Freelance Writing|Freelance Writer

Chris, I need to earn more Money

Every week, I receive somewhere between 50 and 100 emails from potential partners, and of course, freelance writers who are looking for advice. Of these, a good percentage write the same thing, “Chris, I need to earn more money!”

As you can imagine, approaching each and every one of these inquiries is not simple to do. After all, there is no magic bullet for earning more money as a freelance writer. Of course, there are some tips and tricks that can move you ahead of the competition. While I would love to be able to share personalized information with every person who sends me an email, there is not enough time in the day to do so.

If you are itching to earn more money there are two basic ways you can do this:

1. Raise your rates.

2. Take on more work.

Most people would rather go with number one because it allows them to complete the same amount of work, while earning more money in the end. Even though this is possible, there is risk involved. For example, you could ask current clients to pay more but this could lead to them jumping ship and never working with you again.

There is nothing wrong with taking on more work. In fact, this has many benefits in addition to being able to earn more money. With a larger client list you are hedging against the risk of one person controlling the majority of your income. Along with this, there is a better chance for long term projects.

Is this advice basic and uninteresting? Maybe, maybe not. One thing is for sure: if you want to earn more money as a freelance writer you can start chasing this goal by considering the two options detailed above.

Three Tasks to Complete this December

Now that December is here it is only natural to begin thinking about the new year. But before you look too far ahead, there are a few things you definitely want to do in the 12th and final month of the year.

1. Take a look back to assess how things played out in 2010. Did you reach your goals? Did you stay on path, or did you take your business in a new direction? Even if you don’t like what you see, it is important to look at the previous 11 months so you have a good feel for what you should be doing in the year to come.

2. Look to the future. As noted above, December is a time for thinking about the future. Are you going to take your business down the same road in 2011? Are you interested in changing your business plan in hopes of increasing sales and earnings? Every December I closely analyze my current business plan, while weighing it against my goals for the year to come.

3. Rest up and have fun. The holiday season is supposed to be a good time. While it is important to focus your efforts on work related tasks, don’t forget to keep a smile on your face and spend time with your family as well.

December is always one of the most exciting months for me. In addition to the holidays, the new year on the horizon gets me thinking about the future of my business – and that is something I enjoy!