In the last few entries, you might have noticed a similar theme on freelance writing. I made it sound easy and simple to begin a career in this field. Nothing can be further from the truth. A word of caution which you should heed: freelance writing is not as glamorous as it seems. Even more so if you are not equipped with the proper or adequate knowledge on how to - and how not to - start. Robert Bly’s Getting Started As A Freelance is one book I invested in to help me chart my course. The book is an excellent reference for us novices just as much as those who are professionals. Generally the book covers some basic grounds in a simple manner.
With 15 chapters, this book takes readers from intention all the way to expansion. I have been struggling for some time trying to prepare my business plan for this business and the book helped shed some light on the issue. Hold on a minute: business plan?!
When you regard (freelance) writing as a business, then and only then it would be easier for you to actually generate income. Yes, you’re gonna have to have a business plan. Bly suggests a simple form rather than the typical one with the executive summary, marketing plan, competition analysis and so on. Instead a goal-like plan was suggested: I want to earn $100,000 per annum. Also where do you intend to focus on: technical writing, commercial writing etc.
Remember the magazine hunt I went through? If I had this book beforehand, it would have been more easier and productive. From inquiry letters to submission, a guideline is provided. (NB: Guideline not instructions.) Packed with advice on how to conduct interviews to submitting to multiple editors the book is.
Unlike the books previously mentioned, Getting Started As A Freelance Writer gave insight on self-promotion and marketing. Though basic, it sets the direction of your further reading. How about a website? The author recommends prospective and present writers to have and maintain one.
Improvements are a constant must when it comes to having a career in writing. Reading this one book is not enough. Practice and training are necessary but should be done progressively. Overall, I personally find this book to be worth the money I spent on it. For those of you interested, I bought this book from Kinokuniya KLCC for RM76.41.
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