them on your own website to draw traffic to your services and/or advertisements.
  • Get them published in print publications that accept non-exclusive work, again customizing to fit the venue.
0 Comments

Tips For Article Writers: Dealing With Editors

10/29/2011

0 Comments

 
by Lyn Lomasi; Owner of Intent-sive Nature & the Brand Shamans network
The four capital mistakes of open source
You spend hours on a submission perfecting every little detail when along comes an editor to mess with your masterpiece. If you're going to make it as a writer, you will have to work with editors. A necessary part of the publishing process involves dealing with editors.

Learn to compromise. Editors can and often do change things. That's what they're there for. They catch the little mistakes we make (and we all make mistakes). They also may make edits that are better for structure, your audience, the web, and more. Though you may not always agree with them, you will have to deal with many editors. Learn to compromise on what your final piece will look like.

Let it go. That may be easier said than done in many cases. Writers often see our works as our little babies, if you will. We work hard on what we produce and it means so much to us. Altering it can feel like someone is trying to change us. After all, it does often have our names on it and we made it. But at some point, we have to learn to let it go. If the work never bypasses an editor, it may never get out in front of the intended audience. Try not to get too attached and learn to just let the work go once its complete.

What's the change? Instead of becoming to attached to the way the piece is written, focus on the message. If the edits do not take away the message, don't be so hard on the editor. It's perfectly fine to address the editor if you feel that the changes are unsatisfactory or take away from the message. But if the change is nothing that takes away the message, why waste all that energy getting upset? Write another article.

Report the editor. This is only for extreme cases. As a writer, you will need to learn to deal with the fact that your writing will be changed by editors if you want it published with major companies. If the editor really is making changes that are unreasonable (and not just changes you don't like - changes that affect the quality of the work significantly), that's when you report the editor. I advise not taking this route unless necessary because a writer and editor need to be able to work together peacefully. But obviously, if there is an injustice it should be reported.

Switch venues. If you just cannot deal with a particular editor, write somewhere else. Ultimately, you should be happy with your writing (or any) career. If that's not happening, you haven't found the right venue/s to write for yet. Realize you should not be switching venues every time you don't like what an editor does. But if there is a true problem, remember that you can move on.

Write for yourself. If you truly cannot deal with anyone at all messing with your own work, only write for yourself. When someone is paying you to produce work, it should be what they want, hence part of the reason for the editors. If you create your own venue, such as your own website or blog, you make the rules. Even if you go this route, it can still be a wise move to have an editor (or at least a writing buddy) that is willing to be a second pair of eyes. But you'll have the most freedom when writing for yourself.

Bottom line: Editors are a part of the writing and publishing business and writers need to be able to adapt to that fact. Work with (not against) your editor, unless you have a legitimate claim against them.

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