Freelance writers will do well if they think outside of the box. Did you know that you could become a W-9 employee? The next time you receive a call from a company inquiring if you’d like to work full-time for them, ask if you could be listed as a W-9 employee. They may find this peculiar, but it will be to both of your advantages.

Being hired as a W-9 employee means a company will send you a 1099 which you’ll use when you file your taxes. This is a win-win situation for you and the company. First, you’ll receive tax benefits. Second, the company receives major benefits such as reduced health care and other costs. Finally, both you and the company’s management team will preserve the environment because you’ll work from home. Perhaps you’ll be expected to go to the office once a month, but that’s better than Monday-Friday.

Working as a W-9 gives you tax advantages. For example, you’ll be able to write-off a portion of your home when you have a home office, phone, computer, paper, and other write-offs. Consult with your accountant about the tax benefits of being paid as a W-9.

Freelance writers, you could gain clients by asking to be classified as a W-9. Point out how you can save the company money. Don’t be afraid to propose being given a W-9 because you may receive a “yes” instead of a no. You won’t know unless you try. All you have to do is ask!

Rebecca

When was the last time you had a W-9? Share.

I can’t tell you how many Facebook Friend and Fan Page Requests I receive from people I don’t know. They don’t tell me who they are or about their product or service. Assuming that everyone will automatically friend or follow your Facebook fan page is a misnomer.

Freelance writers utilize Facebook to market their work. However, before you begin to “friend” everyone on Facebook, tell them who you are and why you’re sending them a friend request. Perhaps you have similar backgrounds or a few friends in common. If they don’t know who you are, chances are they will not accept your friend request. The same applies to your fan page. Who are you and why would a person follow your fan page over another writer’s? What value does your fan page add? What are you doing that’s different from other writers? Knowing the answers to these questions can help your position on Facebook.

Tips and Tricks to Facebook

1. Tell people who you are. Sending out a multitude of friend requests and fan pages could backfire on you. People receive so much information today — they’re on sensory overload! They may discard your requests if they don’t know who you are or what you do.

2. Don’t assume everyone will follow you. This may sting for some people but that’s the way it is. People want to connect with you not feel like they’re being sold to all of the time. Make your request personal and you’ll probably receive a lot of new fans. Don’t assume all people will accept a request because their friends are on your fan page. Some will and some won’t. Combat this by telling them “why” it’s important they become a fan.

3. What value do you add? In order to get people to follow you, make sure you’re adding value to their lives. There are hundreds of thousands of businesses on Facebook. What do you do differently from another company?

4. Create an outstanding ad on Facebook. You’ll have to pay for ad space, but creating a well thought out ad can gain you followers and clients.

Many freelance writers and small businesses are now on Facebook, but they don’t know how to connect with people. Blasting out a ton of friend and fan page requests could work, but sometimes it will not. Personalize your friend or fan page request. Remember that most of the world is desensitized today because they receive too much information in their inbox. You have to capture their attention and interest in seconds! If not, you could be wasting precious time sending friend and fan page requests when you could have been attending a face-to-face networking event.

Remember, people are desensitized today because they receive an alarming amount of information each day. Do them a favor and let them know why it’s important they become of fan of your fan page. They’ll find your approach refreshing!

What approach do you use when connecting with people? Share your expertise.

The new “buzz” word seems to be specialization. Everyone who’s anyone is a specialist. Doctors specialize in areas such as cardiac, pediatrics, neurology or some other type of speciality. Freelance writers can become specialists as well. You may believe you’re limiting yourself but you can actually make more as a specialist — just ask doctors!

Freelance writers could specialize in web copy, ad copy, ghostwriting, newsletters, blogs, or articles. You can drill this down by industry. Perhaps you have years of experience in the health and wellness industry, you could write exclusively for this industry. You could be a freelance writer who writes web copy for the health and wellness industry. This is a huge industry!

Some freelance writers may not specialize and this is all right for now. In time, businesses will look to writers who write for one particular area. For example, on LinkedIn HR professionals will post jobs for specific writing such as writing health and wellness articles targeted to HR personnel not employees. You could make decent money if you have experience in this area.

Tip: When you begin your freelance writing career, you’ll probably write a plethora of copy. After you find your “writing legs,” you can begin to diversify and specialize. Until then, sample from the writing buffet and apply for opportunities that will improve your writing skills.

The “specialty trend” will continue to grow. Freelance writing is a great way to make extra income and or transition out of a career that no longer interests you. If you’re a HR professional, consider writing articles for your career area. There are many businesses looking for information on how to strengthen their human resources department. You’ll get the job since you have firsthand experience.

Being a specialist is the same as drilling down your “niche” market. The only difference is that you’ll write specific copy for different industries or for one industry. It’s about being an expert in your field. Clients like to know they’re working with a freelance writer who’s an expert in a certain area. This will give you an advantage over other freelance writers.

If you’re not specializing today, you may tomorrow. The world changes daily and you must change with it. This includes updating your skills and approach to writing. Embrace change and go with the flow because you never know where it will lead you!

Rebecca

What are your freelance writing specialties? Share!

Freelance writers often write articles that are a bit controversial. Not everyone will agree with what you have to say or your opinions. This means some readers may get so irate reading one your articles that they’ll call you a name that it feels like a personal attack. Many spiritual gurus would tell you, “…what you think of me is none of my business.” Being called a name stings, but you’ll get over it because controversy sells as does emotional and compelling pieces!

According to Wikitionary, a Personal Attack is…attack on an arguer that brings the individual’s personal circumstances, trustworthiness, or character into question.

Readers are entitled to their opinions, but when they spew their venom on a website or fan page, it could deter others from speaking their mind. If you’re a freelance writer who writes blog posts for a website, make sure the owners have a policy in place that states what is and is not acceptable as far as comments are concerned. Most administrators want to create a safe environment for readers to speak their mind.

Certain topics are “hot buttons” for people such as animal abuse, child abuse, any type of abuse towards another, addiction, and many other topics. Freelance writers tackling these issues will receive feedback. Some of which will be positive while the other half will be negative. Take it all in stride and move forward. Dwelling upon the negativity will only breed more negativity and no good will come of that.

Tips for handling personal attacks

Consider the source. Some people will not read the entire article. They’ll stop at the part that upsets them and make a comment.

Respond in a very professional manner. Avoid being rude when you respond to readers. There’s no reason for you to stoop to another person’s level.

Pat yourself on the back! You wrote an emotional and compelling piece that stirred something within readers otherwise they wouldn’t be so heated about it.

Freelance writers remember that you can’t please everyone. Write your posts or articles as you normally would. Avoid toning down articles (unless you’re asked to do so) because a few readers had their feathers ruffled, didn’t understand what you were trying to say, or didn’t agree with you. That’s the point of being a writer — to engage readers and allow them to draw their own conclusions. Congratulations to you if your writing does just that.

Rebecca

Were you personally attacked because of your writing? How did you handle it? Share your stories.

Some people are natural procrastinators. Their motto is, “…tomorrow is another day.” Tomorrow turns into next week and next week turns into next month. Before you know it an entire year passes and you’re not even close to completing your freelance writing business goals. Procrastination is the number one killer of business and dreams.

Your freelance writing business will not grow itself — you must put some work into it. You can either be a generalist or specialist. In fact, most freelance writers begin as a generalist before they find their passion. Here’s a tip: we are becoming a “specialized” nation and world. Just ask any doctor what she practices. Chances are she’s an anesthesiologist, cardiologist, or some other specialist.

Tips to avoid procrastination

• 1. Create a writing schedule and stick to it.
• 2. Decide what you’d like to write and find writing opportunities. Advertise your services on Craigslist and other networks.
• 3. Join networking groups to promote your freelance writing business.
• 4. Ask for referrals.
• 5. Have someone hold you accountable for your goals. Hire a writing coach.

There are many reasons why freelance writers procrastinate. Maybe you have a fear of failure or success. Perhaps you believe your freelance writing business will take more time than you thought. Whatever the reason is, get over it. You will not know if you’ll succeed or fail if you don’t try.

Maybe you’re overwhelmed with the many facets of freelance writing. Consider a specialized freelance writing business. Perhaps you enjoy writing web copy, blogs, articles, ghostwriting, or ad copy. Any of these can be your specialties. You may narrow down your niche by industry. Maybe you’ll write for the health and wellness industry or pet industry. The choice is yours.

It’s up to you if your writing business grows. Make the decision today to avoid procrastination and do what you must to jump start your business. This includes networking, developing your website, ordering business cards, and asking for referrals. Remember the famous Nike slogan — just do it!

Rebecca

What makes you procrastinate? Share your thoughts.

Most writers dream of writing the great American novel. This takes time, dedication, and perseverance. You may want to write a money-making novel before you attempt to write the great American novel. Writing groups will help you stay the course and finish your novel, eBook, memoir, screenplay, teleplay, play, or whatever it is you’re writing. There’s safety in numbers.

Sometimes you’re not inspired to write. Life can take you by the hand and lead you down many roads; some of them dark and mysterious, others sunny and straightforward. What if you’re not inspired to write? Where did inspiration go? Writing groups can help you find inspiration and keep it.

A writer’s group can benefit you in many ways. From bouncing off your ideas on others to correcting your grammar, you’ll learn a lot from other writers. In fact, you may want to join various writing groups because each one will focus on a different topic. For example, you may find a group that focuses on grammar and punctuation. You could join a fiction writers group or a screenwriter’s group. This way you’ll learn more about your particular writing niche.

Most writers are shy which is ironic because they’re communicators. Writing groups will allow you to break out of your shell. When you sell your book, you’ll embark on a book tour. Joining a writer’s group will help you to hone your speaking skills and gain confidence. The plan is to promote your best-seller not allow it to collect dust in your publisher’s office.

Screenwriters will benefit from writing groups because the members can read your dialogue. You may cringe at the thought of hearing your dialogue out loud, but it will help you write solid dialogue. And, you’ll find those pesky grammatical errors. Remember that group members are not actors. The point is to hear your dialogue. Is it too long or too short? Does it make sense? Would your character say the words you wrote? You’ll find the answers to these and other questions when you hear your words read aloud.

Writing groups are a great way to connect with other writers. Being a writer is a solitary experience which can make you feel alone in the world. Connecting with others will remind you that you’re not alone and that you’re not the only writer in the world. There are people who understand what you’re going through and will support you on your journey. Reach out to others and connect with them today because you never know where those connections can take you.

Rebecca

How can writing groups help you?

I’ve been using Reporter Connection for two months. It was created by Bill and Steve Harrison and is the answer to your prayers. Write a book, boost your radio show ratings, and connect with experts by signing up with Reporter Connection.

What is Reporter Connection?

Reporter Connection is a free service that “connects busy journalists with experts to interview or quote on a particular issue.” You can sign up with Reporter Connection as a resource or journalist. Not only can you be a resource for someone, but you can interview experts for your project.

Freelance writers and Reporter Connection

Freelance writers will find Reporter Connection to be their new best friend. Sometimes you don’t where to find experts to interview for your book, radio show, or website. Reporter Connection connects you to experts within seconds.

I’ve used Reporter Connection three times and have been blown away by the responses I received. I had to stop two of my queries because of the amount of responses I received. In one day, I received 15 responses. The next day, I received 10. God only knows how many responses I would have received if I let my query run. I was overwhelmed and overjoyed at the same time!

If you visit my Screenwriting page, you’ll see the benefit of signing up with Reporter Connection. I met some amazing people who are experts their field. The knowledge these people shared is invaluable.

Sign up with Reporter Connection

Freelance writers sign up with Reporter Connection today and interview experts tomorrow. Sign up as a resource and you could be featured on a radio show! To learn more about Reporter Connection visit the website and click on the FAQs to find out more!

Rebecca

How can Reporter Connection help you with your next project?

Being a freelance writer has its ups and downs. You get to work from home or wherever you’re at in the world and have no dress code. The flip side is you’re “hooked up” to the laptop and internet; you could suffer from information overload. Sooner or later you become burned out if you don’t take precautions when you begin your career.

The key to freelance writing is to schedule your projects and ignore emails unless they’re from your clients. This may be difficult for some writers to do, but it will help your productivity. Being focused on projects is number one priority. Answering an email from your friend is not.

Tips for dealing with burnout

• Take breaks throughout the day.
• Get up and move — do stretching exercises.
• Stop and do some deep breathing exercises.
• Go for a walk at lunch.
• Connect with others through networking groups or social groups.
• Take a vacation.
• Schedule a day off; most people choose Friday!

Freelance writers hardly take breaks throughout the day. This is not healthy. In fact, some writers gain weight over time because they’re not moving. Take your half hour, 45-minute, or one hour lunch. Get up and move around to keep the circulation and writing juices flowing. Walk to the store or post office instead of driving — it will do the body good.

Take Friday off! Yep, some freelance writers start the weekend early. They don’t answer email, post on Twitter or Facebook, check LinkedIn, or use anything electronic. It’s a day to begin resting and relaxing. It’s no wonder that writers suffer from burnout because they don’t relax or don’t know how to relax. Scheduling a day off is a great way to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. There’s no reason that you couldn’t take a day off if you’re meeting deadlines.

Freelance writers find a balance between work and play. All work and no play will make you one cranky writer! Take breaks throughout the day so you don’t feel overwhelmed. Stretch, go for a walk at lunch, or practice deep breathing exercises. It seems unimaginable that writers would get burned out from a career they love, but it happens. Be proactive before it’s too late!

Rebecca

What do you do to avoid burnout? Share your thoughts.

Many people want to become writers. Furthermore, a greater number want to become freelance writers. Why? What’s the appeal of freelance writing? If you focus on the “glamorous” side of freelance writing or being your own boss, you may be in for a rude awakening. Make no mistake about it freelance writing is a business and it’s all on your shoulders. You probably didn’t think about that. Keep reading.

Freelance writing is appealing because you’re the boss and able to write from anywhere in the world. All you need is internet access, a laptop or Mac, and cell phone. You may choose to rent a flat (apartment) in the UK for six months. All you have to do is let your clients know where you are and that you’ll continue to provide great service from another part of the world.

Before you become a freelance writer, interview a couple of writers and get their story. How did they get started? What obstacles did they face? How did they overcome them? What were their expectations? What training did they have? What business skills do they have? Getting the answers to these and other questions will help you make a decision about freelance writing. It may not be for you and that’s all right.

Freelance writing takes discipline. Are you easily distracted by Yahoo! IM or social media sites? How will you schedule your time? How good are you at meeting deadlines? How well do you handle pressure? These questions are not meant to scare you. They’re meant to open your eyes to the business side of freelance writing. It’s not all brochure copy, headlines, taglines, newsletters, web copy, and other copy writing. It’s your business!

The business side of freelance writing is almost never addressed. What tax form do you fill out? Are you aware of the tax deductions you can take? Do you know what CPA stands for? Do you know when to file your taxes? How good are you with saving? What are your expenses? What are your income projections for the year? You probably didn’t think about these business questions. They’re important to your freelance writing career.

Before you become a freelance writer, speak to other writers and editors. These people have a wealth of information. They can shed some light on the business side of writing. It’s not all glitz and glamour! You may find that you’d rather work as a contractor for a corporation or at a publication. Whatever you decide, make sure it’s the best decision for you!

Rebecca

What is the appeal of freelance writing? Share your thoughts.

Many screenwriters would like to see their work produced. However, they may not have the funds and require an investor to back them. This can be tricky because most screenwriters are not business people and don’t understand how investors think and work. It’s best to know what you’re up against before you ask for $50,000 to make your short film.

Screenwriters must know that it’s not about them — it’s about the investor. You may be passionate about your short film, but an investor wants to know what’s in it for him. He’ll ask what the ROI (return on investment) is. If you aren’t familiar with ROI and other business terms, a couple of business courses will educate you in no time.

Make sure you have a business plan when you speak with investors. This does not mean you have to give them a 30-60 page business plan (standard), but have an outline or proposal prepared about the project.

Investors want to back a good deal. Screenwriters must prove themselves to investors. What makes your film unique versus another? How do you know your film will make money? Asking yourself these and other questions will assist you when you approach investors.

Information to give to investors

• Name of project.
• Description of project.
• Filming location of project.
• Time frame of project. When does filming begin and end.
• Budget for project.
• Projections. How much will the investor make on the film?

Numbers and the “bottom line” are important to investors. Screenwriters who don’t know what they’re speaking about can kiss an investment in their film goodbye. That’s the way it goes. If you’re not confident to approach an investor, have someone who knows how to approach investors work with you. Otherwise, you could blow an opportunity of a lifetime.

Screenwriters focus on the creative aspect of the “entertainment business” instead of the entire picture. You are in a business of marketing and making films which solves the problem for the general public of what to do on a Friday or Saturday night. The sooner you understand that Hollywood is a business, the better off you’ll be.

Avoid being rude or arrogant when you approach investors. Screenwriters who lack non-verbal and verbal communication skills will benefit from classes on these subjects. Again, you’re in a business and professionalism is required. This may not sound glamorous but it’s part of the business!

Developing and building relationships is part of the entertainment business. If you’re not relationship savvy hang around people who are and learn from them. Taking a few classes on relationship building will not hurt you — it will only help you.

Screenwriters who are serious and want to see their work produced will do what it takes to get their name out there. Whether or not you make it as a screenwriter depends solely on you and how well you communicate with people. Good luck!

Rebecca

How do you approach investors? Share your thoughts.