A Freelancer's Survival Guide at Forbes.com

Those who are looking for advice on starting a freelance business, may find this article titled "A Freelancer's Survival Guide" interesting: http://tinyurl.com/67awyq. Even though it deals with all types of freelancing, it is very applicable to freelance writing.

You may want to forward the link or add the article to your social networking sites such as facebook, del.icio.us, Digg, Twitter, MySpace or Stumbleupon to help others find this useful information.

Yvonne Perry
www.writersinthesky.com

Anthologies

Writing for an anthology is a great way to break into publication and provides a viable clip for your portfolio. This market offers a host of possible topics in fiction, non-fiction and even poetry. An anthology is a collection of writings which can be written by various authors or can include selected writings by one author. Stories included in an anthology usually have a common theme or subject. Anthologies can also work as stepping stones to establish relationships with publishers and to eventually get published by a larger press. These relationships can open doors later when you are ready to submit a longer manuscript. Check Anthology News and Reviews for current markets.

Donna Sundblad is a full time freelance writer and published author. Check out her blog Pumping Your Muse Writing Prompts for inspiration.

Taryn Simpson's Interview with Freelancer's Union

What has been your most interesting project?

No question, it would have to be co-writing and collaborating with another writer located in Beijing, China! We used email and instant messaging as our sole means of communication. When I created the blog to promote our book, he couldn't even access it for a long time due to China's strict internet laws.

Even though my co-writer is a native New Zealander, he has taken on many Chinese qualities and I've learned a lot about people in that sense. The Chinese philosophy is much different than American business philosophy. A true sense of friendship or interest has to exist before business is done. That's how it happened with us. We clicked immediately and I truly feel that this book was a blessing for me. He initially contacted me to "punch up" the book and our client/writer relationship immediately turned into friendship.

The book also contains a sense of mysticism which is prevalent in Chinese culture. My co-writer bought a restaurant that sits upon a legendary Mystical road called Loi Kroh Road. The story goes that when King Mengrai the Great founded the city of Chiangmai in the year 1296, the superstitions of the East entered the city and lay in wait in the shadows of Loi Kroh Road where today, it is told, they still wait patiently. As planes land at Chiangmai airport, it is said that with every landing a fool steps off and enters Loi Kroh Road, never to be the same again or, in some cases, never to be seen again.

The novel, "The Mango Tree Cafe, Loi Kroh Road" is a fictional novel but is loosely based on my co-writer's life. It is a very powerful, emotional book and each time I read it, I am in tears. I'm extremely proud of this book and am in the midst of marketing it. It's currently scheduled to be shown at the Beijing, China International Book Fair. And, if you can believe this, people have formed a yahoo group regarding the book! I have the link below.

Why did you decide to go freelance?

If you live in the U.S., that is a goal that most everyone aspires to become, I think. The idea of choosing when to work, where to work and so on is very, very appealing to me. Financially, it presents issues at times! But, when I look at the big picture, it is more than worth it. I just knew I wanted to write for a living and I was sick of the Corporate America life. Freelancing is the ultimate sense of self and empowerment.

What tip would you give to a new freelancer or someone who is considering going freelance?

I would highly suggest reading the Peter Bowerman books, "The Well-Fed Writer" series. Although I rarely do the type of writing he does, the principles and thought processes are the same. They are excellent books and I recommend them constantly to anyone that voices a desire to freelance for a living.

I would also suggest joining groups such as the Freelancer's Union and network, network, network. Also: SAVE AT LEAST 6 MONTHS OF SALARY and make sure you have read the Bowerman books before you make the plunge! Everything you need is within you, but you need a plan and a sense of direction to be successful.

What is your favorite spot in the city in which you live?

I really love the area where I live, but I also enjoy the Music Row area during the day. You see a lot of musicians walking in the neighborhood-esque area going from studio to studio. The city is big enough and small enough for me. People are genuinely nice in the South and once I moved here and learned to "slow down" I fell in love with the place. People watching is interesting and you meet a wide variety of people from tourists to transplants from California, New York or Texas etc.

What is your inspiration?

I'm naturally driven, I guess. That's a plus when you're a writer! I can't say it's to gain fame, or have people know my name, necessarily, but I would like to be known for writing great, entertaining books. I hope that one day that happens. I keep going back to my latest book, "The Mango Tree..." but I have this thing inside of me that I could have 1 million agents say that the book stinks, and it doesn't matter. I believe in the book that strongly. I am absolutely and thoroughly convinced that any person that picks that book up to read it will be affected by it. I know I am. I guess I have a dual personality, part writer, part promotional ! Yet, I have to make myself network and so on. It's a real dichotomy within myself.

Here are some links that hopefully you can include:

The Blog
The Mango Tree Cafe, Loi Kroh Road

You Tube Book Trailer that I created
YouTube - "The Mango Tree Cafe, Loi Kroh Road" - Book Trailer

Yahoo Group
mangotreecafe : Mango Tree Cafe

The Mango Tree Cafe, Loi Kroh Road -Where to purchase
The Mango Tree Cafe', Loi Kroh Road by Taryn Simpson, Alan Solomon (Book) in Literature & Fiction

Taryn Simpson is a freelance author, ghostwriter, screenwriter, playwright, blogger and columnist. She has written/ghostwritten two screenplays, nine books and is about to have her fictional thriller, "Glittering Secrets" converted to an independent film with Fast Track Productions. Her other screenplay, "Conversations with Pearl" garnered attention from the Project Greenlight critics and was featured at the Southern Festival of Books in 2002. www.Simpson-EPublishing.blogspot.com

No Marketing Budget? No Problem!

9 F.ree or Cheap Marketing Ideas You Can Use Today by Kristen King

Forget "bang for your buck." You can market yourself and your services for free with these easy self- promotion tips:

1. Create a signature line and append it to all outgoing e-mail messages. Include your name, the name of your business or something to identify your services, your website address, and contact information. Make it very easy for potential clients to contact you and pass your name along to others.

2. Participate actively in free e-mail discussion lists and online forums related to your target market or area of expertise. Asking questions makes you approachable, answering them gives you credibility, and reading others' comments is like a dozen free marketing and business courses rolled into one. Include your signature in every post.

3. Submit your website to the major search engines and indexes: Google, MSN, Yahoo!, Open Directory, Looksmart, and others. It's not particularly difficult to do it manually, but you may benefit from checking out a service like the one offered by Robert Woodhead at SelfPromotion.com. He provides straightforward search engine optimization (SEO) info and explains the entire submission process. The articles and advice on the site are fantastic, and a free account there is, well, free!

4. Start a blog or free, subscription-based e-mail newsletter to build recognition, credibility, and relationships, and to drive traffic to your website.

5. Write letters to the editor and op-ed columns about subjects that may interest your potential clients or that establish you as an expert. Be sure to include your URL or professional e-mail address in the author bio blurb.

6. Sell or volunteer articles for newsletters and websites read by potential clients. Include a bio that identifies your business and expertise and include your e-mail address and/or URL.

7. Write a few short "evergreen" articles and submit them to content distributors like EzineArticles.com. You may pick up a few dollars along the way, and you'll increase your visibility as your articles are reprinted by various publications.

8. Take advantage of www.PRWeb.com's free press release distribution services to get your name out there and keep your business in front of your audience.

9. Visit Craigslist.org and post a short, well-written ad in the Services section for your city or region. Include a link to your website, and use your real e-mail address (not one of those anonymized ones).

Marketing doesn't have to be expensive. Bite the bullet and shell out a few bucks for your website and a new batch of business cards every now and then -- but otherwise, save your money for things that aren't so easy to get for free.

Kristen King is a freelance writer-editor and consultant from Northern Virginia, and the author of InkThinker, which was named one of the top 10 blogs for writers in 2006.
Article Source ezinearticles.com. Subscribe to Kristen's f.ree e-newsletter here

June Network with Us

Add your announcement or brag about your writing accomplishment. Tell us about your book or business. Share information and ideas or send articles or advertorial for the next issue to writer@yvonneperry.net. Remember, you may post a comment on my blog http://yvonneperry.typepad.com/ghostwriters/ anytime.

Here are some announcements from our readers this month:

Review for Us

Would you like the opportunity to review books for BloggingAuthors.com? We are actively seeking quality book reviewers in all genres, fiction and non-fiction. Reviews must be received within three weeks of book receipt, and be no shorter than 500 words.

If these requirements work for you, e-mail your contact information, and types of books you’d like to review to nancy@bloggingauthors.com . If you’ve previously written reviews, please send a sample along with your e-mail.
****************************
Need help with Grammar?
Take a quiz to find out: www.grammarbook.com

****************************
Video Trailers for your Book from Reader Views

Leading book review website, Reader Views has launched a new service called PreViews. The PreViews mimic movie trailers for books in that they summarize the story in a short video format. The online video allows authors and publishers to share the books similar to the way movies advertise their upcoming films with previews. The Reader Views team is excited about providing their innovative book PreViews. The PreViews will likely change the way books are promoted in the future.

“There will be a number of ways to use PreViews as a promotional book marketing tool,” says Irene Watson, owner of Reader Views. “Aside from posting your PreView on our website, YouTube and our MySpace, you will have the rights to the video and may post it on your website, your MySpace, distribute it with your marketing materials or any other venue you choose to promote your book. It is truly something no author or publisher should be without.”

Publishers and authors are increasingly turning to these new PreViews for their books. Due to dramatizations and engaging narration, PreViews come off just like regular movie trailers only better because they can be viewed on personal websites and played as promotional footage and advertisements. There is no end to the possibilities.

For information and the low-cost pricing guide go to: www.readerviews.com

****************************
Link Swap and Complimentary eBook by Al Diaz

Al Diaz is offering a link swap and a complimentary eBook to anyone wanting to better understand spiritual empowerment and enlightenment.

Go to http://www.thetitusconcept.com/FreeEBook.html

“An inspirational miscellany from one of the braver souls on the planet...a menagerie of lyrics, haiku, short personal essays and even briefer aphoristic words to live by---all on the theme of leaping over seemingly insurmountable hurdles…” --Kirkus Discoveries

“This book is an amazing read by an amazing person. Her writing is very accessible and enjoyable as she ‘shows without telling,’ without arrogance or preachiness...an expression of joy…wonder…passion…teaches simple truths...” --ForeWord CLARION Reviews

****************************
Tennessee Writers Alliance News invites writers to register for their 2nd annual conference. Writers of all genres and skill levels are invited to attend the 2007 TWA Writers’ Conference June 8-9, at Battle Ground Academy in Franklin, Tennessee. Conference highlights include a keynote speech by The Widow of the South author Robert Hicks; Friday sessions on “What Editors Want” and literary agent panel led by Chuck Sambuchino, editor of the 2008 Guide to Literary Agents; a marketplace for members to sell their books; and Saturday sessions on poetry, fiction, nonfiction, songwriting, mystery writing, children’s lit, and creativity.

And that’s not all! See http://www.tn-writers.org/conf07.htm for more information and for downloadable (pdf) registration, schedule and more. (For TWA members, you’ll also be receiving this information by snail mail soon, in the spring Tennessee Writer.)

- Enter our fiction and poetry contests by July 1st.

Guidelines for our 2007 short fiction and poetry competitions are now posted; judges will be announced soon. First Prize $500, Second Prize $250, Third Prize $100. See www.tn-writers.org/contest07g2.htm for details.

Thanks to all of you who entered our creative nonfiction contest! Results will be announced at our conference in Franklin June 8th - 9th.

- Check out other 2007 writing events and opportunities now posted on our events page at www.tn-writers.org/events.htm.
****************************
Writing Contest Makes Every Entrant a Winner with a 750-word Critique

Paula B, host of The Writing Show would like to let everyone know about a writing contest.
Want to get published but don’t know how your novel measures up? Enter The Writing Show First Chapter Contest and get 750 words of feedback from publishing industry pros plus a week’s free access to Literary Market Place Online, a searchable database of the North American book publishing industry.

• First prize: $500, the two-volume print version of Literary Market Place, and an interview on the popular podcast The Writing Show.


• Two second prizes: $100 each.
  

Enter by May 15, 2007 and pay only $35. After that until June 15, 2007, the entry fee is $45. Winners will be announced on November 15, 2007.

Judges include publishers, editors, reviewers, authors, and other industry professionals. The winning entries will be selected by a celebrity panel that includes best-selling crime fiction author C.J. Box.

Entries will be judged on:

1. Story. Is it a compelling read with a great hook? Are we engaged?


2. Style. Is the writing smooth and tight, without awkward constructions, extraneous verbiage, and redundancies?


3. Dialog. Is the dialog natural and does it move the story along?


4. Character. Are the characters interesting? Do we care about them?


5. Mechanics. Are grammar, spelling, and punctuation correct?
   

Rules, instructions for entering, and more detail can be found at The Writing Show Web site. The contest is sponsored by The Writing Show and Literary Market Place.
*****************
Conscious Discussions Talk Radio Show

Dae and Lillian Brummet, authors of the book, TRASH TALK, are thrilled to announce their talk radio show called “Conscious Discussions”. Listeners are invited view the website and click on the Test session to hear what the show will be about. Anyone interested in appearing on the 1/2 hour show as a guest is welcome to contact the Brummet’s through one of their websites (see below). The show will be recorded live and airs every Tuesday at 10 am PST.

RADIO SHOW DESCRIPTION: Discussions about the environment, the value of the individual and the world of writing.

HOSTS: Lillian and Dave Brummet, authors of Trash Talk (waste reduction), Towards Understanding (non-fiction poetry) & Purple Snowflake Marketing (book promotion).

KEYTAGS: author, book, book promotion, education, energy, environment, family, interview, lifestyle, money, promotion, recycle, reuse, talk show, trash, trash talk, waste, water, writing, zero waste.
LOCATION: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/consciousdiscussions
TIME: EVERY TUESDAY @ 10:00 a.m. PST - (First show airs on May 8th)
AUTHORS WEBSITES:http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit
http://www.myspace.com/canadianauthor

****************************
Jump Start Your Career as a Freelance Writer
Ae you trying to start your career as a freelance writer, or do you want to take your writing career to the next level?

Then here’s a great program for you. It’s called Writers on Call—a subscription based weekly teleclass for writers.

Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. Central Time, fulltime freelance writers and hosts, Suzanne Lieurance and Yvonne Perry, offer a 55-minute group tele-coaching session. And you don’t need any special equipment to take part in these weekly sessions - just a telephone. The classes are recorded so you don’t miss any vital information if you cannot make the call. If you want to participate in the weekly conference classes, go to http://www.yvonneperry.net/Writersoncall.htm and subscribe to Writers on Call.
If you want to make money on a program that helps freelance writers, go to http://www.the-working-writers-coach.blogspot.com and get your affiliate link for Writers on Call. On the Working Writer’s Coach blog, scroll down until you see “affiliates - sign in here” in the right column of the homepage. Once you sign in, you should be able to grab your personal affiliate link to the program. However, if you have any problems, email Suzanne at suzanne@workingwriterscoach.com.
****************************
Writer’s Resources
See www.Blueagle.com to find online columnists.
www.Newsdirectory.com
****************************
Donna Latvis of Bridgewater, MA is available for book readings/signings of her book released May (2006) “Defend God’s Word.” Here’s a note from Donna:

In this book I attempt to share the wisdom I have found in the Bible. To share what God’s Word has shown me about Salvation, Faith, Comfort, Prayer and many other subjects. This is my testimony of the hope I have found through my Savior Jesus Christ. This is my way to give God the honor and praise He so richly deserves for all He has done for me. The Bible is God’s written word to us. It can guide us throughout our lives. It can shepherd us to eternal life. It is so important to get to know God’s Word, believe God’s Word and be willing to Defend God’s Word!
In March 2005 my first book “Gifts from God” was released. This was a collection of poems that I had written throughout my life. I started writing in my early teens, with my grandmother, Ina Blanchard Bates influence. She had written poems, short stories and song lyrics for years. And I could always go to her for advice.

I was born in Whitman, Massachusetts in 1959. In 1979, at the age of 20, I moved to Norfolk, Virginia. But the Massachusetts area was always home for me. So in 1997 I moved back. Some people might think I’m crazy, but I love the seasons, and yes the snow. I have had some of my writing in newspapers, anthologies, and on my web sites
http://www.publishedauthors.net/defendgodsword/index.html
www.geocities.com/isaiah1222000 .

Both “Defend God’s Word” and “Gifts From God” are available at PublishAmerica.com. You can also go to your local bookstore and order them. Or if you would like a signed copy contact me at isaiah1222000@yahoo.com or phone 508-697-2101.

Donna Latvis
****************************
Nancy Hendrickson of Blogging Authors is offering authors an opportunity to create a buzz for their books.
http://www.bloggingauthors.com/about/get-buzzed-within-24-hours

For a one time fee of $199, she will post a synopsis, bio, author photo and book cover, ALONG with 3 interviews and/or reviews, over the course of 30 days. “We like to spread out the posts so that way the author can be on the front page of the site for a longer period of time,” she says.
The site gets 25,000 hits a month. Also headlines from the site are seen up to 400,000 times a day-thanks to its membership in a Network that provides content to prominent sites like Reuters, USA Today, Fox News, TheStreet.com, and TV websites across the country.
****************************
Must Reads for the Publishing Writer
Here are some great books to assist writers toward publishing and marketing:

From Book to Bestseller Penny Sansevieri ISBN-13: 978-1-600370-85-4
Talk Radio for Authors Francine Silverman ISBN-13: 978-0-741437-87-7
Calling All Authors Valerie Connelly ISBN-13: 978-1-933449-43-2
The Frugal Book Promoter Carolyn Howard-Johnson ISBN-13: 978-1932993103

June 2007 Writers On Call Schedule

Are you hoping or planning to start a freelance writing business? If so, have you joined Writers on Call yet? These classes contain some great information about becoming a better writer and how to start or operate a freelance writing business. Here’s the schedule for June. You won’t want to miss these classes, so subscribe NOW! http://www.yvonneperry.net/Writersoncall.htm

June 7 - Re-Evaulating Your Goals for 2007

Suzanne Lieurance will be facilitating this class. During this session we'll look back at the goals each of you created for yourself in January. We'll talk about the progress each of you has made, the setbacks you might have experienced, and any other problems you've had moving forward with these goals. If you never created definite career goals for yourself in January, we'll help you do that during this telesession. We'll also look back at some of the telessions we have presented so far this year, to see if any of these other writers have provided a good model for you to follow with any of your writing goals and projects.

June 14th - Group Critique Session

This week, subscribers are invited to submit their query letters, cover letters, etc. for critique and review. Before the session, we'll also review tips for writing effective query letters. Suzanne Lieurance will be facilitating this class.

June 21 – PART 3 of a 6-Part Series on HOW TO START AND MANAGE A FREELANCE WRITING BUSINESS

In this class we will conduct a personal assessment of our strengths and weaknesses. We will capitalize on our strengths, and overcome weaknesses or else learn to work around them. Do you have specialties or niche writing you enjoy? Find out what type of writing best suits your style. Yvonne Perry will be facilitating this class.

June 28 – PART 4 of a 6-Part Series on HOW TO START AND MANAGE A FREELANCE WRITING BUSINESS

How do you know what to charge for freelance gigs and ghostwriting projects? Learn how the pros set prices as Yvonne Perry facilitates this information-rich class.

Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Call it what it is!

By Yvonne Perry

Doctors and researchers are mislabeling their own product when they refer to fertilized eggs (zygotes and blastocysts) as embryos. The media is simply repeating this misnomer and fueling the flames of moral argument. Yes, these in-vitro cells are within the first two-month stage of development that is covered by the term “embryonic”; however, these fertilized eggs are not going to develop into embryos until after conception occurs. Conception can only occur in a uterus, not in a laboratory.

There are a number of better choices for terminology when referring to undifferentiated stem cells. It might be helpful to call the cells what they are: “blastocyst stem cells” or “in-vitro derived stem cells”. Both of these are fitting terms, which would not be as likely to raise the hackles of those who assume that a human being is automatically formed when eggs are fertilized in-vitro. History shows that religious ideological wars in America are not quickly or easily resolved. I doubt there is a way to truly “win” the political and religious wars over stem cell research. There are some ways to circumvent some of the hostility on both sides of the issues. By providing factual information and using common sense, we can come to an agreement to take action that is in the best interest of the most people.

I’m not going to argue about the terminology here. Instead, I want to show you two reasons why a blastocyst is not being harmed in the research process.

1. Biologists can take a single cell from a blastocyst, study the DNA (pre-implantation genetics) and determine its health and other characteristics without harming it. In pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, one cell is removed from an 8- to 16-cell blastocyst for testing purposes. It is allowed to multiply/divide overnight. One of the three new cells is examined the next morning. If it is free of the diseased gene, the rest of the blastocyst is introduced to a uterus at the correct time of the menstrual cycle. If the blastocyst implants itself successfully, a pregnancy will occur and further development will produce a healthy baby. Since the fertilized egg is not harmed in this process, this knowledge should remove the moral issue associated with the study of in-vitro blastocysts.

2. Scientists will not always need new blastocysts to work with. In fact, the remaining two cells mentioned above that were grown for examination purposes can be used to create new stem cell lines. Presently, these new lines would not be eligible for the NIH registry for federal funding since they were created after the August 2001 cut off imposed by the Bush administration.

Thanks to a therapeutic cloning method known as SCNT, scientists are able to duplicate existing cells for research purposes. SCNT requires no fertilization. Instead, an electrical current is used to “jump start” the process of cell division.

Senate bill 5, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act was passed on April 11, 2007 by a vote of 63 to 37. The purpose of the bill is to relax current policy and allow leftover blastocysts to be used for scientific research regardless of the date they were derived. Unfortunately the Senate did not raise the two-thirds majority of 67 votes needed to override a probable veto by President Bush. Another bill also passed attempting to outlaw SCNT and even impose a fine for those who attempt it.

Information such the above will be available in a book titled Right to Recover: Winning the Political and Religious Wars over Stem Cell Research in America set to be published by Nightengale Press in October 2007. To learn about stem cell research or read more about this book, please visit www.right2recover.com.

Yvonne Perry is a freelance writer and editor who assists clients with any type of writing project. She is the owner of Write On! Creative Writing Services based in Nashville, Tennessee.

Email Interviews Have Their Place:

6 Times for Writers to Use Email
By Melissa Barton

Many veteran journalists warn new freelancers and staff writers not to use email to interview sources. Email interviews can be stilted, awkward, confusing (if the subject isn't comfortable with writing), or even too polished. It's also harder to have a natural conversation through email, which can restrict the direction of an interview.

But there are times when an email interview is acceptable, or even a better option than a traditional phone or face-to-face interview.

1. Avoid time zone conflicts. For one article, I had to interview a Peace Corps member serving in Albania, while I was in Colorado. Trying to coordinate a phone conversation given the timeframe would have been difficult. Fortunately, my source was articulate in writing and could access email a few times a week. The interview and follow-up went well.

2. Confirm complex information. When interviewing scientists, lawyers, or other experts about complex topics, it can be helpful to conduct part of the interview by email. Seeing the explanation in writing can help you avoid errors. Email is also a good tool for confirming your understanding of a telephone or in person interview.

3. Get background. If you know your verbal interview will have a strict time limit, you can email the source a list of questions to answer first. This can be a good way to get background that will ensure the interview flows smoothly and you doesn't waste time covering basic questions.

4. Answer quick follow-up questions. Some sources are difficult to reach by phone after an interview. Email works well for quick follow-up questions and clarifications.

5. Interview writers. While many people are more articulate and "quotable" in person, some people--like bloggers and other writers--may interview better over email or an instant messaging program. Be careful using these interviews--these people can sometimes be too polished in writing.

6. Interview a deaf and/or mute source. I once received an assignment (later changed) to interview a deaf/mute priest who lived in another state--in cases like this, email is often the only practical way to get the interview done.

Telephone and face-to-face interviews offer gesture, tone, and flexibility email doesn't--but keep email in mind as an occasional tool in your interviewing kit.

Melissa Barton is a freelance writer and editor, specializing in science and travel writing. Her credits include Geotimes, Transitions Abroad, Student Health 101, and other publications. Visit her online at Rosetta Stones Freelancing (http://www.rosettastones.net).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Barton

Jump Start Your Career as a Freelance Writer

Are you trying to start your career as a freelance writer, or do you want to take your writing career to the next level?

Then, here's a great program for you. It's called Writers on Call—a subscription-based weekly teleclass for writers.

Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. Central Time, full-time freelance writers and hosts, Suzanne Lieurance and Yvonne Perry, offer a 55-minute group tele-coaching session. And you don't need any special equipment to take part in these weekly sessions - just a telephone. The classes are recorded so you don’t miss any vital information if you cannot make the call. If you want to participate in the weekly conference classes, go to Write On! Creative Writing Services and subscribe to Writers on Call.

If you want to make money on a program that helps freelance writers, go to The Working Writer's Coach blog and get your affiliate link for Writers on Call. On the Working Writer's Coach blog, scroll down until you see “affiliates - sign in here” in the right column of the homepage. Once you sign in, you should be able to grab your personal affiliate link to the program. However, if you have any problems, email Suzanne at suzanne@workingwriterscoach.com .

Copywriting Training: The Fundamentals You Need To Understand When Writing Copy

By Jo Han Mok

When you are trying to learn how to write an effective sales letter in any copywriting training course, you need to first recognize and understand the basics. The basics are crucial in order for the sales letter to flow nicely. I will briefly elaborate on them.

1. The Qualifier

A qualifier is a term to let the reader know to whom this sales letter is intended to. A pre-header if you will. If you did not apply a qualifier into the sales letter there could be a misinterpretation of information. For example, a man looking for ways on how to fish better would not want to read a sales letter on copywriting training. For example: Attention: All fishing enthusiasts who have always dreamed of finding the perfect lure! You may have seen this kind of qualifier before and this is what you call a qualifying statement. There is no doubt who this sales letter or web page is for.

2. The Headline

First, adding open and closed inverted commas or a quotation mark somehow appeals more to the eye when a headline is being read. It is almost like the eye-catching sensation when you read a fiction book, where you prefer to know what the character is going to say rather than what the narrator is trying to tell you.

"Think about the quotation mark is a sign of me trying to tell you something and you have no choice but to read it." When you're inventing a headline, create one that packs a hell of a punch. Make the reader stop to read your headline and be in awe of it. The choices of words you use are VERY important. Choose the words that arouse interest in the prospect. In turn, the reader moves on to the next line and eventually the whole sales letter, to see what you're up to, and that is, promoting the product.

3. The Opener or Lead-In

The opening of a sales letter is like the opening of a conversation with someone. You may start by telling a story to invoke curiosity to make them want to read on and know more. The story could be a fantasy or a problem someone had. Make sure it subtly leads to the product you're promoting or you might as well write a fairy tale right then and there.

4. The Body Copy

A BIG mistake among first-time copywriters and advertisers is their ability to sell a product's features but not its benefits. If you sell a product's features, the prospect will be thinking, "So what if the software is most updated in its technology? I want to know what it can do for me." Thus, subtly try to make your prospect understand what it is about this product and why they must have it in their life. Basically you want to answer the burning questions that your prospect has which are.

Who are you? Why should I listen to you? Whats in it for ME?

5. Sub-Headlines

Sub-headlines are a teaser for what's coming right up in the sales letter. It could be a quote or it could be much like a headline, but with a little less impact.

Adding a subhead can increase the readership in your sales letter and increase the likelihood of closing the sale. When a prospect is reading your copy, and gets to a section that is either boring to them or looks like it is too difficult to keep reading, a good subhead will grab them by the eyeballs and force them to keep reading.

So in essence a good subhead can be somewhat of a headline styled point that pulls your reader down into your copy.

6. Bullets

Bullets basically summarizes up the product's benefits. It tells the prospect what they will get and how their lives would change if they purchase the product to arouse deeper curiosity. Also, with bullets, it is much easier to read and understand rather than having to read the benefits of the product in a paragraph.

The key point with a bullet is to peak curiosity.

7. Testimonials

People respond easily to that product when they see that it has benefited others. It is human nature on our part, because our conscious mind does not allow us to put our trust in a certain product unless there's proof big enough for us to trust it.

The beauty of testimonials is that it plays on a powerful force in human consciousness that compels us to believe in or against a decision. That force is the power of social proof.

Further study into human influence and persuasion is required to understand that point further. A good book on this is "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Dr. Robert Cialdini.

8. Closing

This section of a sales letter is your last chance to prove to the prospect that the product is something worth having. You may state how different this product is, how rare it is on the market and how beneficial the product is to the prospect.

Another tactic to use in the close is the take-away or making the product or service scarce or limited availability. This tactic forces your prospect to think twice about leaving without ordering and a large percentage of them WILL end up buying.

Writing powerful copy is quite simple if only you understand your market and know what their needs, wants and wishes are. All too often people are quick to write a sales letter to close a sale yet never give concerted thought to WHO they are writing to and what they want and need. Research into your market is key but once you know who your market is and what they want, your sales will skyrocket as a result.

Copyright (c) 2007 Jo Han Mok

Jo Han Mok is a #1 bestselling author and one of the world's most powerful copywriters. Discover his copywriting training secrets that have generated millions of dollars! Visit his website at http://www.internetmillionairecode.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jo_Han_Mok

How Writing Changed My Life - And How It Can Change Yours Too!

By Yuwanda Black

Some writers know in grade school that writing is what they want to do when they grow up. I was never like that. Even today, with close to 15 years under my belt as a freelance copywriter, I still don't consider myself a writer.

I think of myself as an editorial specialist. But, I do write and get paid for it, so I guess that makes me a writer. Following are three ways that writing has changed my life.

1. Freedom: As in, freedom from fear. When I started freelancing in the early 90s, I never dreamed it would turn into what it has.

I started out as a freelance copy editor, proofreader and editor. I didn't start taking on writing projects until a few years into my freelance career. But, once I realized that, "Hey, I can make a real living from this," it gave me a freedom I didn't realize I would come to cherish until years later.

Once you realize that your power to make a living lies totally and completely in your hands, you walk a little taller, believe in yourself a little deeper and work harder to keep it so.

I know that as long as my brain doesn't turn to mush (I have to work hard to keep this from happening some days!) and I have use of my hands, I can work. There's a comfort in that.

2. Interest: As in, interest in the world around me. I'm pretty curious by nature and I've always been an avid reader. When you write for a living though, it takes on a new kind of clarity.

I listen to the news for story ideas; I listen to tales from my friends for different twists on ordinary topics; I take note of my surroundings with eyes open for the next great article.

3. Question: As in, question the world around you. Because I write a lot, I also research a lot. I know that the twist of one phrase can give a whole new meaning to a story, an article, a definition.

Take the war going on in Iraq. When we hear that over 3,000 soldiers have been killed since it began, you might think, in Vietnam, over 58,000 died -- this war's not as bad.

But, when you hear that over 10,000 have been wounded - many seriously, that implies a different kind of war; a different view of what's going on.

So, I question a lot of what I hear, read and view. Is this the whole story? Were there some facts left out? Some "half-facts" put in?

The written word, especially in our technologically advanced world, is a powerful medium. Indeed, the pen [keyboard] is mightier than the sword - and all writers would do well to remember that the next time they sit down to write.

How has writing changed your life?

May be reprinted with the following, in full: Yuwanda Black is the publisher of http://inkwelleditorial.com/: THE business portal for and about the editorial and creative industries. First-hand freelance success stories, e-courses, job postings, resume tips, advice on the business of freelancing, and more! Launch a Profitable Freelance Writing Career in 30 Days or Less -- Guaranteed! Log on to http://inkwelleditorial.com/ to register now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yuwanda_Black

Cheap Writers Never Win

Leigh A. Zaykoski has written a piece about what it takes to write an article. She gives excellent reasons why a freelance writer should not accept the under-paid assignments listed at Craig's list or similar Web sites.

Cheap writers never win, but they do harm the rest of us who are trying to make a living at our craft.

Read the article here.

Tips for Freelance Writing

Here's a gift for those who subscribe to Writers in the Sky blog. Tips for Freelance Writing is a collection of articles to assist writers who want to work full-time. Articles include:

• Starting Your Freelance Writing Business
• Marketing Yourself
• Setting Fees for Freelance Writing Projects
• Using En and Em Dashes
• Write What You Want and Sell It
• Different Types of Editing
• Self-Publishing
• Tips for Formatting a Book
• Five Ways to Publish Your Book

Subscribe in a reader

Enter your Email to subscribe

Breaking into Freelance Writing

By Trish Anderson

To break into freelance anything and make some money you will need three things;

1. Planning

2. Persistence

3. Commitment

In the world of freelance article writing, you will also need a strong desire to write. In fact, the stronger the better because with that comes everything else and, eventually, some money to make it all worth while.

For the freelance new kid, invest in some writing courses or workshops either online or with your local writing centre. Purchase a few books on writing articles and how to market them. Your country's version of Writer's Market is a handy resource. Read it with pen, paper and sticky notes beside you so that you can mark your targets.

Develop a list of article ideas. Write down every topic that you have a working interest or some knowledge in. Start with five ideas, produce a list of sub-headings, fill in some information [500 - 800 words], polish it all up and there you have your first bunch of articles.

Always check your work over for basic errors as well as the usual style and content readability. If you're not sure about your work, join an online critiquing group for some productive feedback. Remember to always give feedback in return as "payment" for the members' time and effort.

Start submitting your articles to any of the web-content sites. You won't get paid, but choose your site carefully and you will be marketing yourself. Articles from these sites go to other sites, usually with your bio/resource box attached. Once you have a collection of published articles that you're happy with, you can start using them as "clips" for submitting to paying markets. Clips are your C.V. and you will need them as you move into the wider world of freelance writing.

If you have a particular area of interest or expertise then make sure you produce plenty of related articles. This not only proves an ongoing ability to write in this field, but also helps to promote you as an "expert" in the area.

Talk yourself and your writing up at every opportunity. When meeting people be sure to introduce yourself as a writer. This usually is enough to gain the other person's attention and provide you the opportunity to talk about your work further. Introduce yourself in writing groups and provide your "business card" at the end of your e-mails. Wherever and whenever you can, tell people that you are a freelance writer.

Open your eyes to all possibilities. Freelance writing offers a broad spectrum of specialisations and services. Don't be afraid to explore new aspects of your career. For instance, most freelancers will tell you they not only write articles, but also e-books, fiction, non-fiction, ghostwrite, media releases, produce newsletters, tutor…

Breaking into freelancing requires grit, determination and a whole lot of planning! But with the necessary amounts of persistence and commitment, you can do it. Start small, develop your plan of attack and get writing!

Trish is a freelance writer with desktop publishing, promotional material, content sourcing, location and information research, fiction critique and web group management skills tucked firmly into her workbelt. To find out about rates and other services, or to read more of her articles, visit Trish at http://beginningsmiddlesends.blogspot.com/ or send an email to wordcatcher@hotmail.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trish_Anderson

Breaking into Freelance Writing

Breaking into Freelance Writing

by Trish Anderson

To break into freelance anything and make some money you will need three things;

1. Planning

2. Persistence

3. Commitment

In the world of freelance article writing, you will also need a strong desire to write. In fact, the stronger the better because with that comes everything else and eventually some money to make it all worth while.

For the freelance new kid, invest in some writing courses or workshops either online or with your local writing centre. Purchase a few books on writing articles and how to market them. Your country's version of Writer's Market is a handy resource. Read it with pen, paper and sticky notes beside you so that you can mark your targets.

Develop a list of article ideas. Write down every topic that you have a working interest or some knowledge in. Start with five ideas, produce a list of sub-headings, fill in some information [500 - 800 words], polish it all up and there you have your first bunch of articles.

Always check your work over for basic errors as well as the usual style and content readability. If you're not sure about your work, join an online critiquing group for some productive feedback. Remember to always give feedback in return as "payment" for the members' time and effort.

Start submitting your articles to any of the web-content sites. You won't get paid, but choose your site carefully and you will be marketing yourself. Articles from these sites go to other sites, usually with your bio/resource box attached. Once you have a collection of published articles that you're happy with, you can start using them as "clips" for submitting to paying markets. Clips are your C.V. and you will need them as you move into the wider world of freelance writing.

If you have a particular area of interest or expertise then make sure you produce plenty of related articles. This not only proves an ongoing ability to write in this field, but also helps to promote you as an "expert" in the area.

Talk yourself and your writing up at every opportunity. When meeting people be sure to introduce yourself as a writer. This usually is enough to gain the other person's attention and provide you the opportunity to talk about your work further. Introduce yourself in writing groups and provide your "business card" at the end of your e-mails. Wherever and whenever you can, tell people that you are a freelance writer.

Open your eyes to all possibilities. Freelance writing offers a broad spectrum of specialisations and services. Don't be afraid to explore new aspects of your career. For instance, most freelancers will tell you they not only write articles, but also e-books, fiction, non-fiction, ghostwrite, media releases, produce newsletters, tutor…

Breaking into freelancing requires grit, determination and a whole lot of planning! But with the necessary amounts of persistence and commitment, you can do it. Start small, develop your plan of attack and get writing!

~~~~~~~

Trish is a freelance writer with desktop publishing, promotional material, content sourcing, location and information research, fiction critique and web group management skills tucked firmly into her workbelt. To find out about rates and other services, or to read more of her articles, visit Trish at http://beginningsmiddlesends.blogspot.com/ or send an email to wordcatcher@hotmail.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trish_Anderson

TGIF January 5 Peter Bowerman Show Uploaded

TGIF January 5 and Yvonne Perry has uploaded her interview with Peter Bowerman!

In 1993, after a 15-year career in sales and marketing, Peter Bowerman turned his sights to freelance commercial writing. With no industry experience, no previous paid writing experience and no writing background, he built a commercial freelancing business in Atlanta, Georgia from fantasy to full-time in less than four months.

Click here to listen to Part 1 ...

His corporate client list has included The Coca-Cola Company, MCI, BellSouth, IBM, UPS, Holiday Inn, Cingular Wireless, DuPont, American Express, Mercedes-Benz, The Discovery Channel, Junior Achievement, Georgia-Pacific, The Cartoon Network, the CDC, The American Heart Association and many others.He has published over 250 articles and editorials, leads seminars on writing
and is a professional coach on both commercial freelancing business start-up
and self-publishing.

Click here to listen to Part 2 ...

In 2006, he released The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living. This eagerly anticipated how-to guide to making your book a commercial success – minus the big publisher or hefty marketing budget – chronicles his own successful self-publishing path, where he indeed created a full-time living for more than five years (and counting). For more details, visit: http://www.wellfedsp.com/.

Click here to listen to Part 3 ...