Are you an experienced freelance writer looking for a job? If so, you can head over to Cragislist.org. Many people and companies that need to hire writers turn to the popular classifieds service. To find open writing or editing jobs, visit your city page and do a search. You will get a series of results. Unfortunately, some of them will be scams and some are legit, but more trouble than they’re worth. How can you protect yourself as a writer or editor?
If you’re a freelance writer, there are two things you should do right away before you start a new job or project you got from Craigslist. They have a written contract and determine their rights. There are many people who have good book ideas, but don’t know how to put their thoughts into words. They hire the services of a freelance writer. If the book is published, will your name appear as a contributing author? Know what happens to your deed and who owns the rights before you start work. After doing so, get not only a verbal agreement, but also a written one. Draft a contract or have your client do it.
Whether you’re applying for an in-house writing or editing role or a freelance one, it’s important to make sure you have experience. Although this should be verified during the interview process, avoid complications later. Submit samples of your work along with your resume. It’s not uncommon for freelance writers to terminate their services or for in-house writers to be fired if their work isn’t up to scratch. This is a big mess that you want to avoid. Not only do your best, but also apply for jobs and accept freelance writing projects that you know you can do well.
Although you will find some internal writing positions, most are for freelance opportunities. Hiring a freelance writer costs companies less. The self-employed are contract employees, which means they do not receive health benefits and buy their own work supplies. Scammers like to target work-at-home opportunities. You might find someone using a front company to steal your work and not pay, someone trying to acquire a “training fee,” or someone wanting your bank account information or social security number. Save time and hassle by doing your research first. Perform a standard Internet search using any person, company, or website name. Make sure they are a legitimate company and that they actually pay the freelance writers they hire.
The best types of writing and editing jobs to apply for are internships. With these, you are guaranteed a fixed hourly pay. If you go for freelance work advertised on Craigslist, search and choose your jobs carefully. You will find many positions where pay is based on revenue sharing and others where you receive a flat fee for the project.
Now that you know how to avoid scams and hassles when you’re a freelance writer, you can begin your Craigslist job search. To perform a traditional city search, visit your state and city page and use the search box on the left. To search multiple cities, entire states, or the entire Craigslist with ease, download the free Craigslist Reader at MotionT.com.
