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Sometimes freelance writers will encounter clients that don’t pay on time or at all. How many times have you encountered clients like this? It’s time to say goodbye to these clients for good and hello to solid clients that understand that you’re more than a freelance writer — you’re a business man or woman.

Freelance writers deserve respect. In order to have respect, you must respect yourself. This means saying “no” to low paying clients. Refer them to the college kid down the road who’s just starting out or someone in India charges next to nothing. There’s no reason for you to put up with clients who don’t pay you or pay your rates.

Before you agree to write for anyone now and in the future, tell them your rates and your terms. Also tell them that your rates are subject to change. This is nothing new. Read your cell phone bill if you don’t believe this. In fact, you may want to read the fine print because you’ll be surprised at what you find. You’ll see that rates are subject to change and sometimes without notice.

Being a freelance writer also means that you’re in business for yourself. Yes, you are a business owner. If you don’t think you could handle owning your own business, you may want to forgo becoming a freelance writer. Remember, you’re responsible for marketing you and your services. You’re also responsible for finding and retaining clients. Think about this before you enter the realm of freelance writing.

Here are some steps to follow if you clients aren’t paying:

• Send another reminder invoice. Give your clients the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps they got busy and just forgot. It happens — no one is perfect.
• Make sure your clients know your terms. Do you expect payment up front? Do you expect 50% up front? Are your terms net, 30 days or net, 20 days? Make your payment terms clear.
• Get a signed contract. Before you proceed with writing, lay out all the details in a contract. Who owns the copyrights? What are the payment terms? What are the termination terms? This way there aren’t any surprises.
• Contact a collection agency or lawyer. Do this as a last resort; it’s up to you if you want to take it this far. Depending on the amount of money, you may choose to use a collection agency or lawyer. Sleep on it before you proceed.

Freelance writers deserve to be paid for their services. Be consider in your services and you’ll attract professional clients that will pay you on time. Start being selective about clients and forget about writing for everyone that approaches you. Take time to consider the project. Meet face-to-face with a client in order to get a better “feeling” for them. Sometimes you can’t “tune” into someone via email or phone. Be discerning and discriminating. More importantly, be a smart business owner!

Rebecca

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This is Part II of the blog What Type of Clients do You Attract? If you’re not attracting the right clients to you, take a look at your personal beliefs around your freelance writing. What is your personal philosophy around attracting clients? What types of clients do you expect to attract? Knowing the answer to these and other questions will help you get clear about who you want to write for.

Getting paid on time is important

The most important aspect of running a business is revenue. Some people will disagree and say it’s loving what you do, providing impeccable customer service, or knowing that you’re the best at what you do. This is true but you must be paid in order for your business to continue.

How do you want to get paid? By check? By PayPal? Direct deposit? How much do you require up front? Knowing the answers to these questions is imperative to running your freelance writing business. Clients want to know what your rates are. Tell them. If they scoff or say it’s too much, thank them for their time and wish them success. There are plenty of writers out there who are charging well below average market rates. Of course, you’ll probably have to fix the work they’ve done. The client that turned you down could come back to you!

Attract the clients you want

Jim Rohn said he didn’t know his personal philosophy which is why he was struggling to make ends meet. After receiving guidance from his mentor John Earl Shoaff, Jim turned his life around. Doors opened up for him that he could only imagine. This could happen to you. Perhaps you need a writing coach or mentor to show the way. Remember, when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.

New freelance writers may be scared to turn down work. Let go of this thought. All it takes is one time and you’ll become a pro at it. Stop settling for clients who don’t pay, balk at your rates, or want 50 million revisions without paying for them! It’s not worth it. In fact, it’s your self-worth that’s attracting these clients to you. If you have a low self-worth, you’ll attract clients who are less than stellar. On the flip side, it could be a good lesson for you to learn. When clients don’t pay you, return your phone calls or emails, it will help you reexamine the types of clients you’ve been attracting to you. Get serious about your freelance writing once and for all and become the success you want to be. Good luck!

Rebecca

What types of clients have attracted to you? Share your experiences.

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This is Part I of a blog that will examine the types of clients you may be attracting to you. Do you attract clients that pay on time or don’t pay at all? Do you attract clients who don’t communicate well with you? Are you attracting clients who balk at your rates? If you’re not attracting the clients you want, you could have set an intention to “get burned” by clients or that you can’t make it as a freelance writer. Take a look inside of you to find the answers.

Before you embark on a freelance writing career understand that it’s a business. If you have no desire to run a small business, forgo freelance writing. In order to grow your business you must find clients that need you. That’s right — clients need you! Make sure you attract the right clients to you, otherwise you’ll be sorry.

What type of client do you want?

Make a list of the qualities you’re looking for in a client and make sure you match 99.9% of those qualities. Are they in a particular industry? Do they give you creative freedom to write what you want? Do they work with you to develop topics? How are their communication skills? Do they prefer phone or email? What do you prefer? Knowing who your client is before you begin freelance writing can save you from constant stress and worry. Speak to any freelance writer and they’ll tell you their “stories” about when they first started out. The lessons they learned were tough but it helped them become the success they are today.

It would behoove freelance writers to overcome the fear of saying “No!” If a client wants you to lower your price below market value, say “No!” If a client wants to negotiate a price and your “gut instinct” sends you a warning not to do it, say “No!” It’s better to lose a client than to start working a project that makes you miserable. Your health is as important as your salary — it’s probably more important!

How much do you charge?

You probably heard the saying, “…charge what you’re worth.” Some writers laugh at this because they’d charge $1,000,000 for a blog post or article. Wouldn’t it be amazing if a client paid this? Remember what Jim Rohn’s teacher told him, “…profits are better than wages.” Freelance writing is no different from other businesses. You’re in business to provide a valuable service, to market your business, and earn a profit. There’s nothing wrong with earning a profit from doing what you love to do.

This is it for Part I of What Types of Clients do You Attract. The second half will examine “Getting Paid” and “Attracting the Clients You Want to Write for.” Stop settling for second or third best. If you know you add value and have a lot of experience, start charging what you’re worth. You’ll be surprised how this “shift” will take you in the right direction.

Rebecca

What types of clients have you attracted to you? Share your experiences.

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Some people love DIY projects. From putting in a new floor to painting the entire the house, these folks persevere no matter what. That’s great but what about when it comes to DIY websites and templates. These can be websites or templates that are already created but require a few tweaks here and there (think WordPress templates). What happens when you’re not thrilled with the color the schemes? How do you change them? What about font and line spacing? There’s nothing worse than small font that you can’t read!

Web design can leave freelance writers feeling lightheaded. It’s overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. Perhaps you don’t know what “HTML h1 to h6 tag” are. What about CSS style sheets? The thought of this language may leave you feeling defeated.

Freelance writers who understand HTML could “tweak” templates without any problem. But they may not be exactly what you want, especially color schemes. Sometimes you can’t upload a custom logo because you don’t understand how to do it. This can be frustrating.

Where to find templates

• WPSkins
• TopWPThemes
• StyleShout
• Free CSS Templates
• Themes Preview

If you’re lucky, you’ll find a template that was created by a web designer who was thoughtful to include “instructions or “Read Me” text. Sometimes designers will include their email address and website. You’ll be able to contact them if you have any problems.

If you’re thinking about creating a web design from scratch, make sure you know what you’re getting into before you proceed. Hiring a web designer may be more ideal for you if the thought of web coding makes you swoon. There are many web design tutorials on the internet. If you feel up to it, design or redesign your website. Good luck!

Rebecca

Who designed your website? Share.

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The number of blogs on the internet increase every day. What makes yours unique? Many blogs have the same theme. Perhaps they’re about freelance writing, blogging, Paris, SEO, interior design, graphic design, screenwriting, or whatever your niche is. How do you make your blog stand out with so many other similar blogs out there? This can be quite the conundrum!

Freelance writers are no stranger to blogs. They have their own and write posts for clients. It’s their job to make sure the content is unique and strikes a nerve with readers. No one wants to read a blog post that could put you to sleep faster than a sleeping pill! Hook the reader and reel them in so they keep coming back for more.

Writing a blog can be tedious if you’re writing on the same topic as everyone else. How many “how to” posts are really needed? Be original and break out of the mold. Use a different angle if you must write a “how to” post. Provide information that hasn’t been written about yet. This may take some research time but you can do it.

Tips to creating a blog that won’t make you gag

1. Write unique posts in your style, tone, and voice. Forget about copying your writer because that’s too boring.
2. Create attention grabbing headlines and back them up with solid information.
3. Change your color scheme one in awhile. You may get bored with the look of your blog or could use a makeover. Freshen your blog with a different a color scheme and layout. It could help with your ranking.
4. Breakout of the “how to and tips and tricks” blog posts. There’s more to blogging than “How to do this or How to do that.” Be bold and daring and write posts that make readers stop and think or at least present a “How to” post in a different manner such “Create Your Blog and Attract Readers to Your Site.”
5. Find your niche. If you’re not passionate about your subject matter it will show in your blog posts. Make sure you’re passionate about what you do and have fun with it.

Blogging can be your worst nightmare if you don’t like to write. This why hiring a freelance writer is a good idea. They’re creative people who think of ideas you didn’t even know were possible. They weave your keywords into each blog post which can increase your page rank. They can also find a photo to accompany your blog to make it stand out.

If your blog is making you gag, then it’s time for a change. Step back and reevaluate why you created a blog in the first place. What’s your goal for the blog? What do want to accomplish with a blog? You may want to consult a freelance writer who’ll critique your blog and provide you with solid feedback. It could be the investment you make all year!

Rebecca

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You wouldn’t think that snakes and freelance writers have anything in common, but they do. Now before you run for the hills because you have a fear of snakes, stay calm and continue reading. In fact, this may be a good time to shed your fears!

The keywords for snakes are wisdom, beauty, growth and awakening, and transmutation. This must be why the Chinese revere the snake.

Freelance writers often write poignant material that can help people heal their lives. Writers also create beautiful copy that entices people to buy products and services. On the flip side or shadow side, the snake is often represented by the fear of letting go the past which will hold back your new growth. Some freelance writers can’t let go of projects, clients, writing styles, and genres. They become stuck and can’t move forward with their writing.

Following your heart is often advised, but sometimes you can become stuck from doing the same task over and over again. Freelance writers who want to grow their writing business will challenge themselves to write in different styles, tones, and genres. They’ll give web content writing a try versus sticking with the safety of writing only blogs. In fact, if you stretch yourself you could increase your income.

Fact: Did you know that snakes can jump or “fly” from tree to tree? Better look out!

Freelance writing can have a great impact on people. You could ghostwrite a book that will be on the New York Times #1 Best Sellers list that will change the lives of people. You may not get credit for the book, but you’ll know that your words made an impact on many people.

If you’ve been awakened and want to follow your dream of becoming a freelance writer, don’t wait any longer. Like the snake, you’ll grow and awaken over time. You may shed genres and writing styles, but this transmutation will make you a stronger writer. If you want to take your freelance writing to the next level, let go of your fears, projects, clients, and anything else that’s holding you back. Shedding and letting go can open up a world of opportunities for you. Good luck!

Rebecca

How have you grown as a freelance writer? What do you need to shed? Share your thoughts.

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Some freelance writers experience burnout or writer’s block which translates to stale writing. Ideas are not as fresh as they used to be or they’re nowhere to be found. You scramble to think of something to write, only to be mocked by the blank page that appears before you. What’s a writer to do? Take a chill pill, calm down, and continue to read this blog.

I’ll admit that sometimes I feel like my writing’s stale. How many times can you read a blog post about “How to start a blog? How to get started in freelance writing? Or What’s a blog?” With so many blogs on the internet, I’m sure you’ll find your answer and it probably won’t be that much different from mine. I remind myself that unique content is king not plain old content. My goal is to provide readers with posts they haven’t seen before on the internet. I know it’s a stretch. Spiritual gurus believe we share “collective consciousness” which means there’s a chance someone already wrote the post that I want to write. That’s okay because I’ll add my flavorful spin to it!

Kicking up your writing

Do you remember that famous business catchphrase “think outside the box?” It could help you freshen up your writing. Brainstorm for topics that you’d like to cover and that your readers would find interesting. Peruse the internet to see if the topics been covered. You can always write a post that has your personal touch.

Don’t shy away from controversial topics. Some people are afraid of conflict which is why they don’t write them. Luckily, I don’t shy away from controversy. I happen to enjoy knocking at the doors of people perceptions to see if I can persuade them to look at a subject from a different perspective. Remember what Napoleon Hill said, “…opinions are the cheapest commodities” so you may as well throw your opinion in once in awhile. Don’t be shy about it. No one’s judging you. Okay, there will be a few people who may judge you. But who cares, it’s not like you’ll meet them face-to-face. Then again, it’s a small world and you could meet face-to-face. Don’t allow that stop you from standing your ground and speaking up.

Need a refresher course?

Writing classes could revive your writing. And, it’s a great way to get social. Writers are solitary folks who stare at the same four walls every day. It’s good to get out and mingle. The bonus is you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who already have a connection with on some level.

Writers conferences and workshops can re-energize your writing. Learning new writing techniques or trying something new will enhance your writing and bring you out of a rut. Again, the networking opportunities are endless. You could strike up a conversation with a couple of editors and land writing opportunities.

Keep your writing fresh, hot, and clean

Don’t allow your writing to become moldy and stale. Every writer faces burnout in their writing career. Sometimes it’s good to take a hiatus from time to time. Go away for the weekend and commune with nature because it will open you all of your senses. Give meditation a try when you sit in nature. Let go and release all thoughts. You’ll be surprised how be silent and still can give you new ideas.

Get back in touch with “why” you became a writer. Perhaps you need to go in a different direction. If that’s the case, mourn your previous writing years and begin anew. It may be scary but once you take the first step, you’ll find your footing. Sometimes all it takes is a new perspective. Find yours today and tomorrow your writing will shine again. Good luck!

Rebecca

How do you keep your writing fresh? Share your thoughts.

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If you’re a very, very social person being a freelance writer may not be for you. Some freelance writers experience depression on the job. After all, the writer’s life is one of solitary confinement. Unless you hire one or two writers to work with you, it can become very depressing to work by yourself. There’s no need to be blue about writing alone, you just require the knowledge and tools to free yourself from the grips of writer’s depression.

Writing can be a lonely profession. It’s best to know this before you decide to become a freelance writer. You may not like being confined to your home office. Staring at the same four walls every day could slowly drive you insane! Just kidding — but working by yourself could get to you if you let it.

Humans are social creatures and not being around people could make you irritable. For some people it’s just the opposite. However, being around the right people is the key. Surround yourself with like-minded folks and you’ll be just fine.

Being a freelance writer doesn’t have to be a depressing career. You could listen to music when you write. If you receive a ton of work, you could hire one or two writers to help you out. Who knows, your writing practice could take-off that you’ll have to move into a small office.

Tips to combat writer’s depression
1. Decorate your home office with colorful artwork.
2. Hire a feng shui expert to design your home office.
3. Have fresh flower in flowers or plants in your office.
4. Get a pet that you can easily manage.
5. Join book clubs and writers groups.
6. If possible, meet with your clients face-to-face once or twice a month.
7. Take a break and get outside. Go to the beach, park, or walk around your neighborhood.
8. Volunteer at for your favorite charity like the Humane Society (I do this).
9. Take up a hobby like painting, pottery, drawing, model airplanes, or whatever interests you.

Freelance writing is a wonderful profession. You actually get paid to do what you love. How many people can say that? Don’t allow the solitude to choke you like the black smoke from a bus’ exhaust system. Make sure you’re involved in activities other than writing. It’s good to branch out of your comfort zone and try something new.

If you’re feeling the freelance writing blues, take a break right now. Before you do something drastic like quit writing, find something else that you’re passionate about and do it. Writing doesn’t have to be a gloomy profession; you don’t have to be the stereotypical depressed artist. There’s a bright side to your profession, you just have to find and appreciate it!

Rebecca

What do you do to combat the non-social aspect of being a freelance writer?

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I was recently interviewed by a woman who wants to begin freelance writing. She just had a baby and has a toddler; she doesn’t want to go back to work full-time. She found me through The WM Freelance Connection, a website I was guest blogging for — April is my last month writing for the website. She has a teaching background and has written before; she’s just not sure how to get into freelance writing. It’s easy to begin, the key is to pick your niche market and find your passion!

Freelance writing can be a lucrative and rewarding career. You must be prepared to put some work into it. Opportunity will not literally knock upon your door. It’s up to you to market you and your writing. If you don’t like sales and marketing, it would behoove you to get over that right now.

Look for freelance writing opportunities in your backyard. Go to the local bookstore and ask if you can leave your business cards. Get involved with the Chamber of Commerce and attend meetings. Post flyers around your city in grocery stores, bookstores, and other establishments that will allow you to leave them.

Where do you find writing opportunities

1. Online
2. Networking events
3. Family and friends
4. Newspaper classifieds

The way I began freelance writing was answering an ad from a CareerBuilder prompt. I received a notification about a bookkeeping position that a travel company in Arizona had open (I have an accounting and management background). I visited the website and noticed the organization was looking for a marketing person and writer. I took a chance and submitted my resume for the marketing and writing opportunity. I worked on the marketing side for about two weeks when it was decided I was more suited for writing. Long story short, I’m still writing for my client.

If you’re serious about freelance writing begin today. Look on the internet, do your homework, and make sure you want to be a freelance writer. It’s a solitary career and you could become depressed. However, you can combat the non-social aspect by joining book clubs, writing groups, and participate in other activities. Good luck!

Rebecca

What interests in you in becoming a freelance writer?

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Life is full of twists and turns. Sometimes freelance writers take part-time or full-time jobs in addition to their freelance writing work. Sometimes business owners moonlight as well in order to pay the bills. Whatever your case is time management is crucial. You only have 24 hours in a day, make the most of them to complete your projects.

Time management is easy when you have tools to assist you. If you have a PC, use Windows calendar to schedule your work. If you have a Mac, use iCal to schedule your work or some other application for Mac. Once you create your schedule, you’ll know exactly what to do each day. Just be prepared for days when unexpected events come up which requires you to rearrange your schedule.

Freelance writers can benefit from a schedule. It’s a great way to ensure that all of your projects are completed on or ahead of time. Use whatever system works for you from an Excel spreadsheet to a bulletin board. This is useful if you’re a visual person.

You may think that you can keep track of time, but you’d be surprised how fast it goes. Before you know it, you’ll be half way through the day and may not even be close to completing projects. Check-in with yourself to see how well you’re doing. Make adjustments to your schedule when necessary.

Time management tips!

1. Answer important emails. Do not answer or look at your emails unless they’re from your clients. Look at your email twice a day: once in the morning and then at night.
2. Choose a time management system that works for you. Use Windows Calendar, an organizer, bulletin board, online system, or some other time management system.
3. Answer important phone calls. If it’s not an emergency or your clients, don’t answer the phone.

Don’t lose track of your projects because you could lose more than time — you could lose your clients! Clients are your “bread and butter” and without them your business will not survive. Choose a time management system that works for you and stick to it. Good luck!

Rebecca

What time management tools do you use? Share.

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