Archive for the ‘Writing’ Category

See Your Name in Print! Write for Magazines

Tuesday, December 9th, 2008

See Your Name in Print! Write for Magazines

So, you want to write for magazines? There’s nothing like seeing your name on an article you wrote in a glossy, colorful magazine, especially the first time. We will focus on nonfiction magazines here.

Types of material Magazines Print:

Articles - These are usually informational pieces without the writer’s opinions. The bestsellers are how-to articles.

Profiles - These are articles that profile a certain person of interest to the magazines reader’s, such as an expert or someone of great importance.

Fillers - These are the little tidbits of information you usually see in a magazine in a small, colored box background.

Essays - These are the exact opposite of articles. Essays are usually written in first person, and are filled with the writer’s opinions, thoughts, and emotions on a particular experience or issue.

That’s a little bit of what magazines print. However, they will vary.

How to Get Started:

1. If you don’t already have a library card for your local library, get one. Your library can provide an invaluable resource for you in writing. You can peruse books on writing, and flip through magazines you’re interested in writing for. When you do, pay attention to what type of material they print and the writing style (is it casual, informational, etc.?).

2. Writer’s guidelines are vital. They will tell you everything you need to know about writing for them. Study and follow them to the letter. There are Ezines that can provide you with a variety of guidelines, such as Writer’s Success (www.writerssuccess.com) and Absolute Write (www.absolutewrite.com). Create your own database of guidelines, make a folder in your favorites. The guidelines will let you know if they want to see a query or a completed manuscript, and where to send it. Never email an attachment unless the guidelines give you the go-ahead.

3. So, what’s a query? Simply defined, it’s a proposal. You send the Editor a proposal for your article idea. You have to sell your idea and yourself in this. There are three paragraphs to a query, and it should stay at about one page in length.

- The first paragraph should draw the Editor’s attention right away. Make the Editor want to know more about your idea within the first sentence. Sell it, and do so in a short paragraph, but don’t want to give away too much. Explain why your idea is right for their magazine and their readers. You should also include approximate word length and what department you think your idea will best fit into. This shows that you have read the guidelines and their magazine. You can also state who you will be interviewing (if anyone), but just make sure you can if you are going to give names.

- The second paragraph should sell you, the writer. Why are you the right person to write this article? Mention any relevant experience, writing samples (published or not-just don’t tell them if they’re not published unless they ask), and add in clips (published work) if the guidelines call for it.

- End with a simple, professional closing. For example, “I look forward to your response. Thank you for your time and consideration.”. Then sign your name.

Queries should be written in standard letter format whether sent via email or snail mail. It should include your full name, address, phone number and email, then their publication name, address and Editor’s full name and the date. That’s enough to get you on your way to seeing your name in print! Good luck

Resources:

http://www.writersservices.com/res/ml/r_factsheet_2.htm

http://www.writing-world.com/basics/query.shtml

http://www.absolutewrite.com/

Learn How to Write for a Living

Thursday, November 27th, 2008

So you probably realize that information is the biggest commodity on the internet? Countless people are searching everyday for the right information, why not provide it and profit by it.

Who would not wish to be financially independent? Do you think you would enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you are providing the right information to those who need it? How would you like to be able to choose whether you really want to commute to work again? What if you could publish a complete ebook in under two weeks, maybe even just seven days if you push it? Well it is possible and not only possible but this has been repeated by many and it continues to be repeated week in week out.

Information is in demand and all kinds of folks from pet owners to acne sufferers are happy to pay for it. Just think for a moment, say you have a problem and you need to find a solution fast, what do you do about it? Would you perhaps pay a small amount for a promising solution to your pressing problem? Of course you would, just like the many who do so every day.

Think you can’t write? Well actually yes you can by following good example though if you are really determined to avoid writing you can outsource the writing to others. We’ve seen very successful ebooks produced at little expense and sell for high returns.

Research the topic well enough and the problems people face in that area and you have the makings of a profitable report or ebook. Research the problems and write the solutions up as a report or ebook you have a marketable product. Sell this through a marketplace like Clickbank and you’ll even find affiliates to do the selling for you, in return for a share of the revenue of course.

Writing reports and ebooks has made many successful online businesses and there is plenty of room for others so why not join them?

Have your own profitable ebook in just 7 days! Get the 7 Day eBook.

Get your free downloads and learn more ways to make money at home, Check out more work from home ideas, at workathomefiles.com a free site helping you get started in home business.

Want To Try Something New At Home? How About Romance Novel Writing?

Tuesday, November 18th, 2008

When everyone is away in the office or at school and you are left all alone with nothing but laundry, dirty dishes, a game console, perhaps, the TV and a pile of DVD movies that you have already seen many times, perhaps, it’s best that you should try to learn something new, right? Well, there are countless things that you can do at home while everyone is away. You can get yourself busy with washing the dishes, then, the laundry, then head off to your neighbor’s house and do a little home-staging or decorating or you can still sit at home and write romance novels. Yes, that’s right, you can be a writer for love stories and it’s easy to learn in writing romance novels. But why love stories? Why not mystery books or horror ones? Well, you can learn to write anything but you see, it’s very natural to write romance novels. Everybody is born out of love no matter what they say and even the whole universe was conceived out of love and people can relate to novels like this and you might even make money from it.

Simple Ongoing Income Stream That Anyone Can Begin.

Tuesday, October 28th, 2008

During the recent web 2.0 economy a lot of non-trivial methods came about to create residual income on the net. Companies discovered that by offering revenue share with members they can leverage the creativity and productivity of the consumers to scale up their businesses in a fairly low-risk way.

In addition to that, when the businesses set down feedback loops that increase the usefulness of the content production in a methodical way, the major search engines favor them with higher natural rankings. What this means is smaller businesses discovered a new means to leverage extreme high value organizaitons.
It’s a fact that leverage has sometimes been a proven way to profits and in certain cases real wealth.

Sadly what most people don’t understand is the truth that there are several means to use other organizations’ assets. Traditionally there has been too much emphasis on real estate leverage which has made people unaware of the manyways that other people’s assets can be leveraged.

As a matter of fact the recent course KindleProfitsExposed.com teaches how to leverage the multi billion dollar business Amazon.com with a method that enables people to create passive income streams. The amazing aspect is that there is little risk involved with this new system.

Also it’s an amazing way that people lacking formal business smarts can tap into the vast accomplishments of a large business and grab new streams of income.

Online Freelance Work In Modern Life

Monday, October 27th, 2008

Perhaps your family and friends or colleagues have always piled praises on how well you can express yourself with written words. I am pretty sure you would have started wondering if you could actually pursue a career or alternative career as a travel freelance writer.

Articles are a free form of advertising for many Web sites, so there’s a high demand for articles of all kinds. The “how-to” or service article, is one of the most popular forms. Article directories store your articles so that webmasters who may be looking for information to put on their website can use it. The benefit is that whenever another website uses your article, you or the webmaster you wrote it for will get a link back to their site.

Copywriters might also work for a single client (or a few clients), writing advertising copy, website copy, etc. Most copywriters fall somewhere in the middle - they have one or two steady clients who want work on a weekly basis, but they also apply to write random jobs for people who just need an article or two. Copywriting is massive at the moment and because it takes place mainly on the internet your options are literally endless. Think about how many websites there are that need regular updated content.

locating affordable freelance health coverage

Content pieces on the Internet needs to be easy to read. You do not want to write in paragraph form, but have a piece that is easily broken up with one or two sentences a piece. Content Goals: What is the ultimate goal of the content you would like the writer to develop? Would you like sales copy that will convert each visitor into a paying customer?

Believe it or not, doing a good job eventually became a problem. I found that there was not only plenty of work for me to do, but there was actually more work to do that what I could finish on my own. Believe in yourself, and you will prevail.

online freelance work

Editors prefer experienced writers to novices and if you have what it takes then say so. Otherwise if you are a beginner avoid saying so but include a few samples tailored to the publications readers taste. Editors are looking for a particular approach to a subject, a certain tone or, occasionally, deep knowledge. For science writers in particular, showing that you have written on a topic before can confer on you instant expertise and create confidence that you understand its complexities.

Freelance writing is a great market. There’s a lot of work out there. Freelance writers are paid per piece of work, which sometimes is a flat rate or can also be based on the number of words written. Freelance writing provides a great deal of flexibility and adaptability, but also requires strong motivation and dedication to achieve the final goal of publication.

how do i become a freelance writer

Make Extra Money By Selling Short Web Articles

Thursday, October 23rd, 2008

Make Extra Money By Selling Short Web Articles

Web site owners often start a web based storefront just trying to make their brick and mortar business known, or sell additional numbers of products or services. Whatever the reason, these owners often realize that they need some type of content on their website - something for their visitors to read and learn about their purpose. That’s where a freelance writer steps in, providing this service. There are even companies that have popped up whose sole business is to be a middleman, helping these businesses needing copy to find the freelance writers who can write their content.

The best kept secret for making extra money: writing content for web based businesses. Finding the businesses who need your skills can be a bit tricky. But the amount of time it takes for you to sniff out these resources will be well worth your effort.

This kind of writing can help new writers build their portfolio and also help veterans make a little extra cash in their downtimes.

Writing content for websites does not have to be time consuming. These articles usually take an hour or two to write (which may come with practice), and are typically 500 to 800 words in length.

Here are a few Resources to get you started:

(You will need to confirm any contractual details with each organization as these can change without notice)

Write for Cash
http://www.writeforcash.com/

Pay: $10-$15 per article, depending on the quality.
Length: 500 to 800 words.
Pay Type: Once per month, at the beginning of the month, via PayPal.
Articles: They have a list of articles to choose from that gets updated and added to periodically.
Getting Started: You will need to register and send an application. You will then receive either an acceptance or rejection email, which can take up to two weeks.
Rights: Write for Cash buys all rights to the articles accepted.

Associated Content
http://www.associatedcontent.com/

Pay: Determined by the Editors, which can be anywhere from $1-100.
Pay Type: Payment is made within two weeks of the article being published, and is sent via PayPal.
Rights: You choose either exclusive or non-exclusive rights. You can re-publish your article elsewhere if you choose non-exclusive, but not if you pick exclusive. If you choose exclusive, and it is accepted, the article becomes the property of Associated Content.
Getting Started: You need to complete a registration and application, agree to their terms, and await an acceptance or rejection email.

Constant Content
http://www.constant-content.com/area/about-us.htm
Pay: You decide (Constant Content takes 50% of your selling price).
Length: You choose.
Pay Type: Payments are made on the first of each month via PayPal or check.
Rights: Those who buy your article won’t own it outright, just have permission to use it on a website, unless they make a unique purchase.

How Stuff Works
http://www.howstuffworks.com/writing-for-hsw.htm

You must send them a resume and writing samples. If they decide to use you they will send an assignment.

These are a few sites to help you to get started writing short articles for the web. Many seasoned writers rely on a couple of them and find them helpful in selling reprints or just making some extra cash when business is slow. They are also a great resource for beginners looking to build their writing portfolios and get their freelance writing career started. I wish all writers knew about these sites when they were trying to get started as a writer!

An Inside Look Of Underground Internet Marketing - Money Making Blog Writing For Secret Affiliate Code 2!

Friday, October 17th, 2008

Writing may seem hard for some people, but we all have to use this tool in a variety of different ways and with common themes in writing; some of which are:

• SEO copy writing
• Writing Thank You Note to Boss
• Writing a Reference for an Employee
• Business Writing
• Writing Reservations Letter
• Resume Writing
• Blog Writing
• Sales Letter Writing
• Writing an ebook
• Creative Writing
• Writing Formal Invitation Letter

No matter what field you are in, writing is very important. It is even more valuable when you are doing business online. If you are a creator of digital products, writing is even more essential; especially when you are preparing your first product.

A blog is actually the first thing you should start with. You don’t have to submit long post, if you don’t like writing, but you should post to your blog about 100 words on a daily basis or three times per week.

For people like Craig Beckta of Secret Affiliate Code 2, who started out with internet marketing just a few years ago, writing was something that he did not like to do, but he knew that he would have to at least maintain a blog. Look inside the underground internet marketing bootcamp of Craig Beckta at The Hidden Secret of the Secret Affiliate Code 2.

Craig had to learn fast, that he had to either outsource or write himself. In this 122 page guide, Secret Affiliate Code 2, he explains the value of having common themes in writing for your blog so that your visitors will know exactly what you are talking about and you will have a targeted audience in doing so.

SEO copy writing is the art of putting words into a web site, which makes prospect want to take out their credit card and buy from you or give you their email addresses, if you have a squeeze page. You can write a report and give it away for free and send them to a landing page where they will find more information or your main product.

Search engine optimization of your blog or main web page will give you better placement in the search engines. If you are doing business online, top placement should be your goal and the way to do that is to place your keywords strategically in your blog, web page or articles.

Writing articles are not as difficult as some project it to be. You can hire a freelance writer if you find it too much to do.

Don’t think too much when you are writing; just begin typing and the words will flow. Have common themes in writing for your articles by deciding what you are going to write about. Make your articles as little as 250 words, which will make it easier for you. Most article directories will accept that.

If you need more writing tips, I would suggest that you get the Secret Affiliate Code 2, practice by writing your blog post and articles and let your thoughts flow. You can do it if you set your mind to it. Learn more about Secret Affiliate Code 2 at Writing Tips with Secret Affiliate Code 2.

Success In Writing - How To Write Powerful Scenes

Sunday, October 5th, 2008

Tips for Writing Success

Like a great movie, the most effective writing excites all 5 senses; hearing, smell, touch, sight, and taste. When you put your readers smack dab in the midst of a sticky,snake infested swamp, or the vibrating cabin of a Boeing 747, you transport them–and they will thank you for it.

Learn From Successful Writers

For example, John Updike in Rabbit, Run,depicts a scene as
follows: “Over at the pavilion the rubber thump of roof ball
and the click of checkers call to his memory, and the
forgotten smell of that narrow plastic ribbon you braid
bracelets and whistle-chains out of and of glue and the sweat
on the handles on athletic equipment is blown down by a breeze
laced with children’s murmuring.” Here Updike uses four of the
five senses: we see the pavilion, we smell the plastic ribbon,
we feel the sweat on the handles, and we hear the thump of the
ball, the click of the checkers, and the murmuring of the
children. The effect of these sensory descriptions, skillfully
woven into the story, is that they actually elicit in the reader
the same smell and feel of what the author is relating.

Vivid Scenes and Characters

Let’s look at two variations of the same description; one with
sensory details and one without. I might write “Henry wore a
baggy faded yellow wool jacket. In this case you might picture Henry
standing about 10 feet away. On the other hand, I might write,
“Henry’s coat smelled of wet wool and salt, with the edges
of the collar badly frayed.” Now, I have created a writer’s
variation of a close-up. When you see Henry, chances are you
are close enough to smell him and see his frayed clothing. Accomplished
authors use this tool the way film directors
use a close-up.They bring the reader’s focus and attention to facets of a
character or details of a story they want to stress. You wouldn’t want
to use this device on the delivery boy who brings your protagonist
his pizza, unless you are intentionally trying to trick the reader
into believing this pizza delivery boy is more significant than he
really is. But, if Henry and his life at sea are essential to the
story, if his seafaring ways are critical for the reader’s
understanding of what makes Henry who he is, then you
must convey to the reader the sights, tastes, smells, sounds, and feelings
of Henry’s life.

Now sit down and write your descriptions full of noise and smells and
colors, just as you envision them. Then your readers will see,
hear, and smell the new world you have created for them. After
all, isn’t that what it’s all about?

Can Freelancing Jobs Benefit Your Career ?

Saturday, September 27th, 2008

Several years ago I started writing reviews for websites, and the encouragement that came from the reviews I posted are what finally put a fire under my butt to “become a writer.”. When you have had a few sales this way you’ll know you are starting to get things right! You’ll soon find yourself picking all sorts of niche areas to write about and profit from! Some topics pay more than others so check out their notes about what people are looking for articles about before you start writing. Then write an article and submit it to them.

freelance on the internet

And you’ll get paid to write for money. It’s just as easy as I’ve described - have fun. How do you write for money? Can you write on money in the US?

So, I made this post to tell you again that you can now start earning money online. What you need to do is to write articles about technology, Philippine education, gadgets, relationship, or any topics. Let’s get started by using some goal setting techniques to get you going. When I sat down at my computer, I started my stopwatch; when I got up — to go for lunch, to see who was at the door, or to go to the bathroom — I would stop it. That way I got a good idea of two things: what I was capable of, and what certain types of projects required.

Once you’ve established yourself as a reputable writer, you can start your own website. Your website can hold samples, your rate scale and contact information. You get 3 full chapters with detailed step-by step instruction on how to start your own Affiliate Program! You’ll learn what to do, every step of the way. But believe me, everything flows smoother, with a lot less rewrite involved, and the finished product is always much better when you’ve outlined what you want to say before you start.

freelancing jobs

Authors and Editors - Discover More Info About It Here

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008

3 Low Cost Ways To Meet Agents & Editors

These days it’s common knowledge that it’s hard to meet an agent or an editor through an unsolicited mailing. They are more likely to pay attention to a submission coming from someone they have met in person. To that end, writers flock to conferences so they can get some face time with real live agents and editors. And that’s great. I believe writers should get out and network. But those conferences can be pricey. It’s best to combine attending conferences with a few other strategies that are easier on your wallet. Here are 3 you may find useful.

Attend Author Readings

Make a point of keeping track of writers who do work similar to yours. When they’re in the vicinity go hear them read. Sometimes - not all the time - but sometimes the author’s agent and editor will be in the audience, this is writers practice. If they aren’t, see if you can steal a few moments with the writer and ask with whom he or she works and whether they have been pleased with the experience. You can either ask for an introduction or contact the people on your own. If you’re going to do the former, first develop a rapport with the writer and stay in touch. They may not feel comfortable referring you to their agent or editor right off the bat, but in time as they get to know you and your work, an introduction may be a possibility.

Attend Classes Offered by Continuing Education Groups Such As The Learning Annex

Agents and editors are in the business of looking for the next hot writer and making a name for themselves in the publishing world. That’s why you’ll often find agents and editors teaching classes related to their work at places such as The Learning Annex, which has locations in New York City, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta and Boston Recent instructors include literary agent Katharine Sands, editor Marcela Landres (formerly of Simon & Schuster) and Vickie M. Stringer, founder and CEO of Triple Crown Publications. The courses can cost as little as $30 or $40 and last about three hours so you have some time to find out if the instructor can help you or point you in the direction of someone who can. Welcome to the author world.

Remember the agent or editor probably has aspiring authors handing them manuscripts all the time, so make sure you stand out from the pack. Have a killer query letter and synopsis (if your book is a novel) or book proposal (for non-fiction works) at the ready. You’ll make a great impression simply because you’re not making them lug a 500-page behemoth home in their briefcase!

Look for Agents and Editors Who Have Their Own Personal Websites

When you come across the name of an agent or editor who may be appropriate for you, Google them to see if they have their own websites with email addresses that may be different from their corporate mailboxes. Some are authors themselves (like literary agent Donald Maass, author of Writing the Breakout Novel) and have books of their own to promote. Email them and, again, try to develop a rapport and get a sense of what they’re working on and what they’re looking for. It’s best to know as specifically as possible before going through the trouble of making a submission. I recently heard about a writer who submitted to an agent looking for African American authors, but in fact the agent was looking for African American authors who wrote urban romance - which was not the writer’s genre at all.

One Last Note: These ideas should get you started and I hope they’ll inspire you to try other creative routes. It does get easier because you will find that as you go to more events and tell more people what you’re doing, the more likely you will be to find the connector that will build the path between you and your future agent or editor.

Learn more about benefits of online education.