While the title of this blog post may sound a bit silly, it is a question that I get all the time. Many freelance writers think that editors are “out to get them.†This is not true, but it is easy to see why so many believe it to be the case.
When you sign on with a magazine to produce an article, regardless of the topic or length, you are going to work with an editor. Generally speaking, you will agree on the overall concept and from there you are free to get started.
Don’t expect many pieces to get approved the first time around. Instead, your editor is sure to send back some changes along with advice and criticism.
Some editors are fun to work with. Even when changes are needed, they are friendly and helpful. Others, though, are nothing short of a pain in the neck. No matter which type of editor you are working with, one thing remains true: you have to do whatever it takes to get the piece approved.
It is a shame that many freelancers shy away from querying magazine editors because they believe the myth that editors are evil – or at the very least standoffish. You are going to run into rude editors, but even they have to rely on freelancers, like you, from time to time.
Just like any other industry, you will find editors that are friendly and editors that seem to put you down every chance they get. Don’t let a few bad apples spoil your career. Not all editors are evil!
It may not happen often, but there could come a time when a client wants to meet in person. As a freelance writer there is a good chance that this will freak you out. After all, you are used to staying at home and communicating via email, instant messenger, and an occasional phone call.
Over my many years as a freelance writer, I have only met with a few clients in person. I do this maybe once or twice a year.
If the client is local, you don’t have anything to worry about. Put on your best clothes, get prepared, and make the most of the trip. This may be scary at first, but I have found in person meetings to be a lot of fun. It is not often that freelance writers have the chance to get out and meet people!
What if the client expects me to travel a far distance for the meeting? This is a problem that you may encounter. There are two things you can do:
1. Ask the client if it is possible to “take care of business†over the phone, through an online conference, or via another method.
2. Kindly suggest that the client pays for your travel expenses. This can be difficult to do, but if you put it the right way there is no reason to be intimidated. I have done this twice, and both times it was a huge success. Not only did they pay for my transportation to and from, but I got a bit of extra cash for food and lodging. Does it get any better than that?
If a client suggests a face-to-face meeting your first reaction may be one of fear. Even if this is new to you there is nothing to worry about. Follow the above advice, and do the best you can to make the most of your meeting.
Since the beginning of the year I have had more interest than ever in my freelance writing course. Just this year alone, a handful of past students have made contact to let me know they are now working as a full-time freelancer. This is like music to my ears.
At this time, I have two openings. One person transitioned into a full-time freelancer after three months of mentoring. The other decided to head back to the corporate world.
If you are interested in joining, shoot me an email as soon as possible. If the past is any indication, these spots will only stay open for 24 hours at the most.
I am looking forward to having a couple more readers on board!
