Writers' Resources

Today's Freelance Jobs - Friday, July 11

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:22:00 +0000

Sports writer

Copywriter for company newsletters, website, etc.

Writer for B2B construction mag

Copywriting agency seeking freelance writers

Writers to join writing services company

Magazine article writers

Writers for website

Football writers

iPhone blogger

Write online content

Write ebook on sales techniques

Press release writers

Write real estate articles

Automotive content writers

Green blogger

Write pop culture scripts

Writers for lawinfo.com

Wine and technology blogger

Today's Freelance Jobs - Thursday, July 10

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:48:00 +0000

About.com actively recruiting for guides

Online entrepreneur blogger

Short bio writing

Celebrity gossip blogger

Press release writer

PR article blog writer

Write sports posts

Quick turnaround articles

Write an artist bio

ScriptLance jobs:

Cell phone blogger

Winning lottery tips blogger

Interior design articles

32 keyword articles

Write product reviews

Signs You're About To Be Scammed

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:29:00 +0000

I do my best to weed out the obvious scams before posting job links, but I don't contact or research every employer before including them in the daily job listings. I would love to be able to do that for my readers, but I simply don't have the time. For that reason, there are some questionable jobs that slip through -- like one I posted yesterday, titled "Web copywriters" that linked to a Raleigh Cragslist posting.

I sent a short email response to the ad simply asking for more information. This morning I received a lengthy email asking for a lot of information. As I glanced through the email, it raised several red flags for me, so I visited the website it contained. The claims made on the site seemed over-the-top, so I googled the first company name, "Internet Illuminations." Nothing but job listings. I searched "Google news" and came up with nothing. Then I tried searching the name of the owner along with the company, "Internet Illuminations" James Mitchell. Still nothing but job listings. Finally, I tried searching the owner's name and city "James Mitchell" Boston.

Bingo! There is a lot of interesting information out there on "James Mitchell" Boston, not the least of which is this article in Boston Magazine.

Now it's possible that this new company is legitimate and that James Mitchell has started a legitimate business, but are you willing to bet at least 20 hours of your workweek, every week on that?

I write all this so that freelance writers, especially those just starting out who are very hungry for their first jobs, will always be on the lookout for scams. There's no point in getting a gig if you're only going to be taken advantage of.

So how do you know if what looks like a good gig is really a scam? In most cases there's no way to be 100% sure until you've been taken for a ride. But there are some good ways to protect yourself. If you start getting even a slight inkling that not everything is on the up-and-up, it's time to either take a closer look, or walk away. Ten minutes of research can save you hours of unpaid work.

To help protect yourself, watch for these red flags:

Overly high pay rates (You aren't going to make $50,000 a year writing 10 hours a week for a single company.)
Vague descriptions of work
Requiring substantial amounts of work completed before payment will be made
Payment by check (unless it is a large company that you are sure is legitimate, and even then be careful. I did a lot of work for a well-known large company two years ago and to this day haven't received a cent. Even though I faxed and snail-mailed the payment documents they asked for five different times, they continued to claim they never received them, so I couldn't be paid. Strangely, they received the fax containing the work product on the first try.)
Demanding a lot of personal information
Refusing to use an escrow service for large jobs
Asking for custom-written "samples" before hiring (100-200 word samples may be ok, but usually those asking for an entire article are just looking to take your work and run)
Being overly demanding and picky (some clients are picky, but some are looking for an excuse to deny payment, as you become more experienced, you will be able to spot the difference. Typically, the scammer looking to avoid payment makes unreasonable demands and asks for contradicting re-writes.)
Asking you to complete more work than agreed upon, but at the same price
Asking you to invest significant time into a project without guarantee of payment
Promises of "write for free now and you'll make money later"

If you see any red flags, or get that "is this a scam?" inkling, take a moment to research the person or company you are considering working for. You might be surprised what turns up when you search terms like "superduperpayingemployer complaints" or "superduperpayingemployer scam."

There are also several sites where you can check out potential employers to see if other writers have had complaints. My favorite of these is Writer Beware, maintained by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America organization. The site also has a fairly new blog that lets writers comment about scams.

Another good resource is the Protect Yourself page at Writer's Digest.

Have fun writing, but protect your work! It's ok to write for free -- if you know in advance that you're writing for free. :)

Today's Freelance Jobs - Wednesday, July 9

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:28:00 +0000

It's wonderful Wednesday because there's lots of wonderful opportunities today:

Home editor for Stylehive.com

Write about the TV industry for b5 media

Write about teen TV dramas for b5 media

Write about Nickelodeon TV shows for b5 media

Ghostwrite promotional book for accounting biz

Financial writer

Business news editor

Green electronics blogger
(If you get this gig and let them know I referred you, I'll split the referral fee with you)

Online game guide writers

Biographer needed

Press release writer

Direct mail copywriter

Parenting editor

Write RFPs for construction firm

Articles on healthy pet food

Home remodeling and furnishing writer

Press release writer

Marketing writer

Tech blogger

Edit copy for book

Technology reporter

Today's Freelance Jobs - Tuesday, July 8

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:31:00 +0000

I hoped things would pick up after the holiday weekend and it looks like they have. Here are some great job listings:

-- In addition to the job listings here, I'm also looking for some guest bloggers to make occasional posts on my new travel blog. I want guest bloggers from different areas around the country to post about their area and to answer traveler's questions about that area. If you're interested, send a brief paragraph about your writing experience and the area where you're located. Use the "Click Here" to contact me button located on the upper right-hand section of this page to submit your information. Please don't submit any attachments.--

Bright Hub seeking writers

Clement Communications looking for freelance writers for assignments

Web site copywriters wanted

Freelance writer to cover books and authors

Press release writer

Writers and bloggers for tech website

Writers for various assignments

Write magazine articles

Write and design newsletter

Write technology reviews

Business news editor

Fitness blogger

Sports bloggers

Contributors for online parenting magazine

Write kids wiki posts

Write a bio

Completely, totally off-topic post

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:31:00 +0000

I cleaned out my beading closet today, since I no longer have time (or really the interest) for beading anymore and posted them in one gigantic lot on ebay with a $1 starting bid and no reserve. If you're a writer who loves beads or jewelry, or know someone who does, get a great deal and help me get these out of my house (so I can have room for other junk. :) )

Here's the auction:
Super Huge Lot Gemstone Beads, Sterling Findings & Jewelry

Writer's Resources Wins On WOOF!

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:07:00 +0000

My recent post, "Writers Who Are Also Photographers" was honored as a top 5 post of the week on Plotdog.com's WOOF (Writers Offering Our Finest) weekly contest.

Thank you so much Plotdog!!!

Here's the post of the top 5 winners:

Presenting the finest of the writer’s blogs by the bloggers who write them.

Top 5 Picks

About Writing
Miss Write - "Rethink These Writing Myths"
Gargantua Stormcaller - "Ten Pitfalls of Fanfiction”
Tammy Searles - "Writers who are also photographers"

Fiction
Jenn - "An Unexpected Independence Day Celebration"
Poetry
Matthew S. Urdan - "Circles"

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PLOTDOG PRESS FEATURING:
A Novel Approach Series - DRAFT NOVEL - Intervention Chapter 1

Today's Freelance Jobs - Monday, July 7

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:27:00 +0000

It looks like it's going to take a day or two for employers to catch up from the holiday weekend. The job pickings are scarce this Monday morning, but here are the freelance writing jobs that are out there:

Web copywriters for many projects

Prevention magazine looking for online contributors

Stock market blogging

Help finish writing a proposal

Write summaries

Medical writing

Financial newsletter writer

Today's Freelance Jobs - Sunday, July 6

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 16:32:00 +0000

Articles on writing

Write/edit travel articles

Newsletter writer

Musician's bio

Write articles (not much info provided)

MexicoXpatz mag call for content

Writer for marketing company

Science and technology reporter

Medical bloggers

Write short summaries

ScriptLance jobs:

Articles on losing weight

Write resume

Weight loss e-book

Weekly articles on sleep disorders

Today's Freelance Jobs - Saturday, July 5

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:51:00 +0000

It's a typical writing day. I was chugging right along, and about halfway through this list when the interruptions started. It's taken the rest of the time just to finish this list. :) I know that I'm not alone when it comes to trying to find a solid chunk of time to write. The only solution I've found is to stick with it. Anyway, here's today's job listings:

Bloggers for new women's network

Jewelry description writers

Conservative political content writer

Bloggers on all topics (ad share)

Newsletter writer

Web copywriter

Writers for indie music e-mag

Write about horse racing

Health/personal care SEO writers

Quick editor needed for one-time job

Write about poker

Writers for variety of topics

Writers for ongoing assignments

Newsletter writer

Grant writer (unpaid, but sounds like it may be interesting)

Writers for New York-based startup

Culinary site seeks writers

Writers for Christian publication

Mahalo.com seeking writers

Writers for South Asian mag

Writers sought to join ghostwriting team

Blog for Terrastories (I've written a few blog posts for this site and have always been paid very promptly.)

Auto writer

Financial writer

Newsletter editor

How To Obtain Government Documents As A Freelance Writer

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:12:00 +0000

-- This post focuses on obtaining government records in the United States. For my readers outside of the states, I am unfamiliar with your public record laws, but would suggest that you contact a local school of journalism to find out what the laws are and how to find them. --

Even if you're not a journalist, at some point in your freelance career it's likely that you'll need to access government documents to complete a story. Whether you just need a few statistics, minutes of a meeting to verify someone's statement, or you're investigating wrong-doing, it's important to know how to obtain the documents you need.

Here's how:

First, understand that under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) most government documents are public record. Journalists don't have any special access to documents, they just know how to use the laws made for everyone to obtain those documents. Public records means just that, they are available to the public. Not every government document is a public record, but the law makes only specific exemptions. If you are denied a public record, note the reason for the denial, the person who made the denial and the date and time. Then contact your state attorney general's office for guidance. Remember that most court records are public record, and don't require a written request to be viewed. Court records are a great source of information that you might not be able to obtain anywhere else.

Second, fill out a written request form. Most government agencies require a written request. Some will supply their own forms, others will accept something as simple as, "I request (document requested) under the state and federal public record laws. Signed, (your name)." There is also a public record request letter generator available online at the Reporter's Committee for Freedom of the Press website. Click here to access it.

Third, be polite and patient. Try to ask for any public records as soon as you realize you might need them. Laws vary by state, but in general, government agencies are given anywhere from ten days to two weeks to respond to your request. Remember that the person you hand the form to is probably not the person who has control over granting your request. Many agencies have their legal counsel review all public information requests before fulfilling them, so it may take some time. Also, the staff responsible for researching your request is likely busy with many tasks, so try to remain patient and understanding. I can't stress enough how important it is to be polite. You will have much better luck obtaining the records you want if you build a positive relationship with the individuals responsible for handling your request. They may take the time to check just one more place, or fulfill your request before performing another task if they feel you are friendly and grateful for their help. Remember, even though you are dealing with a government agency, which can be frustrating, you are still dealing with people. Most of the time the people helping you have no control over the records request process and simply have to work within the guidelines, the same as you do.

Fourth, check your state's public record laws if you have any questions or run up against a brick wall. You can find them by either searching the internet, calling your state attorney general's office, or contacting a local chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. Some states also have an office or person designated to assist citizens seeking public records, so check to see if such a position or office exists in your state.

Finally, be specific in your request. Determine exactly what you need before you ask for it. Do you really need a years' worth of records? Can you find what you want just by asking for a document from a specific month or day? Try to narrow your request down as much as you possibly can. This saves everyone time and money and reduces the chance that your request will be denied. Some courts have held that government agencies do not have to produce records for overly broad requests.

Good luck and have fun tracking down the information you need!

Stock Images (followup to "Writers Who Are Photographers)

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:41:00 +0000

Just a quick follow-up to my post about Writers Who Are Also Photographers.

As I was processing my pictures this morning, I realized that I forgot to mention the importance of keeping some stock pictures on hand. If you're going to take the time to learn a little about photography and submit photos with your articles, you may as well start carrying the camera with you and take shots of different events, especially things that occur only occasionally or seasonally.

For example, I took a slew of fireworks photos last night. I really only need one, but I was already there, had the camera set up, and having a bunch to choose from may come in handy when I need a fireworks shot and there are no fireworks. I do the same for other events and activities. I always try and keep some seasonal photos on hand too, such as the leaves changing color in fall, and flowers poking through the snow in early spring.

Although I'm sure there are some that will remain unused, I've used many of these "stock" photos to supplement articles, and it's been worth the time to take them. Just remember if there are people in your photos who are recognizable to get them to sign a photo release so you can use the image commercially. (You can find a sample photo release form just by searching the term "photo release form".)

I'd encourage freelance writers to try and keep some photos on hand the same way they keep a notebook of story ideas on hand.

Freelance Jobs for Independence Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 15:54:00 +0000

The pickings are very slim today, but here's the best that are out there:

Food bloggers

Blog about email

Freelance writer for medical software company

Writers for new online publication

DV8 mag call for content

Write articles showcasing companies

New ScriptLance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 22:30:00 +0000

Since several days of posts are missing, here's an extra listing of ScriptLance jobs. In case you missed it earlier, ScriptLance is a bidding site similar to Elance or Guru, except that you don't pay a membership fee up front. You only pay a percentage of the total of a job after you have been awarded and completed it. Like other bidding sites, it does tend to have a lot of low-paying jobs, but there are some decent jobs there also. To me, the attractive thing about it is that you don't pay unless you get a gig, so you're not paying to compete for a bunch of low-paying jobs.

Write science articles

Rewrite web content

Weight loss/healthy living articles

Rewrite/touch-up web content

Write e-course on creating photo gallery website

Content for social networking site

Sports betting site content

Content for skiing site

10 articles for website

Internet marketing blog posts

Writers who are also photographers

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 15:54:00 +0000

I'm not sure how many of you are also photographers. If you're not, it's a great skill to supplement your writing. Many editors prefer writers who can also provide photos to accompany their articles.

For those who already are, Amazon is offering instant Canon rebates right now. Some lenses are nearly half off, like a $2,400 telephoto lens on sale for $1,360, and another telephoto lens that's normally $970 and is on sale for $560. I would love to grab one of these lenses while they're on sale. hey also have some good deals on Canon digital SLR cameras.

Now if you haven't learned much about photography and feel intimidated by all there is to learn and the cost of equipment, stop right there. It's not as complicated or expensive as it seems. While a digital SLR is great, you can get great pictures perfectly suitable for online publications with a point and shoot that offers basic manual controls. You just need to learn a few basics. I highly recommend Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. It explains the basics of photography in a very simple way. I've worked through this book several times and learn something new every time.

If you're not quite ready to learn how to use manual settings, here are a few very basic tips for taking pictures to go along with your articles.

- Keep the sun to your back. When you shoot into the sun, you lose detail, so unless you are trying to capture just an outline, keep the sun behind you.

- Fill the frame. Better a little too close to your subject than a little too far away. Things look farther away in pictures, so get up nice and close and make sure the whole frame is filled with what you're trying to capture.

- Avoid shooting under fluorescent lights if at all possible. Fluorescent lights create poor colors and lots of shadows. Sometimes they can't be avoided, but when you can, do so.

- Keep your elbows at your side. To get a nice clear, steady shot, keep your elbows against your body instead of away from it.

- Shoot from different angles. One wonderful thing about digital photography is that you can take a ton of pictures and just erase the ones that didn't turn out so good. So take advantage and shoot your subject from several different angles. One trick many photographers use to make a common object or scene look different is to shoot it from an unusual angle. Don't be afraid to lay down, get on a ladder or turn the camera sideways to get a great shot.

- Watch the details. Photography is about details. The way the light falls or how the objects in the picture balance or contrast with each other are important elements. Even if you don't know a thing about exposure or the rule of thirds, you can make sure your shots don't have distracting elements. Before you snap, look at the scene or object. Is there a piece of trash on the grass? What's behind the heads of the individuals in the picture? If you change angles will you eliminate something distracting like a street sign?

- Have fun, be creative and practice. Try new things, keep a note of what did and didn't work and study photos in newspapers and magazines to get new ideas.

While learning photography isn't a requirement for a freelance writer, if you have any interest in photography at all I would highly recommend learning the basics. I've landed several jobs that required photos, and earned more from others that didn't by being able to provide good photos to go with whatever I'm writing about. Consider a digital camera an investment, and it will likely pay for itself.

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:32:00 +0000

I thought I was posting remotely, but apparently the posts haven't been showing up. I'm sorry about that and not sure what I did wrong that they didn't appear. I'll try and recover the posts, but in the meanwhile, here are some jobs for today and some of the best jobs of the last few days:

Examiner.com seeking freelance journalists (pays based on page views)

Business reporters for China Daily (English version; wants writers located near major cities)

NewsFactor.com seeks tech journalists

Photography/Imaging blogger

Translation service blogger

Blog about flight

Linux blogger

iPhone blogger

"Science Stuff" blogger

Employee communication company seeks freelance writers

Writers for datingbook

Alternative health writer

Financial writers

Real estate writing project

Online parenting mag contributors

Health/medical writer

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 13:35:00 +0000

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Good morning! Here is the first half of the job list for the day. I'll be posting another great group of job listings this afternoon, so be sure and check back!

Know More Media is looking for bloggers for several topics

Create content about arthritis

SEO writer to re-write website

Beginner fly fishing tips articles requested at Constant Content

eHow advertising on several job sites for more writers (revenue share)

Write educational materials (requires four-year college degree)

Motley Fool looking for more writers

Writers for Native American Journal

Bloggers for many different topics

A few extra dollars from eHow

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:07:00 +0000

eHow is offering writers a way to make a few extra bucks in July. They've introduced a temporary referral program in which they will pay you to refer other writers, up to a total of $20.

It's not big bucks, but it is a simple and quick way to add to your eHow earnings.

If you aren't already writing for eHow, you should check it out. It is a revenue-sharing based site, but the articles are simple and easy to submit and there are always requests if you run out of ideas. I use eHow whenever I'm in between gigs. It's not a living, but it is a nice little supplement to my income and I really like the idea that the articles will continue to earn revenue over the long-term.

You can check it out here.

Travel Bargains Blogger Needed

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:50:00 +0000

Don't forget to also check out the daily list of freelance writing job leads!

SearlesMedia is starting a new blog on travel bargains. In addition to posting on great travel deals, the bloggers will assist readers in making their travel plans. For example, a reader may email that they are traveling to Los Angeles for a week in July, and the blogger would research the trip, based on the reader's requirements, to find the best deals for that trip.

Blogging experience is a big plus, but really I am looking for someone with great writing and research skills who can not only find great travel deals, but write about them with flair.

There will be a maximum number of posts assigned each week, and as the blog readership grows that number will increase.

Starting pay is $7 per post, and will increase as the blog grows.

The chosen blogger will also assist in promoting the blog by posting on various forums, classifieds and websites. Compensation for this will vary, depending on the promotion required.

Send a brief writing sample and a short, friendly note about why you would be the best blogger for the job, along with links to any blogs or blog posts, to writersresources.blogspot at gmail.com
Do not include any attachments. They will not be opened.

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:19:00 +0000

Here are some terrific freelance writing job leads for Tuesday, June 24, 2008.

Digital Music Blogger

Writer for healthcare newsletter

Automotive blogger

Bloggers for "link-baiting" campaigns

Write a press release

Pop culture blogger

OSHA compliance article(s)

Creative writer with Mac experience

Technology blogger

Recently posted ScriptLance projects:

Content for real estate site

Rewrite articles

Blog on assigned topics

Copy for dog product site

Boxing articles

Web copy

Electric vehicle blogger

How To Write A Query Letter In Five Easy Steps

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:13:00 +0000

A reader recently asked for advice on writing a successful query letter. It's almost impossible to b e a successful freelance writer without learning how to write an outstanding query letter. Although query letters are traditionally associated with print publications, more and more online publishers are requiring query letters. As profits from web publishing continue to increase, freelance writers should expect most serious employers to ask for query letters, whether they publish online or in print.

Writing a query letter isn't difficult. The format is simple, and you already have the information you need for the content. The hard part of writing a good query letter is finding the balance between being attention-getting and ridiculous.

Most editors receive hundreds, if not thousands, of query letters each month. Most will give each query only two or three seconds of attention before the first decision is made. The majority of query letters are almost immediately rejected, but a few will get further consideration. How do you make sure your query letter gets serious consideration? There are a few things you can do.

1. Match your topic closely to the publisher you are querying.

It doesn't matter if you have the most compelling, hottest story on the planet if you query it to the wrong publisher. All publications have a defined audience, style and series of topics. Before you even begin your query letter, research the publications thoroughly.

In your research, go to the publication's website and look at the writer's guidelines as well as the areas of the site designed for readers. If they publish complete stories online, read a few to get a feel for what they publish. Order a sample copy, or go to the store and browse through a few recent issues. Large used book stores and libraries are a great place to find back issues of magazines, newspapers and other publications you might be considering querying. Browsing through several issues will give you a better understanding of what a particular publisher prints, and also help you avoid querying about topics they have recently covered.

2. Give your topic a unique spin.

General topics have been covered over and over and over. How many "Save Money on Gas" articles have you seen lately that all offer the same information. Whatever your idea, try to give it a unique twist. This will not only help your query letter stand out, but greatly increases the chances of getting the green light to produce the article you've queried.

For example, instead of "How to Save Money on Gas," go a little deeper and consider a topic like, "How to Protect Yourself From Con Artists Promising Better Gas Mileage," or "Going To The Extreme for Better Gas Mileage."

3. Open your query letter with a hook.

The first line of your query letter should be so enticing and intriguing that the editor wants to learn more. One simple method is to use the most interesting fact you plan to include in your article. If the most interesting fact is not intriguing, then you should probably revise your topic. Another method is to say something shocking or surprising. It's important to remain professional and not cross the line into the ridiculous, but this is also your best chance to grab the editor's attention, so don't be afraid to push boundaries.

4. Follow the hook with a brief summary of your idea.

Limit this portion of your query letter to one paragraph. Include some basic facts or information, the angle from which you will approach the topic and the names of any individuals or sources you will be using.

5. Explain why you are the best writer for the project.

Mention your experience, your contacts, previous publications, anything that shows an editor that you are qualified, professional and capable of completing the work, and that you are the best person to do the work. Limit this portion to one paragraph as well.

Even if you haven't completed similar projects, mention any experience you have working with an editor. It is important for an editor to know that you can meet deadlines, accept constructive criticism, and work closely with the publication to complete requested revisions.

If you don't have any professional experience, don't say so. This is an opportunity to show off your strengths, so don't point out your weaknesses. Don't lie or stretch the truth, but use any experience you have that is relevant to the project you're proposing. Don't talk mention the opinion of friends and relatives, but do include any positive professional reviews of your work.

End your query letter as you would any other business letter, by signing it "Sincerely, Your Name, Your Contact Information."

Here's a few additional things to keep in mind for writing a great query letter:

* Query letters should be brief and never longer than one page. Give the editor all the information they need to make a decision, but no more than that. Don't include your resume, personal history or interests or references in a query letter. If an editor wants that information, they'll ask.

* Be polite. This should be obvious, but some writers make the mistake of being pretentious, overly confident and rude. A query letter is the equivalent of a cover letter for a resume. While you might tell a prospective employer that you could make a positive impact on the organization, you would not tell them that their IT department is a disaster, and only you can fix it. The same goes for query letters. Let the editor know you'll deliver quality writing, on time, that will interest readers and increase revenue, but don't bash their other writers or previous articles.

* Wait for the editor to respond. Don't tell them, "I'm sending you an article." In the first place, you shouldn't write the article until the query is accepted, because the editor is likely to have specific suggestions or requirements and assuming that they will want your article as-is, without being tailored to their publication, is obnoxious. In the second place, most editors don't want your article unless they ask for it.

* Be creative. Have fun writing your query letter. Keep it professional, but not dry. Follow the rules of grammar and punctuation, but don't worry too much about keeping the query letter in a business format. An interesting query letter will let an editor know that you can also write an interesting article.

* Don't call. Editors and their staff don't have time to answer questions about whether or not they received your query letter, or whether or not they're interested. If an editor wants to talk to you, they'll call you.

I hope these suggestions help. My favorite resource, as I've mentioned before, for learning more about query letters is Writer's Market. The beginning of each book includes an entire section on query letters, including examples of actual query letters that show what to do, what not to do, and notes from actual editors explaining why they did or didn't respond to a query letter.

Now get out there and write a successful query letter!

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:58:00 +0000

I hope everyone had a great weekend! There's lots of great jobs today!

Investor relations blogger

Corporate recruitment blogger

Video game reviewers

Review beauty products

Write a bio

Movie blogger

Technical writer

Content for web development site

Theatre writer

Write vocabulary questions

Writer for niche magazine

Writers for Haitian / Antilles lifestyle mag

Personal injury blogger

Automotive writer

Edit attorney newsletter

Editorial assistant for online mag

Green parenting bloggers

Design blog editor

Write about high-end cars

Car enthusiast writer and photographer

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:40:00 +0000

The good news is: here's a short, but great list of job leads for today! The bad news is: there won't be a daily job list posted tomorrow. The job list, will, however, return on Sunday. (I am working on getting a guest blogger for days that I am unable to post.)

Write book reviews

Writer/marketing for wedding site

Writer for legal websites

Constant content has new requests for articles ($20-$40 per article, requires free membership)

Auto purchase & financing content for government website (lots of red tape, but could be well-paying)

Business writers

Writers for dating site

Photo gift marketing writer

Don't Save Me Money!

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 19:10:00 +0000

I'm disappointed to announce that there were no (zero, nil, nada) entries in the Best Marketing Tips blog entry contest.

I was really looking forward to reading the entries, announcing the winners, and of course, paying out the $10 for the best post. So stop saving me money and submit some entries!

I'm extending the deadline and you have until 12 p.m. MST on Wednesday, June 25, to submit an entry.

Today's Freelance Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Tammy) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 18:17:00 +0000

It's wonderful Wednesday! I hope everyone is having some success with their search for gigs this week! There's tons of great job leads today!

Columnist about the media

Mediabistro writing instuctor

Travel blogger

Mobile technology writer/promoter

Blog about Vista (they want somebody who loves Vista, so if you do, you may not have much competition for this gig :) )

Gossip and entertainment writer

Women's business site writer

Driving games blogger

Latino lifestyle writers

Real estate blogger

Call for project management articles

Post on forums

SEO content

Writer for Christian Yoga site

Keyword article writers

Luxury writer

Non-fiction childrens writer

Design bloggers

New web mag call for submissions

Online education blogger (did I post this already?)

News editor

Gift registry articles

I haven't had any feedback, positive or negative, about whether posting the ScriptLance job leads are helpful, so I'll continue posting them until there's some sort of consensus. As I said before, the positive is that it's a bidding site where you don't have to pay an upfront membership fee, you only pay when you actually win and complete a project. The negative is, that like lots of other bidding sites, there are a lot of low-paying jobs and lots of people willing to bid ridiculously low. Still, I've met some of my best clients through bidding sites, so I think they can be worthwhile.

Write 15 ads

Write copy for web pages

20 articles needed

SEO articles

Travel articles

Cell phone articles/tutorials

Tech blogger

Blog posts

Edit ebook