The Burrow – Make Ends Meet While Looking For A Job
Most animals instinctively know to keep their homes stocked with food for a rainy day or unusually cold winter. While looking for a job, it can be hard to find alternative ways to make money. Your nest may be left empty because you can’t find a way to keep it warm and full of the nutrients you need. However, while you are looking for full-time employment, there is a way to work from the convenience of your own home, on your own time. Drum roll please, here comes a solution. Start freelancing for some extra cash! There are plenty of journals, newspapers, and blogs hiring freelancers on a regular basis. Here are three steps to help you find a writing position that is right for you.
Area of Interests or Expertise
If there are many freelance opportunities available, try to narrow down your interests. What subjects would you be interested in writing about? Do you have educational qualifications or experience to write about it those topics? In the age of Google search, you can probably write about any topic. However, it is important to be able to sell your resume and experience to a journal editor. Why would you be able to write about a particular subject?
Sometimes it’s best to take what you get. Even if you only find a blog, completely unrelated to your interests, offer to write for it. Some money is better than nothing, right? Plus, once you get your foot in the freelance writing door, it will be easy to find other writing opportunities in the future.
Find relevant writing samples
Once you decide who/what you would like to write for, you need to find relevant writing samples. Perhaps you already have relevant material to send. If you are starting fresh, make sure to look over articles or pieces in the publication. Pay attention to tone, style, opinion, and subject area. Try to make your samples fit the same framework.
Email HR Representative or Editor of Publication
You can usually find the contact information of a journal editor or blog webmaster on the company website. Send the relevant person an email. It is a good idea to include a cover letter, resume, and writing sample in your first email. Tell them: (1) how you found out about their publication, (2) characteristics making you a good freelancer, and (3) let them know your sample is attached. Try to keep the email as short and sweet as possible. You want to sell yourself as a writer, but ultimately, brevity and precision are essential to good writing!
Good luck, start stocking your burrow!
This guest post was written by Mariana Ashley. She is a freelance writer who particularly enjoys writing about online colleges. She loves receiving reader feedback, which can be directed to mariana.ashley031 @gmail.com.
If you have a great idea for a jungle-themed post, let us know! Guest writers or requests are always welcome!
