As a freelancer, I live with uncertainty. It’s just the way of it:
- I can’t control whether or not my work is accepted for publication.
- I can’t make a publisher stay solvent long enough to publish my work.
- I can’t influence an editor’s decision to kill or not kill a topic.
- I can’t change current events that might alter a publishing schedule.
- I can’t determine when I get paid.
But I can do some things to generate more regular income:
- Do my homework (especially market research).
- Submit, submit, and submit some more.
- Submit only to those publications that pay on acceptance.
- Submit only cleanly edited, well-written articles.
- Do everything within my power to avoid rejection.
- Retain copyrights.
- Follow guidelines.
- Meet deadlines.
- Always have works in progress (develop a project board).
- Track my projects, assignments, and submissions.
- Identify and establish a few key (paying) clients; write regularly for them.
- Treat freelancing professionally (regular hours, professional work ethic, etc.).
I have to admit, after my initial joy over writing my stuff again, I’m nervous about the uncertainty that comes with freelancing, especially on the pay front. I didn’t think I’d be, but I am.
If my freelancing history is any indication, I should be able to generate multiple submissions and contracts (and regular pay). But it’s been three years since I’ve been in that saddle, and the market has changed.
Can I find work as a freelancer in today’s market?
I think I can. And I’ll try.
But I won’t know the outcome unless I start submitting.
I guess that means I’ll have to live with uncertainty again. That’s the price I’m paying for freedom — the freedom to write as I choose.
I hope it’s worth it.
‘Til next time,
Joan
