As a freelance writer, you always want to be open to writing opportunities. Sometimes those opportunities are more demanding and challenging than others. Since I have completely slacked on my writing, I am way, way, way behind my deadline for Suite 101. I even got a one month extension and I have still not written one of the ten articles required by my contract. Yikes! This is definitely a challenge.
Should I give up and lose this opportunity or knock out 10 articles in the next 10 days??
I realize that when I was hired at Suite 101, I was so thrilled that I sent out a mass e-mail bragging to family and friends, "I am going to be a professional writer!" Yep, I was excited. At that time. My enthusiasm was off the charts. While, yes I am a "professional" in the sense that the articles are intended to bring me earnings. Earnings, yes. Income, no.
I realize why I have such a hard time knocking out articles for Suite 101. They have strict editing rules and I am not good with those boundaries when I am trying to be creative. They expect objective, third person point of view. Think of it as a news article--just the facts, maam. Instead of an editorial, which the writer can add his or her own ideas, opinions, and humor. Ahh.. this suits me better. But, that is not what Suite is about.
"No, maam. Keep your opinions to yourself please, and please do not add more than two hyperlinks in your article, watch the word count, and please, please, use keyword optimization."
Keyword optimization? That just not seem to flow off the fingertips. But, I do it because that is what they require. Third person.
Writing objectively and in third person is not really as much fun as my initial enthusiasm had portrayed. So, I put it off and I put it off. While the topics are right up my alley - travel - I think I would find more joy in writing about my travel experiences, in a more of an Anthony Bourdain, or Rick Steves style.
But, Suite 101 does not publish articles in that style. So, I go back and forth with writing there. I have been told, Suite 101 is a "in for the long haul" or "slow and steady" type of income-producing freelance writing job. So, that is why I have not quit yet. I also like that there is someone editing your work because that does provide useful feedback, and the site is more professional than some freelance writing websites.
However, I am starting to panic, since I actually may not meet my deadline, which means, I will not fulfill the obligations of my contract. This means, I will no longer have the choice whether to write for Suite 101. They will make it for me. So long, Julie. Thanks for playing.
And that is my dilemma.
More from Julie McElroy
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I share your feelings about writing for Suite101. While it is a good site to be associated with, writing in third person is cumbersome to me. However, I have finally put my feelings aside and trudged on writing articles there. I do think it is a good oppotunity "for the long haul". Hope you are able to stay there too.
Found you on eHow.
Deanna
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