Writing Jobs – 5 Easy Ways to Avoid Disaster

Looking for writing jobs? They’re everywhere online; writers are in high demand. But do remember that you need to protect yourself – let’s look at five easy ways you can avoid disaster.

1. Check out the Prospect out on the Web

Your first step should always be to check out the prospect. This can help you to avoid a lot of hassle down the line.

Did you know that many writing “jobs” are posted as a form of spam? Sleazy marketers use them to get people to Web sites and click on a link, or to provide or contact details, or in some other way make money for the poster.

So whenever you look at a job ad, both on the Web and offline, ask yourself: “Is this company legitimate?”

If you have doubts about the bona fides of the company, or the individual posting the job ad, then don’t apply. Use common sense, and always remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it is.

2. Read the Project Description Carefully and Ask Questions

Assuming the job ad has passed your legitimacy test, read the project description carefully. This is vital. Over the years I’ve posted ads myself looking for writers, and a full 80 per cent don’t follow the instructions in the ad.

Always read the description, read the instructions, and then follow the instructions to the letter.

Here’s a tip I give my writing students – ask questions. If there’s no way to ask the job poster questions, then pass the ad by. You need to know how responsive the poster will be when and if he becomes a client.

Now, assuming the job poster wants to hire you, you need to rewrite the project description in your own words.

3. Rewrite the Project in Your Own Words and Add It to the Agreement

Do you have a writing services agreement? It’s essential. You can find templates on the Web, or create your own. Add the rewritten project description to the templates, and send it to the job poster.

Why rewrite? So you know exactly what the job entails – it ensures both you and the job poster are on the same page.

If the poster sends you an agreement, read it carefully, and strike out any clause you don’t agree with.

4. Request Payment on Agreement – 50 Per Cent if You Have Writing Credits

Assuming you have writing credits (you’ve been paid for your writing and are experienced), always get a deposit.

If you’re a completely new writer, many buyers will baulk at paying you anything up front; that’s fine, write anyway, you need the experience. But once you have writing credits, get a deposit.

5. Hit Your Milestones, and Follow up With the Client

Always meet your deadlines. In a long project, meet the milestones, and insist that the client meets theirs. Clients get busy at times, and you’ll need to follow up with them, so do it. Communicate – communication is the secret of happy writing relationships.

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