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Getting Started as a Freelance Writer (Culture Tools)

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Many people want to know how to begin the journey of a freelance writer. To learn a new skill like freelancing, you are wise to follow someone who has "been there." Bob Bly writes with authority and wisdom about the details of a freelance writing career.

Whether you are just starting out or have been in the writing business for a long time, you can gain vast insight from this book. The book covers the details of so many issues which concern writers like how to get properly compensated, how to concentrate on the main thing you want to do (write), how to run your writing career as a business (and all of the details), what are the range of possibilities for your writing and how do you grow your business.

In the introduction, Bob points out a key distinction of this book: "One thing that makes this book different from other "how to become a freelance writer" books on the market is the experience and financial success of the author." (page 2)

The information in Chapter 13: Maximizing Your Personal Productivity" is worth the cost of this entire book. Bob gives six keys (and the explanation in the book): Don't do everything yourself, don't shy away from the Internet, don't become addicted to Internet chat, don't get up, don't go out, and don't undervalue your time." (page 170-171)

GETTING STARTED AS A FREELANCE WRITER is packed with useful information for every writer--beginning or professional. I highly recommend you get this title and study every chapter.

The nice things about being a freelance writer include being your own boss, setting your own hours, picking out your own subject matter, seeing your name in print, and basically being in charge of what, when, where, why, and how you make money from your writing. The not-so-nice aspects of freelance writing include the massive competition you face when trying to solicit business, sell your work, and manage the business aspects of your do-it-yourself career. Now in a newly revised and significantly expanded edition, "Getting Started As A Freelance Writer" by Robert W. Bly (himself a professional writer with an average annual income of more than $600,00) who draws upon his more than 25 years of experience and expertise is an ideal instruction manual for anyone who aspires to a successful and profitable career as a freelance writer. Bly provides pertinent and reliable advice and instruction covering every aspect of freelance writing including where to find work, how to obtain paying assignments, how to negotiate fees and contracts to best effect, turning out saleable manuscripts, getting paid on time and in full, and so much more. Of special note and value are Bly's comments on getting started and avoiding common mistakes, writing and selling poetry, as well as the commercial sale of short stories, novels, and essays. "Getting Started As A Freelance Writer" is an ideal and invaluable 'how to' manual that should be considered mandatory reading for anyone who seeks to earn their living (full-time or part-time) through their writing.

This book is perhaps the best book on writing freelance articles I have ever seen. The job of a freelance writer is treated with respect and realism. The text is well-written, concise and organized. On the other hand, since Bly has limited himself to a 154-page book, his coverage of the career suffers from a lack of detail in some areas.

Bly explains that he expanded the book by including a section for fiction writers and poets. This is unrealistic in a book that focuses mainly on the career of direct mailing.

Despite the ever repeating references to his $100,000 a year earnings, he manages to stay on the straight and narrow by playing with subject of the "pyramid scheme."

If it hadn't been the almost overbearing focus on money, I would have accepted it more. As it happens, though, this book is excellent and it serves the purpose of desiring to read more of Bly's other resources and book.

Every writer of all shapes, sizes and proclivities should own this book. Buy it today, if you can.