No writing lesson today guys. This one’s a bit more general.
Recently on the Creative Class Podcast (the one for freelancers I co-host with Paul Jarvis), we tackled a topic that’s been bouncing around in my brain: Are people who work for themselves and sell things *really* the enemy?
Paul and I both sell digital products online, and even though it’s new to me, I find myself feeling caught in the crosshairs of this conversation.
When Freelance Writing Makes You Want to Mow Lawns
The other day I took a long walk on one of my favorite paths. The sun was shining, the air was fresh, and I actually felt warm. On a day like that, I found myself going back to a thought I’ve had many times before:mSometimes I just wanna mow lawns.
But...then I played this scenario out a bit in my head a bit more. I've come to some conclusions.
Read moreSelf Care for Freelance Writers
One of the questions I got in response to the survey I sent out last week was: How do you take care of yourself as a freelancer and avoid overworking?
Read moreMy First Freelance Writing Intern: Lessons Learned & Future Plans
My first ever college intern and I just finished up last week. 😱 Can you believe it?! Time flies, man.
Katelyn, a junior at one of the local universities (English major) signed on in August to work with me over the course of the semester. She’s getting into finals in the next few weeks, so we wrapped things up right around Thanksgiving. Here’s what I learned from the experience.
How to Get Hired
Getting hired feels really hard sometimes, doesn’t it? Whether it’s for an amazing in-house gig at a company you admire, or a remote job that would eliminate your life-sucking commute each day, or even a freelance opportunity with a dream client—it’s not an easy process.
Not only do you have to stand out from the pile of applicants, but if you do, perchance, get noticed, then you have to dazzle during the interviewing process. So, erm...how do you do that?
I somehow figured out how to do that not once, but *TWICE* not too long after I graduated college.
Should Freelancer Writers Take a Vacation?
For some, the focus is fast growth, authority-building, #MAKEthatMONEY--all the time. Don't get me wrong: I, too, like to #MAKEthatMONEY.
But for me, I want to work efficiently, with clients I really like, on projects I enjoy--and really, that's it. I don't want ALL THE JOBS. Because I still want some time for "me" stuff.
Where to Work When You’re Tired of Working from Home
So, I’ve been working from a home office for about four years now.
I love our little house, but sometimes…I don’t.
Working in the same place day in and day out where I also spend my non-working hours can get a bit monotonous.
How to Improve Boring Writing
Ever feel like what you’re writing is just kind of...bland?
Writing ruts happen to the best of us.
- Maybe it’s because you’ve been writing about the same topic for so long.
- Maybe you’ve become immersed in your niche, and you’ve lost external perspective.
- Maybe you’re just real tired and need a lil’ nappy.
8 Must-Read Books That Will Improve Your Writing Skills
This week, I wanna talk about books on writing.
The business world needs better writers, as indicated by studies that show writing training is a billion-dollar industry and research that shows writing is a skill desired by 73% of hiring managers.
How to Format Your Content Like the Pros
I’ve noticed some commonalities amongst some of the top sites that I write for from time to time.
(I’m talking about the Copyhackers, SumoMe, and Kissmetrics-type blogs.)
Know what it is?
Mistakes I Made Early in My Freelance Writing Career
This is kind of embarrassing.
When I started freelancing, I did some things that, looking back, I wish I wouldn’t have.
But…you live and you learn. So, I’m gunna share this with you today so you can have some lols and hopefully learn from me too. Don’t lol too much, please.
Things I Wish I’d Known When I Started Freelance Writing
I started freelance writing about two and a half years ago. I was doing it on the side, and eventually, I realized that with the referrals I was getting, it was feasible to make it my full-time gig.
Read moreWhere to Find Freelance Writing Gigs
OMG, I need more freelance writing work.
Whether you’re just starting your freelance writing career, or if business is a little slow, you might feel the above sentiment.
Read moreMy Favorite Writing Strategy EVER (A how-to!)
Writing Conversationally
I’ve had a few clients come to me specifically because they wanted me to create content with a nice, light, readable tone.
It feels conversational, and therefore, it fosters a connection with readers right off the bat. It’s not robotic or overly formal—which is a problem many businesses struggle to overcome with their audiences. They sound more like a faceless organization than real human beings running a company.