a.k.a writer

a.k.a writer

copy distinguished

You can scroll the shelf using ← and → keys

Leveraging LinkedIn When You’re Freelancing on the DL

March 9, 2010 — 5 Comments

Freelancing on the DL. Original image courtesy of stock.xchng®Many of my favorite marketing tactics include using social media (also called social networks). As I’ve written before, LinkedIn is an incredibly valuable marketing tool for entrepreneurs and freelancers.

But what if you’re freelancing or starting up a business on the side? A friend recently asked me how she could leverage LinkedIn for freelancing even though she’s still working a full-time job.

It’s a good question and one that should be carefully considered. When I worked for a large company, a co-worker’s LinkedIn profile could be grounds for gossip: a heavily updated profile could be signs that someone was looking for a new job; connections with new companies were viewed with suspicion. I’m not saying it was right; it was just fact in my competitive department.

However, you can still use LinkedIn effectively—and without raising eyebrows—even if you’re freelancing on the side. While not every tip may work for your specific situation, this should help you get started.

  • First, make sure your freelancing doesn’t conflict with your day job. My friend is the perfect example: she’s published several essays and that freelancing work doesn’t have anything to do with her full-time job or the company where she works. Many companies have non-compete agreements—are more are enforcing them—so it pays to stay within the rules.
  • With that said, share your extracurricular achievements with your boss. As long as your manager knows you’re doing your best for him or her, you have nothing to worry about. And keeping your boss informed will keep her happy if someone sees your new LinkedIn profile addition and mentions it.
  • When adding your freelance work, be specific with your title. You’ll essentially be adding a position (to use LinkedIn language), so being specific will (1) avoid confusion at work and (2) help you be found in key word searches. For example, don’t just list yourself as a “freelance writer.” As in my friend’s case, she could list herself as a “freelance essay writer” or as a “freelance writer, creative non-fiction.”
  • Show off your accomplishments. While you should be careful with the title you use, don’t be shy about listing your credits in the “description” section. Of course, if you’ve freelanced for a competitor, by all means keep that to yourself. If you have been published, include links to your work.
  • Be smart about your groups. If you are a full-time designer at an advertising agency, joining a LinkedIn group called “Freelance Advertising Creatives” will immediately send up red flags. Even if you hide the logo on your profile, LinkedIn could still publish it in their weekly Network Updates. And if your boss is a member of your network, that news will go straight to his inbox.
  • As your new LinkedIn addition ages, you can grow bolder. Over time, you can begin moving your freelance work closer to center stage, especially if it’s your plan to be a full-time freelancer or open your own business. You can highlight your side projects in the “specialty” section of your profile as well as in areas like position descriptions. Always keep in mind that LinkedIn is not shy about announcing changes you make to your profile.

Before I took the leap to full-fledged freelancer, I had added elements of freelancing to my profile. Since I was open with my boss and direct teammates about taking writing classes, it didn’t raise any eyebrows. Only after I announced my cubicle-abandoning plans, did I completely overhaul my LinkedIn profile, putting my a.k.a writer business front and center.

Your turn. Do you have LinkedIn tips you can share with readers who are balancing full-time jobs with freelancing? Do you think it’s risky to add freelancing or a start-up business if you’re also gainfully employed? Is there a LinkedIn group that you’ve found to be helpful for freelancers? Please share in the comments below.

Bookmark and Share

Catch My Guest Post: Writing Lessons Redux

March 8, 2010 — 2 Comments

Invitation_Guest Blog. Original image courtesy of stock.xchng®.Today, you can find me at Brandi-Ann Uyemura’s blog. She asked me to share hard-learned lessons that I wish I’d known when I first started my writing career. In penning the post, I realized that my career choices led to me learn some lessons twice.

Surrounded by boxes of pizza and eager interns, I felt a shock of recognition listening the communications manager who had agreed to speak to my charges. She said that finding and forging her career path was “simple.”

“I knew exactly what I wanted to do when I was in high school and editor of the school paper. I studied journalism in college and got a job.” She had worked in corporate communications for an international travel outfit, a well-known natural beauty brand and a global coffee company, which is where we met. She added that she’d always been focused on writing and editing, even in high school.

I was, too, in high school. Like my guest speaker, I’d written for the school paper, plus I’d edited the yearbook and competed in journalism contests. So, why was she the head of a communications division and I was wrangling interns?

Read the rest of Guest Post: Writing Lessons I Learned Twice.

If you have ideas for a guest post for my blog or would like to have me pen a post for your site, email me at jesakalong(at)gmail.com. Please put “guest post” in the subject line. Thanks!

Bookmark and Share

Attire Makes the Writer

February 17, 2010 — 5 Comments

Vintage Tweed Fedora, Worn By a WomanOr does it?

It seems like what writers—especially freelance writers—wear is a hot topic lately. Maybe because it’s fashion week or maybe because it’s February and people are tired of the weather. Whatever the reason, I’m reading a lot of posts about how writers should dress.

One post called wearing pajamas a bad habit, with the writer arguing that it limits productivity. While I agree with her that working in nothing but underwear could be going a bit too far, I don’t think flannel pajama pants or a worn, favorite T-shirt is a sign that you’re not going to be successful.

On the other extreme is an entrepreneur who dresses according to her task. Her mandate: “Costume yourself for the work to be done. If I’m being a serious writer, I put on jeans and a sweater; if my duties are mostly secretarial, I wear a skirt and blouse; if there are client calls to make, I dress like a tycoon.” While you won’t find me dressed up to do my filing, I do appreciate that she’s found what works for her. I don’t agree that her method fits everyone.

My jobs have required an array of “uniforms,” from purple hair (okay, that wasn’t required, but it was encouraged) and funky jeans to suits to upscale business “casual” (read: business trendy). One of the biggest draws of freelancing for me was the freedom to wear whatever inspired me at that moment.

Truthfully, I do find myself wearing only a small percentage of the wardrobe I own, but I lean towards clothing that feels loose, unrestrictive. Somehow, this seems to let the creativity flow—it doesn’t get caught up in pinching shoes or a formal, buttoned jacket. However, I do make a point of changing my clothes before “commuting” to my home office. With the exception of an occasional 5 a.m. conference call, I don’t roll out of bed and into my desk chair.

Just because I may not wear the same things my clients do does not mean that I am any less professional. When I am an on the phone or replying to an email, I sit up straight and focus. I answer the phone quickly and cheerfully. It could be that my years as a recruiter taught me how to convey the right tone and attitude over the phone.

So I don’t think I need to wear a suit to do my best work. Of course, I do dress appropriately for events, though I still focus on expressing me. It makes me more comfortable—and helps ease networking nerves.

But when I need to brainstorm and find an original way to produce product copy or draft a scene, you’ll find me in something comfortable (and, preferably cashmere) to let the creative juices flow.

Your turn. Does the attire make the writer? Do you think what you wear has an effect on your productivity and your success? Is there a certain sweater you wear when you’re working on an essay? Or do you have “work pajamas” that best fit your freelancing days? Please share in the comments.

Photo attribution: http://www.flickr.com/photos/huzzahvintage/ / CC BY 2.0

Bookmark and Share

This Writer is Attempting to Step Away from the Keyboard

February 3, 2010 — 10 Comments

Typewriter. Close up on old keys. Image courtesy of stock.xchng®This blog post is brought to you by the writing prompt just like in the movies.

I don’t usually use writing prompts, but I signed up to receive them daily this month, just to see if it fueled writing ideas. Apparently, it has. When I read today’s prompt, I couldn’t help but think about the stereotype of writers.

In movies, writers are often portrayed as rebellious, hard drinking, reclusive, obsessive, eccentric and even mad. The copywriters in films tend to be fast-talking, sales-oriented and quick with the pitch. Although copywriting pays my bills—and I enjoy it—I find myself relating more to the stereotype of the writer.

When I was in my early teens, I was at a dinner with extended family to celebrate the birthday of my grandmother’s sister “Aunt G.” I loved Aunt G’s humor and envied her ability to talk a thousand miles a minute. As she read the birthday card I’d written just for her, she called down the table in her thick Cajun accent.

“Girl,” she said. “You might be quiet, but put a pen in your hand, and you’re mighty.”

Or it was something like that.

I do love interacting with people, but I find that I tend to be quiet in a group of people. While I admire people who see a group of 50 and are energized by the thought of meeting every single one of them, I scour the crowd for someone who looks interesting—and approachable.

Which means I’ll learn that person’s story and make a good connection, but that’s probably the only connection I’ll make. Of course, one person can make a difference: they could connect you to a new client, offer a key piece of advice or become a great friend. But, if I attend one networking event each month, that’s not going to get me very far!

Last month, I revised my bio and portfolio, sharing the progress and results with you. This month, I’m researching different local networking groups and opportunities. And I’m going to going attend them, which means you’ll be reading my experiences and the tips I learn along the way. Since the majority of my copywriting clients are in Seattle or on the West Coast, I’ve just started to learn more about the local Denver business community.

This writer is going to try to channel that outgoing, social copywriter. You know, just like in the movies.

Your turn. Do you find it’s harder to network in-person than online? Do you have any networking tips to share with your fellow writers and readers? What’s your favorite way to connect with new people? Please share in the comment below.

Bookmark and Share

Content Mills and Writer Mills 101: A Writer’s Self-Education is Key

December 28, 2009 — 1 Comment

As we near the end of 2009, I’ve been reviewing what did—an did not—work for me this year. While revisiting my contact-tracking sheet, I realized that early in ’09, I actually applied to a content mill (also known as a writer mill). But I didn’t know it at the time.

I applied to write about a topic in which I have significant professional experience and I was attracted to the ad because it called for regular blog posts. I liked the idea of adding another ongoing gig to my line up. There was no mention of how much the company paid; it said, “tell us your rates.” So I sent my usual per-blog post rate, which is pretty average for a writer with my skills and decade-plus experience.

Of course, I was never contacted. At the time, I was disappointed. I thought I was the perfect person for that blog topic. Now, I realize I was thrown out of consideration immediately because I expected a fair price for my work.

Lesson learned: you’ve got to carefully research companies. I made the assumption that this opportunity was high quality simply because of where it advertised for writers. Since applying for the gig, I’ve learned so much about content mills. Based on my learnings, I’ve decided to avoid them—and I feel very strongly about it.

It’s every writer’s decision and one you have to make for yourself. As you’re planning your 2010 goals, I encourage you to educate yourself about writer mills and content mills so that you can make an educated decision.

Here’s a comprehensive list of articles and blog posts to get you started. In an effort to be fair, the first link is to a writer who completely disagrees with me.

A few of my blog posts. In full disclosure, I do argue against writing for content mills.

Do you have experience with content mills—good or bad? Do you know a great post on this topic that fellow readers should check out? Please share in the comments below.

Bookmark and Share

Why Writers Should Say No to Writer Mills and Yes to Free*

November 23, 2009 — 4 Comments

Do I really think writers should write for free? No. As I’ve written before, writers should be paid for their time, expertise and skill. More specifically, writers should be appropriately paid for their work.

Am I encouraging writers to say no to $15 for a 1,000-word article at Demand Studios (or similar content mills), but yes to writing for free? Yes.

*But only in certain circumstances—such as those listed below—should you consider unpaid writing opportunities.

  • It’s mantelpiece worthy. If there’s a publication where you’ve always dreamed of seeing your byline, it might be worth it to you to write for free (or, at least, for what feels like free). For me, it’s an indie magazine that I’ve been reading for years. They pay writers very little but offer lots of opportunity. Many of the mag’s contributors credit their bylines there with new high paying, high-profile work.
  • Your portfolio is anemic. If you need a portfolio piece or two to get into a new industry, it may make sense to craft copy in exchange for work samples. Should you go this route, try to do the work close to home, such as for a non-profit you support or through contacts you trust. Be sure your client understands why the work is at no cost and get permission to use the work on your website. If the client is extremely happy with the results, don’t be shy about asking for referrals!
  • You need a good deed. Many non-profit organizations are in need of specific skills and your way with words could help. Now, I’m not recommending that you do grant writing for free or on spec. But you can give back by editing a newsletter or helping to refresh stale web copy. Bonus: Thinking this can help with your tax bill? Not likely. Check out June Walker’s tax advice for indies if you want more information.
  • It’s better than writing a check for advertising. If a guest post on a highly respected industry blog can get you in front of your prospective clients and give them a taste of your expertise, then it’s better than advertising. Ideally, you’ll build this into your marketing plan and treat your investment (your time) as part of your budget. Using her own experiences with Mashable and Copyblogger, Maria Schneider (of Editor Unleashed) offers 5 Questions To Ask Before You Write For Free. I’d like to add a sixth question: Is your next client reading this blog/ site/ publication?

Writer mills are not good options for meeting the circumstances above. Here’s why:

  • Writer mills don’t have PIE. Michelle Goodman describes PIE as “paid in exposure,” meaning that you actually benefit from the low-paying or free work through new work that pays you what you’re worth. Places like Demand Studios, LoveToKnow, eHow, AllVoices and the like are not destinations for editors scouting new writing talent or marketing managers seeking a sizzling copywriter.
  • You have to write and promote. With writer mills, you are responsible for promoting your articles through avenues such as your own blog and social media accounts. Your efforts are to drive traffic to the company’s site. If you write a guest post for a popular, highly respected site in your industry, that site can help generate new readers and even new clients for you without you having to do any promoting. The benefit is yours.
  • You’re making someone else a whole bucketful of money. Erik Sherman’s WriterBiz blog digs up the truth on these sites and shares the chilling numbers. For example, Demand Media (also known as Demand Studios) has received more than $355 million in venture capital since 2006. Compare that to paying a writer $15 for an article and the numbers don’t add up.

As always, when it comes to writer mills and writing for free, there are arguments on all sides. Personally, I was disappointed to learn that Copyblogger doesn’t pay its guest bloggers. It’s such a fantastic site for writers that I just assumed the posts were paid. And, I admit it, I still think it would cool to see my byline there. Something tells me it gives great PIE.

Have you had experiences working for free that you would or would not repeat? The floor is yours!

Bookmark and Share

6 Ways You Can Add an Agency to Your Arsenal of Work-Generating Tools

October 26, 2009 — 4 Comments

In an honest, spot-on post last Monday, Susan Johnston shared “Why I’ve Lost Faith in Creative Staffing Agencies.” She cited low pay, agencies valuing experience over a quality portfolio and lots of on-site gigs (even when the agency claimed to have off-site work). It’s a great piece and Susan’s readers responded with additional insight, including their own experience with agencies.

Can a Creative Agency Work for You?While relying on an agency for work is not considered ideal by most freelancers and entrepreneurs, it can be an income bridge if your clients and customers can’t cough up funds for your work in this harsh economy. Connecting with an agency should be one piece of your strategy to obtain clients; it should never be your only tactic.

Since I have prior experience as a staffing manager* for a boutique staffing agency in Seattle, I thought I’d use that “insider” knowledge to provide tips on working with agencies, including those focused on placing creatives.

*Okay, my actual staffing experience was shorter-lived than my employer branding work for the industry, but I have been on all sides of this particular table.

  1. Look for an insider. This is especially helpful if you want to sign up with a creative agency. What do I mean by “insider”? Someone who is involved with your local freelancing/ writing/ design community. I belong to a group for independent creatives and our meetings are sponsored by a local agency. At least one or two recruiters from the agency attend every meeting; they are involved in learning about our work, styles and needs. Although I have not signed up with an agency in Denver, this is the first (and possibly only) staffing company I would contact.
  2. Network your way in. Good recruiters—whether they are based in agencies, companies or are independent agents—are some of the best networkers I’ve ever met. Ask friends and colleagues—or even post to forums you trust—for referrals and feedback. Another way to network your way to a good recruiter is to browse the connections of your LinkedIn contacts. If someone you trust is connected to a recruiter at an agency that interests you, ask for an introduction.
  3. Sell yourself and your recruiter can sell you. In addition to providing a staffing agency with your resume and portfolio, always write a letter of introduction—just like you would send to a prospective client. This gives your recruiter additional tools to market you to their clients. If you have other marketing materials, be sure to share those, too.
  4. Be clear and firm. If you absolutely, positively will not take any on-site gigs, say so. If you suggest you’re open to anything so that you appear flexible, you’re only going to be frustrated because you’ll get calls for the work you don’t want. And you’ll frustrate the agency by always saying “no.”
  5. Stay in touch. When you finish a new project or have a new portfolio sample, e-mail your recruiter. It’s an easy way to stay top of mind and promote your skills. Your message showing off a new website you wrote could mean you get the first offer for that ideal, off-site webpage copywriting gig that came in to your recruiter today.
  6. Pass it along. Called with a gig that’s just not quite right? Take Susan’s advice: offer to help promote the gig or refer it to a qualified pal. This is good advice any time a recruiter contacts you. When I’m called for full-time jobs, I turn them down but always offer to help network for the recruiter. I’ve built some fantastic relationships this way.

Agencies are not equal; some are far better than others. A large firm may have more clients while a smaller agency may offer you better matches and a stronger relationship. You’ll have to do some digging and testing to see what fits you best. One thing is for certain: a successful experience depends on building a relationship and that is a two-way street.

Your turn

Has a staffing or creative agency hooked you up to ideal gig? Are you done with trying to find work through staffing companies? What tips do you have for working with agencies?  Share your experience and tips in the comments.

Bookmark and Share

From Theatre Major to Copywriter: The Business of My Degree

September 30, 2009 — 11 Comments

Backstage theatre. Image courtesy of stock.xchng® While reading The College Calculation in the New York Times Sunday Magazine this weekend, I was reminded of a conversation I had with my mother last year. I had just made my final payment on my student loans, a feat that seemed unimaginable the year I graduated and moved to Seattle.

“Was it worth it?” she asked.

Her question surprised me; it made me think about my answer.

“Yes. No question.”

That was my gut response. I am the proud owner of a Bachelor of Arts in Drama Studies. That’s right, I was a theatre major. I left high school with scholarships in journalism; I had only dabbled in theatre while in high school. (Although I was a Fame kid and no one in my family would argue that!)

So, in college, I was an editor on the literary magazine staff but my heart belonged to the drama department and the plays I directed. And the dance shows for which I designed the lighting. It was four years of learning everything from welding scenery to lighting design to painting to eliciting the most amazing performances from my actors. I loved it.

And I haven’t been involved in the theatre since. While I am certain that I will write a play one day, I have said what I need to through the theater—at least for now. But make no mistake: I use my degree every day, even though I earned it many years ago.

The top three ways I use my theatre degree:

  • Self-reliance. As a directing student, I was responsible for everything related to my productions: obtaining funding, assembling the cast and crew, scheduling rehearsals, and marketing. As a freelancer, it’s up to me to get the clients, schedule projects and market myself.
  • Translation. I can speak creative, technical and business—and it’s served me very well in all aspects of my career. It’s skills I learned from working so closely with actors, dancers, musicians, scenic designers, lighting designers, sound engineers and the foundations and faculty who funded the proposals I presented.
  • Fearlessness. Okay, I do have fears. But presenting my vision and interpretation of a play to the public helped me develop risk-taking muscles. When I presented my production idea for the last play I directed, my professor told me that I would either miserably fail or wildly succeed. On opening night, she grabbed my hand and gave me a hearty “congratulations.” People have said the same thing about starting my own writing business. So far, so good!

It’s entirely possible that I would be the person and writer I am today regardless of my major. Making college “worth it” is up to each student—you get what you invest in it (and I don’t just mean taking out student loans).

You can read how other people are putting their theatre degrees to good use with Build Your Own Stage: How to Put Your Theatre Degree to Work for You.

What about you? Do you have a degree that your parents or family thought was “useless”? How do you use it?

Bookmark and Share

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.