4 Freelancing Myths


*

Vision 69

 

4 Freelancing Myths

By

April Aragam

Copyright © 2012, April Aragam, All Rights Reserved

 

 

 

New writers, as well as seasoned writers, often hear rules that others say you must live by. The truth is there aren't too many hard and fast rules when it comes to freelance writing. There are rules that seem to go around and everyone believes, but sometimes it's okay to break the rules. This article outlines 4 freelancing myths you may have heard.

 

1. You can't break in without clips

 

If this statement were true, then no one would be a writer. Everyone started with no clips. Don't let that stop you from submitting. You might find more success if you submit a completed article rather than a query, so that the editor can see your writing style. Having a blog can also come in handy for showcasing your writing style if you have no clips. You can point editors in the direction of your blog and they can take a look if they wish. Don't avoid submitting to a publication that asks you to submit clips.

 

2. You shouldn't email editors

 

While editors are busy and you might feel like your questions will only add to their to-do list, sometimes it's just what an editor needs. Editors lose track of things too. They forget to email people they said they would email. While they might have things under control a lot of the time, if an editor forgets to email you with info, don't feel anxious about emailing them. They'll be grateful for the friendly reminder. Don't email editors with every single question you can think of or out of impatience though. That won't go over as well and may affect your future with the publication.

 

3. You have to start at the bottom

 

Who says you need to start at the very bottom? If you're looking to gather a few clips quickly, you can certainly begin at the bottom. You're not obligated to start at the bottom though. If you have the ability to write for magazines in the middle or closer to the top, go for it! The only way you can know for sure is to try. You don't have to start in one place. You can try breaking into markets of all levels.

 

4. You shouldn't share market information with friends

 

Sharing information about contests and markets you've found is one of the greatest parts of having friends who are writers. If you are scared to share information you've found because you don't want the competition, it's important to remember that your friend is only one person. The rest of your competition is the hundreds of other people who learned about the same market or contest. If you refuse to share information with your writer friends, they will stop sharing with you. Writers should work together.

 

Freelancing myths are always floating around. Just because someone, even the most successful writer, tells you how something works, you don't have to abide by it. It may have worked for them. Just use your common sense and your manners at all times.