Have you ever wondered how some writers make money from their craft? Perhaps you’ve already tried to do this yourself and failed miserably? Or you’re just about to have a crack at freelance writing for the first time? Think you’ve got what it takes? Before you get started, perhaps I could share some secrets with you.
1. Be Realistic
It’s no good submitting articles or stories right, left and center to editors if your writing ability is not up to scratch.
2. Study the Market Carefully
Okay, you want to earn your living writing stories or articles. You imagine giving up your boring old 9–5 job to become a writer. You’ll get out of bed when it suits you; maybe stay in your old dressing gown until noon crafting away. Then the money will start to roll in…
3. Learn How to Craft a Good Query Letter
This is your pitch to an editor to give him or her a taster of the article you are offering to sell. This is a very important part of the marketing process, possibly the most important of all.
4. Persistence Pays Off
The persistent writer is the one who gets there in the end. If you are the type of writer who has a lot of talent, but can’t handle rejection, then you’re done for. Rejection is all part and parcel of being a writer.
