Remember these?

Far removed from the days of typewriters, writers are faced with distractions right in front of their face as they write. The Internet.

As you are reading this right now, I bet many of you have multiple tabs or windows open in your browser.

Besides this one, I have eight other tabs open. Eight. Why?  I don’t know. I don’t want to miss out. I want to jump back and forth when there is an uncomfortable pause. Maybe an excuse to procrastinate. Let me check Facebook one more time.

Hold on…

Okay. Now, I only have this one open. Time to focus. I am quite sure I am not the only one that works this way. Many of us have SOS (Shiny Object Syndrome) in this digital age. We have to check our phones, our social media sites, the news, our tablets, and our email. Many, many times throughout the day. It is like our mind is not allowed to focus on one thing for more than five minutes.

Try it. For five minutes, stop multi-tasking.

Hard, isn’t it?

As a writer, this makes it difficult to get any writing done. It seems I can never get past the “research stage.” Well, when I am productive, I have learned some things that have helped.  Although I don’t stick to these things as I should, I am aware that they work.

1. Write when you first wake up.  

This is one of the most challenging. Because after eight hours in a restful sleep, the whole world went on without us. We HAVE to check our email and Facebook in case we missed something. I mean 8 hours is a LONG time to be away from electronic media. What if Kim Kardashian got married again or your ex-boyfriend emailed you wanting you back? Skip it – get to writing.

2. Disconnect.

This is another challenge. What do you mean, “disconnect?” Like the Internet, my smart phone? Yes. Use a blank screen. Remember Microsoft Word? Yep, you can still use it to type your ideas. For those who have wireless, this may be more difficult, but you actually can turn off the Internet. I know, shocking.

3. Only write when you are in the mood.

I don’t mean that you have to feel overwhelmed with creativity. We all know that inspiration comes when it is well and ready. However, you should be in the mood to sit down and put down your thoughts. All it takes is an idea. Your fingers will take it from there. Accomplishing things works so much better when you are in the mood for it.

4. Don’t neglect the rest of life.

When you stare at a computer screen all day, writing does not become easier. Sometimes, it can be counterproductive. Go for a walk, or a run, call a friend, read a book, watch the news. Go be social. Don’t get lazy and become a recluse. You still have to leave your house, pay your bills, and buy groceries.

5. Don’t stress about it.

I know many successful writers will tell you that you should write everyday. And maybe you should.  But there will be days you just don’t feel like it. Or you are busy with other things. For those who own a blog, this adds to the stress. You may think, Google will punish me if I don’t write in my blog everyday. Probably not. Don’t neglect it for weeks, but if you miss a couple days of writing, don’t stress. And remember, it doesn’t always have to be a masterpiece! Hakuna Matada.  Um, that dates me.

 It really is amazing at the results you will get when you try some (or all) of these tricks. All writers have their secrets of success. These are just mine. Find ones that work for you and follow them. As often as you can.

Related articles

• The productive writer… (andimarquette.com) Oh, yes!  Another productive tip – set goals.
• Not writer’s block, it’s an abduction! (lindacassidylewis.com) Yes, we all have days we rather being doing something else.
• Four Smart Writers to Learn from Today! (writeandgetpaid.wordpress.com). Listen to what successful writers and bloggers have to say about being a professional writer.
• How to Squeeze Writing Inspiration from a Stone (inspiredtowrite.com) Yes, more ways to get inspired when you want more than just a “writing session.”

When writing motivation is not there, writing articles can sometimes be a laborious task you avoid. If inspiration has not pulled up next to you as you sit down and write, facing a blank screen seems like a chore.

When you are a web owner or a freelance writer, creating web content is going to be a part of your life. You may write articles for your blog, guest posts, content sites, or magazines, or clients. You may also write using other various article marketing tactics.

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Today’s writing tips are a collection of quotes from some of the world’s most successful writers. Get inspired!

Inspire! (Image by Leonard John Matthews)

When writer’s block strikes, there are plenty of practical techniques to tap into when you are looking for blog content. I am sure you have seen dozens of blog posts on writer’s block, including a few on Inspired to Write.

Some of these methods include: using writing prompts, providing a top ten list, writing “a best of” piece, publishing guest posts,  writing exercises, content curation, and even looking at Google Trends.

Yes, these are good ways to come up with ideas for material. But what if you want more than just content filler?

What if you are looking for something that inspires you and your readers?

It happens to most of us at some point. Lack of inspiration. You crave for a time when flooded thoughts forced you to sit and type or write in a journal before the ideas escaped you. When something in your world grabs you by the heart and compels you to transform the inspiration into words. Those are the days writers long for.

Today, there are plenty of blogs that are filled with content that is solely derived from article spinners and syndication submissions. The owner of the blog never even writes his or her own original content. I guess the point is to get more backlinks and improve SEO. I am not sure if this is really effective. I have used these syndication networks, and I am surprised at how many of these blogs are in existence.

We are no longer writing for people, but for search engines.

Writing a blog is not just about putting up content to fill the gap. Sure, there will be days you have to turn to these gap fillers. But as a blogger, inspiration leads to the intimate posts that turn readers into subscribers. Inspiring posts create a connection with your readers. Wasn’t that the original intention of blogs?

Recently, I wrote a post about how NFL quarterback Tim Tebow inspires others. Whether you like American football or not, this guy inspires on so many levels. Whether it is a person, a place, a sunset, or the words of another, we all want inspiration. Writers NEED it.

As a writer, inspiration is a critical part of going from average to great. Inspiration motivates you to write more and fill up pages with words you hope alter people’s perceptions. Inspiration keeps you going when you have run out of steam.

But sometimes, finding inspiration is like squeezing water from a stone.

It is not a fun place to be, and discovering new inspiration becomes a creative mission. Besides all the practical ideas for finding writing inspiration, I think there are a few others worth mentioning.

1. Tell others what inspires you.

Sometimes we have to just shake up the words in our head and speak them aloud to others. Get a conversation going about anything that inspires you. This may be a vacation, your church, a motivational speaker, a book. Eventually, you will want to run home and write the stuff down.

2. Read about someone who has impacted the world.

There have been plenty of times I was in a “blah” mood and needed someone’s actions in the world to impress me. Reading about someone who has made a lasting difference, impacted the world, or even influenced people on a smaller scale produces positive feelings. For the most part, we are more motivated by positive things than negative.

3. Watch something inspiring.

This time of year, all the holiday movies and Christmas TV shows are airing on television. How can you not be inspired when you watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “Miracle on 34th Street”?  Even if it is not that time of year, find something that can inspire you. Watch a documentary about someone who made their dreams come true and pushed through rough patches only to persevere. Watch a travel channel about a place that inspires you to visit. Chances are you’ll find something that you can relate to.

4. Watch the news.

I understand that much of what is playing on the news is depressing and can actually fuel the uninspired more. But occasionally, your mind just needs a break from reading or the computer or electronic gadgets. Our minds need to play spectator once in a while in order to recharge. Other times, even the negative stories can get the juices flowing in your mind. Often just the thinking process, positive or negative, inspires you to write. The news can often inspire provocative and timely content ideas.

5.  Read an inspiring quote or message. 

I can’t tell you how many times I have read a simple quote or passage and been inspired to expand on it. In your writing, share how it impacts you and how it has motivated you to make a change in your life.  Spark conversation on your blog and ask others what quotes inspire them.

6. Communicate with others in your field.

I don’t know a lot of writers in person. I hope to change that with a couple of writers conferences I am attending next year. Not many people understand what it is like to live the life of a writer. It is not glamorous, it often means spending time alone, the pay is not real steady, and your job requires a constant state of ideas flowing from your head onto paper. Having other writers in your world can help you feel a little bit more sane and justified.

We live in a fast-paced world of instant gratification and minimal role models. Finding inspiration is not always easy. If you are a blog owner, there are millions of other blogs to compete with. Quality content is becoming more and more important on the Internet.

When you are in a rut, take a few moments and look around you for inspiration. Take some of these steps to loosen the ideas that are buried under boredom or monotony. Keep a notebook handy so when inspiration strikes, you can jot those ideas down!

Question: What do you do when you are seeking inspiration?

Discouragement with a side order of doubt is often on the menu of a writer who hasn’t found her way yet. There are days when everything seems to be working against you – no clients, too many clients, or a simple lack of inspiration. Maybe as a fledgling writer, you have felt like giving up. No one is reading your work or inspired by your thoughts. Are you even making a difference in the world?

I love football. I have for a long time. And in 1999, I jumped on the Denver Broncos bandwagon. Even though I am a Chicago Bears fan to the core, the Broncos had just won two Superbowls in a row. A lot of credit going to the quarterback – John Elway. I am sure I am not the only one who jumped on that bandwagon, seat belt tight, ready for the next season.

Now I live in Colorado, which makes it more logical to be a Denver fan.

Being a Bears fans first and a Broncos fan second this last Sunday meant a bittersweet ending for me.  The Bears lost to the Broncos. Once again, much of the credit is going to the quarterback. Where saving the game at the last minute is apparently in his playbook.

Unless you have not turned on ESPN for more than 4 minutes this last couple months, you are well aware the talk of the NFL is Tim Tebow. Tebowmania is in full swing. It makes some people a bit more positive and leaves others nauseated.

Tim Tebow Inspires

He changed the face of the Broncos literally, and figuratively. They were a losing team, and the rookie quarterback, Tim Tebow, brought them back by helping them win seven games in a row. The whole team has come together as a unit and beat my Bears in overtime, with an amazing 59 yard field goal. Bittersweet.

Yes, I have tightened my seatbelt even tighter. But now, the bandwagon is even more crowded. Even if you are not a fan of the NFL, you can still find inspiration in Tebow.

Tebow leads the team. He  pulled them out of a losing record and put them on the track to the playoffs. He inspires. Not only because of the winning streak, but Tebow gives hope to the team. He gives hope to Denver and the NFL. He gives hope to Americans, even those who don’t even watch football. He inspires me – to work harder, be a better Christian, eat healthier, work out more. To follow my dreams.

With all the not-so-admirable behavior in the media surrounding professional athletes and celebrities, it is refreshing to see a positive influence. Tebow is a mentor to many. Not only is he a positive influence as a football player, but he is an unwavering Christian, and that passion translates to his foundation, where he gives back to the community. The guy’s got heart. His charming smile and openness to the media make it easy to like the guy.

Yet some people still hate the man. They mock his open displays of prayer and gratefulness to God. Yet, he does not let that stop him. Not even close. He is focused and keeps on training for what he loves to do. Win football games.

Translating Hope and Inspiration in Your Life

Why am I sharing this with you? I have been a writer for a long time, but have only shared my thoughts publicly since 2007, while I was in Iraq. I realize my writing has improved since then, but that is not the point. Soon after, I started writing for money.

Back then, I was just like Tebow, leaving one life behind and starting another one. I was moving up to the pros – a rookie in the blogging and professional writing world. Filled with hope and aspirations. Understanding what is important.

I started this blog because I wanted to inspire and help others whatever their journey may be. When I changed the title to Inspired to Write, that was my intention and mission statement.

I know what it feels like to go against the grain and go with what you love, not what pays the most. I understand what is means to take the chance and do something outside of the norm. Even while people doubt you. I get what it means to put sweat, tears, and long hours into something you believe in, regardless of the skeptics and naysayers.

Whether you are a writer, a singer, an entrepreneur, or a football player, if you love what you do, it is important you give it all you got. I wanted this blog to help others find that hope in following their dreams – no matter what the odds.

I lost sight of that over the years, and the writing has become about work. Making money. Getting out blog posts to keep my readers. Writing about things I don’t have a passion for. Worrying about SEO rankings and my competition.

Isn’t that what happens to NFL players a few years after college?  They lose the love of the game. Instead, they demand more money, their ego’s blow up, they play dirty, and start fights on the field with other players. The love of football is no longer the motivating factor. Money gets the best, or the worst, of them. Self-righteousness overpowers their sportsmanship. Bad attitudes erupt. They forget what is important. They lose inspiration.

This is why Tebow inspires – he still loves the game. And people love him. He has a positive attitude, and is not out partying or getting into trouble with the law in between games. He gives glory to God, leads his team, and loves his family. And he is one heck of a player.

I hope as he progresses in his career, Tim will never lose sight of that. I hope he always remembers when he was bright-eyed and ready to conquer the world. For the love of the game.

While there are Tebow haters, the same happens to others who are successful. Or anyone who does things different than everyone else. Or gets too much positive attention. I think it stems from fear, jealousy, and anger. Or something even more petty.

As someone with your own dreams and hopes, don’t let those people discourage you on your journey – whatever dreams you may be following. Even if those dreams seem out of reach. When people question your success or envy it, you have to keep your eye on the ball. Push yourself to rise above the doubts and uncertainty because it is your passion. Keep that faith and remember why you had that dream to begin with.

For the love of it. Simply, for the love of it.

Are you writing to make money? Do you consider yourself a professional writer? Then you need an online presence. Having a website is the most logical way a freelance writer can obtain a presence online.  One of the most effective business tools in your arsenal may be your website.

Your website can be as simple and as elaborate as you want to make it. But there is no doubt about it – we live in a digital age. Even if you have been a professional writer since Microsoft was just a spark in a young guy’s imagination, a website is just a part of the world we live in.

You may be asking, can I be successful without a website? Sure you can, but if you are a brand new freelance writer, that may be tough. And it will certainly require a lot of marketing and mailing of samples.

A website makes life easier. Why?

1. Customers Search Online

When you are looking for information, I bet you turn to the web to do your research. The same holds true for finding and researching services or products. Even if you have a product in mind, you will still turn to the web to read more about that product. The Internet is not going away. Why not be a part of it?

There is a good chance your customers will do a web search to find a professional writer for their content requirements. Potential customers will likely do some of their research online. Unless they know of a writer personally, the prospect will look online to find one.  (Who looks at Yellow Pages anymore? And how many freelance writers list in the Yellow Pages anyhow?)

2. The Website Displays Your Portfolio

Potential clients may want to see your writing portfolio before they hire you. Your website offers a perfect place to post your samples and clips.

Not only can you post your portfolio on your website, but all of your blog posts and pages are available as writing samples. Remember, you never know who is looking at your website, so every piece of writing should be free of grammatical and spelling errors.

3. Establishes Credibility and Authority

Credibility and authority are significant buying triggers. Since everyone else wants to create a website for their business, content is in high demand. A website shows your prospects that you have the ability to write online. This helps establish your credibility as a writer. A website says that you take your writing serious and have no plans to skip town as soon as the client makes a payment.

There are also places on your website you can display the professional organizations you belong to. Consider publishing recognitions and awards you have received for your writing.

Your portfolio always demonstrates your professionalism. Testimonials are a huge display of credibility. A website allows you to compile all your accomplishments and put them out there for the world to see.

4. Establishes Your Brand

I started Tiffany Dow’s “Branding Challenge” Course a few weeks ago. The goal behind this challenge is to establish a brand, a personality and positive reputation everyone recognizes and trusts. As a small business owner, your brand is an important element. Customers connect with and want to buy from a brand they recognize. Likeability is a primary buying trigger. If your visitors like you, there is a better chance they are going to hire you. A website established this brand.

The writing on your website will help you connect and communicate with your readers. This is where your personality, ethics, and business style will peek through. Clients and customers will see this as well. This only further enhances your brand to your prospects, which will help sell your writing services.

5. More Effective & Efficient

Finally, your website simply means less work for you in the long run. Instead of mailing samples, marketing full throttle, and answering dozens of emails, having a website is a more effective and efficient may to run your freelance business.

Placing a FAQ page, your policies, an order form or shopping cart, your portfolio, and an About page on your website means all you have to do is send people your website address if they want to know more. This makes life easier for you and your prospects. This helps potential clients do their own research before they hire you.

If you are a writer, a website is simply a must. It really will help you grow and streamline your business.

What is your favorite writing blog?  I would love for you to say, Inspired to Write, but I understand if you don’t.  I just appreciate you stopping by to read!

One of the very first blogs I came across when I began writing online was WritetoDone.  I subscribed to it and have been reading it ever since.  I posted my interview with Leo Babauta, one of the blog owners, several months ago because of his inspiration.

Each year, Write to Done has created a post for readers to vote for the Best Writing Blog. This is the sixth year the contest has been running.

My blog has not been a winner, and even though it would be great to be nominated, I know there are dozens of helpful writing blogs.

Which ones do you read?

GO ahead and nominate your favorite writing blog today!! Hurry!  The votes have to be in by December 10th!

As a new copywriter, I am taking in everything I can get my hands on to learn more about the craft.  I don’t have a marketing degree, so anything I have learned about advertising and good copy is self-taught through informal education. My Psychology degree probably comes in handy, but zoning in on copywriting is my ultimate goal.

There are plenty of resources available to learn about copywriting, including some extensive courses that cost a pretty penny to join.  On this educational journey, I first looked at what was already out there for free or close to it.  Libraries and websites are good for this.

I already read Bob Bly’s copywriting book, which was very helpful and something I would put in your library.  Now I am reading about legendary Gary Halbert, through his website titled The Gary Halbert Letter.  Unfortunately, Gary passed a few years ago, but his methods, insights, and advice are timeless.

There are dozens of letters (and more) you can read on the site to learn some in-depth tips about copywriting. These are raw letters written by Gary. Personal and truthful insights about the philosophy on direct mail and advertising. And life. This is not the hype over-salesy, yet superficial rhetoric you will usually get from copywriting courses or sales letters. Here’s my tip – if copywriting is a direction you want to go, stop on this website for a couple of hours and enjoy.  Why? Well, I’ll give you eight reasons. Ten is too cliché.

1. Access to priceless information

While reading these letters, I am simply in awe of the mind behind this advertising genius. His stories make you want to keep reading. Seriously. I have only read about 25% of the letters and feel like I have obtained knowledge that no $500 course could ever give me.  Knowledge about good copy, about Gary’s hard knocks and profitable days, his passion, and his raw sincerity. The Boron letters alone are worth forking over some money for.

Maybe a $500 course would provide helpful copywriting tips, but with a price tag. Or the chance to listen to more sales pitches for the “bonus” one time offers.

2. No opt-in required

While you can opt-in to TheGaryHalbertLetter.com to get more information (I did), it is certainly not required.  Some of the links on the list can be accessed without an opt-in. For anyone who is involved with Internet marketing, this certainly is a breath of fresh air. All of the information is available without giving out your already overloaded email address.

Personally, I would still recommend you opt in to have access to everything.  Trust me – you will NOT get a ton of spam or pushy affiliate emails.

3. Available at ZERO cost

Oh yeah – and it’s free. All of his letters and advice is available without paying a single penny. I am not sure how this is even possible in today’s world where nuttin’ is free. But I know Gary has mentioned in a couple of his letters that there is value in “free” and wanted to share all this information with a wide audience.

I am surprised his sons are not trying to cash in on everything their dad created.  Good for them.  Gary taught them well.  Quality free stuff is not easy to find these days.

4. Insight of the mind of a copywriting genius

Gary had such a simple, yet effective way to think about direct sales. He understood Psychology and people. He knew that it really is all about the customer. And the sale. Period. You do this by getting their attention, interest, and desire to act (the AIDA model). He was ahead of his time. People still don’t get this today.

Much of his advice was written in a time before the Internet and autoresponders, when snail mail and print was the only option for direct mail and advertisements. Some of his advice is outdated, of course, but the principles still apply.

The most famous of these letters are the Boron letters, written while he was in prison for mail fraud.  The letters are written to his son, Bond. Advice on copywriting and life in general.  Start there.

5. No email to sell, sell, sell

Even if you opt-in, you are not going to get some three-line email about some new, additional product you MUST have. Really?  You will not be bombarded with two to three emails a day about the next product you should start looking at, before you even have a chance to absorb the product you just bought twelve hours ago!  It is quite refreshing to not have constant sales pitches to deal with every other day. You will only get an e-mail with more of Gary’s letters about every 4-5 days.

Stepping down from the soapbox, I will just say this is one of the e-mail lists you won’t dread being on. I imagine this autoresponder may not even be maintained much anymore. The goal is certainly not to “sell you.” Moving on…

6. Simple website without banners or ads or pop-ups to contend with

Along those same lines, the website is simple. I am sure it has not been updated or tended to very much, but I have a feeling if Gary were alive today he would reject the idea of banners in your face and opt-in pop-ups (man, I hate those!). The simple layout requires you to use your back button a lot, and scroll up and down to read the letters.  But it is not in your face at all.  There is not one single ad on that whole site.

Not the most aesthetic, but really that is the whole point.  Unless you are selling a vacation spot or a new car, pretty pictures and graphics are not required for great copy. It is all in the words.  And at The Gary Halbert Letter website, you will find just the meat and potatoes. No fluff.

7. Entertaining

Even if you have no plans on going into copywriting, you will enjoy reading these letters.  You feel like are propped up on a bar stool sharing a beer with Gary while he shares his thoughts on the world. I bet he laughs a lot and exudes passion in his voice.  Somehow you can hear that in his letters.  It is not often that you can pick out an author’s voice so quickly and easily.  Maybe you don’t hear it that way.

Regardless, the letters are entertaining.  It’s like you are reading a story, especially the Boron letters or the one that explains how Halbert ended up in prison.  If you write fiction or blog posts or any type of creative writing, you can learn a thing or two.

8. He was well-loved. By many.

Sure, there are those out there who may have been envious of Gary’s success.  And others who don’t like him because they felt he ripped them off.  Some may have found him too in-your-face (I get the feeling Gary was not a gentle, sugar-coating kind of guy).  But besides his family, I am sure he was loved by many. I obviously never met Gary or know anyone who knew him personally. It is just an assumption.

Gary seemed to have a “big personality.” Boldness and honesty combined with a good heart in a hard-working man. He grew up in the Midwest and that fits the description of many from the Midwest. One thing for sure is he loved his family, his sons. It’s hard to dismiss that.

This touching letter from John Carlton right after Gary died in 2007 sums it up nicely. If you still don’t want to read his letters after reading this, I have nothing left to convince you.

Related articles

• The Crawl Stage to Becoming a Copywriter (inspiredtowrite.com)
• Landing a Copywriting Gig (inspiredtowrite.com)

Editor’s Note:  this is a guest post from David Lazar.  Please read more about David in the bio footer.

Image via CrunchBase

Here you can improve your writing skills, get honest criticism of your writing, and some needed and deserved encouragement. You can also learn new words, help others, and find and make friends with many like-minded Redditors.

Let me help by sharing some of the most helpful subreddits for every aspiring writer or fan of words in general.

1.) Writing is a subreddit with over 24,000 readers and the first stop for aspiring writers on Reddit. As its name says, the focus is on the written word: anything about fiction, nonfiction, your own creative writing, popular authors, and so on.

There is also a similar, still growing, subreddit Writers. I cannot help but agree with the creator of this subreddit, who says, “Life is all about art, and painting pictures. Some do it through music, some take the literal route, and some get creative with the dictionary. This subreddit is for those of us who prefer to manipulate language to our advantage, and create characters out of thin air.”

Make sure to check out both of these subreddits, subscribe and join their community.

2.) Literature is all about books and plays. Find literary criticism here along with insightful articles and food for any writer’s brain.

3.) Freelance Writers intention is to share tips about writing and landing writing jobs and gigs. If you are serious about your writing and plan to build a career with it, keep tabs on this subreddit.

4.) Logophilia is a place for “the lovers of words.” Share and learn interesting and unusual words here. What is awesome about Logolites (Logophilia’s redditors) is that you can use their vast knowledge when looking for a word you’ve forgotten or an evasive synonym.

5.) ScreenWriting is, as its name suggests, an aspiring screenwriter’s haven. This is a subreddit where it is acceptable to submit y.ur own scripts. Don’t expect pats on the shoulder or lukewarm praise here. Brace yourself for some strong criticism and a good walloping. Redditors are famous for their sincere and strong opinions. What you can expect though, is some sound advice and tips on how to improve your screenwriting. If you want to have your script read, definitely check out ReadMyScript as well.

6.) Reddit Stories is actually a regularly updated collection of longish Reddit comments that are very well written and a treat for avid readers. Comments on Reddit are what make this community so addictive and precious.

7.) OneParagraph is what I like to call “fiction on the go.” This is a subreddit for small format fiction, limited to a single paragraph. Try to tell a story in only one paragraph and contribute to OneParagraph – it is an excellent exercise for polishing your writing skills.

8.) RoundRobin is a subreddit for collaborative writing. You can start a story by writing an introduction and can continue others’ stories as well. This is also a great place for practicing your writing skills and spurring your creativity.

9.) Wordplay is a playground for writers, wordsmiths, story weavers and all other creative users of the English language. Wordplay gives you the opportunity to explore the meanings of words and enlarge your vocabulary.

10) Poetry is a must for aspiring poets. Submit your verses or find inspiration and food for thought in poems written by lyrically inclined Redditors. Encourage and advise in order to get the same in return.

And of course, every true writer and word-addict should check out Bookit. You will find many book-related posts, including recommendations, reviews, stories about books, book technology and lots of other goodies.

See you on Reddit!

Writing (courtesy @hashmil)

Some of you (especially the contributors) may be wondering the status of my book, Calling All Freelance Writers. It is moving forward, but it won’t be ready for publication until early next year. I just ask for your patience!!

Last week, I sat down and read all of the interviews in print form.  I attempted to do it online, but I wanted it in front of me, in print.

I took notes in the margin for questions I have, ideas for the book, and comments to myself.  Just by sitting down for a few hours and reading all those responses, I, myself, felt enlightened.  So much valuable advice!

Although I detected some common themes threaded throughout all of the interview responses, perspectives existed across the entire spectrum.

Writing the Book

I created an outline.  I also began my first chapter and my last.  There are some random thoughts that will end up in the middle somewhere.  I know some left-brained people would shutter at the thought of that illogical order.  But us right-brained writers don’t always think (or write) logically.

When the idea of this book first formed in my mind, I thought I would just compile all the interviews into one book and hit print. Since then, I decided I want to add my own perspectives and have other writers “back me up” with their own experiences.  This creates a better flow, and produces more of book instead of just a compilation of interviews.

Since some of the responses were similar, it also didn’t make sense to just “cut and paste” the interviews.  Instead, I want to pull out what I believe are the important and relevant messages.

All of the writers who will be in this book will have their full bio placed in the end of the book. By setting it up this way, instead of mixing the bios in with the book, it avoids disruption of the book.  It also provides an easy reference for each writer’s bio.

Now for the bad news. . .

Some of the interview responses were detailed and verbose (the more, the better) and very helpful, and other responses were basically one or two word answers.

While I appreciate the inputs from each of you, some of the  writers’ responses just did not provide enough substance to be included.  I apologize, but I can’t squeeze water out of a rock.

I will be contacting a few of the writers for clarification, questions, or comments.  I will also let the writers who I have excluded know, so they are not wondering what happened to their input.  If these writers do want to add more, I would definitely welcome it, and keep them on the book’s free distribution list!

The Finishing Updates

Once the book is complete, I will obviously have to edit it, and get it published.  I should probably not even think about editing and publishing until I get the book complete.  But once again, creatives don’t always think in logical steps.

Editing

I am currently seeking professional editors for the book. A few editors have contacted me, but the more I have to choose from, the better.

The worst thing that can happen is I write the book, publish it, and find out there are typos and grammar mistakes!  AHHH!  I don’t plan on skipping that step, but my budget will also dictate when that will fit in.

Graphics

In between editing and publishing will be the design work.  The good news is many of the self-publishing businesses include custom cover design in their packages.  Therefore, this should not be too much of any issue unless I decide to go completely POD, by myself (doubtful).

Publishing

As far as publishers, I have a couple in mind.  This will be a self-published book. This book is targeted to a small niche – freelance writers, so I am not interested in “traditional” publishing.  (I am no Stephen King after all.)  There will be an electronic (Kindle and Nook) version and paperback copy which I will sell on my own website and on CallingAllFreelanceWriters.com.

I read The Fine Print of Self-Publishing by Mark Levine (highly recommend if you are self-publishing) which has helped me a TON in choosing a publisher.

Thoughts on the Book

Between reading Linked In discussions, blog posts, and other media conversations, I realize this book is needed.  Hopefully, it will open the eyes of writers who are struggling and think it is impossible to succeed.

This book makes no guarantees of success, but presents insight into the minds’ of successful writers.  That should not only inspire writers, but give them hope that it can be done.

It is up to the writer on how to use that advice.  It is ALWAYS up to the writer.

Related articles

• Calling All Freelance Writers (inspiredtowrite.com)
• Writing eBook

Are you ready to make some serious money as a writer?

With all the information out there about copywriting, I will not attempt to cover it all in one post.  One of my regular contributors, Chris Hoole, has written dozens of posts on copywriting.  Today, I am going to address those who are just starting out, and want to know where to begin.

Just as with any new venture, you will experience the crawl, walk, and run stages.  I don’t know where you are in that journey, but this post is designed to help those who are in the crawl stages.  If you are a copywriting sprinter, you can probably run off now.

Quick Plug for a Copywriting Book

I want to begin by recommending a book I have read and found extremely helpful. The Copywriter’s Handbook is something everyone interested in copywriting should have in their library. This book, written by copywriting guru, Robert Bly, covers the whole spectrum for copywriting.  Many of his tips can really apply to writing as a whole.  You can get the Kindle version for $10 or a paperback for $12.  Get it today.

I am sure there are other great books, but I read this one myself.  Moving on. . .

Basic Copywriting 101

You probably have heard that copywriting can be a profitable career, for those who are good.  Some of the best copywriters make six figures a year, even on a part-time basis.

Why? Great copywriters are in demand.  Businesses are willing to pay top dollar for a great copywriter who brings in a ton of money for their product or service.

This is my definition:

Copywriting is a form of advertising, words written with the intention of bringing in buyers, leads, prospects, or customers.  Persuasive writing.

It is not for everyone.

Copywriting is not about fancy words or creative writing. Although good writing skills are important, how you use those words are even more essential.   Grammar is not critical.  Bringing in sales is.

If you can bring in hundreds of sales with one memorable catch phrase, you win.  You are a salesperson more than a writer. Again, it is not everyone’s cup of tea.

If you DO Want to Be a Copywriter. . .

Here are the first steps.

Step One: Get Educated

I don’t mean a formal degree.  While a marketing or business degree couldn’t hurt, it is not required to be a successful copywriter.  What I mean by education is the self-taught kind.  Start by getting your hands on Bly’s book, or another known copywriter’s book.  Read blogs or take a copywriting course.  If you can’t afford to buy books, you can borrow them from your local library.

Besides books and blogs, there are a whole host of top notch online articles and forums where you can learn about every type of copywriting available.   Find a mentor that can teach you the right skills and advice. Many successful copywriters have created an abundance of courses, reports, and articles about the skill of copywriting.  Dan Kennedy, Joe Vitale, and John Carlton come to mind.  Find someone with a “style” that fits you.

Step Two: Specialize

I know it can be hard to narrow in on a niche, but it can help you promote and market yourself better.  Specialization makes it easier to find decent clients willing to pay reasonable fees. Choose a specialty that you enjoy writing about.  If you are going to sell something, you better have a passion for it.  Otherwise, the writing will be painful.  It also helps if you have strong knowledge about the topic.

You don’t need to narrow it down to a small niche, but a few hot topics is a good idea. I prefer to write about travel and health related topics.  It doesn’t mean I am closed off to other topics, but these two areas I have passion for and experience with.

Consider specializing in copywriting formats as well.  However, be careful not to close too many doors.  In the beginning, you may not know where the demand is or where your writing interests are.

Here are a few specialties.

• Direct mail
• Email/autoresponders
• Brochures
• Newsletters
• Landing pages
• Social networking pages

Spend time researching your options. Once you choose a niche, with practice, you will start to become more comfortable writing about it.

Step Three: Take Action

Set up shop.   This is the step most people trip up on.  I do it as well.  It is scary to get out there, but you will not make $1.oo if you do not take action.

What does that mean?

First set up a website with samples and a portfolio.  If you don’t have anything yet, it’s okay.  Create your website anyhow. Spend some time on the copy for your website. This will be your opportunity to make a first great impression; you don’t want to screw that up.

If you don’t have any clients for you portfolio, create mock up samples.  To get the ball rolling, contact non-profits or offer free samples to drum up business.   Yes, you may have to complete a few initial projects that make you little or no money. Remember that this is a short phase, but it gives your potential customers a sample of your work.  Make your copy irresistible!

Step Four: Socialize

Once you have your website and portfolio online, let the marketing begin!    Put the word out there.  Get involved with networking groups or forums. Discuss sales copy. Find social groups or networks to market your work and services.

Connect with people in your chosen topic.  Consider creating a mailing list to stay in touch with customers.  Try article marketing, which can be not only an effective online marketing strategy, but a way to showcase your work.  If it is in your budget, submit a press release.  If you write it yourself, you can submit it for free on i-Newswire.com.

Make your services known.

With a little work and some initiative, you will have customers knocking on your door in no time.