As a freelance writer, your number one task is to produce high quality content. But with that being said, there are times when a client may want more out of you. One of the most common requests of freelance writers is to supply photos in addition to content. Have you ever been asked for images by a client?
For several months I have been attempting to break into a particular national sports magazine. A couple of weeks ago things finally broke my way, and the editor assigned me a story. At close to $.50/word, I was quite excited about finally breaking into this publication. Soon enough, my jubilation turned sour when the editor asked if I could take some photos as well. While I know some freelance writers who have no problem with this, I am not one of them. Not because I do not want to help out, but because I am not the best photographer. On top of all this, you need to have a high quality digital camera in order to supply high quality photos. Again, this is something I lack.
So what did I do? Simply put, I explained my position to the editor and she was more than willing to accommodate my situation. I got to keep the writing gig, and a freelance photographer is going to take care of the rest.
Another similar situation that I have run into is being asked to provide ideas for photos. This is more up my alley. I have no problems giving an editor ideas on what images would work best with my content. As long as I do not have to actually take the pictures, I can be quite helpful. This brings me back to a post that I made earlier this week on helping freelance writing clients in anyway possible.
Over the next few months I am going to look into expanding into freelance photography. From what I understand this can be quite lucrative, and as you can tell it may also help my freelance writing career. I have taken a few courses on this subject in the past, and hopefully I can pick up where I left off.
Overall, do not be afraid to negotiate with an editor. You may be surprised to find out that they will accept you as a writer, and assign the photography portion of the project to another.
Scott Wainner at wrevenue.com is offering $20 to any blogger who makes a post linking to his about living longer. Scott’s post on stopping the aging process really got me thinking, and it will surely do the same for you.
After all, the longer you live the more freelance writing projects you will be able to complete!
Many of my freelance writing clients turn to me for much more than content. They want me to lend advice on how to use the content, while also helping them to stay on track as the months go by. Although I do not charge extra for consulting work, I have had many clients send me a few hundred dollars for my help. I consider this a free bonus because I do not have any qualms with helping any of my clients. If they want my help outside of writing, I am more than glad to assist in any way possible.
You should definitely spend time helping your freelance writing clients if they ask. While I do not feel comfortable charging for consulting services, you may want to make this a big part of your business. Believe it or not, if you begin to sell yourself as a consultant there are a lot of people that will pay you. Just remember, there is a lot that goes into this. When you charge clients you will have a lot more pressure to provide concrete and valuable information.Â
What are the benefits of helping clients with tasks outside of writing content? First off, they will see you as an all around good worker and nice person. When you are seen in this light, a client is less likely to move in another direction. In other words, this can go a long way in helping with job security.
Additionally, when you offer consulting services you can show that you are more than just a good writer. Once again, this makes you much more valuable to the client; especially if you are not charging any extra money.
Finally, taking the time to help is the right thing to do. When I do not know how to do something, I love it when a professional gives me advice and walks me through the process. By being able to help clients, it allows them to move forward with their business, and makes me feel good by making a difference.
If a freelance writing client asks for help, never turn them down. Sure, your main job is to write content, but remember that you are a professional with a lot of knowledge to offer.Â
