Whether you're just starting out, considering going full-time, or are already a successful freelance writer, you'll find the information and insights needed to take your work to the next level in this smart, thorough guide. Compiled by the prestigious American Society of Journalists and Authors, the book's twenty-six chapters cover the business from every angle, tackling the topics every freelancer needs to master in order to make it today. Chapters cover: planning a writing business * generating fresh ideas * the secrets of a successful magazine query * the latest research tools and techniques * writing for the Web * developing areas of specialization * promoting yourself and your work * op-eds, essays, and other ways to leverage your knowledge * contracts * taxes and deductions * working with editors and agents * going full-time * key lessons you won't have to learn the hard way * and more. Written by twenty-six of the top freelancers working today, this indispensable guide provides trade secrets that others have learned the hard way, inspiration to take your work where you want it to go, and a revealing view into the minds and working habits of freelance writers at the top of their game.

A practical handbook for freelance writers offers helpful advice, techniques, and tips on how to plan a writing business, the art of research, the secrets of a successful magazine query, and other topics.

Awarded the "Outstanding Book Award" in the service/self-help category for 2013 from the ASJA (The American Society of Journalists and Authors)! There's no shortage of books on crafting book proposals, writing novels, overcoming writer's block, and getting in touch with one's muse. But what about a book for writers who simply want to earn a regular paycheck? Writer for Hire is just the wisdom full- and part-time freelancers need. Author Kelly James-Enger details: • 101 secrets to success, organized into five overarching strategies. You'll be able to implement what you learn immediately. • Invaluable advice on managing deadlines, querying effectively, working with clients, handling taxes, invoices, and more. • Strategies for getting more writing gigs, including networking (in-person and online), establishing yourself as an expert, working more efficiently under tight deadlines, and handling rejection with confidence James-Enger looks at the "whole freelancer," addressing both the craft and business of freelancing.

"Freelance Writing Guide: What to Expect in Your First Year as a Freelance Writer" is a resourceful book that informs readers what they can expect during the first year of a freelance writing career. The information is presented honestly and directly, and covers everything the author experienced in her first year as a freelance writer in an informational and insightful manner. The book covers ghostwriting, article writing, book writing, book reviewing, self-publishing, traditional publishing, freelance writing business and finance topics, the lifestyle of a freelance writer, income and types of pay, and many other topics. This is an informative book from an experienced freelance writer, written for writers who wish to start a freelance writing career.

Prime Your Freelance Writing Career for Success! So you want to be a freelance writer. Great! But now you're faced with a laundry list of questions: Should I freelance full time or part time? Should I write for magazines, newspapers, or online markets? How do I dream up the perfect article idea, and how do I pitch it successfully? How do I negotiate contracts, foster relationships with editors, and start getting steady work while avoiding financial panic attacks and unpleasant ulcers? The Essential Guide to Freelance Writing answers all of these questions--and much more. From breaking in to navigating the basics of the business, this book is your road map to a fruitful and rewarding freelance life. You'll learn how to: • Dig into various markets, including consumer magazines, trade journals, newspapers, and online venues. • Make your digital mark and build your writing platform. • Pitch like a pro and craft solid query letters that get responses. • Conduct professional interviews in person, by phone, or by e-mail. • Write and structure various types of articles, from front-of-the-book pieces to profiles and features. • Quit your lackluster day job, and live the life you've always wanted. Filled with insider secrets, candid advice, and Zachary Petit's trademark humor and blunt honesty, The Essential Guide to Freelance Writing won't just show you how to survive your freelancing writing career--it will teach you how to truly thrive.

"Freelance writing is an enjoyable and respected profession if you have some talent and the desire to work hard. The author, a freelancer for twenty-five years, knows what the aspiring writer needs to know to be successful. Tom Williams's advice is highly practical, detailed, tested, and no-nonsense. He offers hard-earned tips, insight into how editors think, and the critical information for success in this field." - back cover.

The perfect book for those who wish to concentrate on writing features and reviews for newspapers and other media. Adopting a methodical step-by-step approach, this new edition of A Straightforward Guide to Freelance Writing updates and builds on topics covered in the previous edition. The reader is given a firm grounding in the craft of writing and the book contains all the basic information needed to develop a career as a freelance writer.

Everyone wants to be a published writer. But only a few manage to break into print. In this guide, Richard D. Bank provides expert advice to help you reach your goals of writing and selling articles, essays, and books. Featuring step-by-step instructions covering all aspects of writing, including how to: Master the elements of creative nonfiction Conduct interviews and take accurate notes Find your unique voice Develop good research and editing skills Write with authority and confidence Sell writing to periodicals and publishers Whether you want to write an intimate memoir, a magazine story, or a scholarly article, you’ll find all you need to see your bylines in print.

Write Your Own Check Considering a career in freelance writing? Already a freelancer but seeking practical, solid advice on the basics of the business? Get a Freelance Life is the complete guide to all aspects of a freelance writing career, straight from the creators of Mediabistro—the nation’s most connected, authoritative source for media professionals. Learn how to: • Write compelling pitch letters • Network with the best in the magazine and newspaper industry • Understand the freelance market and detect its changes • Self-edit and rewrite your work • Manage tight deadlines • Negotiate contracts • Survive the financial ups and downs of the freelance life With plenty of insider advice and tips from the most successful freelance writers and editors in the country, Get a Freelance Life is a must-have resource for turning your freelance gigs into a full-fledged writing career.