Dayna Fields

Archive for May, 2010

To my fellow freelance writers trying to make their way in an economy that values the fields of finance and medical billing over the art of writing: it is time to search for gigs in other places besides the world of journalism and creative writing.

The opportunities are there if you open your eyes to off-the-beaten-path writing gigs. One great suggestion that I am the first to offer to any recent college graduate or disgruntled freelance reporter is to find an SEO company that is hiring for SEO copywriters – as most of them are.

In terms of search engine optimization, content makes the world go round. If this is so, then freelance writers rule the kingdom. I always recommend to my writers to start building up their resume with SEO writing, which looks very enticing to online or print publications after a couple years of experience.

Compared to the inverted pyramid or lifestyle pieces, the average freelance writer will find SEO copywriting an easy task. However, SEO copywriting can also prove to be very satisfying since, at the end of the day, you are exercising your craft and getting things published (even though it is not common practice to give a byline for SEO blog posts because the whole notion is anonymity).

But it is, of course, extremely better than working an hourly job at Potbelly’s, as most writers do juggle their ‘regular paycheck gig’ with their freelance articles. Certainly, anyone who offers you a chance to write for money – no matter how much recognition you get for it – take the job! These little tasks are what add up into an impressive resume.

At the end of the day, it is the power of the writer to be creative in other fields and search outside the box for work. Finding up and coming companies that rely on the generation of content is the best way to ensure a paycheck that also contributes to your resume.

Consider contributing articles to a local indie magazine, even though they may not pay that much. Even if they pay nothing – hey, it’s a byline! You can volunteer to write up the company newsletter or lend your word for any marketing project ideas that you hear of. Also, be sure to take advantage of sites like mediabistro.com, which aim to match up freelance writers and content with employers and buyers.