I was once in the position that some of you may now be facing: laid off and looking for a "real" job, while picking up project work as (I thought then) a short-term way to make ends meet.
Twenty years later, I am still happily self-employed as a successful freelance technical copywriter.
What advice would I give to someone becoming a freelance writer today, whether by choice or circumstance?
You'll find much of it in the excellent new edition of Peter Bowerman's book, The Well-Fed Writer.
I have long recommended Peter's books as some of my top resources for newbies. But even an experienced freelancer will find useful ideas in this new edition.
Among the things I particularly like about this book:
- Practical, down-to-earth advice for creating and promoting a freelance writing business. (Although the book doesn't provide much discussion on using social media for marketing; tools that are quickly becoming a bigger part of my promotional efforts.)
- Insights into special situations, such as building a business in a small town and freelancing part-time while working at another job.
- In-depth chapters on finding clients, pricing services, and handling billing and payment issues.
- References to helpful books and web sites.
- Numerous examples and profiles of successful freelance writers. *
All of this content is delivered in Peter's upbeat, engaging voice which makes the book a fun and lively read.
This new edition won't be available on Amazon.com until October, but you can order it now directly from Peter. Be sure to read about the special packages he's offering only from his site: a collection of promotional tools and a timeline for building your business.
Whether you are dreaming about the freelance life, have just started a freelance writing business, or are a well-established freelance copywriter like me, this is one book you'll want to keep handy for encouragement, motivation, and support.
*I was honored to be chosen by Peter as one of the writers included in these profiles. However, this selection has not influenced my positive review; if I didn't think the book was worthwhile, I wouldn't recommend it.
