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  • The Key to Keeping Clients Happy, Even When Delivering Bad News

    The Key to Keeping Clients Happy, Even When Delivering Bad News

    “It’s not my job to tell my client he’s making a mistake. My job is writing the content he paid me to write.”

    That’s the prevailing attitude of most freelancers today — and it has to stop.

    You’ll have happier clients, better profits, more respect and ultimately a more successful business if you’re brave enough to be upfront and proactive with your clients… even if you lose them forever.

    Think you have what it takes? Being honest with your clients takes guts and integrity, and not everyone has the confidence to pull it off.

    But if you do, you should. Here’s why:

    What your client doesn’t know

    You know a lot. Your client doesn’t — at least, not about what you do.

    After all, you’re the expert. People hire you because you’re a professional who knows way more than they do. That’s the way it should be.

    But there’s a big difference between being a professional expert and being the one who doesn’t shout a warning when your client’s about to step in a hole.

    Here’s an example, taken straight from my personal life. In the past four months, I hired a contractor to build my custom home. And I’d heard the warnings: everyone says that when you have a house built, you should expect the project to cost more than the initial quote.

    How much more? Well, now. That’s a fun surprise you get to figure out on your own.

    Now, I don’t have a problem with extra costs that the contractor can’t foresee. When we hit some unexpected bedrock during excavation, I paid the dynamiter’s bill with no fuss at all.

    But some extra costs were the sort that the contractor definitely saw coming a mile away — because he’s experienced, and I’m not. Here’s my favorite example:

    We knew we needed a well to provide water to the house. The contractor gave us a quote for digging the well. We agreed to the quote.

    Once the well was dug, we expected we’d have water.

    But then our contractor told us, “Now you’ll need a special pump to help maintain the right water pressure because your house is so far from the well. It’ll cost $300.”

    “Oh, and there’s an extra charge because we had to dig past 300 feet. That’s another $2,500.”

    Didn’t you know about these possibilities beforehand?

    “Well, we didn’t know for sure, but it was pretty likely.”

    So why didn’t you tell me?

    “Well, we could’ve hit water sooner and found it wasn’t really necessary, and we were hoping maybe the pressure would be strong enough on its own… ”

    Frustrating.

    What do you know that your client doesn’t?

    Many people who get in touch with me want great web copy to improve their conversion rates.

    Now, great web copy I can provide. But improved conversion rates? That depends on a huge number of factors that may or may not be related to the great copy.

    Great conversion rates require that you have a certain number of visitors to begin with. That’s not copy, that’s traffic.

    Great conversion rates require that you’re driving the right kind of visitors for the product or services you’re selling to your site. That’s not copy, that’s marketing strategy.

    Great conversion rates require that your website looks credible and trustworthy. That’s not copy, that’s website design.

    And so on.

    I could do what my contractor did: just agree to provide what they’re asking for. I could say, “Sure, we can give you great web copy,” and take their money, even though I know full well that they have a particular intention for that copy.

    I didn’t know that there was an extra step between digging the well and getting the water piped into my house — but my contractor did.

    My client doesn’t know that there are extra steps between slapping up great copy and getting improved conversions — but I do.

    So here’s the big question: do I tell him now, or do I tell him later?

    Always tell him now

    I’ve experimented with both strategies. I’ve been concerned that if I tell the client my great copy won’t magically solve all his problems, he’ll walk away. That’s a legitimate concern. Many do.

    But here’s an even more legitimate concern: the client will hear me agree to solve his problem, and he’ll operate on the assumption that I’m handling the problem he presented to me:

    Not getting enough conversions.

    Since he thinks I agreed to solve that problem, not just provide him with excellent copy, he’s going to be pretty unhappy when it turns out that copy doesn’t automatically result in better conversions.

    It doesn’t matter if I explain to him later that it’s obvious copy alone won’t solve the conversion problem. It doesn’t matter if this is a well-known fact among successful online entrepreneurs.

    My client clearly wouldn’t know, if I didn’t tell him.

    Which would make the resulting misunderstanding my fault, as far as the client’s concerned.

    He’s not likely to be happy about paying me for my services, even though I provided exactly what it said on the contract. He’s not going to recommend me to others. In fact, he may even leave me bad reviews or tell people that I’m a dishonest service provider.

    The almost-certain hit to my business is way worse than the possibility that the client might walk away when he realizes the solution he needs is more than he thought.

    What to do when a client wants magic

    When I have a client who thinks copy or design has magical properties that solve all his marketing woes, I stop and explain what he can and can’t expect from the work he’s asking me to do.

    I can provide you with great copy, I’ll say, but your conversion rate will depend heavily on these other factors, and those are probably bigger priorities than copy right now. You may want to get in touch with a marketing consultant or a traffic strategist.

    If the client doesn’t want to do that, it’s fine. I can still provide the copy.

    But the client won’t be able to say that I promised him conversions. I didn’t. It’s clearly written down in black and white: great copy will solve one of your problems, but not these other ones, and you should look into them.

    I often even make myself as useful as possible: I always try to suggest a few trusted people who might be able to provide the other elements of the required solution.

    Being upfront with a client works

    Let’s pretend my contractor had followed this plan. Let’s pretend that when we discussed the original quote about the well, he mentioned, “Just so you know, since your house is so far from where we’re planning to put the well, you may need to have a special pump to help with pressure.”

    “How much will the pump cost?”

    “$300. And you’ll want to prepare for the possibility that we may not hit water within 300 feet, so there might be extra charges if we have to go deeper.”

    “Yeah, that makes sense. I hope it goes well! How much would it cost if you have to go deeper?”

    “Could be about $2,500 extra.”

    “Ouch! But what can you do, eh? Oh well. Thanks for letting us know; we’ll factor that into our budget just in case.”

    The contractor still gets paid the same amount, whether he tells me now or tells me later.

    The big difference is that I know in advance that I may have to spend this money, and I know why.

    I also know that my contractor knows what he’s doing. I know that he understands my needs and is looking ahead to warn me about pitfalls that might get in the way.

    In short, I know he’s got my back.

    Which makes spending more money feel okay. I don’t feel cheated. I feel like I dodged a bullet. I can plan ahead with confidence. I feel like I successfully avoided hassle and headaches in the future. Good thing he told me about this!

    It makes me feel good about handing over an extra $3,000.

    Communicate as much as you can

    Always assume that your client doesn’t know — even if it’s common knowledge, clearly obvious or plain fact. Take responsibility for your client’s well-being, and be proactive about as much as you can.

    The worst that can happen is that your client says, “Oh, I already knew that, don’t worry.” No harm, no foul. You still look good for having communicated as much as possible ahead of time instead of after the fact.

    And you’ll make your clients feel good about working with you. You’ll make them feel good about the money they’re spending. They’ll see you’re looking out for their best interest. They’ll feel like you’re going to shout “Watch out!” if they’re about to step on a snake.

    Clients who know you’ve got their back are loyal clients. And those are the ones you want to keep.

    Have you ever had to tell a client she was making a mistake? How did you explain the situation?

  • Will Moyer’s Writing for the Web: Review

    Will Moyer’s Writing for the Web: Review

    We review ebooks, courses and tools for writers, so you can make good decisions about how to invest in your writing career.

    Ebook: Writing For The Web

    About the creator: Will Moyer is a web designer and front-end developer who loves writing and clean design.

    Price: $4.99

    Who It’s For: Writers, bloggers and editors who want to streamline their content-creation and collaboration processes.

    If you’re already tech-savvy (e.g., you’ve explored a variety of writing tools and are comfortable with HTML), this book won’t add much to what you already know.

    However, if you’re frustrated with your existing writing tools and want to learn about your collaboration options beyond emailing Word docs back and forth, you’ll want to check it out.

    What It Will Help You Do: This is a logical, practical, no-nonsense look at a writer’s workflow and toolbox. The book helps you analyze your current tools and process and identify opportunities to make it easier, more comfortable, and more efficient.

    Will’s list of suggested plain text editors and collaboration tools for different writing preferences gives you the chance to find one that works for you, whatever your needs. (Want to switch back and forth between your Windows laptop and your iPad? Need to share your work with a client who only accepts Word docs? There’s an option for that.)

    The book also includes a gentle intro to HTML and CSS; while Will acknowledges that writers don’t need to know a lot about programming, they do need to understand enough to see how it affects their digital content’s presentation.

    The Best Part: Will’s conversational style makes the book easy to read; he clearly explains technical concepts and addresses concerns for the non-technical writer. His list of tools and explanation of how to link them together into a workflow is helpful to those interested in overhauling their writing processes. The resource links at the end are great as well.

    The book outlines a variety of options and leaves the choice in the reader’s hands — how will you create your own toolbox?

    What Would Make It Even Better: As Will freely admits, the book is just one guy’s opinion on writing workflow options. Having said that, it’s a pretty well-thought-out one.

    Our Recommendation: If you’re considering making a change to your workflow, this book will help you find and understand tools that can make you more efficient.

    This post contains affiliate links. That means if you purchase through our links, you’re supporting The Write Life — and we thank you for that!

  • Staying Healthy as a Freelance Writer: 9 Important Self-Care Strategies

    Staying Healthy as a Freelance Writer: 9 Important Self-Care Strategies

    The biggest myth about freelance work is that it’s not actually work — my sister thinks I spend my days trolling the internet and playing on Twitter.

    Perhaps because of this myth, freelancers often don’t learn about healthy workplace habits. While there’s lots of talk about staying healthy in the office, what about those who work from home?

    When I started freelancing, I wanted to improve my quality of life, work less and feel more connected to my goals. Instead, I found myself glued to my computer screen, barely stopping to eat, let alone get fresh air.

    The reality is that freelance writing is hard work. It’s easy to become so focused on work that we overlook our reasons for going freelance in the first place.

    Ready to add some healthier habits to your freelance lifestyle? Here are a few strategies to help keep you in top shape.

    1. Minimize the time you spend sitting

    As a writer, you probably sit and type furiously on your keyboard for hours at a time. At this point, you’ve probably heard that this habit isn’t exactly good for you. Here’s a great infographic that explains why sitting all day is hazardous to your health.

    Consider investing in an ergonomic chair or a standing desk. Sound like too much of an investment? Make your own standing desk by following one of these ideas — some are as simple as piling books or boxes to the perfect height. 

    2. Sit properly

    When you are sitting, be conscious about how you’re holding your body. Sit up straight in your chair, letting your head sit naturally on your shoulders without plunging forward toward the computer. Bend your knees at right angles and avoid crossing them. Rest your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest, recommends the Cleveland Clinic.

    3. Give your eyes a break

    Staring at a screen for hours can lead to eyestrain and fatigue, according to the Mayo Clinic. To prevent these problems, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at an object at least 20 feet away.

    4. Stretch after sitting

    At the end of a long day, it’s always a good idea to stretch your body in the opposite way it was sitting all day. Open your chest by clasping your arms behind you and letting your head fall back. Lie on the floor and rest your legs against a wall, feet pointing up, to change your circulation.

    Looking for even more tips to help undo the damage of sitting all day? The Art of Manliness offers seven simple exercises (that work just fine for women, too!).

    5. Go outside

    An easy way to take a big break from both sitting and staring at your screen is to head outside. Changing your environment is incredibly helpful when you need to work through a tough problem or come up with new ideas.

    Set a time during your day where you will head outdoors, whether to walk, run, garden or meditate. By prioritizing and scheduling time outside each day, I help hold myself accountable to my healthy lifestyle goals. 

    6. Exercise

    Whatever flavor you choose, from walking to running to Crossfit to yoga on your living-room floor, move your body. Exercise helps clear your head, boost creativity and relieve stress.

    Schedule your workouts and hold yourself accountable to completing them. If you struggle to make them happen on your own, why not plan to meet a friend at a Pilates class or weight-lifting session? You could also consider joining an exercise club or Meetup group.

    7. Hydrate

    Drinking coffee is non-negotiable for many freelancers — myself included. But for all it’s great affects, drinking too much coffee can keep you up late, and make you jittery.

    In addition to your cup of joe, drink as much water as you can. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue or an inability to focus — none of which are good for freelancers.

     If you find water boring, spice it up with some mint, ginger, cucumber or lemon. You could also consider drinking tea, which offers the comforting warmth of coffee and contains delightful antioxidants that pack more punch than water alone.

    8. Set your hours

    No longer being forced to work 9 to 5 is great! But do you find you’re actually working more since switching to freelancing?

    I did, which undermined the reasons I wanted to freelance in the first place. The plan was to have more time to make art, travel and spend time with the people I love. The reality? I work a lot.

    Decide how many hours you want to spend working each day, and stop yourself when you’ve reached your limit. Close the “office” and unplug. If you’re worried about having enough time to get it all done, consider testing a few new time-management strategies.

    9. Separate your spaces

    This tip can be hard implement, especially if, like me, you live in a tiny home. Even though I can’t have a separate office, I do make rules about where I work and keep that space organized and uncluttered.

    Leave work documents on your desk or workspace — they don’t get to come in bed with you or migrate to the couch. If they do end up strewn about, make sure to put them back where they belong at the end of the day. You don’t want to be able to see your work at every waking moment — or you’ll be tempted to work outside your carefully set hours.

    What’s your best tip for staying healthy and fit as a freelancer?

  • Flexible Jobs for Writers: Find a Remote Position

    Flexible Jobs for Writers: Find a Remote Position

    Working from home — it’s the ultimate dream for many of us.

    For writers especially, working from home can be an ideal arrangement. It allows for a freedom and focus you’ll never find in a crowded office, where your phone keeps ringing and bosses and coworkers stop by your desk every five minutes. As Virginia Woolf once said, there’s great value in having a “room of one’s own” when your work is of a creative nature.

    More flexible work options than ever before

    The good news for those of us who long for that room of our own is remote jobs are on the rise. The number of remote jobs posted over the last year alone has risen 27 percent, according to FlexJobs, an online service for professionals seeking telecommuting, flexible schedule, part-time and freelance jobs.

    FlexJobs just released their second annual list of 100 Top Companies with Remote Jobs in 2015, a must-read if you’re in the market for flexible work. They analyzed job-post histories on their site in 2014 from more than 30,000 companies and identified 100 companies that offered the largest number of remote work options: telecommuting, work-from-home, virtual, etc.

    The companies that made the list are all sizes and from a wide variety of industries, with the most remote-friendly positions in the fields of Medical and Health, Customer Service, Sales, Computer and IT, Administrative, Education and Training, and Marketing. And here’s where you, as a writer, come in: Many of these fields — and others that didn’t make the top seven — have a need for top-quality writers and editors.

    flexiblejobs

    What kind of writing jobs are we talking about?

    So, of the 100 companies that made FlexJobs’ list, which are most likely to fit your particular skill set? Here’s a list of the some of the companies that offer writing jobs, as well as past and present job titles they’ve hired for.

    • Thomson Reuters: Specializes in business information services. Job titles include Editor, Assistant Editor, Cases Editor (temporary) and Senior Editor (temporary)
    • GEISWriters.com: Focuses on technical, medical and educational content. Job titles include Insurance Certification Exam Instructional Content Writer, Hyperbaric Technology Instructional Writer and Online Encyclopedia Content Writer
    • K12 Inc.: Great for writers with an interest in teaching or education. Job titles include Writing Interventionist Teacher, Teacher — English/Language Arts — High School, English Language Learners Teacher and Middle School English Teacher
    • About.com: For freelance writers with particular expertise areas, About.com hires “guides” to write content in that subject area. Job titles include Guide — Gluten-Free Cooking, Guide — Downton Abbey, Guide — Young Adult Books, Guide — US Foreign Policy, and Guide — Audio Books
    • Edmentum: Educational organization that hires virtual teachers and curriculum writers. Job titles include Curriculum Writer — ELA, and Virtual Teacher — English

    Is working remotely as a writer right for you?

    Like any job, remote work has its upsides and downsides, and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before you make the switch.

    Dana Sitar, an author, blogger and writing coach, has done the work-from-home-thing and also worked more traditional jobs like food service, retail and office work. (She’s also a contributor to The Write Life!) Her favorite parts about working from home?

    I love that I have control over my schedule, because I’m not expected to show up anywhere at anytime to work. That works well for me, because I prefer to work at night, when offices would never be open. I also love that I can live anywhere I want and move whenever and as often as I want. The thought of a location-dependent job drives me nuts.

    But, she warns, working from home isn’t always easy:

    Think about the things you have in traditional employment: coworkers, a dedicated workspace, free supplies, someone enforcing a schedule and deadlines, a job description and to-do list, etc. Can you work effectively without these, or find some way to mirror them working from home?

    Staying focused, on-task and on-schedule are the biggest challenges when you don’t have to punch a clock for work. A lot of little things about working in an office or other workplace help with those, and we don’t notice them until we’re working from home and don’t have them.

    Stephanie Halligan, a cartoonist and money expert, agrees that remote work has its benefits and its drawbacks:

    Working from home has given me so much independence and control over my day. Small things like working out in the middle of the day or cooking myself lunch are so rewarding. But I have to admit that I miss human interaction and “live” coworkers; it’s a lonely feeling to have all of my personal connections over Skype or on the phone!

    If these things sound doable to you, you may have what it takes to be a successful remote worker. Sitar adds:

    Creative people are good for remote jobs, because they tend to go stir-crazy in an office setting with a monotonous schedule. Same for people with wanderlust. To succeed, you have to be a smart planner, organized, self-motivated and a self-starter — and care about the work you’re doing and the people you’re doing it for.

    Does this sound like you? Then what are you waiting for? Visit the full list of companies on FlexJobs’ blog and you may find your next perfect gig! You could also consider working from a variety of countries to keep things interesting!

    Do you work from home? What do you like about it, and what do you find challenging?

  • The 100 Best Websites for Writers in 2015

    The 100 Best Websites for Writers in 2015

    Editor’s note: Looking for our most updated list of best writing websites? Here’s our list for 2021.

    Ready to improve your writing — and maybe even make a living as a writer — this year? Our 100 Best Websites for Writers list is back and better than ever.

    Thanks to your suggestions, this year’s list of writing websites includes both well-established favorites and bold newcomers. We struggled to whittle it down to just 100 — there are so many fantastic resources out there for writers! — and could probably create a second list of 100 based on all your recommendations. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts!

    We’ve broken the list into eight categories: blogging, creativity and craft, entrepreneurship, freelancing, literary agents, marketing, publishing, and writing communities. The writing sites are listed in alphabetical order within each category, and the numbers are included for easy tracking rather than as a ranking.

    If you want to start your own website or blog, here’s our step-by-step guide.

    Whether you’re keen to find better-paying freelance writing jobs or self-publish your NaNoWriMo project, build your email list or strengthen your SEO skills, these sites will help you reach your goals.

    Best websites for bloggers

    1. All Indie Writers

    Developing a successful writing career is hard work, and Jennifer Mattern, founder of All Indie Writers, tells it like it is. AIW is a helpful resource for freelance writers, indie publishers and bloggers; it features a job board, community forums and podcast episodes.

    Post you’ll like: 71 Tools and Tactics for Your Book Marketing Plan

    2. Be a Freelance Blogger

    Sophie Lizard and other fantastic writers behind Be a Freelance Blogger are making their second consecutive appearance on this list. They share useful resources, valuable tips and guest posting opportunities for bloggers looking to earn a living from writing. If you need advice that’s tailored to your specific situation, or if you’d like to connect with like-minded bloggers, check out the BAFB community — it’s completely free.

    Post you’ll like: How to Survive the Business Side of Blogging

    3. Boost Blog Traffic

    Since appearing on our list last year, Boost Blog Traffic has become an even bigger powerhouse in the blogging space. Jon Morrow and his team publish fantastic, in-depth content that will help aspiring — or even expert — writers get more eyes on their work.

    Post you’ll like: 63 Blogging Tools That Will Make You Insanely Productive

    4. Copyblogger

    Founded by Brian Clark in 1998, this epic content marketing and blogging resource is a one-stop shop for bloggers looking to increase traffic, build a large community, sell products and gain exposure. Spend a few hours digging through their archives and you’ll be amazed at the number of takeaways you can immediately apply to your copy and business. Sign up for a free My Copyblogger membership to access 15 ebooks covering everything from keyword research to crafting headlines.

    Post you’ll like: The Ultimate Copy Checklist: 51 Questions to Optimize Every Element of Your Copy

    5. Problogger

    Problogger is the go-to resource for online entrepreneurs and bloggers who want to make a living from their craft. Darren Rowse’s site is a wealth of resources, from its popular job board to workbooks, ebooks and programs to help make your blog a success.

    Post you’ll like: Can You Really Make Money Blogging?

    6. Sark e-media

    With the help of Sarah Arrow’s 30-day blogging challenge (it’s free!), you’ll focus on creating and publishing without waiting for “perfect.” Her advice is motivational and inspirational — it’s the kick-in-the-pants we all need when procrastinating on our writing.

    7. Smart Passive Income

    In the year since we mentioned Smart Passive Income on our 2014 list, creator Pat Flynn has given it a beautiful makeover. Along with the valuable blog posts that help you create a successful blog and business, you’ll find an extensive podcast library and a new series called Ask Pat.

    Post you’ll like: How to Grow Your Blog Audience by Building Relationships With Other Bloggers

    Creativity and Craft for writers

    8. AdviceToWriters

    Curated by Jon Winokur, this site collects quotes from past and present writers, in the form of a Quote of the Day post and daily email. If you’re in need of inspiration, motivation or new ideas, these daily bursts of creativity can give you just that.

    9. Aliventures 

    Author Ali Luke’s site is all about writing, blogging and life as a writer, including behind-the-scenes details. While she’s on maternity leave until later this spring, her vast archives include tons of advice about blogging, freelancing, writing ebooks and creating a loyal reader base.

    Post you’ll like: Finding Time — or Making Time — to Write

    10. Almost Fearless 

    Christine Gilbert is a videographer, storyteller and photographer who teaches courses and workshops on story-driven blogging. She’s working on a book about exploring the world and learning languages with her husband and two young children, and her storytelling advice glows with personality and life.

    Post you’ll like: I Disappear When I Write, But for My Kids I Can’t

    11. Brain Pickings

    Maria Popova believes that multiple points of creativity drive our ideas and stories, and she created Brain Pickings to aggregate diverse, interesting information. When we look for many different sources of inspiration, we can create more complex worlds for our characters and readers. 

    Post you’ll like: Famous Writers’ Sleep Habits vs. Literary Productivity, Visualized

    12. Christina Katz

    Christina Katz teaches writers to become successful at their craft through training and classes. From freelancers looking for a nudge to pitch new markets to new authors preparing to self-publish, many types of writers find helpful advice on this site.

    Post you’ll like: What Writers Don’t Realize About Platform

    13. Daily Writing Tips 

    If you need daily inspiration and writing tips, look no further than this site, which features articles on everything writing-related, including grammar, punctuation, spelling, usage and vocabulary.

    Post you’ll like: 7 Grammatical Errors That Aren’t

    14. Dani Shapiro

    Dani Shapiro’s site is unlike any other. Her words captivate your attention through each post. She shares her personal stories and experiences as a writer, author and storyteller. You’ll find plenty of creative inspiration here, and no doubt relate to her stories about looking inward.

    Post you’ll like: On Getting to Work

    15. Elizabeth Spann Craig

    Mystery author Elizabeth Spann Craig shares advice on writing, character development, productivity and other details around the writing life. She also compiles a weekly list of writing articles that many writers find immensely helpful.

    Post you’ll like: Multiple Projects at Once

    16. Erika Napoletano

    If you need a kick in the butt to overcome writer’s block or get unstuck with your writing business, you need to read this blog. Erika Napoletano offers advice that’s anything but ordinary (and usually NSFW [not safe for work]). You’ll cringe at being called out on chickening out as a writer, but you’ll laugh at the way she does it and feel motivated to step up your game.

    17. Fantasy Author’s Handbook

    Fantasy and science fiction author and editor Philip Athans shares his experience through witty, informative, entertaining and inspiring posts. Whether he’s decoding the legal page of a print book or analyzing word choice, his posts will make you think about your work in a different way. 

    Post you’ll like: Thoughts on the Difference Between Science Fiction and Fantasy

    18. Fiction University

    Instead of sharing advice about what writers should be doing, author Janice Hardy explains how to apply the industry’s advice to your work, including tips on how to plan, write, edit and publish a novel. She also pulls back the curtain on how other successful authors and writers manage their creative processes.

    Post you’ll like: The Inner Struggle: Guides for Using Inner Conflict That Make Sense

    19. Grammar Girl

    With Grammar Girl by your side, you can boost your writing and grammar confidence. Each article and podcast episode is an adventure into the world of the English language, and you’ll likely be able to find any advice you need in the archives or most popular tips categories.

    Post you’ll like: When to Use a Comma Before ‘Because’

    20. Inky Girl

    Inky Girl is all about books for children and young adults. Author and illustrator Debbie Ridpath Ohi creates comics that many writers can relate to, as well as interviews with experts and industry professionals. With her passion for telling stories in unique and interesting ways, you’ll never run out of inspiration.

    Post you’ll like: What Agents, Editors, and Art Directors Look for Online

    21. It Starts With 

    Sarah Peck combines her passion for technology, storytelling and creative design with her background in psychology to share a unique perspective on writing. If you’re looking to successfully mesh your multiple passions, better communicate your story and connect with your readers, it’s time to check out this blog.

    Post you’ll like: 17 Tips, Tricks and Habits I Use for Writing, Creation and Business-Building

    22. Jami Gold

    Paranormal author Jami Gold breaks down the challenges of writing, plotting and character development until they’re easy to understand and overcome. She also offers great worksheets for plot planning, story development, scene strengthening and more.

    Post you’ll like: What Drives a Story: Plot or Characters?

    23. KidLit411

    Keen to write or illustrate books for children? Author Elaine Kiely Kearns and author and illustrator Sylvia Liu compile tons of great advice on planning, creating and publishing your work from around the web. Their Facebook group is a great place to connect with other kidlit writers and even find a critique partner or group.

    Post you’ll like: The Weekly 411

    24. Positive Writer 

    Many writers struggle to carve out time to work. Bryan Hutchinson tackles this challenge head-on in posts on Positive Writer. He believes you should stop seeking approval from others, and offers advice on overcoming doubt and fears as a writer.

    Post you’ll like: Why No One Is Paying Attention to You (And How to Change It)

    25. Procrastiwriter

    It’s time to stop procrastinating and start writing! Written by Shanan Haislip, The Procrastiwriter will help you find the motivation you need to write more, hone your craft, and most importantly, make room for consistent writing.

    Post you’ll like: You Might Be a Writer…

    26. Romance University

    This site offers inspiring advice from a variety of industry professionals and established authors to help you create a successful writing process. While romance writers will find plenty of inspiration in the archives, even writers focused on other fiction genres can learn a lot about craft, marketing and self-publishing.

    27. Sterling Editing

    The Sterling Editing team is comprised of experienced writers, editors and literary agents striving to help writers create their best work. Their weekly “Written on the internet” posts share interesting publishing trends, editing tips and other writing advice from around the web.

    Post you’ll like: Written on the internet

    28. Susan Dennard

    Susan Dennard covers a wide variety of writing-related topics on her blog, with practical solutions and tips for all writers. She offers more great advice in her newsletter, which several TWL readers say are a must-read.

    Post you’ll like: The Writing Is All That Really Matters

    29. The Kill Zone 

    The Kill Zone focuses on writing and publishing fiction, with 11 top mystery and thriller writers posting advice every day of the week. Tune in for thoughtful, informative and entertaining articles on writing craft, marketing and industry trends, as well as “first page critiques” of submitted manuscripts.

    Post you’ll like: Getting Started With Scrivener

    30. The Write Practice

    To become a good writer, you have to practice — it’s as simple as that. The Write Practice, founded by Joe Bunting, offers daily writing prompts, creative writing lessons and a wealth of articles to help you overcome writer’s block.

    Post you’ll like: 10 Questions to Find Your Unique Writing Voice

    31. The Writer and the Critic

    The Writer and the Critic is a bimonthly podcast that discusses all things fiction, book reviews and general industry gossip. You’ll find ideas for blog posts, novels, characters and random storiese. In other words, hosts Kirstyn McDermott and Ian Mond help you find a little bit of everything for your writing.

    Post you’ll like: Episode 40: ‘Dust Devil on a Quiet Street’ and ‘We Are All Completely Besides Ourselves’

    32. The Writing Whisperer

    Shannon Hernandez spent 15 years as a teacher and now empowers other writers to find their voice in a noisy world. Whether you need memoir coaching, copywriting help, publishing advice or all of the above, her site is a full of high-quality information.

    Post you’ll like: 10 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Becoming a Published Author

    33. Write to Done

    Everyone can become a great writer if they direct their practice properly and apply themselves, says Write to Done’s Chief Editor, Mary Jaksch. The site features inspiring articles and how-to posts that will help you become the best writer you can be.

    Post you’ll like: Learn From the Greats: 7 Writing Habits of Amazing Writers

    34. Writers Helping Writers

    Formerly known as The Bookshelf Muse, Writers Helping Writers serves fiction writers of all types and offers tools to help with plot planning, self-editing and promoting your book. You’ll be especially excited about the collection of thesauruses for emotions, talents, skills, physical attributes and other important character traits.

    Post you’ll like: 5 Steps To Find Your Book’s Ideal Audience

    35. YA Confidential

    Young adult fiction has never been so popular, and YA Confidential is one of the best resources out there for writers for teens. Although the site has been on a hiatus for several months, you’ll still find gold in the archives related to writing for young adults, interviews with real teens and more.

    Post you’ll like: In Praise of Rejection

    Entrepreneurship for writers

    36. Alexis Grant

    Writers are not just creatives; they’re also business owners who also have to pay the bills. Along with great advice for freelancers and writers, Alexis Grant also offers several guides, ebooks and courses that help you manage the business side of writing. (Full disclosure: Alexis is Founder and Managing Editor of The Write Life.)

    Post you’ll like: Why You’re Failing to Make a Living as a Writer

    37. Create as Folk

    In the past year, Laura Simms has given Create as Folk an awesome makeover. You’ll find resources for quitting your job, following your passion and making a living doing what you love. She has also taken on guest contributors who share their own perspectives and journeys to creating meaningful work.

    Post you’ll like: Can You Combine All Your Passions Into One Business?

    38. Men with Pens

    Since 2006, James Chartrand’s Men with Pens has helped writers, bloggers and businesses create engaging copy and market their writing to thousands of readers. If you want to achieve better results with your writing and earn more money as a freelance writer, check out the extensive archives.

    Post you’ll like: Why Some People Make Money Writing and Others Never Will

    39. Productive Flourishing

    Productive Flourishing is one of the top websites for creativity, organization and productivity for all types of creatives and entrepreneurs. Founder Charlie Gilkey, who also works as a business coach, offers valuable advice and free planners that are sure to help you get past any creative slump.

    Post you’ll like: 5 Ways to Get Through the Creative Red Zone

    40. Seth Godin

    Bestselling author Seth Godin never ceases to amaze the world with his ideas, advice and aha moments about business. Study his writing to learn how to build a loyal audience, market to your readers and hone your craft.

    Post you’ll like: The Stories We Tell Ourselves

    41. Side Hustle Nation

    Many freelance writers start their careers as side gigs, and Side Hustle Nation is all about empowering your side ventures to propel you to financial freedom. The popular podcast offers interviews with many of the creative entrepreneurs on this list and covers topics related to self-publishing, winning over clients, passive income, recurring revenue and more.

    Post you’ll like: The Self-Publishing Platform That Outsold Amazon

    42. The Art of Non-Conformity

    “You don’t have to live your life the way others expect” is the gist of founder Chris Guillebeau’s advice on his blog and in his books. His approach to business and creativity is unconventional, as he would say, and will have you questioning how you, too, can challenge the status quo.

    Post you’ll like: How to Write a Dozen Novels and Hundreds of Stories

    43. The Creative Penn 

    The Creative Penn is the place to find advice on writing, self-publishing and marketing your new book. In addition to her self-publishing and platform-building advice, Joanna Penn shares how she makes a living as a full-time author and entrepreneur. Her podcast is also popular, offering interviews with dozens of successful writers.

    Post you’ll like: How To Edit Your Book And The Different Kinds Of Professional Editors With Natasa Lekic

    44. Untamed Writing

    “Karen Marston’s no-BS approach is practical, funny and gutsy,” a TWL reader told us. Her blog helps writers develop their skills, pitch new clients with confidence and do great work. Whether she’s challenging common assumptions (“Do you need a blog to become a freelance writer?”) or explaining copywriting concepts, Marston’s advice is anything but generic.

    45. Warrior Writers

    Kristen Lamb is an author and coach who helps writers connect with their readers. She shares advice on topics like writing craft, building a following on social media, navigating the publishing process and making a living as a writer.

    Post you’ll like: 5 Mistakes Killing Self-Published Authors

    Freelance writing

    46. About Freelance Writing 

    If you’re serious about making a living as a writer, this site will give you the information and resources you need. You’ll find a wealth of original articles about being a writer, marketing your craft, and the business of writing archives. The site has been around for more than a decade, and writers keep going back.

    47. Envato Studio and Tuts+

    Previously known as Freelance Switch, the Envato Studio and Tuts+ websites offer the same excellent content and resources for freelance writers, designers and developers. Their in-depth archives are a gold mine for anything freelancing-related, so you’re sure to find the solution to any problem you face.

    Post you’ll like: 5 Secrets to Freelancing Around Your Day Job

    48. Funds for Writers 

    If you’re serious about making a living as a freelance writer, you’ll be excited about C. Hope Clark’s goldmine of resources. She offers information on upcoming contests, freelance writing jobs, connections to publishers, and everything else you need to make money as a writer. Her most popular offering is her newsletter.

    49. Freelancers Union

    Freelancers are also business owners who worry about things like contracts, health insurance, saving for retirement and following up with clients who owe us money. Founded by Sara Horowitz in 2003, the Freelancers Union gives you access to a highly active community, valuable blog articles and local resource connections to tackle each of these challenges. 

    50. Leaving Work Behind

    While Leaving Work Behind has evolved over the past year,Tom Ewer’s blog still aims to help anyone interested in quitting the day job to build an online business. His honest, I’ve-been-there advice is specifically helpful for freelance bloggers, and the site boasts a tight-knit community. LWB is the place to be if you want to  make money as a freelancer.

    Post you’ll like: 15 Actionable Tips for Revamping Your Freelancer Website and Attracting More Clients

    51. LittleZotz Writing

    Freelance writer Lauren Tharp offers an impressive spread of resources for anyone looking to build a writing business. Her blog’s weekly posts, newsletters and two free ebooks help writers hone their skills, find clients and earn money from their work.

    Post you’ll like: What to Do When Writing Keeps You From Writing

    52. Make a Living Writing 

    Carol Tice is a successful freelance writer, and she shares her breadth of experience and knowledge on her blog. She suggests smart changes that will help you move beyond low-paying gigs and actually make a living from freelance writing. Carol also oversees the popular Freelance Writers Den community.

    Post you’ll like: How I Made 6 Figures as a Freelance Writer

    53. My Freelance Life 

    Williesha Morris discusses her entrepreneurial journey on My Freelance Life, helping other freelancers manage their worries and achieve financial success. She approaches freelance writing from a unique and captivating angle, while offering practical ideas.

    Post you’ll like: 12 Business and Blogging Lessons from My First Year

    54. Productive Writers

    John Soares has been a full-time freelance writer since 1994. On Productive Writers, he shares ideas for freelance writers about working  smarter, not harder — and landed higher-paying gigs. He focuses on earning a living without working around the clock. 

    Post you’ll like: When and How a Freelance Writer Should Hire Help

    55. Scratch

    Created by Jane Friedman and Manjula Martin, Scratch is a digital magazine for writers that features in-depth interviews, personal stories from other writers and ways to make a living as a writer. While much of the content is behind a paywall, its “Who Pays Writers?” resource, which is crowd-sourced from freelancers, is incredibly helpful for figuring out what you might earn from various publications.

    Post you’ll like: Who Pays Writers?

    56. The Freelancer

    Contently’s goal with The Freelancer is to help freelancers navigate what can be a confusing business. While it’s not solely focused on writing — photographers, designers and other freelancers will also value this information — the advice on negotiating rates, managing contracts and pitching clients is practical and actionable. Check out the weekly “Ask a Freelancer” column for answers to common questions, and the new Freelance Rates Database for pay information from various publications.

    Post you’ll like: Ask a Freelancer: How Do I Negotiate Higher Rates?

    57. The International Freelancer

    Living outside the U.S. sometimes means managing your freelance career differently than a stateside writer. Mridu Khullar Relph shares tips and strategies learned from her years of experience as a full-time journalist based in London, U.K., and New Delhi, India, making her blog an attractive destination for international writers.

    Post you’ll like: 4 Things You Must Do When Your Ideas Don’t Sell

    58. The Middle Finger Project

    Whether you like it or not, you’ll eventually have to deal with the business side of writing, and The Middle Finger Project is hell-bent on helping you. While creator Ash Ambirge originally focused on creative copywriting and marketing, the site has branched out to include tips for dealing with tough clients and getting paid what you deserve. At times the advice is NSFW (not safe for work), but it’s also fresh, entertaining and motivating. 

    Post you’ll like: Dear Friends: I Work From Home (And Yes It’s a Real Job)

    59. The Renegade Writer

    Linda Formichelli is a freelance writer who earns a living on her own terms. She’s written for publications like Inc., Redbook and Writer’s Digest and makes “a full-time income working part-time hours.” Her blog focuses on building a writing business that works for you, breaking the rules and overcoming your freelancing fears.

    Post you’ll like: Are You Missing Out On This Vital Freelancing Skill?

    60. Writers in Charge

    If you’re ready to start a career as a freelance writer, Writers in Charge is the site for you. Creator Bamidele Onibalusi shares resources to help you take control of your income, make more money and successfully navigate the freelance world.

    Post you’ll like: 110 Websites that Pay You to Contribute an Article, Instantly

    61. Writing Thoughts

    Freelance writer Laura Spencer doesn’t update her blog often, but each post offers gems of inspiration and information. With more than 24 years of writing experience — 13 of them as a freelancer — she shares proven advice on running a freelance business, soliciting feedback and working with clients.

    Post you’ll like: 21 Hard Decisions Freelance Writers Face

    Literary Agents

    62. Bent on Books

    The Bent Agency looks to turn new and aspiring authors into bestsellers. If you’re interested in traditional publishing, Jenny Bent’s blog could help you launch your publishing career and turn your dream of being a published author into reality.

    Post you’ll like: The 7 “Be”-Attitudes of Finding Your Agent

    63. Guide to Literary Agents (Writer’s Digest)

    One of the biggest blogs on publishing, Chuck Sambuchino’s Guide to Literary Agents blog is a must-read if you’re looking to land a literary agent to represent your new book. The site features posts by guest authors, including industry professionals and literary agents. It also includes resources on queries, book marketing, creating an author platform and more.

    Post you’ll like: How I Got My Literary Agent (Series)

    64. Literary Rambles

    Created in 2008 by Casey McCormick and Natalie Aguirre, Literary Rambles covers topics related to children’s books, literary agents and publishing. The interviews and comprehensive profiles of industry experts give writers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to write a novel and become a published author.

    Post you’ll like: The Key to Building an Audience, Selling More Books and Finding Success as an Author

    65. Nathan Bransford, Author

    As a published author and former literary agent, Nathan Bransford gives readers an insider’s look into what literary agents do, how to go about finding one, and tips for writing a good query letter. Whether you’re a newbie author or an experienced veteran, you’re sure to learn something new about the publishing industry. 

    Post you’ll like: How to Write a Query Letter

    66. Rachelle Gardner

    Rachelle Gardner’s blog is one of the most popular literary agent resources for a reason: she’s passionate about working with writers and stays updated on what’s happening on both sides of the desk. You’ll find advice about partnering with an agent who’s a good fit for you, what to include in your book proposal, writing a query letter, how book royalties work and more.

    Post you’ll like: Book Covers and My Experience With 99 Designs

    Marketing for writers

    67. Mirasee

    Running a successful writing career means embracing the business and marketing side of being a writer. With the help of Danny Iny’s site, you’ll tackle both with ease. His fantastic resources for guest blogging, advertising, SEO, branding, marketing and more are sure to give you an edge up when it comes to making sales. 

    Post you’ll like: 5 Proven Strategies to Encourage Clients to Pay More for Your Services (and Love It)

    68. Jessica Lawlor 

    Public relations professional and freelance writer Jessica Lawlor is all about getting gutsy: stepping outside your comfort zone to reach your goals and live a life that makes you truly happy. As the founder of the Get Gutsy blog and community, Jessica’s website and newsletter are filled with inspiration, ideas and action items to help you #GetGutsy and step outside your comfort zone.

    Post you’ll like: The 5 Things I Know For Sure About What It Means To Get Gutsy

    69. Kikolani 

    Kristi Hines is a blogging powerhouse, and her site documents her marketing strategies, guest blogging methods and social media tips for writers and professional bloggers. She also discusses the best digital tools for publishing, productivity and content marketing. 

    70. Michael Hyatt

    Marketing expert Michael Hyatt shares advice on everything from blogging to publishing, and his goal is “to help leaders leverage their influence” by managing their platforms. Read his blog for advice on productivity, goal setting, social media and traditional publishing.

    Post you’ll enjoy: Do You Make These 10 Mistakes When You Blog?

    71. Social Triggers

    Derek Halpern mixes psychology and social behavior to develop marketing and pricing ideas that will knock your socks off. His no-nonsense attitude will go a long way toward helping you make more sales, price products based on value and become a profitable freelancer.

    Post you’ll like: Struggling to Make More Sales? Follow These Two Simple Steps

    72. The Story of Telling

    Marketing does not come easily for many writers, but selling your work is all part of making a living as a writer. Bernadette Jiwa is a bestselling business author who shares how to create meaningful work, embrace marketing and tell your best story.

    Post you’ll like: Value Creation and Stories to Believe In

    73. Writing Happiness

    To sell books, novels and products, you have to build a readership of loyal followers, and that’s where Marya comes in. She’s in her fourth year of business and shares her personal experiences, tips and ideas for gaining blog subscribers who become buyers. 

    Post you’ll like: Make These 7 Blog Tweaks and Attract Your Perfect Reader Almost Instantly

    Publishing

    74. A Newbie’s Guide to Publishing

    Author Joe Konrath has published 24 novels and sold millions of books, giving him the experience to create a must-read blog. If you write mysteries, thrillers, horror or sci-fi, you’ll find a ton of helpful advice for writing, editing and publishing your novel.

    Post you’ll like: Agents Behaving Badly

    75. Better Novel Project 

    Have you ever wanted to deconstruct a popular novel to learn how authors create bestsellers? Christine Frazier explores common elements in popular novels, draws conclusions from her findings and creates a master outline for a “better novel.” She offers insights on plot analysis, creating excitement in your novels, word counts and character development.

    Post you’ll like: 6 Writing Rules That Even Bestselling Authors Break

    76. Blots & Plots

    Jenny Bravo, founder of Blots & Plots, focuses on writers and their stories. Through her personal anecdotes and writing advice, you’ll find encouraging ways to bring your story to life and publish your work. Readers love her #TATM series (These Are The Moments), where she details the journey of writing her novel. 

    Post you’ll like: How to Write a Novel With a Dual Timeline

    77. Dean Wesley Smith 

    A professional writer for more than 40 years, Dean Wesley Smith has published independently and traditionally. In addition to the valuable editing, craft and productivity advice in his blog posts, make sure to read the comments — they often offer even more helpful information.

    Post you’ll like: New World of Publishing: Failure Must Be an Option

    78. Diversity in YA

    Authors Malinda Lo and Cindy Pon founded Diversity in YA to celebrate young adult books about diverse characters and subject matter and “to bring attention to books and authors that might fall outside the mainstream.” Read their posts for conversational, nuanced takes on diversity in the publishing industry.

    Post you’ll like: Representing Diversity on 2014 YA Book Covers

    79. Goins, Writer

    Author Jeff Goins has written and published multiple books, and he’s on a mission to help writers tell better stories. Along with building his career as a successful writer, he’s established a community that helps answer questions like “What does it really take to get published?” and “How do successful writers make a living?” His free 31-day writing challenge is also popular.

    Post you’ll like: How to Get People to Care About What You Create

    80. Helping Writers Become Authors

    K.M. Weiland’s site features hundreds of posts about writing, publishing, marketing and other fiction-related topics. If you need help crafting a captivating story, exploring the psychology behind the inspiration, and following through till publication, this site is for you.

    Post you’ll like: What’s the Difference Between Your Story’s Theme and Its Message?

    81. How to Plan, Write and Develop a Book

    Mary Carroll Moore shares weekly tips and techniques on how to structure, create, write and sell your first manuscript — whether it’s a novel, memoir or nonfiction book. She also offers writing classes to help writers hone their craft and navigate the publishing process. 

    Post you’ll like: A Letter to Your Inner Critic: How to Stop the Invisible Sabotage to Your Creativity

    82. Indies Unlimited

    Created to help independent authors write, publish and promote their work, Indies Unlimited is run by a team of writers and publishing industry professionals. With a nearly overwhelming number of posts, tutorials, lists of low-cost books and writing prompts, there’s lots for writers to explore.

    Post you’ll like: How Indies Unlimited Works

    83. Jane Friedman 

    With more than 15 years of experience in publishing, including work with Writer’s Digest, Jane Friedman focuses on moving from writing as a hobby into creating a full-fledged digital publishing career. She shares tips on storytelling, writing techniques and finding your creative inspiration.

    Post you’ll like: How to Get Your Book Published

    84. Lisa Romeo Writes 

    While many TWL readers highlighted the wonderful Friday Fridge Clean Out features, Lisa Romeo also shares posts, interviews and writerly opinion pieces. She writes candidly about what it means to be a writer, from submissions and editing to getting published and dealing with rejection.

    Post you’ll like: Acceptance After Multiple Rejections: It Only Takes One Yes

    85. Live Write Thrive

    Author and editor C.S. Lakin’s blog provides valuable writing tips and editing advice for fiction writers. In addition to focusing on the craft of writing, Live Write Thrive helps writers with their publishing and marketing strategy. If you’re writing a novel in 2015, be sure to check out this site.

    Post you’ll like: 15 Tips for Aspiring Writers from 5 Successful Authors

    86. Novel Publicity 

    Regardless of whether you choose traditional or self-publishing, the Novel Publicity team’s blog offers helpful advice on craft, marketing and publishing. With posts offering writing tips, social media strategy, publishing techniques and more, you’re sure to learn something new each time you visit.

    Post you’ll like: Hey Authors: You’re Doing Twitter Wrong!

    87. Pub(lishing) Crawl

    Run by a group of authors and publishing industry professionals, this site shares advice on writing craft, publishing and marketing, as well as interviews with authors, illustrators and literary agents. The popular “Question of the Month” series is fun to follow as well.

    Post you’ll like: Writing Out of Order

    88. Steve Scott’s Site

    If you want practical ideas on how to sell your books on Amazon and make a living from your writing, you need to read Steve Scott’s blog. The successful Amazon Kindle publisher offers proven strategies and case studies of his publishing experiments to help other writers learn from his efforts. You’ll appreciate his transparent analysis and income reporting for the real numbers and results he shares. 

    Post you’ll like: Amazon Associates: The Best Way to Diversify Your Online Income?

    89. Terribleminds

    Although NSFW (not safe for work), Chuck Wendig’s blog is spot-on and funny. He writes about what it really means to be a writer, author and storyteller, without bothering to be politically correct. Having published both traditionally and on his own, he offers interesting, nuanced comments on publishing industry trends and debates.

    Post you’ll like: What the Hell’s Happening With Kindle Unlimited?

    90. The Book Deal 

    Alan Rinzler has worked in traditional publishing for more than 40 years. His blog is an in-depth look at how to write an attention-getting book proposal, land a literary agent, market your book and otherwise succeed in traditional publishing.

    Post you’ll like: How Authors Support Their Writing Dreams

    91. The Book Designer

    With a background in book design, advertising and layout, Joel Friedlander shares guidance on how to make sure your book looks its best. He touches upon marketing and writing, but readers flock for his advice on cover design and self-publishing, which is detailed and authoritative. Check out his Ebook Cover Design Awards for inspiration for your next ebook cover.

    Post you’ll like: 7 Email Marketing Secrets Every Fiction Writer Should Know

    92. The Passive Voice

    Stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in self- and indie publishing from the perspective of a lawyer who specializes in these topics. Before diving into the world of being a published author, David Vandagriff (aka Passive Guy) will help you arm yourself with the information you’ll need to succeed. 

    93. The Review Review

    If you’re interested in literary magazines, check out The Review Review. It assists writers to better target their submissions to literary magazines by interviewing representatives and analyzing past issues of various publications. The site also offers a classifieds section of magazines looking for submissions. 

    94. Warner Coaching

    Brooke Warner, a publisher and author, is dedicated to demystifying the business of book publishing. She works to give writers the confidence and information they need to publish well and self-promote with confidence. 

    Post you’ll like: Writing When No One Is Listening

    Writing Communities

    95. A Writer’s Bucket List 

    A Writer’s Bucket List is a place for writers who think outside the box, have a sense of humor and enjoy connecting with quirky, like-minded peers. Created by author Dana Sitar, the site features articles from writers in the community, as well as experts who share topics on blogging, freelancing and storytelling. 

    Post you’ll like: Be Picky, Get Paid to Promote Yourself, and Build Your Dream Career

    96. Fantasy Faction

    Fantasy Faction’s discussion forums are invaluable for inspiration and discussion of every aspect of good fantasy writing. They also feature interviews and industry news for fantasy fans.

    Post you’ll like: Fantasy Makes History Cool

    97. Kboards

    Kboards is a site devoted to all things Kindle and has become a powerhouse community for Kindle authors and publishers. This all-inclusive site will keep you updated on the latest Amazon Kindle news, KDP changes and how you can make a living selling ebooks.

    98. She Writes

    Founded by author Kamy Wicoff, She Writes is a community for people who write — yes, men are welcome! With more than 20,000 active members from around the world, you’re bound to find interesting discussions of writing craft, marketing strategies, publishing advice and more.

    99. Wattpad 

    Wattpad is a community of more than 35 million users writing, reading and sharing stories — all for free. Want to share a short story that’s tangential to your novel? Or tempt readers with an excerpt from your upcoming book? This might be the platform for you.

    100. Writer’s Carnival

    Writer’s Carnival draws many novelists wanting to receive useful critiques through prompts and challenges. Explore poetry, flash fiction, short stories and writing contests in this community for writers.

    Which sites do you regularly read and find helpful as a writer? Are there any other sites you think should be on this list?

  • Jobs That Leave You Time to Write

    Jobs That Leave You Time to Write

    You drag yourself out of bed, get ready, deal with traffic, work hard for eight hours, drive home, eat something and then . . . start writing? It’s doubtful.

    What about weekends? Sure, right after you catch up on the household chores you put off all week.

    It’s tough enough to build your writing career part-time around other commitments, but it’s especially difficult if you have a day job.

    Fortunately, not all jobs are equal. In fact, some types of work leave you ample time to write: jobs where you can write while on the clock, positions with limited days or hours, and gigs where you control when and how much you work.

    Jobs that let you write at work

    I used to drive an electric tram for residents of a wealthy community in Florida, and my employer encouraged me to bring books or even a laptop if I wanted to read or write during slow times. And sure enough, during the off-season, I often waited for an hour or more between passengers.

    Few employers may allow you to write while on the job, but if you’re serious about your writing and need a day job, try one of these positions:

    Security guard
    “I wrote Enjoy the Decline in 45 days while pulling 16 hour shifts sitting at a warehouse as a security guard,” says author Aaron Clarey. He also wrote his 324-page book, Behind the Housing Crash, while working at that same job.

    Clarey suggests writers ask to be assigned night shifts, when they’ll likely have fewer administrative than they would during the day. However, day shifts can be productive as well; author Mark Allan Gunnells says:

    I’m a security guard, and have pockets of downtime throughout the day. I have trained myself to write in those pockets. It isn’t ideal for some, the constant stop-and-start method, but I’ve managed to make it work.

    When I wrote while working as a security guard, the biggest problem I faced was the number of interruptions. Gunnells may have adapted to that stop-and-start environment, but my own solution was to do the preparatory work instead of the actual writing.

    For example, I researched my topic online, found sources and took notes. When I later wrote my articles, they came quickly and easily since I already had information, sources and a general outline ready.

    Pet sitter or House sitter
    While they may not be full-time gigs, these jobs leave you lots of time to write.

    When I was younger, I wrote while getting paid to watch dogs for family and friends. When my wife and I travel, we pay our pet sitter $60 per night to stay with our two cats. Apart from a few minutes of play time and feeding, the rest of her eight-hour stay is open for whatever she wants to do — including writing.

    Other possibilities
    Consider alternative positions that offer lots of downtime during your working hours, and don’t be afraid to get creative. For example:

    • A late-shift hotel clerk can write while waiting for the phone to ring or a guest to check in
    • An elder-care driver can write while waiting for passengers at appointments
    • A campground host can write when he’s not welcoming guests or accepting bookings
    • A baby sitter can write after the kids are in bed

    It may not be easy to fit in writing time at work, but it’s possible. Rodrigo Ribera D’Ebre says he wrote a novel during breaks while working in an office cubicle at an auto insurance company. Short story author Lisa Proctor says her boss let her write on the job when she was a clerk at a bookshop.

    Some employers are happy to let writers write, as long as they get their work done. Why not ask?

    Part-time work that pays well

    A miserable day job can be good motivation for launching your writing career, and you might even use lunch breaks to plan how you’ll quit your job and start freelancing.

    But if you need the extra income, consider a part-time job to support your writing. To maximize your writing time, look for a position that pays well for your time, so you can afford to work fewer hours.

    If you only want to work a couple of days each week, one of the best opportunities may be bartending. If you have previous experience serving drinks or waiting tables, you might convince a bar or club owner to let you work only Friday and Saturday nights — the busiest times for most bars.

    The tips can be surprisingly good. “Tending bar at a busy nightclub, I regularly pulled in upwards of three hundred dollars a night, and on many Fridays I took in more than $600,” says Rob Dohearty. On his best night, he earned $1,600, and that was at a rural tavern where he normally made only about $100 per night. However, he warns that without experience you’ll probably get the slow shifts to start, and you’ll make much less.

    Also consider jobs that require you to work five days or more each week, but for a limited number of hours. For example, many people who deliver newspapers to the coin-operated boxes on street corners (a job I used to have), work just two to four hours each morning. Just be prepared to get up at three or four in the morning each day!

    Here are some other part-time possibilities with the potential for decent hourly incomes:

    • Waiting tables in an expensive restaurant
    • Cutting hair
    • Substitute teaching
    • Doing morning janitorial work for offices or schools
    • Driving a school bus

    As a school bus driver, you can use the time between morning and afternoon runs to write, and you get summers off.

    Flexible, writing-friendly jobs

    The best gig for writers would allow you to work when you want and as much or as little as you want. That way, when you have paid writing projects you can slack off on the other work, and when writing income falls you have a backup. But is there such a job?

    Yes. As a search engine evaluator — a job I started nine months ago — I work when I want, day or night, for $13.50 per hour. The most I’ve worked is 53 hours in a month, and although the company says you have to work at least 20 hours, I have recently dropped to fewer than five hours monthly, which is apparently just enough to keep from getting fired.

    As a search engine evaluator, you rate search results based on various factors. The employers provide the minimal training necessary. Companies that hire for these positions include Leapforce, Lionbridge and Appen Butler Hill, and may also offer other at-home part-time positions.

    Jobs that let you work as many hours as you like, whenever you like, are rare. Get creative to brainstorm opportunities based on your skills. Perhaps a family member with a business can hire you to work the days and hours that fit best with your writing schedule — another way I’ve been able to work while having time to write.

    Do you have a job that leaves you time to write? How do you fit writing around a day job?

  • What Editors Look for in Freelance Writers: 8 Ways to Impress

    What Editors Look for in Freelance Writers: 8 Ways to Impress

    Being an editor is a highly personal job with a bizarrely impersonal structure.

    All day long, I slice and dice articles that writers have poured their hearts and souls into. Often, I go hours without speaking to anyone. I work with more than 30 writers whom I’ve never met, yet I feel as if I know them.

    On paper, the writers I work with have nothing in common. One’s a stay-at-home mom, another’s a whistleblower, and a third is a full-time backpacker who uses freelancing income to travel the world. But the quality of their writing binds them all together.

    After reading hundreds of articles from prospective writers, I’ve realized that there are a few things I look for every time:

    1. A distinct voice

    A unique voice is the number one thing that makes me scoot to the edge of my chair when I’m reading an article. I feel like I know my writers because their voices tell me about their personalities, what they find funny, how empathetic they are, and how much they love what they do.

    I wish I knew how to teach voice, but it’s not something you can force. You can read the greats and try to absorb their style, but the best you can hope for is a convincing imitation. A writer can only develop her own voice through experience.

    2.  Personality that leaps off the page

    My all-time favorite writers are those who make me want to read snippets of their articles out loud in the office to anyone who will listen. A writer with an infectious personality produces articles that demand to be read because they’re so entertaining. And if you’ve got my attention, you’re probably going to get the job.

    While it’s not appropriate for every article, I’m a sucker for witty pop culture references or masterful sarcasm. I once had a writer who sent me an article called “5 Ways to Run Your Startup Into the Ground.” It was fantastic because it presented actual advice by showing what not to do.

    3.  Clear, unpretentious prose

    This may earn a few gasps of outrage from the literary community, but nothing turns me off more quickly than flowery language. Some of the most overused $5 words I see include “plethora,” “germane,” and “onus.” (We keep a running list of most-hated words on the office whiteboard.)

    When writing for the web, it’s better to be understood than admired for an extensive vocabulary.

    4.  An “ear” for syntax

    Good writing doesn’t leave you looking for the seams; it makes you forget you’re reading altogether. A piece of writing should “sound” good in your head and feel like a one-on-one conversation with the writer.

    5.  Cliché-free expression

    George Orwell once wrote a list of rules for effective writing, and my favorite is, “Never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.”

    Any writer who tells me to “think outside the box,” “jump on the bandwagon” or “get more bang for my buck” is going to get my darkest Grumpy Cat scowl.

    6.  Knowledge of AP style

    I won’t ever write someone off if he doesn’t stick to AP style, but at least a basic knowledge of style is a major plus. Most of our editors were trained as journalists, and most of the publications we work with favor AP over Chicago style. Regardless of which style you use, consistency and readability are key.

    7.  Deep expertise in a specific industry

    Again, this is more of a “nice to have” trait than a requirement, but writers with a lot of knowledge about healthcare, tech, entrepreneurship or digital marketing are extremely valuable additions to our freelance roster.

    Right now, there’s a big demand for writers who know the ins and outs of the Affordable Care Act, encryption, cloud technology, the Internet of Things, lean and agile methods, content marketing, social media and affiliate marketing. I pay special attention to writers who send links to articles they’ve written on specific topics relevant to their expertise.

    8.  The ability to follow directions

    Because we work with 700+ publications, the ability to follow directions is crucial. I’ve found that writers who can’t rein themselves in on word count or stay on topic are always difficult to work with.

    Of course, writing is incredibly subjective, and as a freelancer, trying to appeal to every client or editor’s sensibilities can be frustrating. It doesn’t help that what supposedly “works” for online content is constantly in flux. Some editors only publish listicles, while others won’t publish any. Some publications insist their readers won’t read anything over 500 words, while others are starved for long-form content.

    Call me optimistic, but I truly believe that readers know what’s good — even if they can’t articulate it — and that the thirst for fantastic writing isn’t going anywhere. Now more than ever, there’s a demand for writers who can inform, entertain and create a one-on-one connection with readers. I’m out there looking for them, and I know other editors are, too.

    How do you highlight these traits when you pitch an editor?

  • Tracking Freelance Earnings: A New Monthly Column From Nicole Dieker

    Tracking Freelance Earnings: A New Monthly Column From Nicole Dieker

    Hi, writers! My name is Nicole and I’m a full-time blogger and copywriter. This year, we’re going to take a monthly look at how much money I earn as a freelancer.

    I first began full-time freelancing in May 2012, as an independent musician and singer-songwriter. In July 2012, I started posting my weekly freelance earnings to my Tumblr. I started publicly sharing my income because I wanted to start a conversation about how much musicians actually make. That first week I posted my income, for example, I played two shows but only earned $141. Not great, right?

    By the end of 2012, I was pretty certain I couldn’t make a livable wage just as a singer-songwriter. I decided to see if I could pick up a few writing jobs to earn extra cash between gigs. Like the great Carol Tice, who was also a songwriter in Los Angeles before she transitioned into writing, I quickly learned that I loved the freelance writing life — and that I could earn a lot more money as a writer than I ever could as a musician.

    Tracking my freelance writing income

    So I kept tracking my income, week by week, and watching the numbers get bigger and bigger. I wrote for content mills, then entry-level copy agencies, and then I started to build my own portfolio of writing clients.

    Now I have regular bylines on sites like The Penny Hoarder, The Billfold, Boing Boing and The Freelancer, and make most of my income as a professional blogger with the occasional copywriting job. (I still play about one gig a month as a musician, too — can’t give it up!)

    Every month, I’m going to check in with all of you at The Write Life with a report of my previous month’s freelance earnings. I’ll write about how much work I was able to bill for the month, how many pieces I wrote, and share a little bit about how the month went for me, finance-wise. Let me know what you’re interested in discussing, and I can write specific columns about sending and tracking invoices, making budgets on a variable income, and other financial aspects of the freelance life.

    I love writing about money, and I promise I will share all the important details with you — down to the penny.

    2014 Earnings and 2015 Goals

    Here’s what you need to know to start out: I just finished totaling up my 2014 numbers, as I recorded on The Billfold. In 2014, I earned $40,966.48 as a freelance writer and $2,492.54 as a musician, for a grand total of $43,059.02.

    At the beginning of 2014, I was making most of my money through 3-cents-a-word content sites. I really wanted to expand my portfolio (and my income), so I set myself the goal of pitching one new blog, publication or copywriting client every week. A lot of my pitches were successful, and I began building my portfolio and adding new clients to my roster.

    I also learned that this type of success starts to snowball: once you get a byline in a high-profile publication, other editors start contacting you to ask if you’re interested in working for them, too.

    By the end of 2014, I was earning most of my income writing articles for various publications and blogs. Instead of 3 cents a word, I often get between $150 and $300 a piece. I still do some copywriting work, too — as I wrote in one of my recent Ask A Freelancer columns, it’s important to diversify your income with different types of writing. I don’t know what the blog landscape will look like in 10 years, but I do know businesses will probably still need copywriters, so I want to make sure I stay active in both fields.

    This year, I want to see how far I can take my monthly earnings. I’m earning around $4,500 a month now, and I’d like to push it to at least $5,000 a month by summer 2015. If I average $5,000 per month over 2015, I’ll earn $60,000 for the year, which would be incredible.

    To get that extra $500 every month, I’ll need at least one more really solid client. Or, I could increase my income by re-negotiating rates with my current clients. I’ll also need to figure out how to re-allocate my time, since I already have a pretty heavy writing load: each week, I turn in around 20 individual articles to various publications.

    Will I earn that $60,000? Will I get that new client? Stick with this column, and we’ll find out what happens together. See you back here in early February!

    What subjects would you like to see Nicole cover in her monthly freelance earnings column? What are your biggest questions about freelancing and finance? Let us know!

  • Dana Sitar’s Write Your Manifesto: Review

    Dana Sitar’s Write Your Manifesto: Review

    We review ebooks, courses and tools for writers, so you can make good decisions about how to invest in your writing career.

    Course: Write Your Manifesto

    About the creator: Dana Sitar is an author, blogger and e-publishing coach. She blogs at A Writer’s Bucket List and co-hosts the This Is Temporary podcast.

    Price: $45. The course comes with lifetime access and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to write a nonfiction, message-driven ebook (or, as Sitar calls it, a manifesto). It’s a perfect fit for people who know they want to write an ebook, but aren’t sure what they want to say or how to get started.

    What It Will Help You Do: This course will walk you through each step of writing your ebook — everything from carving out the time to write to defining your audience and finding your voice.

    What’s Included: An online course with 10 modules:

    1. Commit to Your Writing Routine: How can you fit writing into your life?
    2. Clarify Your Message: What do you want to be known for? What do you have to offer?
    3. Define Your Audience: Who are you writing for?
    4. Describe Your Offer: How are you going to solve problems for your readers?
    5. Determine Your Action Steps: What actions do you want your readers to take?
    6. Create Your Outline: What is your book going to say?
    7. Know Your Unique Voice: What is your genuine voice?
    8. Consider the FAQs: What questions will your readers have?
    9. Write!: Finish your first draft!
    10. Review What You’ve Written: Who can you ask for feedback?

    Each module is further segmented into information and tips, writing prompts, worksheets and assignments. Some modules have an “additional resources” section with helpful links for further reading.

    The Best Part: This course breaks down the monumental task of writing an ebook into bite-sized chunks. The truth is that you probably don’t need help with the writing itself; you need help figuring out what to write, who to write it for and how to manage your time.

    That’s where this course comes in. Sitar helps you determine your message and your offer through helpful writing prompts, questions and exercises. As shown above, you don’t even start writing an outline until Module 6 — and you don’t start drafting until Module 9. To top it off, she even includes an ebook publishing timeline for spreading your message to the world.

    What Would Make It Even Better: There’s a private Google+ group for people taking the course, but it isn’t active. As evidenced by events like #NaNoWriMo, writers thrive when they have a support network, so a lively Google+ community would give this course a huge boost. Almost all of the assignments are “community challenges” that encourage you to post in the group, but without anyone else posting there, it’s a bit intimidating.

    Our Recommendation: The hardest part of writing is starting, which is why this course is worth the money. It guides you through every step of the creation process, making completing an ebook much more manageable. If you take this course, you’ll have zero excuses for not starting — or finishing — your project.

    This post contains affiliate links. That means if you purchase through our links, you’re supporting The Write Life — and we thank you for that!

    Are you planning to write an ebook in 2015?

  • Don’t Wait for Inspiration: 3 Surefire Ways to Beat Writer’s Block

    Don’t Wait for Inspiration: 3 Surefire Ways to Beat Writer’s Block

    Inspiration. It’s an attractive concept for writers, but there’s a big problem with waiting for the muse.

    What would happen if a professional sprinter stopped training for a competition because she was tired of her sport? If she made a habit of it, she’d lose her next event.

    What would happen if an engineer stopped working on a construction project because he didn’t feel excited about plans for the project? He’d lose his job.

    What happens to the writer who waits for inspiration to arrive? She might not write today, or tomorrow, or the day after that.

    Professional writers can’t afford to skip several days because they don’t have a good idea. They know writing is a demanding craft, and they go to great lengths to prevent having nothing to write about.

    Here are three ways you can avoid having to wait on inspiration and trick yourself into making major writing progress.

    1. Build a swipe file

    A swipe file is a great tool for writers. It’s a place for recording facts, figures, sentences and ideas about your work. If this information isn’t relevant to your current writing project, it will help you the next time you’re devoid of ideas. All you have to do is review your swipe file, pull out your notes and use them as a jumping off point into the unknown.

    If you’re a copywriter, clip the headlines, words and sales hooks of other, more talented copywriters into your file.

    If you’re a nonfiction writer, store articles and notes about your research in your file.

    If you’re a blogger, clip the most popular articles by bloggers in your niche and review these before you write your next post.

    If you’re a fiction writer, keep reflections about stories you read and ideas for future work in your swipe file.

    I use Evernote for my swipe file. Other digital options include OneNote and Simplenote, both of which are multi-platform tools. However, you don’t need a digital tool to keep a swipe file. Author Ryan Holiday, for example, uses a paper-based system for his research. In the end, the tool is less important than the process.

    2. Practice writing by keeping a journal

    Writing a journal will foster your creativity and give you space to develop ideas that you don’t have room for elsewhere. Journaling can help you turn thoughts and feelings into words and ideas.

    Because it’s private, you’re less likely to censor yourself. This brutal honesty will expand the boundaries of your writing and if you keep a journal for several years, older journal entries serve as markers for your progress.

    Virginia Woolf was fastidious about keeping a journal or diary. In an entry from 1924 in A Writer’s Diary, she describes how journal writing gave her more ideas for fiction and nonfiction.

    Why not write about it? Truthfully? As I think, the diary writing has greatly helped my style; loosened the ligatures.

    My life isn’t much like Woolf’s, but I learned a lot about the art of journal writing from her. Keeping a journal doesn’t mean recording a daily summary of one’s life. Rather, it’s a way to expose your thoughts and feelings. This self-reflective writing will help you dig deeper into your thought processes.

    At the very least, journal writing is another form of practice, and disciplined practice is essential if you want to become a better writer.

    3. Record your experiences in a sense diary

    Keeping a sense diary is a useful practice for creative writers. In it, record one sensual experience per day, like how a meal tasted or what a person’s voice sounded like. Take notice of the stickiness of sweet tea, the coarseness of an unvarnished floor and the pain behind your eyes when you’re tired.

    The world is your source material.

    Now, see if you can remix your sense diary to describe how a smell tastes or what a sound looks like. No matter what type of writer you are, invoking at least one of the five senses will add character and authenticity to your work.

    It’s common practice for creative writers to remix and play on our perceptions of the five senses. In 1962, Vladimir Nabokov, author of Lolita, told the BBC he could hear colors in different languages. He explained how he used this ability to great effect in his writing:

    The long ‘a’ of the English alphabet has for me the tint of weathered wood, but a French ‘a’ evokes polished ebony.

    Keep a sense diary in a paper notebook, in a password-protected file on your computer or by using one of the many journal apps available for smartphones. Day One for iOS is particularly popular, and it supports multimedia content, which is useful for adding context to your descriptions.

    Creative writers who get into the habit of keeping a sense diary will find it’s more natural to describe the clack of an old keyboard or the spot of blue ink on the inside of their index fingers if they’re in the habit of recording these observations anyway.

    Nonfiction writers can use a sense diary too. Legendary copywriter and ad-man David Ogilvy regularly drew on the five senses, and he famously wrote about the Rolls-Royce: “At 60 miles an hour, the loudest noise in this new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock.”

    Still feeling stuck?

    The American short story writer and author John Updike wasn’t one for waiting around for inspiration. Updike published his first work, a collection of poetry called The Carpentered Hen, in 1958. Throughout his life, he wrote for several hours day, and he published a book almost every year. He said:

    I’ve never believed that one should wait until one is inspired, because I think that the pleasures of not writing are so great that if you ever start indulging them, you’ll never write again.

    The pleasures of not writing are great; don’t succumb to them. Force yourself into the chair and update your swipe file, your journal or your sense diary. On difficult days, these methods will serve as prompts that help you write. And on good days, they will support your best work.

    [bctt tweet=”The pleasures of not writing are great; don’t succumb to them, says @BryanJCollins”]

    Somedays I consider it enough to simply write in a journal or make observations in my swipe file, while on other days I concentrate on reaching a target word count or finishing a project. If you’re unsure, remember this simple rule:

    Do the work.

    The first few sentences may not make much sense but, several sentences in, you’ll realize you’re not as tired or devoid of ideas as you thought; you were just procrastinating.

    Do you rely on moments of inspiration? What tricks do you use to overcome writer’s block?