Rich Minx

I woke yesterday morning to find an email in my Inbox saying an article I wrote a while back was about to be published in a magazine. This is good news, because when it gets published I get paid, and I’d been waiting a few months for them to slot it into an issue. I also took the photos, so I get paid for that too. All up it should be something like $500. That’s good considering yesterday I made $0.00 cents on AdSense. (If this keeps up I won’t make it to my weekly target of 4c!)

Writing articles, especially travel articles, is something I really enjoy. Some people suggest that I do it full-time but I’ve never been keen on that idea. When someone tells me what to write it takes most of the fun out of it. Perhaps that’s why I like blogging so much: writer= me, editor = me, publisher = me. Staff meetings are quick, and with surprisingly little arguing.

Here are my tips (although I’m still learning too) for any wannabe freelance writers:

• Read, read, and keep reading. Books and articles are inspiring and teach you a lot.
• Know your target audience. If you’re submitting to the Wall Street Journal, don’t write in the style of Cosmo. It sounds simple, but many people don’t stop to consider this. This will affect the length of your article as well.
• Network. Go to media events. Get good publishing contacts and they’ll think of you next time they want something written.
• Do your homework. Don’t just email your article to feedback@websiteofpublicationyouwant.com. Contact the Travel Editor, Features Editor or even the Editor Editor directly. If you don’t hear back (which is common with busy editors), follow up.
• Check your spelling. Freelance writers and their articles get discussed at publishing meetings. If the sub-editor loves you, they’ll speak up.
• Know your rights. This depends on the country too, but generally publications have a standard rate per word. Make sure you’re not being ripped off! Talk to other freelancers to see what they make and get some advice.

Career Ramblings has a post on this too.

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