Sample Lesson from The Business of Writing
52 Weeks with Writing Mentor, Jill Dutton
This week we look at websites you should regularly check for job postings to stay on top of what is current—and best suited to your area of expertise.
Week of July 4: The Job Search
As I’ve mentioned before, searching for and finding work is as important as honing your writing skills. It’s an ongoing process that is crucial for establishing—and maintaining—work as a freelance writer. By scheduling several hours each week to perform a job search and send out resumes and/or query letters, you’ll fill your pipeline and guarantee consistent work. Plus, by scheduling regular searches, you won’t miss out when that dream assignment becomes available. I generally spend time researching and sending resumes on Monday mornings, but find a time that works best with your schedule. Then put it on the calendar so it becomes a habit.
This week I share some of my favorite job sites as well as a few job posts I think might be of interest. Please keep in mind during your job search—there are hundreds to wade through—so be diligent and research the company before applying for a job. Many that ask for a test assignment are simply gathering free content. So check the company out ahead of time—and save yourself the time and effort of applying for a position that will never get a response.
This Week’s Action Items:
The majority of the ongoing writing jobs I established were found through job postings online. So this week’s assignment is simple: read through some of the job posts I found for you, then visit the other job boards and search for freelance assignments that best fit your skill set. Good luck! If you find a juicy job, please share it (after you apply, of course) on The Business of Writing Facebook group. Happy hunting!
Job Posts
Here are a few job posts I found this morning that might interest you:
Freelance Journalist / Contributing Writer Needed (Kansas City)
We are looking for multiple part-time writers to join us in our downtown KC office a few days a week. We want people that enjoy writing original, fun, entertaining, informational, and news-worthy articles. Our website covers many different topics (some of them controversial and offensive), so don’t hold back your true personality. You will work with an assignment editor who will get to know you and your interests. Additionally, as we fill the positions for this team, there will be many other talented writers on-site to brainstorm with. Read the full post here.
Content Writer (Contract)
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
Must have 2-3 years of professional/ freelance writing experience
Able to write High Quality Content based on shorthand information received by Creative Administrator
Complete research on assigned topics in order to create interesting and exciting readable material.
Excellent time management skills and able to meet deadlines without fail
Content writing for web publication
Must have current knowledge of SEO and Keyword Optimization
Read the full post here.
Seeking Writers (Fashion and Beauty): Beyond Words Media
Beyond Words is seeking passionate, self-motivated freelance writers with strong enthusiasm, knowledge and expertise in beauty and women’s fashion. Beyond Words is a new digital lifestyle magazine inspired by the life and work of bestselling author Sylvia Day.
We currently cover all things travel, entertainment, shopping, and wellness. If you are enthusiastic about the latest in shopping, celebrity style, current fashion trends, and hair/makeup/skincare, then we’re looking for you, as we will be directing focus on these areas more in the near future.
The right candidates will be organized, deadline-oriented, reliable writers who are inspired by what Beyond Words represents. This is a paid opportunity, therefore, we encourage experienced writers to apply. Please view our website at www.beyondwords.life to get a feel for our writing, photography, and style.
If you are interested in writing for Beyond Words, please send your letter of interest, resume and portfolio samples to contact@beyondwords.life. Responses sent elsewhere or lacking writing samples will not be considered.
Freelance Writer
Writing by Design
Writing content for a variety of local business clients, including sales copy, presentations, advertising and marketing copy. Website content writing and SEO knowledge a plus!
Read the full post on LinkedIn.
Freelance Content Writers
The writers of ViralNova are the lifeblood of our company. These individuals take the everyday stories happening around the world and bring them to life, striking emotional chords with our millions of readers.
Read the full post here.
Write Guest Posts
25 Sites That Pay for Guest Posts
Job Boards
All of the websites below contain articles of interest as well as job postings. Rather than searching for “writing jobs,” (unless you’re wanting a full-time, in-house job) search for “freelance writing” for a more exact match. Fyi, I’m not listing job bidding sites like eLance, etc., because the pay rate is incredibly low. Search for actual jobs who hire based on experience versus a job mill who wants you to put out 1,000 words for $10.
Career Builder: http://www.careerbuilder.com/
Freelance Writing: http://www.freelancewriting.com/freelance-writing-jobs.php
Indeed: http://www.indeed.com/jobs
Journalism Jobs: http://www.journalismjobs.com/job-listings?JobTypeID=4
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/?trk=nav_responsive_sub_nav_jobs (enter your search terms in the search bar)
Media Bistro: https://www.mediabistro.com/jobs/openings/
Monster: http://www.monster.com
Writer’s Weekly: http://writersweekly.com/find-paying-markets
Suggestion:
Join The Business of Writing Facebook group and share a takeaway from this week’s lesson. Or share how you put the lesson into action.
Next week…Getting Organized
If you want personalized help with this or any of the lessons, Jill is available for one-hour or monthly telephone coaching sessions. Visit http://www.thebusinessofwriting.net for information or to sign up for the 52-Week Email Course or other coaching services.