Pen & Pro$per

A Glimpse of Hope-Pen & Prosper Presents Hope Clark of Funds for Writers

2012-02-06T15:55:00.000-08:00

For more than a decade, Hope Clark has been "showing writers the money!"
She is the creator and editor of Funds for Writers, an accomplished writer and author. Today, Pen and Prosper provides readers with a two-part post on the woman behind the words and the secrets to her success.

1.Can you tell us a little about who you are and your background?

That’s a book! It would be for anyone. The short version is that I am editor of FundsforWriters.com and a mystery novelist. My first mystery in the Carolina Slade Mystery Series is Lowcountry Bribe, coming out from Bell Bridge Books (www.bellbridgebooks.com) in February 2012 – available at all book stores in brick or online. FundsforWriters.com is a website, four newsletters and a general world of writing resources for writers struggling to earn a living doing what they love. Writer’s Digest selected FundsforWriters for its 101 Best Websites for Writers for the last eleven years, and it’s being considered for 2012.

My education is a BS in Agriculture, and I have 25 years under my belt working for the US Department of Agriculture in rural development. That non-writing background might seem to have nothing to do with my writing, but in actuality, it has everything to do with it. With USDA, I was a specialist in lending, grants and financial management. That introduced me to the grant world. When I started writing and stumbled into helping fellow writers, the grant knowledge helped me aid those writers. Rather than pound out email after email, I started a newsletter, purely for selfish motives of streamlining the questions so I would write the novel. Instead, FundsforWriters took off and the novel was placed on a shelf for years. Today, I’m publishing that same novel (though you’d never recognize it as one and the same after all its rewrites, but that’s another story), but mainly thanks to the networking that developed from FundsforWriters.

And the agriculture part? My protagonist is an investigator with the US Department of Agriculture, and it’s amazing how Carolina Slade finds so many ways to find danger and crime in what most people see as quaint Americana.

2. Describe your creative process. Do you write every day?

Yes. It’s rare when I do not write each day. Whether it’s an editorial, a blog post, a freelance piece or a chapter, I write. That ingrained habit has been tremendous in helping my writing grow, explode even.
But I write in spurts, and to me a spurt is thirty minutes to an hour. Yes, I tend to write a paragraph and check an email. Write another two paragraphs and check it again. I rarely take a minute away from the writing in doing so, but when my brain stalls on a word, I do this, and it seems to free my creative juices. But I tend to do administrative tasks to include email, social networking and nonfiction freelance during the day and my creative writing in the evening. A typical day is to rise at 10 AM, eat breakfast while doing a crossword puzzle, go to work for 2-3 hours, then break and run errands and/or go to the gym. Upon return, I do dinner, work for a couple hours, watch a mystery on television (I adore mysteries), then go back to work until 2 AM. When I left Agriculture to be a full-time writer, I knew I could easily log in 8 hours a day. I just do it at my pleasure, which is remarkably satisfying for me. And I do it 6 days a week. Saturdays are my slow days, and even then I usually log in 2-4 hours depending on my mood, family obligations, conference agenda or time of year. I’m a gardener and chicken hobbyist as well, so daylight often commands my presence outside in the warmer months.

3. How would you define success as a writer?

Constantly progressing, achieving accomplishments, adding to the portfolio, finding publication in new venues, and ever moving forward. No writing for a week and off for two, or writing a day and coming back two weeks later. You lose traction and have to start over. But I’m the perfect example that slow and steady gets you were you’d like to be. But I do NOT put money in the equation when it comes to writing success. I consider recognition and portfolio and personal satisfaction the measures of success.

4. What has been your most rewarding accomplishment thus far?

Can’t say. Each year is different and each accomplishment has its own reward. I don’t have favorites in anything, because that limits the enjoyment of life. Winning Writer’s Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers each year for 11 years is remarkable. I get nervous every April/May when the news comes out. Landing a piece in Writer’s Digest the first time was phenomenal. Being asked to write a chapter in Writer’s Digest Books’ Guide to Literary Agents was a step up. Finding an agent was a HUGE coup. Landing the book contract was another. Being asked to speak at a five-day conference in St Simons Island, GA in 2012 was a feather in my hat. I’m anxiously awaiting news from the publisher on book 2 and 3 in my series, and they’ll excite me to no end. I feel if we note an accomplishment as the most rewarding, we lessen others both past and future. I believe in enjoying each one at that moment, basking for a bit of a time, then filing it so I can focus on the next. I will say, however, that I can’t help but grin when I realize that my long-awaited mystery series will finally be in print – from a traditional publisher.

5. What would it surprise others to know about you?

Not sure since all my traits and experiences are common to me.
a. I used to play 4.5 level tennis.
b. I’m married to a federal agent.
c. I adore dogs, especially dachshunds.
d. I love to bake and abhor cake mixes.
e. I hate to dust and you can tell it.
f. When I’m mad I weed.
g. I love, love, love nature and watch birds.
h. I sew, paint, sketch, and cook Southern.
i. I grew up in a military family.
j. I’m a member of MENSA and proud of it.
k. I keep up with politics, and highly patriotic, and have never missed an election on any level since I was 18 years old.
l. I can’t stand to meet a deadline . . . I have to be earlier than expected.
m. I can cry at the drop of a hat at a movie, and it doesn’t have to be a tear-jerker.
n. I’ve never been able to do a cartwheel.
o. I took piano for 5 years and quit because recitals made me a wreck.
p. I get impatient and am saddened when people don’t try to live up to their potential.

6. You’ve been recognized in Writers Digest’s Top Websites for writers for a decade. What’s the secret to your success?

Being true to my readers. I do the newsletters out of love for writing and love for writers. I help whenever I can, answering many, many emails. I adjust when they dictate the need to adjust. I stay current, for their sake. I make myself available whether on a blog, Facebook, Twitter or email. It takes a moment, one breath, to put your mind in the right setting to answer a person’s inquiry in a positive light. I never NOT reply. I know how that would bother me. I firmly believe being positive, current, and writing in my own voice as if the person is in the room have helped me maintain that recognition. But like I said, each year, I hold my breath, because the web changes so fast, and there’s so much innovation out there to knock me out of the saddle.

Your turn, readers. Thoughts? Questions?

3 Easy Steps to a Super Blog Post Title!

2012-02-02T04:37:00.000-08:00

GUEST POST BY SCOTT HERSH

With the massive amounts of content available at just a click of a button, neither the search engines nor internet surfers will even bat their eye at a blog post unless the title accomplishes its three-fold mission. The three-fold mission of the title is to rank in the search engines, get noticed by readers, and have the readers understand enough about what the post is about to convince them to read it. Likewise, accomplishing the three desired results from the post title requires a three-pronged attack.

Let’s say that you just wrote a blog post which teaches the reader about learning to knit. By applying the following three-pronged approach, we will transform the main subject of the article into a tantalizing title.

SEO Keywords- In order for the search engines to rank your article well requires using the keywords, that people are searching for, in the title of the post. Although keyword research is a skill, in and of itself, you can learn some effective basics pretty easily.

First, using Google’s keyword research tool, “Keyword Tool External,” search for terms that people are looking for that relate to the subject of your post. For examples sake let’s say that you have chosen to include in your title the words “learn to knit.”

Catch the Reader's Eye- The next step is to spice up the SEO optimized keywords with something a little more catchy. In our example, let’s add the words, “Do it for yourself” to the SEO keywords, “Learn to Knit.” Now we have, “Do it for Yourself- Learn to Knit.”

Tell them What is Special about the Post- Once you have caught the reader’s attention it’s time to convince them that your post has something special to offer. One of the things that is special about our “learn to knit” example post, is that it is clear and concise, which makes it a quick way to learn to knit. Let’s emphasize these good qualities by adding on the words “In Ten Minutes or Less” to show the reader that they can benefit from reading our post within a short period of time.

The final title has all elements required for a good blog, and it comes out like this, “Do it for Yourself- Learn to Knit In 10 minutes or Less.” One final rule to uphold is to keep post titles under 70 characters (including spaces), our title is only 55 characters, so that will do just fine.
There you have it- an effective method of combining the needs of the search engines with the needs of the reader, in order to construct awesome blog post titles.

Author Bio:
Scott Hersh is a business blogger for BCAblog.com the official blog of BCA: leaders in merchant cash advances.

Thoughts?

Debunking Blogging Myths-Which Are You Guilty Of?

2012-01-28T06:46:00.000-08:00

Half-truths and myths make for great fiction.
But, if you've set your sights on becoming a successful Blogger, you need to operate from an informed position.
So, listen up.

With all the "expert advice" being disseminated across the Web, it's easy to get caught up and confused.
It's likely that you want to follow all the "words of wisdom" so you can get it right and get ahead. Right?

But, be forewarned: not all advice is accurate or advantageous.
And a "one-size-fits-all" approach can have disastrous results.

If you're ready to work smarter, not harder, and make more money in the process, let's examine some of the most popular Blogging myths that have been sabotaging your success.

1. If you can write, you can Blog.
Not true. Not necessarily. Unless your intended audience is just your family and friends. Though Blogging is not "rocket science," it does require certain skills, traits and techniques.
It takes "ability" to conceive clever Blog posts, to communicate effectively, to build a community, to maintain a following. If everybody could do it well, why do you suppose that there are so few "super stars" among us?

2. To be considered a "serious Blogger" you must operate on a self-hosted domain.
Wrong. Of course ownership is almost always a good thing--whether it's a "virtual" home or a brick and mortar one. But, trust, if your writing is not up to par, or you have crappy content, it doesn't matter what comes after the period in your URL. Period. The proof is in the pudding.
Many successful, accomplished writers and Bloggers Blog with Blogger and Wordpress platforms. Some good examples would be Hope Clark of Funds for Writers, Kelly James-Enger of Dollars and Deadlines, Carolyn Howard-Johnson and several of the winners at the recent Write to Done's Top 10 Writing Blogs do too!

3. Blogging pays peanuts.
It depends. Though you'll find an array of opportunities advertised that pay five bucks for five hundred words, they are not representative of all Blog jobs. Don't be duped. Though my compensation has varied, I typically earn from $50.00 to 100.00 for Blog posts with reputable, established sites. You could too.

4. Blogging can make you rich.
So can the lottery; but it's not very likely. It's okay to dream, but real success comes from being a realist.

5. Comments are not a metric for Blogging success.
Think again. Though they are not the only factor to be factored in, comments show the level of engagement with your readers. If you're not getting many, not many people are "getting" you. Unless you're new to the scene. Revisit and revise. As a matter of fact, at Write to Done's recent contest for Top Blogs, 15% of the total Blog score assigned to winners was based upon the number of comments received at their respective sites.

Keep these five myths in mind as you move forward in your Blogging career, as there is great truth to the adage, "Knowledge is power."

Are you guilty of buying into any of these myths? Any more I might have missed? Do tell.

Image: Stock

How to Conduct Interviews That Resonate With Today's Readers

2012-01-25T16:35:00.000-08:00

Pick up any consumer magazine or trade publication and it’s highly likely you’ll hit upon an interview or two.
Interviews are popular reads because our natural curiosity as human beings piques our interest in the private lives and inner-workings of others.

Whether it’s the success story behind power players, or Oprah’s beauty secrets; inquiring minds wanna’ know. As writers, we are entrusted with the important task of telling others’ stories, and being the voice of the impoverished, the afflicted, and even those blessed with the “it factor“.

In my professional career, I have had the privilege of both being the interviewer and interviewee, and based on this experience, here’s what I’ve discovered about conducting interviews that connect with today’s reader.

Timely tips to master the art of the interview:

1. Start out with a clear agenda. In other words, what’s your purpose? (It shouldn’t be just to “parrot” information). Is it to increase awareness of a cause or movement? Promote an event? Educate? Entertain? Provide a noteworthy individual with his deserved 15 minutes of fame? Your agenda will establish your approach, direction and the nature of your questions.

2. Resist rookie questions like “Do you have a dog?” Or “What’s your favorite color?” It wastes valuable time, and adds very little depth or value to your piece. Instead, strive for things that delve into the person’s life philosophy, business strategy, or “ah-ha” moments.

3. Do your homework. Before assembling questions, do a little online sleuth work. Many times, you can find interesting facts and tidbits by visiting the subject’s blog, Facebook page, Linkedin profiles, and even quotes from other articles. Consider interviewing someone who knows or has worked with the interviewee for background information too.

4. Inject a little humor when appropriate. Humor is to writing what spices are to cooking. Find a funny angle from an anecdote shared. Or have him reveal his most embarrassing moment, or a hidden talent. For example, I was watching a program that documented the life of Dr. Phil, and discovered that he enjoyed watching cartoons, (even into adulthood). Who would have thought?

5. Decide the best way to capture the essence of the interview, by knowing your strengths and weaknesses. If you’re a poor listener, have a short attention span, or trouble sometimes deciphering your handwriting, it may be wise to conduct the interview via email questions for accuracy purposes. If on the other hand, you enjoy using imagery, then a face-to-face, where you can assess body language, tone, and use your skills of observation might prove more successful.

6. Put yourself in the readers’ place. What would you like to know about the person being featured? What makes him interesting or different? Why should readers care?

7. Enhance your interview with quality images. There’s great truth to the expression, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

8. Watch and incorporate some of the trademark techniques of talented TV interviewers like Barbara Walters, Oprah Winfrey, and Dianne Sawyer. Oprah, you’ll find, is always personal, witty and compassionate. Barbara is provocative, sharp and unapologetic. While Dianne is no-nonsense and straight-forward. Case in point… Oprah admitted once on her show, that as a young girl she was inspired to become a reporter from observing Barbara Walters decades before.

By following these eight tips you’ll make the most of your next interview and make more money in your freelancing career.

Thoughts? What tips or techniques do you use to ace interviews?

Image: Stock

The Blessings of Discouragement

2012-01-21T06:46:00.000-08:00

by Author C. S. Lakin

Okay, no doubt you think I’m nuts. Really, what is so great about getting discouraged? And what does discouragement have to do with the craft of writing? We’ve all heard the admonitions to persist in our writing, to fend off discouragement, to plow ahead with our calling or dream or creative destiny—whatever you want to call it. And that’s what we try to do—year in and year out, if we are writing for life. Oftentimes, writing is a joy—easy, flowing, inspired. But other times it’s a real struggle to keep at it.

Shoulder the Boulder

In Greek mythology, King Sisyphus was punished in Tartarus by being cursed to roll a huge boulder up a hill, only to watch it roll back down, and to repeat this throughout eternity. The word sisyphean means, according to the American Heritage Dictionary, “endless and unavailing, as labor or a task.” Sometimes we work so hard at writing our books, rolling them up the hill to be noticed by an agent or editor, excited to share our boulder with the world, only to have the thing roll back down as we watch in dismay—or, worse yet, as we get crushed underneath as it careens down the hill.

Some People Only Have a Small Rock to Push

I’ve met a few writers who have had an easy course. Within months of writing their first book, contracts were in the mail. Without much effort, their books catapulted to best-seller status, and within a few years, their list of published credits matched the length of my daily to-do list. For we writers who have struggled the long haul to that golden ring, we fight feelings of unworthiness and envy. Perhaps we finally get our books published and chance upon a scathing review, or sales are disappointing. We finally got that boulder up on top of the hill for everyone to see, and then—more discouragement.

All Right—What’s the Blessing?

As someone who had to wait over twenty years for that first publishing contract, I consider myself an expert in discouragement. But the flipside of that coin is persistence. Persistence either leads to determination or giving up. The blessing of discouragement is closely tied to the writing craft. For, if my determination is continually renewed, my calling reaffirmed with each disappointment and rejection, along with it comes the drive to excel and improve my craft. I have found that my passion to reach out with my words grows more urgent with each year passing, and that translates in my writing as honesty, fervor, urgency, and compassion. I am forced to reflect on what I am writing and why. On how I am writing and to whom—and to what end. Perhaps, because of my personality and background, and my passion to reach and change hearts, God has seen fit to give me a season of discouragement as a way to mature and ripen my sensitivities and insights into human nature. I have no doubt that discouragement has played a huge factor in my growing as a writer—not just personally, but in my craft.

A Writer’s Voice That Matures with Time

If we can think of our years of hard effort like a fine wine that deepens in flavor with age, we might take an honest look and see that, had we become the overnight success we had hoped in the first months of writing, we may not have matured in the fine way we have. Our writing may not have developed the rich, complex nuances it now has. May we all look at the boulder-rolling experience in a positive light—we gain strength from the effort, get a glimpse of what’s on top of the hill, and learn to sidestep the discouragement as it comes barreling at us. Eventually, after so many times of crashing down the hill, the boulder will wear down to a manageable size—perhaps one day ending up a pebble we can carry in our pocket as we take in the glorious view from the heights.

Thoughts? Have you found value in the "valley"?

Bio:

C. S. Lakin is the author of twelve novels, including the seven-book fantasy series “The Gates of Heaven.” She also writes contemporary psychological mysteries, including her Zondervan contest winner Someone to Blame. She works as a professional copyeditor and writing coach and loves to teach the craft of writing. Her websites are dedicated to critiquing fiction and building community to help survive and thrive in your writing life: www.LiveWriteThrive.com and www.CritiqueMyManuscript.com. Come join in! You can read more about her and her books at www.cslakin.com.
Follow @cslakin and @livewritethrive. Facebook: C. S. Lakin, Author, Editor.

5 Reasons You Should Kick "Tire-Kickers" to the Curb in 2012!

2012-01-19T09:52:00.000-08:00

OR...(How to waste less time in gaining more business)

Prospects. They’re the life line of any thriving business.
Freelancing is no different.
Handled correctly, they can be converted into paying clients and fruitful relationships where mutual needs are met.

In fact, many often become the source of future referrals, as well as the foundation for continued business growth.
But be forewarned: Not all prospects hold promise.

Some unfortunately, are merely “tire kickers” that have no intentions of going the distance.
The more you know about them, the less likely you are to devote valuable time and resources to winning them over and closing the deal. And the more strategic you can become in your marketing and “new business” efforts. Though many of these individuals are lovely people, it’s crucial that you learn to limit your accessibility and interaction.

WHAT ARE TIRE-KICKERS?

“Tire-kickers” is an expression coined by used car salesmen to describe customers that have no real plan of making a purchase anytime soon.
Consider them as the equivalent of window shoppers. No matter how skillfully you handle them, you’re never gonna’ add them to your list of satisfied customers.
Either they can’t afford to pay for your services, their expectations are unrealistic, or they are attempting to squeeze you for free information couched in the form of “consultations” that they can implement themselves.

And I should know. Though I have no documented proof as evidence, I’d venture to say that if I could recapture all the wasted hours I’ve spent on these “wild goose chases,”
I could recapture my youth. No doubt, you could too.

Don't get me wrong; I love getting questions from newbies needing a little direction for forging their freelance careers. I also love the occasional contact to bounce an idea or two off of me for input. Bring it!
After all, where would any of us be without the help of other writers and mentors? But tire-kickers? That's a whole 'nother situation.

HOW TO RECOGNIZE TIRE-KICKERS

Though they come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors, here are a few commonalities:

1. They have a problem that they need your help to solve. For example, they want to know how to monetize their site, or they may need ongoing assistance in identifying market leads for their articles. And they found your info from a Google search. Sometimes they're individuals, sometimes they're businesses.
2. They have no budget or “ limited funds”.
3. They hit you up by email with a lot of questions, or pose a few hypothetical situations of which they request your valued opinion.
4. They never commit to anything.
5. They have a “me” agenda. The relationship is always one-sided.

WHY YOU MUST REJECT TIRE-KICKERS IN 2012

1. Time is money. Although answering questions and providing general advice is integral to establishing your expertise and cultivating new business relationships, there really should be a realistic R.O.I., (return on investment). If not, you’ll be operating “in the red” real soon. Remember that efficiency goes a long way in running a profitable business practice.

2. Tire-kickers can be taxing. They put a lot of wear and tear on you as a result of research you may do to answer their questions, or coming up with creative ideas to assist in their marketing efforts. Not to mention, the back and forth emails that are time consuming and often unproductive.

3. They are tough on the ego. Let’s face it: it’s typically “the one that got away” that usually binds us in doubt and endless thought--whether it’s a personal relationship or a professional one. We’re inclined to wrestle with how we could have done things differently. Or why “her” and not me? Too many of these situations leads to low morale and high stress.

4. Keep in mind the Pareto Principle. Its basic premise is that 80% of results will come from 20% of the people. Translation? Learn to work smarter, not harder. Make sure to nurture existing clients and partnerships and continue to keep them satisfied and coming back for more. As they say “ A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”

5. Consider that writers need to eat, just like other professionals. It's a harsh reality of life. When lawyers, doctors and therapists give their "expert" advice, they expect to be compensated. Why not professional writers?

Follow these savvy tips for 2012 and you’ll kick yourself less for poor time management decisions that sabotage your business success and keep you in the poor house.

Thoughts? Agree or disagree? Any experience with "tire-kickers" on your end?

The Care & Feeding of Long Distance Clients-Tips to Make it Work

2012-01-17T06:43:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it: long distance relationships can be challenging.
And in the world of freelance writing, it’s no different.

The advent of the Internet has changed the way we work and revolutionized communication like never before. It affords us the privilege of expanding our reach, our strategic considerations and our bottom line considerably. A simple click of a mouse allows us to connect with clients as close as our backyard, as well as those tucked away in Timbuktu.

But there’s a price we pay for progress. If not managed properly, long distance relationships and related projects, can become costly, time consuming, problematic and impersonal.

With this in mind, here are a few challenges you’re likely to encounter, and some savvy tips to help you overcome common obstacles.

The Challenge: The absence of face to face meetings can often carry the disadvantage of not being able to “read” your clients successfully. Did you know that the majority of our communication is actually non-verbal? Social psychologists estimate that about 7% of communication is verbal, while 93% consists of non-verbal expressions such as posture, tone of voice, gestures, and eye contact. Not properly assessing your client’s corporate culture, values, goals, and communication style can cause you to miss out on crucial clues needed to deliver a winning project. Not to mention what you’ll lose in sweat equity.

The Solution: Get as much as possible in writing. It’s hard to “misunderstand” specifics that are outlined in black and white. Reinforce your understanding by asking important questions on any “grey areas” and clearly establishing expectations.

The Challenge: Time zones. I admit that I am geographically challenged. Not only do I have difficulty reading maps, I don’t always remember and recognize differences in time zones and geographic regions. Not to mention, I’ve had the pleasure of working with people who weren’t even located in the U.S.
One time this caused a mishap with one of my new clients, who had a difference of one hour in our time zones. Ouch. Luckily, it wasn’t major and we were able to move beyond it. But, you can bet your bottom dollar that it won’t happen again soon.

The Solution: Keep a chart of different time zones at your disposal. Memorize the ones that are relevant to your particular client base. Make sure to touch base by email to confirm the specifics before the designated times of important meetings or phone conferences.
Better safe than sorry.

The Challenge: Dealing with the mishaps of lost documents and cyberspace "mysteries".

The Solution: Always keep extra hardcopies of important contracts, photos and files. Things get lost in the mail. Computer viruses can destroy things placed on the system that are stored on your hard drive. And trying to recapture and recover these valuable items can lead to loss time and a loss of your client's confidence.

Thoughts? Anything that I might have missed?

Image: Stock Illustration

More Coffee & Other Announcements

2012-01-15T17:27:00.001-08:00

A special welcome to all my new followers! I am pleased as punch to have you join us. You'll find a pretty diverse and welcoming community here. Please feel free to introduce yourself or share any writing related news, as the situation dictates.
And I love comments.

Here are a few brief announcements of potential interest.

1.The Coffeehouse for writers will begin its new, exciting line-up of online writing classes for writers of all levels and genres on Monday, January 16th. Learn at your pace, in your space! Make 2012 the year where you learn more and earn more. After all, didn't you promise? :-) Don't think of it as an expense; think of it as an investment. Credit card and Paypal payments accepted online. See www.coffeehouseforwriters.com for details.

2. In my ongoing efforts to provide you with an array of resources, tips, tools and techniques to enhance your writing experience, I will be doing more Q&A interviews in the upcoming weeks. Look for insight and inspiration from authors and Bloggers such as: Hope Clark of Funds for Writers, Jimmy Gordon, author and retired fireman, and more!

3. I am seeking guest Bloggers for February. Please see the guidelines reflected above. Then have at it!

Enjoy your week.

Any announcements from your corner of the world?

Image Stock Photo

A Q& A With Author Wendy Burt

2012-01-10T10:41:00.000-08:00

Please join me in welcoming Wendy Burt-Thomas. She and I "connected" some years ago, when I penned a review on one of her great books for singles.

Over the years, I've found her to be a great resource and inspiration. And you will too. In today's interview, she shares freelancing tips as well as secrets to her success.
Feel free to pose any questions or comments in the comments section below.

1. Can you tell us a little about who you are and your background?

I’m a full-time freelance writer and editor. I’ve worked out of my home for the last nine years. I write just about everything for clients: articles, blogs, press releases, ads – you name it! I’ve also written four books for traditional publishers, including “The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters.”

2. Describe your creative process. Do you write everyday?

I try to work only Monday through Friday because I have a 4-year-old, 6-year-old and husband who complain if I work at night. (I also have two English mastiffs and a black lab but they like it when I work because they get the crumbs that fall under my desk.) As for my creative “process,” it’s really about butt-in-chair work. If I waited to get inspired I’d never get anything done by my deadlines. I have three hours Monday through Thursday when my 4-year-old is in preschool. I use that time for my high-concentration work and phone consultations. Then I break for lunch when he comes home and use the afternoon for work that needs less focus.

3. How would you define success as a writer?

Doing what you love when you want to do it. Unless they’re self-employed, people don’t understand that writers have deadlines, phone/Skype conference calls, and limited time to work. Yes, you have a lot of flexibility to set your own days and hours, but if I were going to an office every day, you wouldn’t ask me to babysit your kid! (I get this a lot.) Obviously, money plays a role in defining success for many of us, and I am proud to say that I make a great living from home. But I also make a great life, which is more important.

4. What has been your most rewarding accomplishment thus far?

Writing “The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters.” I felt like I had birthed (another) baby and really felt proud of the work I had done. Query letters can be a dry topic so I tried to put some humor and real-life examples in the book, which Writer’s Digest let me keep. I didn’t feel like they altered my voice at all, which was wonderful.

5. What would it surprise others to know about you?

How much I still doubt myself. My friend Christina Katz (author of several books on writing, including “The Writer’s Workout”) and I have talked about this before. I think many successful authors/writers have dealt with the “Imposter Syndrome.” No matter how many books and published articles you have, no matter how many classes or keynote speeches you make at writer’s conferences, there’s this nagging voice saying, “You’re a fraud” or “You don’t deserve to make this much money for creativity.” I think more female writers underbid their worth than males. I try to surround myself with other confident, successful creatives (writers, artists, designers) – even if mostly through emails and social media.

6. In your opinion, how has the publishing/writing industry changed in 2012, and how does it impact today‘s writer?

Much of what I do today is completely different than what I did just a few years ago, even though I still have the same clients. I was doing a lot of writing for magazines and print ad copy until the publishing industry nearly went under a few years ago. Now those same clients have me doing a lot more social media (blogs, Facebook posts, tweets), online PR and copy for ecommerce sites. Most magazines now have a digital version, which means I have to take keywords and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) into consideration when I write articles and do copywriting for websites. I had to educate myself on methods, terminology and changes in online marketing and publishing so I could adapt to the time. Writers today will be hard-pressed to find consistent work that doesn’t require at least a basic knowledge of these things.

7. Who are some of your favorite authors?

Well, my dad (Steve Burt) is also an author of several books (most recent is “FreeK Camp” – a paranormal YA mystery), so I am genetically obligated to mention him. (Just kidding. His books have won countless awards!) I love the humor of Anne Lamott and David Sedaris, but I think the two books that inspired me the most in terms of writing were Stephen King’s “On Writing” and Steven Pressfield’s “The War of Art” (not to be confused with “The Art of War”).

8. What‘s the biggest myth you think others have about writing or publishing?

Can I name two? They’re two ends of the spectrum. One is that writing is easy. (I have an uncle who always says, “I could write a book if I wanted to. I just don’t have time.” Incidentally, I worked a full-time job when I wrote my first two books.) The other is that you can’t make a living as a writer. There are plenty of us that do, you just don’t hear about us because we’re too busy working to complain there’s not enough work. ; )

BIO:
Wendy Burt-Thomas is the author of four books, including “The Writer’s Digest Guide to Query Letters.” Her freelance credentials include more than 1,000 published articles, short stories, essays and poems. Follow her blog (http://askWendy.wordpress.com) to get writing contests daily!

3 Key Ways Knowing Your Weaknesses Strengthens Your Position As a Writer!

2012-01-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

---"Knowledge is power."

Positioning is important.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re engaged in a game of chess, or vying for your dream job as a freelancer.
Knowing where you stand makes you stand taller, and helps to approach your goals with a sense of strategy, savvy, and overall efficiency. Simply put, it makes your game plan easier to execute.

In fact, it’s one of the things that I credit for my success in my creative career, in the midst of many obstacles. When I started this journey, (more than a decade ago), I had no formal training in writing.
Truth be told, my degrees are in business.

I didn’t have a computer, (didn’t get one until much later). Had no connections or contacts in the business. And worked full-time while attending night school.

What I did have was a solid business background, a strong work ethic, the belief that writing was my “calling,” the desire to excel, and the willingness to be objective about my work---the good, the bad, and the ugly.

And you should too.

Which is why I’m often amazed when talking to potential clients and other freelancers, that many seem to unfortunately have a real “blind spot” in identifying their creative weaknesses. Matter of fact, once I pointed out a shortcoming of someone whom I was trying to mentor, that caused her to be offended, and ended up doing more harm than good. Ouch. (Note to self: you can‘t help everybody). :-)

Here’s another case in point.
If you’ve ever tuned in to the popular talent-search show “American Idol”, then you’ve witnessed how some creative artists are convinced, (despite the judges’ assessments, and voices that sound like fingernails scratching a chalk board), that singing is their true talent! Huh?

Of course, we’d all like to be good at everything. Right?
Not gonna’ happen.
Instead a reality check is needed. There’s much to be said for the expression, “Knowledge is power.”

With this in mind, here’s why knowing your creative weaknesses can actually be a good thing that strengthens your career.

1. Efficiency
One of the most common complaints from today’s writer is not having enough time to write. Sometimes this is the result of mismanaging time, while at other times it’s the byproduct of pursuing projects or genres of writing that really are not well suited for us. The drawback? Spinning one’s wheels and not going anywhere. For example, mine would be writing for children. Be selective.

2. Strategy
The more in tune you are to what your weaknesses are, the greater the likelihood that you can address them, work to improve them, and operate from a greater position of strength. Or in some case scenarios, it may actually call for you to subcontract work out. Say for instance that you’re great at writing, but not skilled at design, or proofing, or photography. You spend less mental wear and tear on these areas, and more focusing on your true passions and positive areas.

3. Leverage
Like it or not, we all are in a competition of sorts. There are only so many creative jobs, clients, and projects. Not to mention, as Bloggers, we’re competing for today’s busy readers’ valuable time. Which requires that we put our best foot forward. That we know what separates us from the rest of the pack. And that we know ultimately how to pack a punch and how to deliver it.
Trust, you can fool yourself to make your ego feel better. Some do.
But really great Bloggers embrace their weaknesses, just like their strengths. Realizing that it is this combination of good and bad, darkness and light, challenges and victories that makes for an interesting Blogger who is relatable and real.

Thoughts? Any creative weaknesses you own up to?

Image Stock Photo

6 Social Media Blunders Freelancers Should Avoid

2012-01-04T05:43:00.000-08:00

There’s no doubt about it: social media is the rage.
Everybody who’s anybody is on board. From stay at home moms, to pop icons, to politicians.
Even Donald Trump has his own “virtual” real estate and Twitter profile.

For freelancers, it’s a great way to “make friends and influence people.” Not to mention, to increase exposure exponentially.
But, just like money, it can be good or bad depending upon how it‘s used.

Proper discernment is the key to a “profitable” experience.

Take for instance, accounts of a politician who once garnered “unwanted” attention, by allegedly baring it all in salacious activities over the Internet.

Or who could forget in a “Ripley’s-believe-it-or-not moment,” the woman who was identified and subsequently arrested for posting pictures of shoplifted merchandise to her FaceBook page?
Horror stories abound.

With this in mind, here are six sins to avoid, in the interest of reputation management and career maintenance:

1. Being too free with your “freedom of speech” rights.
Think before you comment. Things spouted in anger over the Internet, verbal warfare, and kiss and tell chronicles have a way of hunting and hurting you for years to come. Choose your words wisely.

2. Mixing business with pleasure.
Unless you impose certain privacy settings on your accounts, consider that anybody in the general public can view your activities-- daily, weekly, monthly. This includes potential clients, colleagues, and competitors. Would you want them all to know equally about your private life with your live-in lover? Your “happy hour” escapades? Or perhaps dysfunctional family dynamics? Exercise prudence here.

3. Posing for provocative pictures.
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but all it takes is the wrong one to undermine your professionalism and send the wrong message. You may want to make sure that your “Kodak Moments” are P-G rated. :-)

4. Being too “public” with private information.
Things like your home address, your home number, complete birthday, credit card info, and financial status. Why? Because identity theft is rampant, and you want to err on the side of caution. According to Spendonlife.com, there were 10 million people affected by Identity Theft in 2008.

5. Using profanity.
Not everyone is liberal-minded or accepting of this. To some it’s even offensive.

6. Bad-mouthing clients in public forums and bulletin boards.
It’s okay to do your “garden-variety” gripe a little, or to present a situation that has been problematic in order to solicit support and needed answers. But, never use specific info, or violate a client privilege. The world is smaller than you think!

When social media is used wisely, it can work wonders. Just make sure that your “15 minutes of fame” reflects positively on you and your career. Making good decisions makes good business sense, and ultimately means greater earning potential and longevity in years to come.

Thoughts?

IMAGE Stock Photo

Reflections & Revelations-11 Mistakes I Made in 2011!

2011-12-31T15:51:00.000-08:00

Experience is a great teacher.
And for those of us “resolving” to live better in 2012, a rewind to the past can help provide for a more prolific, passionate, progressive future.

Truth is, 2011 was a bag of mixed blessings for me.
Or to quote Dickens, “It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.”

I gained a few clients. I lost some.
My income projections were off.
My output exceeded my income.
And a tough economy served as a constant reminder that I should have “saved for a rainy day” sooner.

Still hardships can hold important lessons.

In an effort to provide a few “teachable moments”, I’ll share with you some reflections and revelations.

1. When it came to social media, I was somewhat of a recluse. Don’t get me wrong; I dig Tweets from my peeps. And I’ve made some great online connections. But I tend to be more “cerebral” than “social”. I’d really rather write than small talk. And 140 characters on most days wouldn’t even cover what I’ve had for breakfast. But I now think of social media like an “online water cooler” where a lot of cool conversations go on, and leads are shared . So I’ll be hanging out more in 2012, and sharing more of my popular posts from my Blog.

2. I worked harder, not smarter. Trust, choosing the right type of writing projects can be a great time saving device and an important strategy for overall success. Certain types of writing just categorically pay more than others. Copywriting typically pays more than article writing, while Blogging for corporate clients generally pays more than personal clients. Choose wisely.

3. I didn’t market enough. Like it or not, it can make or break a writing career.

4. My “go-get-em” plan didn’t have a “Plan B”.

5. I neglected to work on my book project and finding an agent for my work. It still lingers on my to-do list from last year.

6. I Blogged for free too often. Though I enjoyed the experience, the connections and the growth it provided, I’ll be a little more selective in 2012.

7. I didn’t enter enough contests. As most of you know, I threw my hat in the ring for The Top 10 Writing Blogs contest at Write to Done, and emerged as a finalist! It was big fun, and I even got the opportunity to do a guest post. Often overlooked, many contests provide “paydays” in the way of prizes, cash, and exposure. Here’s a site that offers info on various competitions: http://writingcontests.wordpress.com/

8. I didn’t follow enough writing Blogs. There really are some great ones out there, I recently discovered.

9. I didn’t comment enough on some really great sites due to time constraints. Some of yours are among them. Consider this my apology. :-)

10. I believed that hard work was the ticket to success. There’s so much more that factors into the freelancing equation: prayer, perseverance, politics, strategy.

11. I didn’t diversify my income enough. In 2012, my efforts will be divided into an array of projects and pursuits. As they say, “Never put all your eggs in one basket.”

How about you? What would you do differently?
Any lessons learned?
Image: Stock

It's Official!

2011-12-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

...I'm doing the happy dance here!
Just wanted to pop my head in to share with you the good news.

Remember the annual contest at Write to Done for Top 10 Blogs?

Well, Pen and Prosper made the cut. That's right.
It's been chosen as a "top 10 finalist" with over 2000 nominations received!

Yoo hoo! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! :-)

A special thanks to all of you who took the time to make a difference.

There's no success without (U)!

5 Ways to Get Your Guest Post Rejected (at 5-Star Blogs!)

2011-12-05T15:02:00.000-08:00

Google the phrase “guest blogging opportunities,” and you’ll likely render results in the million.
1,820,000 entries to be exact, (at the time of this writing).
It’s no secret to today’s blogger that guest blogging is a great way to garner traffic and get in front of new audiences; so everybody’s pretty much on board.

And with this awareness comes extreme competition.
In fact, I’ve read somewhere that guest posting is how hot-shots like Darren Rowse and Leo over at Write to Done actually launched and built their blogging “empires“, if you will.

Translation? This means that the average blogger can’t be average in his approach. Particularly not when striving to land an “appearance” at award-winning, “top dog” sites to make a name for himself.

As someone who has “walked the walk”, with guest posts at top-tier sites like PRO BLOGGER, Men With Pens, Daily Blog Tips, and Technorati, I can assure you that many are “called” but few are “chosen”.
Trust, not everyone will make the cut! Truth be told, for some of these posting “privileges,” I’ve had to submit multiple times before I was actually even considered.

Armed with insider’s secrets, I’ll share with you 5 blogging blunders that can sabotage your success.

1. Relying solely on good writing skills.
So you think you’re pretty awesome when it comes to penning pieces, and this will likely get your foot in the door and help you to advance your swagger? Think again.
Top-tier blog owners are not easily impressed. Mere words won’t woo them. In a month’s time they may receive hundreds of guest post requests. Many from folks with awesome credentials and creative awards. Which is why being good isn’t good enough, my friend. You’ve got to be good, and strategic, and credible, and eloquent, and unique and have a fairly decent home blog to boot! That’s just a start.

2. Neglecting to check the archives.
Listen up. No matter how well you write, your “voice” will fall upon deaf ears if you’re singing the same tune. Since great minds think alike, sometimes there may be duplication in content over an extended period of time, with various authors, but for the most part, originality is crucial to your success .

3. Forgetting that even online ,“first impressions” count.
Things like typos, posts that appear like spam sent to multiple sites, unusual fonts and formatting, can cause you to stand out and be remembered--but not in a good way.

4. Targeting the wrong audience or readership level.
After several rejections and scratching my head in frustration from failed attempts, one blog owner at a popular site shared with me that even though she enjoyed my writing, many of her readers would already be familiar with my “words of wisdom”. So I advanced my swagger and took my tips up a notch for a more “sophisticated” audience. You should too, for sites with Google Rankings of 5 and above. Going above the basics will help you go the distance.

5. Having a sense of entitlement.
Guest Blogging is a courtesy, not a right. Even if site owners request guest submissions, that doesn’t mean they have to accept yours. Act accordingly. Be polite and professional in your interaction and adhere to any guidelines provided.

Follow these five tips and you’ll soon discover that much like 5-star hotels, you’ll enjoy the ultimate experience when you’re there!

Your turn. What has your guest posting life been like? Do you agree or disagree with the tips mentioned?

Image: Andrea Brill

How to Survive the Screening Out Process With Editors

2011-12-01T03:42:00.000-08:00

Ask anybody who has ever operated a government funding program, or provided jobs for the general public, and they’ll tell you that as much as they’d like to accommodate all those that apply, they simply can’t

The reality is, they must operate within certain restrictions and resources.
Truth be told, there are only so many dollars to dole out, or slots to fill due to budgetary guidelines, timing, and strategic goals.

So, what does this have to do with writing?
I’m glad you asked.
A similar principle prevails when it comes to editors and publishers.
Unfortunately, many naïve freelancers believe that because editors need ongoing content for the success and growth of their publications, that it is simply a situation of supply and demand. That as long as they produce quality pieces, they will get paid on the regular and be able to support themselves through their livelihood .

Not quite. Not now.
Here’s why: in a tough economy, publishing dollars are shrinking, while the pool of talented writers is increasing exponentially due to the advent of the Internet, (and a tough economy). It’s the “Catch 22” of writing today.

With this in mind, here are five timely tips to increase odds in your favor.

1. Have them “at hello.”
Not only are publishing dollars shrinking, so is the time-frame in which busy, over-worked editors will allow you to “wow” them and win them over. Start with a compelling headline, and a good lead in. Effective openings include: a provocative question, an important statistic, a bold claim, or a statement that challenges conventional wisdom. Seal the deal by capturing their attention with quality content. Quickly. Time is of the essence.

2. Make it hard to say no.
Compare and compete. Does your idea stand out as original? Are your credentials more impressive than the “average Joe”? Does your article show an understanding of the mission, slant, and audience of the publication? The more items you are able to satisfy of an editor’s mental “wish list” the less likely you are to be rejected.

3. Leave no stone unturned.
Like most “consumers” editors are looking for the most bang for their buck. With this in mind, go beyond the basics. Use side-bars, unusual statistics, expert quotes, relevant links and resources, and photos to give your submission more mileage. Additionally, play the devil’s advocate. In other words, try to consider any potential objections or criticisms that an editor might have and address them beforehand.

4. Get intimate with editors.
Don’t just familiarize yourself with their guidelines and preferences. Know their pet peeves. Their affiliations. Read their Bios and their editorials. “Knowledge is power.”

5. Adhere to Editorial Calendars.
More and more magazines, websites, and even Blogs are implementing Editorial Calendars to establish themes and designated deadlines for content being published. Examples would be:

http://wemagazineforwomen.com/about/editorial-calendar/
http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3748128
http://www.globelink.ca/magazines/whatsnew/page5/

Follow these five tips to increase your odds of publication and your bottom line.

Thoughts? What tips or suggestions would you add?

What I learned From Casing the Competition!

2011-11-27T08:50:00.000-08:00

Don’t be fooled.
Though Blogging, by nature, is a very inclusive, interactive, informal genre of writing that has been known to provide friendly alliances and the occasional “warm and fuzzy feeling”, it is indeed competitive.

In my opinion, these days, as much as professional sports!
Don’t believe me?
No matter what your niche, Google its category, and you’re bound to render results in the thousands. Sometimes millions.

Like it or not, this means that you’re “competing” for readership. You’re competing for the limited time of today’s busy reader faced with an abundance of choices and a finite number of hours in each day. You’re competing to be “heard” amidst a sea of many voices. Some are virtuosos!
You’re competing for potential clients, advertisers, and even positioning.

Which is why “sizing up” your competition is crucial to create win-win situations for you and your readers.

How Competition Can Increase Competence

It goes without saying that we should all be on top of our game when we Blog, whether it’s professionally or as a form of artistic expression. Being at our best helps us to challenge ourselves, create “brand loyalty”, become a credible resource, and “win friends and influence people”.

But sometimes there’s a bonus. You get recognized in the process.
Which brings me to the genesis of this post…

A little while ago, I received an announcement regarding a Blogging contest. Write to Done was holding their 6th annual “Top 10 Blogs for Writing Contest.”
As with many Bloggers, Pen and Prosper is a labor of love for me. I dedicate many hours to this endeavor without compensation or expectation.

But, a contest? I saw it as a different type of reward. I thought that it would be fun and would minimally provide a little exposure for me and my little spot. So I threw my hat in the ring.

And let’s just say it’s been a very eye-opening experience ever since.
Being pit against such tough competition has made me realize my strengths and my weaknesses. I must admit, when it comes to good reading on writing, there’s a virtual “smorgasbord”, folks.

When I did a little comparative analysis with other sites, I felt that my design wasn't as strong. So I went in and did a little tweaking. I opted for a cleaner, leaner appearance. Additionally, I added more info about my guest posting experiences. I even edited some of my articles.

In your efforts to Blog better, and reach new heights in the new year, you might want to engage in a similar undertaking.

How do you stand up against the competition? Are your posts original? Is your voice unique? Do you give readers take-away value to take away? Why should anyone other than family or friends want to read your work? These are things to consider.
You’ll never be your best, if you refuse to look at what you could do better.

What I learned About Competition at This Stage of the Game…

1. Contrary to popular belief, competition doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Like money, it all depends on how we view it and how we use it. Think of the camaraderie of the contestants on the popular reality show, Dancing With the Stars. Whether we’re comfortable with it or not, competition will always be a part of our culture, our work place, and even our family dynamics. Use it to be clever, not cut throat.

2. Being a successful Blogger takes much more than disseminating information.
In viewing some of the other contenders‘ sites, what stood out was the sense of commitment, the creativity, and the passion that was evident in many of the readers’ “favorites”. Heck, I even signed up for a few of the "competition's" newsletters and updates myself!

3. Regardless as to the outcome, I’m still a winner.
I took a chance. I took a risk. I gave it my best. And if nothing else, I know more than I did before. Armed with this knowledge, I am more resolute in going the distance and making a difference.

As they say, “It’s not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.”

Thoughts?
How do you feel about competition? Does it leave you bitter or better?

Side note: A special thanks for those of you who took the time to vote and make a difference. The deadline is December 10th for those who are interested.

Image Stock Photo

Barriers to a Profitable Writing Career

2011-11-25T06:25:00.000-08:00

(OR 5 Negative mindsets that keep you from making money)

If you study or read about the lives of many accomplished writers, inventors, or industry icons, you’ll find one thing in common.
Before they became successful, they had to overcome doubts and adopt a positive mindset to prepare them to prosper and achieve great heights.

Consider the words of motivational great, Zig Ziglar, who tells us, “You can if you think you can!” Or the writings of best selling author, Napoleon Hill, instructing us to “Think and Grow Rich.”

Of course, hard work has its place. But without the proper principles to support your efforts, you may be unknowingly sabotaging your own success.

With this is mind, here are five negative mindsets that keep most writers from making money, and how you can overcome them.

1. The Starving Artist mentality.
Okay, let’s be honest. How many of us love to write, but have college degrees in everything but writing, because we bought into the belief that writing was not “a real job”? Sure, we all know of poets that died in poverty, back in the day. However, in today’s publishing world, it’s possible to generate a pretty penny by penning words. Whether it’s through fictional works like Harry Potter, or tell-all bios by athletes and actresses, there is money to be made. Why not by you?

2. If I charge more, I’ll get fewer clients.
Not necessarily, unless you only get assignments through bidding sites. Writing is a service, much like a dentist, or a mechanic, or a counselor, or a chef. It’s important for you to recognize your value before others will. And by discounting your fees, ultimately you’ll feel overworked and underappreciated.

3. I’ll probably get rejected.
Newsflash: it comes with the territory! As someone who has written hundreds of articles and earned thousands of dollars, I can assure you that rejection never ends. Never. I still get them. But, keep in mind that a rejection is not to be personalized, as it is not a death sentence for one’s career, nor should it define you. Learn from it, then become better, not bitter.

4. I can never seem to find the time to write.
Time, like money, must be budgeted properly for the best results. Famous authors like John Grisham and Terry McMillan combined very demanding careers and the rigors of life, and managed to launch and maintain very profitable writing careers while moonlighting. And you can too. Keep in mind that prioritization and discipline are crucial. In fact, you might be surprised to discover how much more productivity you can out of your day with fewer hours devoted to TV, and a little less socializing on the Net.

5. I’m not as good as---------- (fill in the blank).
There you go again, with negative self-talk that compares your abilities with that of others. Truth is, there will always be competition, and we each have our unique talents, strengths, and gifts. Use yours to continue to hone your craft and to being the best you that you can be.

Pay attention to what you tell yourself as you pursue your creative career. Because your core beliefs today will shape tomorrow’s success. “As a man thinketh, so it is.”

Thoughts? Any pertain to you and your career?

Image Stock illustration

All I Want For Christmas...

2011-11-23T19:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, Blog family, here's the deal.
I know a Christmas wish list is a bit premature at this juncture, but indulge me.
Besides, I've always been one to plan early.
This year, I've been more nice than naughty and fortunately my list is pretty short.

I'd like the following:
1. A Mercedes Benz
2. A new vacuum cleaner
3. A date with Keanu Reeves
4. To be able to fit into my leather pants
5. To win the Top 10 Blogs designation at Write to Done.

As far as the list goes, there are a few that I think I can safely assume will be transferred over to next year's list as well.

Just the same, you can make item #5 a reality by casting your vote soon! If Pen and Prosper is one of your favorite Blogs, I'd love to have your nomination for the 6th Annual Top 10 Writing Blogs at Write to Done!

Please note, that to cast your vote you must do the following:

1. Give the name of this Blog along with the URL address in the "comments" section.
2. State why Pen and Prosper is worthy of being recognized.

It's important to complete each step for your vote to count.
Remember that there is strength in numbers, so "weigh in" and make a difference.
Deadline is December 10th.
Thanks so much for your time, support and consideration.

Have a wonderful Turkey Day!

Blog Audit-How Do You Measure Success?

2011-11-20T09:55:00.000-08:00

Let's face it: numbers have always been used as an assessment tool in our society.
A female who ranks a "10" is said to be a man magnet.
"Zero" tolerance policies seek to establish high standards in the workplace.
While the age 21 is said to be a qualifier for adulthood.

Blogging isn't much different. What do your numbers say?
Millions of Americans will be using the upcoming months to prepare for audits and the associated tax season.

I like to establish a similar procedure to analyze and scrutinize my Blog growth and to identify my future goals. And you should too.

Here's what a recent Blog audit, (along with Google Analytics) has revealed:

1. Pen and Prosper has maintained continuous growth over the last 12 months.
2. The "average reader" here has a master's degree and is female.
3. About 75% of my following is female based.
4. The busiest comment day is typically Tuesday, followed by Sunday evening.
5. I have gained most of my new followers via guest posts and blog commenting at other sites.
6. The number of comments received on posts varies, but collectively reveals a higher level of response than 2010.
7. My Blog visibility and recognition has increased, (though still not recognized by Writer's Digest). :-) For example, Pen and Prosper has been linked to or referenced by sites such as All About Freelance Writing, Dollars and Deadlines, Diary of a Mad Freelancer, and other influential sites.

Conclusion? I may not be where I'd like, but I am at least on the "write track".
Numbers don't lie.

Still, I'd like to know, how do you measure your Blog success?
And too, how does Pen and Prosper "measure up" in your opinion?
Any suggestions for improvement? Anything you'd like to see remain? Do tell.

Image: Stock Photo

NaNoWriMo? What Now?

2011-11-15T19:56:00.000-08:00

Guest Post by Emily Matthews

Every year, more than 200,000 people participate in NaNoWriMo, and 34,000 complete the first draft of a novel. That’s at least 1.7 trillion words! But once that first draft is completed, what happens next?

Lock it away. That’s right, you just spent a month of your life slaving over this novel, but that’s exactly why you shouldn’t be looking at it. Because you’re still so close to the narrative, you won’t be able to look at it with the necessary objectivity. So hide it away - for a week, or a month, or however long it takes to feel creative and excited about the project again. Because the next step is the one that’s going to hurt.

Any published author will tell budding writers that a good first draft is exactly that: a first draft. It is especially important in a competition like NaNoWriMo to let your creativity flow unhindered onto the paper. There is no time for rewrites and editing. Once you've gotten all of the basics of the story in place however, you need to go back through and evaluate what truly works and what doesn’t, and odds are, at 1,667 words a day, there are going to be quite a few things that don’t. Don’t be discouraged. This was a submission for a contest online, not your masters degree thesis. Editing a story the first time through usually requires a lot of corrections for typos and grammatical mistakes, but it will also open up the author's eyes to any weak spots in the overall story line.

After you've given your NaNoWriMo novel a first look over, give it to someone else to read. Preferably that person will have at least a basic background in writing, but if you don't have such a person available to you, then anyone who enjoys reading will do. Have them make notes on the margins of a printed manuscript, pointing out any typos or continuity errors. Most importantly, make sure you've selected someone who you can trust to tell you the truth about whether they like or dislike your novel. Keep in mind, however, that everyone has different tastes in literature, so don't be too discouraged if the first person to read your work in progress doesn't love it. Regardless of their personal opinion of the work, be sure to also ask them if they were able to get a good picture of the characters in their mind based on your written descriptions of them.

Once you've received their feedback, go back through the novel with a fine-toothed comb. Take their suggestions seriously, but don't make a revision simply because they've suggested it. Pay especially close attention to any comments about continuity errors or sentences that don't make any sense. Also, if they weren't able to properly envision your characters, be sure to add at least a few sentences to clue future readers into their physical appearance.

After this process is completed, consider going to a writing workshop where you can share samples of your novel with published authors or literary professors. Again, utilize their comments constructively to help make your novel more publisher-friendly. If you're still receiving a lot of correction suggestions after following all of the above steps, consider doing each step over again, as many times as necessary to reach your goal. After all, over 90 authors have published a book that they began during NaNoWriMo and with enough dedication you can be the next to join their ranks.

Bio:
Emily Matthews is currently applying to a masters degree program across the U.S., and loves to read about new research into health care, gender issues, and literature. She lives and writes in Seattle, Washington.

Thoughts? Do you NaNoWriMo?

Image: Andrea Brill

Tax Tips for Freelancing Professionals

2011-11-11T04:44:00.000-08:00

GUEST POST BY BRITTANY LYONS

Many people enter freelancing because of the flexibility and autonomy that it offers. Much like going back to school to earn PhDs, freelancing can have huge benefits, but there are also responsibilities that must be met.

New and established freelancers will eventually have to face the reality of preparing taxes for their small business. Fortunately, these tax tips will help ensure that freelancers understand income reporting, deductions and filing requirements, and can keep the IRS happy.

The most important thing for a freelancer is recording income. Because freelance writers are typically considered independent contractors, any income they earn must be reported to the Internal Revenue Service. Freelancers who earn more than $600 from a single source should receive a 1099-MISC form from that company, but that doesn't mean you can get away without reporting paychecks smaller than that. Income from all sources must be reported regardless of the amount. Some of the common income streams that are overlooked by freelance writers include:

1. Affiliate earnings, i.e. earnings from sales of products or services through affiliate networks.

2. Revenue sharing, i.e. money earned from taking part in a website's development by referring new members, or participation in a freelance group that shares both profits and losses.

Most writers do not earn $600 from revenue sharing or affiliate earnings annually, but the amount earned must still be reported. Freelance writers can save themselves a lot of hassle by starting records on all income streams at the beginning of each year, and tracking earnings by month. This process will ensure that income is accurately reported, and you're not scrambling to track all the information down at the end of the year, which can result in things getting overlooked. Those who receive earnings via PayPal or other online portals can also download earnings reports directly from their account, which makes life a little less hectic come tax time.

The second most important thing for freelancers to keep track of is their work-related expenses. Freelance writers often overlook deductions that they are entitled to take because they don't realize what counts as an allowable expense. For example:

1. Medical insurance: Self-employed persons may deduct the cost of their medical insurance if they are paying for it from their earnings. There may also be limited deductions available for life insurance.

2. Home office expenses: There is a misconception that if you rent your home, you cannot deduct rental costs on your taxes. Here, freelance writers should use the calculations provided by the Internal Revenue Service in Publication 334 to see if this expense applies.

3. Retirement account deposits: Most freelancers can claim their retirement account deposits, provided they fall within the contribution limits set by the Internal Revenue Service.

4. Subscriptions and software: If you have subscriptions to style guides, plagiarism checkers and trade publications that you use in your freelance work, you can claim them as deductions, though you may need to prove these items are necessary. Software/hardware expenses may also be eligible for a deduction.

Freelancers who are in doubt as to which expenses are deductible should review the various publications available on the Internal Revenue Service website, or contact a tax professional. Everyday expenses are often the most overlooked, including Internet access charges, online conference calling expenses, etc. Freelancers should review their expenditures carefully to find these more subtle deductions.

Unfortunately, those who are self-employed may be subjected to more scrutiny by the Internal Revenue Service. Numerous reports show that the IRS targets self-employed individuals for audits, due to the higher potential of unreported earnings. Freelancers who track their income and expenses and carefully review their allowable deductions may be able to avoid the unpleasant surprise of an IRS audit, and will certainly be better prepared if one does come their way.

BIO:
Brittany Lyons aspires to be a psychology professor, but decided to take some time off from grad school to help people learn to navigate the academic lifestyle. She currently lives in Spokane, Washington, where she spends her time reading science fiction and walking her dog.

Image: Stock photo

How to Get Off the Writing Treadmill!

2011-11-08T03:50:00.001-08:00

Ever feel that despite all your writing efforts, you seem to be going no where?
Like you're running in place.

You spend hours on crafting queries, only to have them go unanswered.
Or you research new markets, but can't seem to find any suitable for the pieces you've created.

Or you're working hard, but your output exceeds your income!
You're exactly the same place you were last month, last year.

It happens to the best of us.
It's like being on a treadmill. And if you don't get off of it soon, you'll likely get frustrated, tired, and throw in the towel.
And you'll have nothing to show for your sweat equity.

As someone who has published professionally for over a decade, in just about every genre you can imagine, I'll share some tips to help you go the distance and better pace yourself for times ahead.

1. Got goals?
In order for you to move forward and stay on a progressive path, you must know where you intend to go. This may seem obvious, but trust me, it isn't. There are numerous writers that write because they "love" to, with no clear vision as to where they see themselves going in the future. Perhaps you're one of them. Productive writing requires planning. Make sure to put your goals in writing for greater odds for success. Studies show that when people actually pen their goals, they are much more likely to achieve them.

2. Quit writing for everybody for free.
You'll burn out much more quickly. And you'll never attain financial growth.
In the infancy of my career, I wrote a lot for nothing. And don't get me wrong, I still write for free now. If it's a valuable cause, or for a good friend, or a start-up that I believe has growth potential. But there's a limit. Over the last few months, I've gotten several requests to become a guest author at some pretty well-established sites, (for free). Unfortunately, I had to decline. As much as I love writing, I need to eat too. :-)

3. Market more.
Let's face it: many creative creatures get caught up in the art of "creating" with very little efforts devoted to selling their work. Getting paid is what makes writing a career and not a hobby. Sure, I know, that sometimes it may make you feel like a used car salesman, but do it anyway.

4. Invest in yourself.
In a tough economy, everybody is trying to get more bang for their buck.
But free ain't always better, folks.
At some point on your path, you'll need to invest in yourself for optimal results.(Meaning you'll need to spend some money).
Other professionals do it all the time. Beauticians go to classes to update their skills and learn new techniques. Whether it's Jherri Curl perms, or weaving procedures.
Teachers take self-development seminars to hone their craft and maintain their certification. Why not you?

To help you move forward, I'm happy to announce my new service---(see here's where I practice what I preach, by marketing to you). :-)

(On a side note---Up until this point, you have never seen Ads of any sorts or affiliate programs that ask for money.)

This month, I have launched JEN'S VIP CLUB. If you like my Blog, you'll love my club. For the price of a Starbucks visit, (7 bucks for the first month, even less for multiple months), you'll receive, Blog Jobs, Marketing Tips, Advice by Email and more! Email for details.

Commitment phobic? Money tight? Sign up for just one month for the 7 bucks, and cancel at anytime. There's no further obligation.
Free gift to the first 12 to sign up! Discover the benefits of being connected... today.

How will you get off the writing treadmill? Or does this apply? Do tell.

Image Stock Photo

This Little Piggy Goes to Market! (Or how to evaluate a good blog gig)

2011-11-05T10:50:00.001-07:00

Last year, when I landed a blog gig that boasted 100 bucks monthly for 300-word posts, I was tickled pink. Easy money I thought to myself.

Not only did this project seem exciting and effortless, scoring it, along with my other “regular” blogging clients, meant I could save time and angst from scouring weekly job boards and networking feverishly for potential leads.

But my joy was short lived. Not long after accepting this job, I realized that not all blogging gigs are created equally. This one took much more time than I had anticipated due to the client’s unreasonable requests. And in retrospect, I lost more than I gained by taking it.

But here’s one valuable thing I did take away: knowing what to look for and what to expect in a blog job will enhance your experience and your bottom line.

Blog listings are increasingly abundant on Craigslist, Freelance Writing Jobs, Blogging Pro, and Pro Blogger.net, to name a few. But what should you look for in “reading the fine print?” What makes for a profitable pursuit?

Gleaned from my blogging career, and some trial and error, here are a few things you need to consider in assessing a blog job offer or Ad:

1. The scope of your responsibility
This may seem like a no-brainer, but trust me, it isn’t. In other words, will you be required to do research? Will you have to make your posts Search Engine Optimized? Provide your own topics? These are things to consider. $50.00 per post may seem like a lot initially, but if the subject matter requires extensive research, tech troubles, and red tape, you’ll end up with very little earnings for your efforts.

2. The amount of expertise required
Some blog jobs call for you to know different content management systems to post your own work (i.e Wordpress, Scrives, Blogger); with others, the blog owner does the actual posting upon approval. Additionally, some projects require you to provide your own photos, to be versed in things like anchor texting and social media. Make sure to be compensated equitably for your skill sets and your time. Just like you would in corporate America.

3. The method of payment
Will it be based upon performance metrics, like per clicks? Readership levels? Readers’ votes? Or perhaps per post? Per word? Be clear on the terms and how you‘ll collect your pay. If it’s vague, steer clear.

4. What’s the standing of the blog and its owner?
Is it a highly ranked site? Is it updated regularly? Popular within its niche? Many ad placements? Any bulletin board complaints? These tell-tale signs will determine how successful it is and the likelihood of future pay. For instance, I blogged for one client for a couple of weeks who decided to “close shop” because things were not materializing the way he had expected. If I had done my homework, I might have known of his struggles to stay afloat and irregular postings, and devoted my energies elsewhere. As they say, “time is money.”

5. Interaction with audience
Creating blog posts can also carry with it the pleasant but time consuming task of responding to readers and answering related questions. Will you be allowed to make a general statement of “thanks”, bypass commenting, or are you expected to address each one individually? Depending upon your time constraints and personal blogging style, this may or may not be a concern.

Like with any job, the proper “fit” is important for longevity, success, and career satisfaction. So keep these tips in mind to make the most of your blogging experience, and to make the most money for your efforts.

Comments or questions?

Image Stock Photo

5 Tips to Make the Most of Working From Home

2011-10-31T19:18:00.000-07:00

October marks National Home Based Business Week. A yearly celebration to honor, educate and advance entrepreneurs who have traded cubicle lifestyles for “castle“comforts, and greater flexibility. Some freelancers have strategically chosen this entrepreneurial path, while others have been immersed in the waters because of corporate downsizing, tough times, and the relative ease of conducting business online.

Whether by choice or chance, knowing how to deal with day-to-day challenges and learning to work smarter, not harder can be the key to longevity and success.
With this in mind, here are some tips to make the most of your experience, based upon my own.

FIVE WAYS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS

1. Establish a daily routine.
Though it may be tempting to play video games, tune into soaps, or sleep in late, know that idlely sitting on your bottom will have an adverse affect on your bottom line. Just because you have no one to watch over you doesn’t mean you’re not accountable. Consider your clients, editors, advertisers and family. Establishing a routine helps to provide structure and greater efficiency.

2. Devise goals.
Goals serve like a road map to help to navigate your direction. Where would you like to be published? How much money do you want to earn this week? This month? This quarter? How will you target new clients and find new projects? Go even further and write your goals down. Studies show that writing goals down increases the likelihood of achieving them.

3. Make your space an accommodating place.
Did you know that where you work is just as important as how you work? Whether you toil from a corner in your basement, or a bedroom converted into a beautiful office, make sure that it suits your personality, work style and line of work. Ideally, it should be adorned in colors that inspire you, be free from clutter, and equipped with the latest technology and tools you need to succeed. Add a few posters of expensive places you’d like to travel, to help keep your eye on the prize and to keep your mojo working.

4. Be savvy about social media.
There’s no doubt about it: social media is crucial to connecting with others to build your platform, stay “in the know,” and stay in the black. But too much time spent enjoying this popular past-time can prove counterproductive. Whether you indulge daily or weekly, impose a time limit and stick to it.

5. Choose your clients carefully.
Doing so can help to avoid potential headaches, wasted hours, burned bridges, and lost income. Money aside--take the time to ask the right questions. To discern whether there is a similar work ethic, compatible agendas, and meeting of the minds. Increase the odds for a winning, long term relationship by getting all work conditions in writing.

Follow these five tips to enjoy greater success and less stress on the home front.

Any tips to add to the list?

Image Stock Photo

Survival or Selling Out? Does working cheaply devalue you as a writer?

2011-10-30T07:53:00.001-07:00

"I'm taking what they givin' cause I'm working for a livin'."
--Huey Lewis

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times."
This line from a literary classic, in my opinion, aptly describes today's writing environment.

On one hand, the Internet, Blogging, social media, and historic milestones, has allowed writers of all genres and levels abundant opportunities for pay and exposure. But, conversely, a struggling economy, where clients are perhaps assigning fewer projects, or paying less, has many writers in a pickle of sorts.

For some, this may translate to taking Blogging gigs that pay 10 bucks, or signing on with a less than "desirable" client, or Ghost Writing for bargain-basement rates.

Is it wrong? Or is it smart?

The issue arose for me, when I was doing my typical Blog hopping, and happened upon a post by a prominent author who was on a crusade. She pledged to not take on projects for $15.00 or less, because, in her opinion, it only "begets more low paying work."

And, from her perspective, it devalues the writing profession as a whole.

My position? It all depends on the scope of the project, the time investment, the cause, and one's financial status.

Not to mention, during tough times, some money is better than none. Sometimes.

What's your position? Do you have guidelines that govern how little you'll work for?

Image Stock Photo

Don't Shoot the Messenger-5 Take-away Tips From Dancing With the Stars!

2011-10-27T08:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, so call me shallow.
The only reason I'm tuned in to T.V. this season on Dancing With the Stars is Maks.
He's a fine work of art. :-)
That and the fact that there isn't much else engaging on Monday nights in my viewing area.

Of course, this is not to say anything disparaging about the other dancers.
I'm sure they're perfectly lovely people.
But, to tell the truth, most I hadn't even heard of until their appearance on this popular show. With the exception of Ricki Lake and Chaz Bono.

Anyhow, I digress a bit here...

Lately, I must admit, I'm a bit perplexed as to comments and controversy surrounding recent episodes. Specifically, the "stars'" reactions to the judges' comments regarding their routines.

As such, I decided to pen this post to share what I've learned from all the hoopla.
Because I firmly believe that writers, (at least good ones) are "performers" too.
Though the method and the venue may be different, there are indeed parallels.
Wouldn't you agree?

With this being said, here are a few take-away tips we can apply to our careers.

1. Criticism comes with the territory.
Whether you're being "judged" by an editor, a Blog reader, or a publisher, you have to be able to deal with scrutiny and feedback. Bottom line.

2. You must be receptive to feedback in order to grow.
In all fairness to Maks, there is a right and a wrong way to provide criticism in order for folks to be able to embrace it and apply it. But trust me when I tell you, it's an "art" that not every one has mastered. Try to find the positive, learn the lesson, then continue to "dance"!

3. There is something to be said for those who have been in the business longer than you have.
Sure, "experts" are people too, and occasionally make mistakes. But many times, they have the objectivity, experience, and credentials to help us mold our careers for maximum results. Listen.

4. Sometimes you're gonna have to be the "bigger person" Charlie Brown. :-)
There's a proper place and time for everything. And sometimes criticism can be unfair and untrue. Just the same, suck it up! "Excellence has its own reward." Are you feelin' me here?

5. Talent is only part of the equation.
I've said this before, but I'll say it again. Popularity matters. People skills matter. Politics matter. Poise matters. Always make sure your ego doesn't overshadow your excellence.

In closing, I should mention that Maks later elaborated on his position, in terms of some of the things he said, and attempted to soften things up a bit.
I certainly hope he's not kicked off soon.
Especially with my sweet tooth for "eye candy". :-)

Your turn. What's your take? Talk to me.

Image Stock Photo

Blog Etiquette-Should There be Standards or Proper Protocol?

2011-10-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

One of the things that many folks like about Blogging is the attention and the freedom it affords.
Let's face it: there isn't a lot to go on as far as "standard operating procedures" or style guidelines. Sure, you have suggestions and how-tos. But it's not as formal and fancy as other genres of writing. Right? You can vent or vibe, or just let your hair down. The choice is yours.

Which brings me to today's focus.

Lately, I've been making my rounds to new and old sites to broaden my horizons and build my knowledge base, and in so doing, I'm seeing some interesting dynamics developing.

But, you be the judge. Is there a right or wrong way to operate a Blog?
Here are a few topics to take into consideration.

1. Requesting money---From time to time, I've seen where Blog owners seek donations or contributions to A). Finance a trip B). Support the site or C). Miscellaneous.
Would you ask your Blog readers to do so? Have you ever given a donation? Why/why not?

2. Use of profanity---As a creative artist, I'm a firm believer of First Amendment rights, particularly freedom of speech. But, does that mean that we should always exercise it? Should there be limits, or does it depend on the nature of the Blog and the intended audience?

3. Blogging teams---In order to provide variety, constant content, and an array of interesting issues, some owners have assembled Blog teams, whereby 2-4 people are presented on a weekly basis. Do you read any of them? Or do you prefer the individuality of expression provided by one primary host?

4. Pay to have your guest post appear---I kid you not. I was browsing, not too long ago, where one Blog owner accepted guest posts for a fee. Imagine that.
Would you pay to play? Or would it depend on other variables?

What are your thoughts? Curious...

Image Stock Photo

6 Things Every Professional Writer Can Learn From Dr. Phil...

2011-10-20T05:39:00.000-07:00

Millions of Americans know him as the go-to guru for advice on love and relationships.
Others see him as the sage psychologist that pens best-selling self- help books on personal development, and Oprah‘s legal advisor.

Add one more title to his impressive resume: writing mentor.
That’s right. Though this may not be a role he professionally intended to assume, it’s one that I have identified and embraced in my creative career. And you should too.

As a faithful viewer of his show for many years, I’ve not only been entertained and enlightened by his no-nonsense approach to his guests‘ plaguing problems, I’ve also gleaned many lessons on how to be a more strategic, introspective, profitable writer as well.

Here are a few that will remedy your writing ills and provide for a more successful, (saner) career.

1. Dr. Phil is a unique communicator that dares to speak his own truths in his own language.
One reason that I’m a fan of Phil’s is that he can go from “geek speak” to “street speak” in a matter of minutes. In one sentence, he uses some deep medical terminology, and in the next, conveys his message like a common homeboy with southern charm.
He breaks all the rules: from frequently using informal words like y’all and ain’t, to clever, colorful expressions to make his point. Some of my favorites are “That dog just ain’t gon’ hunt” and “So how’s that workin’ out for ya’ pal?”

2. He shares effective anecdotes with universal appeal to connect with audiences. Two that stick out with me are his long-term marriage to his wife, Robin, and the struggles they’ve survived, and his dad being an alcoholic. In your writing, it’s important to apply anecdotes to illustrate important points, provide variety in techniques, and draw readers into your story.

3. He stresses the importance of introspection and personal accountability in diagnosing problems and devising a game plan for action.
In order to get where you’d like to be in your creative career, it’s crucial to take some inventory on where you’ve been, mistakes made in the past, and lessons learned. What clients or projects have been the most profitable? How can you manage your time better? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Where do you need to tweak your marketing plan to make more money? There’s great truth to the expression, “Those who fail to learn from the past are destined to repeat it.”

4. He aligns himself with the right people to open more doors.
There’s no disputing that his affiliation with Oprah made all the difference in his career. Sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. For the savvy scribe, this may mean tapping into social media outlets, networking through writers’ associations, and chatting others up via popular bulletin boards.

5. Dr. Phil is funny.
Even though his subject matter is often serious, he’s able to disarm people and make them feel more at ease by using humor and allowing them to sometimes look at the hilarity of the situation.
Savvy writers do as well. Humor is to writing what seasoning is to food. It adds flavor and appeal.

6. He walks the talk.
Though I don't agree with all his theories, assessments and recommendations in his "TV counseling sessions," his words do have merit. Here's a man who has been happily married to the same woman for decades. And I rarely if ever see any bad publicity about his personal or professional life. Wouldn't you agree? In writing, credibility is important to your image. If you give advice, why should readers value it? What qualifies you to speak on your subject matter? These are things to consider.

If you’re striving for “expert” status in your writing career, and the pay and perks that go with it, follow these six savvy tips. It’s just what the “doctor” ordered.

Views? Holla! :-)
Image Catchannel.com

5 Ways to Keep Your Blog Audience From "Channel Surfing"...

2011-10-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

Let’s face it. We have become a nation intent on instant gratification. From speed dating, to quick fix microwaveable meals, to excessive credit card debt that allows us to buy now and pay later.

And our attention spans mirror this mindset. We “Tweet” because it’s fast and in the moment. It feeds our fix to be in the know, now.
We‘re overextended, overcommitted, and many of us have become serial skimmers that gloss over web content and written materials for highlights, bullet points, and “what’s in it for me?” value. True?

Armed with this info, it only stands to reason that we implement strategies to have visitors to stay at our “virtual doorstep” long enough to accept what we have to offer, link to us, or become loyal fans. After all, nobody likes a high “bounce rate” other than Beyonce or Shakira!

To this end, here are a few tips to have them at “hello”. And keep them stuck like Velcro.

1). Write for your audience.
Identify your target group and your goals. That’s half the battle. I cringe whenever I read folks who say they write primarily for themselves. Especially “real writers”. Real writers write for real readers. They keep their needs in mind. They proofread their work before it goes public. They communicate with readers in an effort to create “connections”. They care about the readers’ experience. Sure, your writing should reflect your own personal beliefs and agendas, but it should always be about your readers. Personal writing should be relegated to personal diaries.

2). Remember that titles are vital!
Think about it. When you’re deciding what to watch on the boob tube, (other than your favorite programs), basically you decide what to view based upon the title or the actors starring in the movie. It’s a sad reality, but no matter how eloquent your writing, or how well versed you are in your subject matter, if your title isn’t enticing, some folks won’t bother to explore the content.

3). Inject a little humor when applicable.
Unless it’s a serious subject matter, most folks appreciate a laugh to get through the day, or a funny writing anecdote, or a humorous look on a universal issue. As long as it’s not mean spirited or in poor taste, have at it!

4). Don’t underestimate the importance of an “active” Blog.
When readers drop by to your spot, what will they see? Are there any comments? Followers? Feedback? Believe it or not, if your site appears like a “ghost town” it may give the impression that it’s not worth their time and effort.

5). Keep it brief but substantive.
In Blogging, sometimes less is more. 'Nuff said. :-)

Follow these timely tips for rave reviews and strong ratings!

Thoughts?
Which principle do you find yourself practicing the most?

Image Stock Illustration

How to Use Search Terms for Blogging Success, by Yasmin Morais

2011-10-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

My poetry blog has just passed the one-year mark, and I am pleased with the response from readers so far. Though they have been a bit shy on commenting, Blogger’s tracking feature does a comprehensive analysis of their geographic location as well as the keywords which led them to my blog. And the librarian in me has been paying close attention to those search terms. In fact, I am particularly excited about monitoring the search terms, because not only do they help me to respond to the readers’ information needs, search terms also provide me with numerous ideas for interesting blog posts that I would not have thought of.

One such post, which has turned out to be my most viewed, and commented on, was written after I noted that several visitors to my blog were searching for a list of Caribbean poets. I decided to create a draft list which readers would help me build, and I threw out the challenge for visitors to give feedback on poets not included on the list, or any errors noted. The response was very positive, and I received comments on the works of poets I had not been aware of, allowing me to refine the list in the process.

So, if you have not been doing so, and you have this feature, take a closer look at the search terms of your visitors. Are there specific, recurring themes that they are looking for? For example, I noted that Dutch Caribbean poetry has been popping up lately, so I have made a mental note to focus soon on that topic. Are the search terms in sync with your blog’s focus? If they are, then you have the perfect opportunity to use them to generate future posts.

And while you are at it, aim to make it as interactive and fun-filled as you can. It is an interesting way to involve your readers and allow for symbiosis. After all, there is always so much that we can learn from our readers.

Bio: Yasmin Morais is a librarian and poet. She blogs at Poets of the Caribbean (http://www.poetsofthecaribbean.blogspot.com), and is the author of From Cane Field to the Sea, and Mommy and Daddy are Soldiers.

Image Stock Photos

The Perils of Blogging While Bored!

2011-10-10T07:49:00.000-07:00

It’s a Monday. You’ve made the rounds of all your favorite “Blog Roll” sites and discovered that everybody who’s anybody has posted something new to their site.

Or, it’s a Wednesday, or Friday---in fact, the day of the week is irrelevant. What is relevant is that when you scan your blog you realize you’ve not posted any new content in weeks. Where did the time go? You panic. You feel pressured.

All because one of the cardinal rules of blogging success is consistency. Right?
So, you sit at your keyboard and start typing. La, la, la, la… You really have nothing new or noteworthy to share. You figure you’ll wing it.
After all, a Blog is simply an online journal with informal writing, and you reason that you should be able to share your myriad of moods--even the “blah” ones. Right? Wrong.

Here’s a typical scenario…a (bored) blogger shares what he or she ate for breakfast. And then rants about some random client or rambles on about something of which most of his reading audience has no real connection or interest--like throwing a surprise birthday party for his pet cat. Surprise! At the end of the day there are few to no comments . Really?

Houston, we have a problem!

Now you’ve made your audience a hostage in this “crime”. ’Cause we’re bored too.:-)
Adding insult to injury is that many have wasted valuable time reading on their 9 to 5 jobs when they should have been working (just kidding). Time, much like our youth, can never be recaptured. So we feel cheated. The penalty? If done too often---lost readership and lost credibility.

Don’t get me wrong: a dull day can be made funny. A rant can have redeeming value. A bad day can be rebounded. If you approach this blogging thing the right way.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER:

7 Ways to take your Blog from zero to hero!

1. QUALITY always trumps quantity.
True, consistency is crucial, but content is still King! Better to leave readers waiting than to leave us wanting. There is great truth to the adage “less is more.”

2. Even posts of a personal nature should have some take-away value for your readers.
Will they learn something useful about the writing life? Relate to a universal lesson on relatives? Laugh? Cry? Be inspired? Be called to action? Persuaded to support a cause? Always look at the “big picture” for optimal results.

3. Challenge yourself.
See the blank screen as a blank canvas in which you create a potential masterpiece. Or at least something of which you can be proud. Tap into your senses. Use colorful language. Engage us in a conversation. Remember that boredom is temporary, but something posted in the Blogosphere is forever.

4. Words won’t come? Most of us are not immune to writer’s block in some form or fashion. Regardless to our experience or area of expertise. If this happens, try posting quality images along with motivational quotes. Or keep a supply of guest posts in your arsenal. Or perhaps conduct an interview with a person of interest in your niche. These techniques and strategies can help you to blog smarter, not harder, and enhance your site by providing variety as well. It’s a win-win situation for all.

5. Take a break.
Sometimes burnout can be the culprit. Don’t operate on auto-pilot. Instead, take the time needed to renew your spirit and your psyche. Many bloggers do.

6. Share the spotlight.
I’ve surprisingly found that several of my most popular posts are actually those in which I share the posts and links of other talented bloggers. If you “get around” the Blog Town, why not highlight other worthy hosts and authors? It provides value for your readers and creates good karma to boot!

7. Google the words “ideas for blog posts” and voila!
you’ll find an array of options available to peruse and pursue (1,680,000 entries at the time of this writing).

Blogging is no longer just a vehicle for venting or sharing views. (That’s so ’90s!) Today it’s been elevated to an art form with major players, job opportunities, and platform building avenues for writers of all levels and genres.

So, the next time you find yourself at the keyboard with the “blahs” be mindful of these tips. Or minimally, “phone a friend”.

Image Stock Photo

Calling All Writers, Screen and Otherwise

2011-10-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Book Review of Christina Hamlett’s Screenwriting for Teens
by Noelle Sterne

I’m no screenwriter. My genres are prose and an occasional moody poem. But reading Christina Hamlett’s Screenwriting for Teens (Michael Wiese Productions), I responded exactly as I do to reading her regular column on screenwriting in Writers’ Journal: Hamlett is a master of writing and writing instruction and shares a tremendous amount of wisdom.

Her credentials, as well as her books, are impressive. For the last 30 years, she has contributed to PLAYS, the Magazine for Young People, and PLAYS has published several comedy anthologies of her scripts. In addition, she has written dozens of commercial comedy sketches for Contemporary Drama Service and is a regular contributor of lesson plans to School Video News, a website targeted to K-12 video arts educators.

Hamlett brings this expertise to Screenwriting for Teens. The book is subtitled “The 100 Principles of Scriptwriting Every Budding Writer Must Know.” In addition to much genre-specific information, these principles offer nuggets for every writer, budding, blossomed, and wilted.

The book’s structure, with each principle a chapter, make it easy to choose what you need at a given moment of bafflement or block in your writing. In a relaxed, conversational style, Hamlett covers many technical aspects of screenwriting, as one
would expect: “Speaking the Language of Screenwriters,” “’Reel’” Time Moves Differently Than ‘Real’ Time,” “Catchy Loglines,” “Treatments,” “Bulletproofing Your Script.” But also with wit and conciseness, Hamlett gives us timeless writing principles. A small sampling of the numerous excellent points: “A Theme Is the Glue

That Holds Your Story Together,” “Conflict Grows Out of Character,” “Character Grows Out of Conflict,” “Character and Conflict Comprise the Hero’s Journey,” “Every Story Needs a Point of View.” I for one need such brushups.
Adding to Screenwriting’s value, Hamlett includes at the end of each chapter a section of “Brainstormers.” These provocative exercises, often rooted in classic to contemporary films, prompt our application of the chapter’s content, our knowledge of filmography, our analytic powers, and especially our creativity. So the book is not only a learning tool for writers but also a tool for teachers of screenwriting and theater, directors, and producers.

My only cavil, if it can be called that, is the ambiguity of the title. Or is it purposeful? The book teaches aspiring screenwriting teens how to write, adult screenwriters how to write for teen audiences, and adult screenwriters how to write for any audience. And more, in Screenwriting for Teens, with her compendium of writing knowledge, clear descriptions, and illustrations of the solid principles of writing, Hamlett teaches any writer how to write anything.

--Noelle Sterne Author, Trust Your Life: Forgive Yourself and
Go After Your Dreams
Columnist, Inscribing Industry

Anne Wayman on the 5 Biggest Mistakes Freelancers Make...

2011-10-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

You’ve sold a book, or several articles, or you’ve worked inside publishing someplace and you long to declare yourself a freelance writer and go home and write. Or maybe you’ve already made the leap. Either way, here are the five biggest mistakes writers make when they transition to freelancing – avoid these and you increase your chances of success immeasurably.

1. Not treating your writing as a business.
The idea of freelancing may seem romantic, but the truth is you must treat your freelance writing like a business if you are to succeed. This means setting goals, tracking income and expenses, paying self-employment taxes and all the other things that go into making a business work. This isn’t glamorous but it’s necessary. And once you get the business side organized it’s not too onerous.

2. Not determining how much to charge.
Determining how much money you need to charge is imperative. If you don’t you won’t know how to answer the question, “how much do you charge?” The place to start is with your monthly expenses. Then add about a third and work that out to an hourly rate based on how many hours you can realistically expect to write five days a week. I can manage about four hours of real writing every day. The rest of my time is prep, marketing and the business stuff. It will take awhile to really know how much time writing jobs will actually take you, but knowing your hourly rate will help you not under charge. And yes, you’ll make mistakes – which is okay. Just learn from them.

3. Not insisting on a written agreement.
I can’t count the number of writers who have contacted me with what they call problem clients and it turns out there’s no contract or written agreement. It’s not the client that’s the problem; it’s the lack of a clear, written understanding between you and your client that causes most of the grief. Contracts (which can be simple but clear emails) need to describe the work, describe the deadlines, explain the method of payment and say what to do when there’s a problem. You don’t need a lawyer, just a clear agreement.

4. Not implementing a marketing plan.
Yes, you need to market your writing. The plan can be simple – like three queries a week, or five cold calls a day, or two blog posts on the blog that markets you, or developing your own website or ordering and using business cards. There are at least a gazillion things you can do to market yourself and your writing. Get one small one done a day and you’re sure to be a success.

5. Not respecting your time.
Folks, all of us have the same 24 hours in every day – if you don’t respect, even cherish, your time no one else will. Train yourself and your family and friends to honor your writing time. Don’t answer the door, turn off the phone – do what you have to so you can write and conduct your freelance writing business. One of my most successful writing friends hired a nanny just so she can write every day. Do what it takes and you’ll see positive results.
On the other hand, if you work out how to avoid each of these problem areas you’re likely to wake up one morning and realize you truly are a successful freelance writer.
What else would you add to this list?

BIO:
Anne Wayman is a writing coach, ghostwriter and blogger who has been writing longer than she now cares to admit. AboutFreelanceWriting is where she blogs about writing. She blogs about 12 Step recovery at PowerfullyRecovered.com, about money at DollarsandDebt.com and life at WhenGrandmotherSpeaks.com

Image Stock Photo

Week End Wrap Up!

2011-10-01T04:26:00.000-07:00

Ah...October. Can't you feel the cool breeze, the beauty of the changing leaves, the less frantic pace?

Where did the year go, right? lol

Before we "officially" transition into the next and final quarter of the year, I just wanted to chat with you to share things of potential interest and importance.

First and foremost, here's a "shout-out" to all my new followers! So happy to have you here. Welcome to the Pen and Prosper community. I've got a great, diverse group assembled, and I hope you feel inspired to join the conversation, or pose a question, as the situation dictates.

September actually saw the greatest month of followers at one time: I had eight new people. (This is really WAY cool, in that I took a 2 week vacation break, and did not post as often). Bravo and many thanks!

If anyone would like to introduce him/herself, tell us a little about who you are, and how you heard about Pen and Prosper, that would be awesome! We'd love to hear from you.

September was also a great month for guest posting. I had loads of fun and connected with quality readers at the following sites:

ABOUT FREELANCE WRITING---7 Ways to Blog Like a God

DAILY BLOG TIPS---6 Things Writers Can Learn from Rappers!

If you have an opportunity, please stop by and leave a comment.
As always, I appreciate your thoughts and your time.

Additionally, I sold a piece to a market that I have been trying to break in for about 5 years! Perseverance pays. Details and link later.

I even had an interview posted at Marcie Writes. (Thanks, Marcie).

Would you too like to have more writing successes? Earn pay for your say?
Put your money where your mouth is. :-)

Hop on over to Coffeehouseforwriters.com and register for one of the many exciting online classes for writers of all levels and genres.

Join before Monday, and get a free how-to book valued at $15.00 as a thank you to October students.

Well, that's a wrap, folks!

Here's wishing you an awesome week--writing and otherwise!

Jen

Freelance Writing Tips to Make the Most of Your Career-Guest Post

2011-09-28T04:27:00.000-07:00

Freelance writing is a great way to make extra money, build an extensive portfolio of work, and create a flexible lifestyle. Unfortunately, it can also be an erratic line of work, with no guarantees of being able to find work or to produce a steady income. There are a few tricks that can help you become more successful in your freelance writing career, whether you are just starting out or have many years of experience.

Build Relationships
If you have the good fortune to land a client, don’t let that contact slip through your fingers once you are finished with the job. Take the time to build relationships with each client so that you can create steady income streams or “anchor” clients that provide steady work. When you are finished with a job, inquire about other writing or editing needs the client may have, or ask for a referral. If there is no work for you at that time, check back regularly over the following months.

Always Look for Work
Freelancing is usually feast or famine. Sometimes, you have more work than you know what to do with, and other times, you can’t find work even if you’re offering to do it for free. Don’t wait until you’re starving for work to look for it. Keep checking job boards and submitting query letters, even when your schedule is full. You are more likely to maintain a steady stream of work if you do so.

Be Flexible with Pay
Set a base hourly rate that satisfies your personal budget and reflects your experience and skill. But be prepared to sometimes take less – especially if you are still building your portfolio and your reputation. Sometimes, you need to start out at a lower rate so that you can build a relationship and earn credibility, then ask for a raise later. Different projects will also carry different rates of pay, sometimes much more than what you would usually charge. As long as you are not working for far less than you are worth on every project, your overall income should average out at an acceptable level.

Create an Online Portfolio
The days of sending in a query letter and a packet of clips with a self-addressed, stamped envelope are slowly dying. More employers expect to be able to review your work online – preferably in real time, published on the site or blog for which you wrote the piece. Creating an online portfolio need not be complicated or expensive. Many Web hosts are available that are free or reasonably priced and that come with user-friendly templates for creating a page. When you contact prospective clients, you can refer them to your site, making the process easier for you both.

Network
It’s the number one rule of thumb in every job search for good reason. Networking helps you build relationships, develop your skills, and find your next job. There are numerous blogs and online forums for freelance writers that offer industry tips and post job opportunities. Take the time to become familiar with these, and visit them often.

Building a successful freelance career can take time, and writers will face many obstacles along the way. Consistency and perseverance are key to finding success. What other tips have helped you to build success in your freelance writing career?

Bio:
Maria Rainier is a freelance writer and recent graduate of Elon University. She is currently a resident blogger at accelerated online degrees, where recently she’s been researching different online physical therapy assistant classes and blogging about student life. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Ditch the Pitch! 5 Ways to Sell Your Work Without Working Your Tail Off...

2011-09-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

Forget what you’ve been told. It is entirely possible to break into the publishing world without perfecting the “sacred” query letter. And I should know. As a professional writer with hundreds of credits under my Bic Pen, I can attest that it’s just a matter of working smarter, not harder.

But before I share the secrets of how, allow me to establish the mindset of why…
Unlike many scribes, I didn’t discover that writing was my purpose until I had worn many other professional “hats.” I was a late bloomer.

Not to mention, when I did decide to seriously pursue it, life and its hectic pace had already settled in. I was working full time, managing the obligations of a home and juggling other commitments. Long story short, I had to learn how to make up for lost time, and how to use my limited hours wisely.

And you should too. There’s great truth to the adage, “time is money.”

Consider this. By the time you craft the “perfect” query, submit it to an editor, wait for feedback, take his or her suggestions upon advisement and submit the final piece, I’ve written several articles, submitted them, gotten paid, and more than likely am working on selling reprint rights, or slanting them for other online or print publications. Hello?
There's a better way.

With this in mind, here are a few tips to make more money in less time, with less effort.

1. Know the nature of a query--A query is simply a letter that serves as a pitch and an introduction to an editor or publisher to get permission to submit your work for publication. It’s that simple. No matter how cleverly you craft them, if the idea is not a good one, has been recently covered, or you get your facts wrong, you won’t get published.

2. Be strategic---Don’t slant your work so narrowly, that if the publication that you initially intended to submit it doesn’t accept it, you’ve spinned your wheels for nothing.
Instead, craft well-written, clever, topical pieces that can be placed in multiple markets.

3. Don’t concentrate on perfecting your query, perfect your skills. Learn research techniques. Read. Study the works of writers in your chosen genre. Dabble and diversify. Work on your grammar and spelling. Stay abreast of industry trends. Find a mentor. Any effort is a step forward.

4. Increase the odds of success by checking the archives and perusing past issues of your targeted publication. Has anything similar been done in the past 6 months or less? Does your tone and focus fit? Have you read and understood the writer’s guidelines carefully? These are important things to assess.

5. Consider crafting a (L.O.I.)---Letters of Introduction are often used as an alternative to query letters. As the name implies, this letter merely is a way to make initial contact with an editor, express your interest in writing for his publication, and briefly state your related experience and credentials. It’s intended to pitch you as opposed to a query letter which pitches an idea. It’s shorter and sweeter. I should also mention that I have even had the good fortune of breaking into publications by crafting a short, professional email to editors with whom I have wanted to work. To quote some famous words, “There is nothing to fear but fear itself.”

Of course I would be remiss if I didn't mention that some of the big "glossies" will not consider your work without a query. But, you can cross that bridge when you get there.

Also keep in mind that conversely, there are a number of online and print publications that do not make queries mandatory. A few examples are Writing for Dollars, Funds for Writers, and Writing World.com.

Follow these five timely tips to earn more money and to have more time to spend it.

Thoughts?

Image Stock Photo

Could Your Writing Career Use Training Wheels?

2011-09-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Most of us can remember riding our first bike. How our fear of falling and skinning our knees was cushioned by big training wheels that supported us, gave us balance, and courage.

As we grew in maturity and got a little experience under our belt, the wheels were removed and the level of speed increased, as did our level of excitement.

With the progression of time, we even learned to ride without holding on to both handlebars. But it took some time and effort.

In a similar way, aspiring and novice writers could benefit from a little “training and support”.
Unfortunately, many seeking to travel the creative path, mistakenly believe that all that is needed is to simply “suit up” and mount, and they will be able to navigate the road to success based upon sheer desire. Though it‘s not entirely impossible to do, these eager beavers will often encounter bumps, bruises, detours, and being “grounded“ literally and figuratively.

There’s a better way. There are many sources of support to today’s scribe to go the distance. Here are a few resources:

1. Mentors or Creative Coaches
Athletes hire coaches and trainers to achieve optimal levels of performance. Some singers do too. These individuals have experience and expertise that can guide students and help identify needed areas of improvement. Objectively.

2. Online Creative Classes
Writing classes are a way for writers of all levels to learn more and ultimately earn more. Teachers are often published authors themselves, who know the ropes and can provide insider’s tips, answer questions, and provide needed information and inspiration.
Check out www.Coffeehouseforwriters.com/ for current listings.

3. Writers’ Groups
No matter what your area of interest, or level of experience, writers groups boast an array of benefits. Whether online or in your local area, many offer job banks, insurance plans, meetings, events, publications, and networking opportunities to enhance your efforts.

According to editor Drew Tewksbury, "No matter where you are in your freelancing career, everyone needs a little help sometimes."

Don't let your ego get in the way of your excellence.

Thoughts?

ImageStock Illustration

Week End Updates!

2011-09-03T02:54:00.000-07:00

Overwhelmed and under the weather, it's been a challenging week, folks.
Still, I'm happy to see the ushering in of September. I love fall. It's among my favorite seasons. How about you?
I dig the quieter pace, the cooler temperatures, the fall colors, the hint of romance.
It's more conducive to creativity too.

Well, enough of that. Before I become too pooped to post, I wanted to share these announcements for this week...

1. Cutie Keanu Reeves celebrates his 47th birthday, (according to what I've read).
As he is one of my favorites, had to give him a "shout-out"!

2. It's not too late! If you've been saying all year that you want to, (or need to) take a writing class to help to hone your craft and increase your cash, now's the time! Coffeehouseforwriters.com would love to have you pull up a "virtual chair" and sign up for the new line-up of fun, interactive online classes! Sessions are affordable and flexible. With a variety of "menu selections," there is something for writers of all levels and genres. Remember, as the saying goes, "You have to spend money to make money." Register today!

3. Pen and Prosper will be on break from September 5 to September 19th. Let's reconnect later and enjoy more guest posts, how-tos, reviews and interesting dialogue.

Until then, I'm wishing you and yours a safe holiday and wonderful weeks ahead!

XOXO
Jen

What I'm Reading... and You Should Too!

2011-08-29T14:04:00.000-07:00

There are few things that I find more relaxing than a good book and a bubble bath. Besides allowing a certain "escape," I am a firm believer that it's impossible to be a good writer without being an avid reader. True?

My love of the written word started early. Growing up, my mom made it mandatory for us to read. Of course, that was B.C., (BEFORE CABLE). And as they say, "Old habits die hard."

Since you all are my "peeps", today I'd like to share a few gems that will enrich your literary world regardless as to your genre of preference.

Here they are, in no particular order:

A Step in the Write Direction (Student Edition) by Donna Clark Goodrich
Readers will "move to the head of the class" upon studying the chapters provided in this hugely helpful "how-to". Not just instructional in nature, it's spiritual and practical as well. This must have reference guide is filled with valuable lessons from how to get started to how to get unstuck! More than a "step in the write direction"; it's the entire road map!

Smart Women Finish Rich by David Bach
Let's face it. In today's tough economic times, becoming more financially literate can be the ticket to survival. This book goes beyond the basics like "saving for a rainy day" and "pay yourself first". It helps women to recognize how their values, perceptions, and habits influence their wealth, and what can be done to make the most of what they make.

Cinematherapy (The Girl's Guide to Movies for Every Mood) by Nancy Peske and Beverly West
What a clever and creative read! I scored this book at a thrift store, and let me tell you, it was worth 10x more than what I got it for. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and discover must-see movies for every mood. Got mayhem with men? Dealing with the blues from a bad hair day? Need to believe in the magic of love again? Well these female versions of Siskel and Ebert will pick the perfect flick for whatever ails you. Slightly over 200 pages, you can read it a little at a time, or as the mood hits you. Popcorn optional. :-)

Cupid's Playbook by Jeannine and Keith Kaiser
As someone who has served as a relationship columnist, (in the many hats I've worn as a writer), I rather dig reading informed perspectives in the field, if you will. Authored by a husband and wife team, this page-turner provides sage advice on how to be more strategic and savvy in matters of the heart. And who better to advise the romantically challenged than this couple who has been married for many years, and parented three children? Chapters include: great dating ideas, dating I.Q., falling in love with you, and personal exercises to help readers to navigate the right moves. It's a true winner!

Now that I've shared what's on my bookshelf, it's your turn. What have you been reading lately? What's hot, or not?

6 Ways to Use Down Time to Elevate Your Writing Career!

2011-08-25T14:50:00.000-07:00

Though there are no scientific studies to support my theory, or quantitative statistics from which to draw, I’d bet that if many of us could recover the collective time we’ve spent waiting in a “hold” pattern for something or someone before we could move to the next stage, we could add years on to our lives.

Whether it’s the time we spend on hold waiting for a customer service rep to help us with a problem over the phone, the time in between meeting a guy who takes our phone number and promises to call, the lapse between our “appointment” time and when we actually “see” the doctor, or the seemingly eternal wait from when we submit a creative piece and hear the status from an editor. It can play out like dog years.

There’s no doubt about it: down time can get you down! For some it’s seen as unproductive and unsettling.

But, when it comes to a creative career, you can’t afford to let “the wait” wreak havoc with your productivity, play mind games with you, or cause you to question your ability and shake your confidence.

Why? Because time is money. And how you spend it will determine how profitable you will ultimately become.

I admit, that in the infancy of my career, I didn’t always know this. I’d use down-time for pity parties, second guessing my goals, and being detoured on the road to success.

And though there is a grain of truth to the expression, “Good things come to those who wait”, it’s important to know how to wait productively for optimal results.

Here are a few fruitful lessons I‘ve learned along the way:

1. Set long term and short term goals.
This way, you’re always working towards something and are able to recognize that some projects may not pan out right away. The proper mindset will keep you motivated to go the distance.

2. Refuse to be beat.
Use your waiting experience to pen a creative poem, column, or personal essay. And get paid by default. What did you learn about yourself? How would you improve or streamline the process? Discuss whether or not you believe that “patience is a virtue.” Don’t forget to include relevant anecdotes and “ah-ha” moments.

3. Quit checking your Emails a hundred times a day.
Use that time to do research, read a good book to inspire you, or to declutter your work space.

4. Follow-up.
That’s right; put the ball in your court. Sometimes you can be waiting for an answer on a submission that was never received! I’ve actually had it happen a few times where I was waiting for weeks to hear from editors, who due to “cyberspace mishaps”, or crowded “spam folders,” I discovered the work was never viewed or received. Always be sure to be pleasant, professional, and “non-stalkish” in your follow-up interaction. Be prepared to resend.

5. Work on your blog.
Time spent on improving your blog, or connecting with your blog “community”, or honing your craft is never wasted. Not to mention, it can be relaxing and rewarding.

6. Be strategic.
To get more out of your efforts, consider doing simultaneous submissions. By doing so, you increase your publication odds, and decrease the time spent waiting to get the green light to move forward and to get paid.

In the famous words of Elvis Prseley, “Only fools rush in.” Give your creative efforts and your career the needed time it takes to grow and flourish. For each artist the timeframe differs.

As long as you are continuously making progress, and making sound decisions, rest assured that you’re on the “write” track and the money will follow.

How do you deal with down time? Does it get you down?

Image

3 Signs That Signal You May Need to Put the Blogging Breaks On!

2011-08-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

Bad blogging is like a bad relationship. It pains us to throw in the towel, given our sweat equity. But, it's a reality that some will eventually have to face and come to terms with. Especially if we want readers to find true happiness; even if it's with someone else. :-)
Nobody likes to admit it, but it happens to the best of us.

With this in mind, here are three types of blogging scenarios that may signal a need for a break, detour, or ended journey.

1. Blogging has become a chore and not a joy.
If the thought of posting your next piece has as much appeal as a visit to the dentist, or a tax audit, chances are that "you've lost that lovin' feelin'." There could be a myriad of reasons you find yourself here, whether you're a month in to blogging, a year, or even ten. It could even be a bout of Blogger's Burnout. If this happens, you may need to take some time off the "information highway" for awhile and schedule a little vacation time.

2. You're not clear why you're blogging.
Truth be told, many people joined the blogging bandwagon simply because it was popular. Very little forethought, planning, or even goal setting went into launching their sites. It looked easy, so they jumped in. Which is not against the law, right? There's just one problem: their confusion confuses their readers. Hello? Regardless as to the niche or theme, blogs should have an identifiable focus or target audience. The clearer you are, the fewer detours you'll have on the path to success.

3. There's no blog growth.
Would you stay on a job where there was no promotion? Or a relationship that didn't deepen as years progressed? Probably not. Though it's not exactly the same, blogs are "living things," and as such, should reflect growth through increased readership and ongoing, interactive discussion.
Growth won't happen over night. Still, if you've been blogging consistently for more than a year or two without desired results, or measurable progression, assessment is needed.
Are you passionate about your subject matter? Do you periodically conduct polls and surveys to get readers' feedback? Are you studying other successful blogs in your niche? These are a few things to consider.

Contrary to popular opinion, blogging is not for everyone. Ultimately, it's your decision.
I hope these tips will help to navigate your direction, and put you on the "write" path to go from zero to hero!

IMAGE ANDREA BRILL

The Pros & Cons of Ghost Writing For Pay

2011-08-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

There's no doubt about it: there are fewer ego boosts than a byline boasting our creative accomplishments to the world.
Come on, admit it. The attention is affirming. The accolades are warming. And, gosh darn it, it just feels good. ;-)
This typically applies whether you're writing for a content mill, or
an award-winning publication. You kinda' feel famous. Right?

But, what many authors are recognizing is that there is much to be said for writing "anonymously" as well. Particularly in that competition for freelance assignments is fierce due to the economy and the advent of the Internet.
I am one such author.
Long story short, a couple of years ago, seeking to expand my portfolio and my bottom line, I responded to an ad through a popular online bulletin board, and was subsequently hired. I've been on board ever since.

If you'd like to join the bandwagon, here is what you'll likely encounter based upon my experience. In the words of TV court Judge Mablean, "You better look deep before you leap."

PROS
1. Variety of assignments---Since I started these assignments, I've written on everything from marital counseling, to education, to business, and an array of topics in between.
Trust, you'll never get bored. No two days or two gigs are exactly the same.
2. Depending upon the client, pay can be quicker.
As opposed to being paid "after publication", as with magazines, some organizations and publishers actually pay the same day or within a week or two.
3. You can write in a variety of "voices".
Think of it as role playing.
4. You can expand your knowledge base.
Sometimes you may be required to write on topics or issues that are outside of your areas of "expertise". In these instances, researching and reading will help you to learn more and eventually earn more.
5. Clients can be great to work with.
And as an added bonus, they may offer you other collaborative writing opportunities, if the relationship and your skill level dictates.

CONS
1. Really unusual, difficult subject matters---When you're in this line of work, you may get good topics, and then again, you may get projects where you're writing on something that is totally foreign, uncommon, and requires an extensive amount of time to research. Be forewarned.
2. Sometimes some of your best work is something that others get to have "bragging rights" on. And you can't tell a soul that it's yours.
3. People that hire you may get significantly more compensation than the cash they pay you for the use of your work. "Don't it make your brown eyes blue?" :-)

Based upon these factors, I would recommend it, as there are typically more pros than cons. And who knows, you could ultimately ghost pen a book for a famous celebrity or athlete, and the rewards would be well worth your efforts!

How do you feel about ghost writing? Have you ever tried your pen at it?

Image Salvatore Vuono

Is Freelance Writing Recession-Proof?

2011-08-16T05:37:00.000-07:00

In today's tumultuous economic climate, it's hard not to be impacted by the things that are going on around us, no matter where we hang our hats and call home.
Though comparatively some areas have it better than others, and some industries are hurting less in terms of unemployment and a decline in business, I think that we can all attest to the fact that we are headed for some "challenging" times.

For those of us that are freelancers, our dynamics may be a little bit different.
But that doesn't mean that we are immune to the devastation of the day.

Which brings me to these relevant questions...

How are your freelancing finances? Are you taking on projects you wouldn't have in the past?
Are you finding less work?
Are clients paying later? Less money?

Are you more inclined to seek the security of a "9 to 5" from fear?
Are you living "leaner and meaner"?
Or are you pretty much the same as you have been?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Talk to me and let me know what's on your mind.

Image africa

News You Can Use...

2011-08-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

I hope you guys have been enjoying a wonderful week, wherever you reside away from the Blogosphere.

It's been a week with many ups and downs and turns for me. But, as my mom often says, "It is what it is." :-)

Okay, so let's get started with the good stuff. Here's the 4-1-1 for this weekend.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Coffeehouse for Writers starts its early registration today for September classes. If you'd like to learn how to quit your day job, or blog for bucks, or make your characters come to life, or perhaps become more social media savvy, you should definitely sign up for one of the current offerings. "There's no time like the present." Online classes range from two days to about four weeks. What makes them popular is that they're affordable and convenient. Take them from your place at your pace! The first six people to register will receive a popular "how to" writing book filled with tips on querying, marketing and social media, and tried and true methods of making more money. You'll love what's brewing at the Coffeehouse!
To register today, go to Coffeehouseforwriters.com

2. Congrats to my blogging buddy, Karen Lange over at Write Now for reaching 300 followers. This post just misses her recent give-away in celebration of this noteworthy achievement, but rest assured, she'll be having another one relatively soon. :-) Stop by and say hi!

3. Jen is in! Let me use my know-how to increase your net worth. Just in case you haven't spotted it yet, I now offer a new service as reflected in the right-hand margin of this Blog. Here's a little background. Over the years, I've gotten numerous emails from friends, fans, aspiring writers, and followers seeking ways to earn money for their creative efforts. Sometimes assistance is sought to find new markets. Other times it may be questions regarding self-publishing, or time management tips, or copyrights. So, for those serious about their freelancing journey, I now offer one-on-one sessions by phone or Email.

Whatever it is that may have caused a temporary career "detour", I can put you on the path to success! My consultations and creative coaching sessions were designed with you in mind. With more than a decade of experience, and a wide range of publishing successes, I've been where you are. Choose a 1/2 hour session, an hour, or whatever fits your needs and your budget. Let's connect and come up with ways to take your career to the next level today.

Which leaves me with this parting question. Where are you with the "resolutions" you established for your writing this year? Are you where you should be?

Image Ambro

Overcome Your Fear-Put it Out There!

2011-08-11T06:44:00.001-07:00

GUEST POST BY GERALYN MAGRADY

When the president of the Chicago Writers Association, Randy Richardson, asked if he could use my “Thanks CWA” email on the testimonial page of the organization’s website, I was delighted. But what was more exciting, was the title he gave me: Writer, Blogger, CWA member.

Really? It was exhilarating to see my name followed by such titles, to know that anyone who visited the website would see them, too, and suddenly the fear of sharing my words and works was replaced with a desire to write well, write more often, and write with a newfound purpose.

Okay, so I’m not a professional scribe. I’m an English teacher by profession, and honestly, I never thought of myself as anything more than a person who loved writing, that is, until I joined the Chicago Writers Association and learned a crucial lesson: YOU HAVE TO PUT IT OUT THERE!

For years I’d been researching my ancestry as well as reading everything associated with Chicago history. It didn’t take long before these two past-times merged with a passion for storytelling, and the result turned into a 50,000+ word manuscript of historical fiction, but I knew it wasn’t polished.

If this piece was ever going to feel complete, I needed to do something I had never done... share it. Surprising myself, I did, in fact, share it; I sent off the manuscript to a publisher who specialized in Chicago history, and I waited for the critique.

While waiting, I came across two interesting contests. I scanned the submission guidelines and immediately generated ideas for both, but I was nervous because I never entered contests before. I liked the essay I created for the “My Kind of Town” competition sponsored by the CWA. It was a welcomed change to write about childhood memories, rather than the characters to whom I’d been dedicated for so long. The result: third place!

Then there was the Trazzler.com contest where my usual long-winded prose needed to be honed to a 150-word travel blurb. I was a semi-finalist! I entered a dialogue-only (no place) and poetry contest (still waiting to hear). I realized right away that contests were a good way to practice and improve specific writing skills.

Once I got past the initial anxiety of holding my breath while clicking “send,” I understood that, no matter the outcome, I was putting my work out there while becoming a better, stronger writer. However, in order to discipline myself to write more often, I applied what I’d learned through an online group discussion, the big “put it out there” concept... I created a blog.

Setting up a blog was a piece of cake. Within an hour’s time I was already authoring my first posts at www.therolesofwriting.blogspot.com, but it took me a couple of weeks before I felt confident enough to make the blog public. Sure, I was getting used to sharing by entering contests, but I still hadn’t gotten any feedback about the manuscript (my REAL writing, I told myself), and I was still anxious about what others might think.

My Facebook friends were the only people to which I publicized, and three months / 800+ views later, I’m finally accepting my role as a writer/blogger. I now have an outlet for my writing, so it’s easier to develop the discipline of writing on a regular basis. Readers tell me they connect with my topics; they’ve been touched, humored, educated.

When the publisher returned my manuscript with critical feedback, I quickly posted my personal response to the rejection, without fear! Most recently, I even opened up to public critiquing of my first revisions for the novel-in-progress. I posted a rough opening and encouraged comments. After receiving some constructive criticism, I edited accordingly, reposted the revision, and went through this process a second time.

The permanent post is “Sneak Peek: Revision #2.” An interactive introduction is what I’m calling it, and I’m thrilled with the outcome.
It astounds me, really, to think back to less than a year ago, when I found it impossible to share my work.

The bottom line is that you have to share, put it out there. I may not be getting paid to write (yet), but the rewards have been immense as I journey along this written path.

Shared by: Geralyn Magrady (Writer, Blogger, CWA Member)

Image Andrea Brill

Guest Post

2011-08-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

CHECK THOSE GUIDELINES!
by
Noelle Sterne

BIO: Noelle Sterne holds a doctorate degree from Columbia University. She is an accomplished book author who has also published more than 250 pieces in print and online publications.

When, in a market listing, I read the invitation for contributions to an upcoming anthology, I knew my story was perfect. I labored with repeated drafts to get it down to the 2,000 words specified in the guidelines. Finally, two days before the deadline, my auto-word count proudly proclaimed “1,993.”

Ready to send out the story, I went to the anthology website to check the spelling of the editor’s name. To my horror, an updated announcement proclaimed 1,400 words! I’d performed microsurgery to get down to 1,993. How would I ever cut more?
At first. I thought of calling the editor to bark a dozen reasons why my brilliant but now way too long entry should be accepted anyway. But I knew that (a) this would do no good (he probably wouldn’t answer the phone), and (b) the publisher must have dictated the reduction for cost considerations.

So instead, although I had a date to meet a friend for lunch, I phoned her and screamed out my editing emergency. A writer, she understood. Then I turned off the phone, breathed a prayer, scrubbed up, and started excising.

I sweated and groaned, revised and retyped, and almost sobbed to discard what I’d been sure were essentials. But my desire not to be disqualified for length was stronger than love of my lucid prose. After much brutal hacking, repositioning, regrafting, and binding up my psychic wounds, the word count shaped up, miraculously with essence preserved. The night before the deadline, I sent the piece out.

I’d like to report that my story was accepted. It wasn’t. But even though I didn’t make this anthology, I nevertheless learned two important writing lessons that have stuck with me through many other submissions, accepted and not.

First, although I’d been sure the story had been trimmed originally to perfection, when exclusion threatened I found even more places to prune. As I painfully extracted my beautiful adjectives, Walt Whitman’s observation consoled: “The best writing has no lace on its sleeves.” Later, reviewing this piece for another market, I had to admit that the excess wasn’t missed.

Second, publication guidelines can change quickly. Last year’s, last month’s, or even last week’s specifications may not hold today. If you don’t revisit the specifications frequently—and revise accordingly—you’ll risk instant rejection. So, as you get close to submitting to your carefully chosen markets, check, double check, and recheck those guidelines!

Visit Noelle's site and learn about her book at Trustyourlifenow.com

Image Zironicusso

Should You Have Multiple Blogs?

2011-08-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

There's no doubt about it: blogging is indeed hard work.
(Can I get an Amen?!)
In fact, ask anybody who's been at this blogging thing for more than a few months, (and posting consistently), and they'll attest that it's harder than it looks, and definitely more time consuming than imagined.

Which is why some opt to stop at one!
Am I right here?

Still, if you're like most of us creative creatures, you probably have a myriad of interests, tastes, and talents that you've considered sharing with other audiences.

Like your love of the musical group "Maroon 5", (me too), your stamp collection fix, fitness tips, or your mouth-watering recipes.

Some address this reality by mixing a multitude of topics on their blog to cover more bases.
But here's where things get tricky, folks.
'Cause it doesn't work well for everybody.
I can't count the people on one hand that it does. Trust me.

Popular blogger Hektor Karl recently asked at his blog whether he should combine his love of dogs with his current writing blog, actually.

My vote? It would be a doggone shame for those of us who read his and other well written, singularly focused blogs to have it somewhat "diluted" with other stuff of which we have little to no interest. :-)

So, here are my top three reasons why some bloggers should have multiple blogs:

1. We're equally passionate about several topics or hobbies, and feel that we have enough to share on an ongoing basis to make a successful go of it.

2. It allows bloggers to expand readership.
Many times, if "followers" and fans enjoy your style of blogging and your personality, they will follow your other blogs, not to mention, you'll likely make new friends, that may not have formerly known you, but discovered you through your new niche area.

3. You don't bore or compromise your current readership.
Of course everybody's different here, but most folks like to know what to expect when they visit a blog on the regular. In other words, I don't want to go to a cooking blog and find stuff about President Obama. Or go to a blog about hair care and read posts on maintaining a car. Unless the topics are tied in somehow.
Are you feeling me here?

Here's a case in point. Super-star blogger, Darren Rowse, (creator of PROBLOGGER), for years has reigned supreme in terms of providing tools and tips for today's blogger. That's all you'll find on that blog.

Because he wanted to address different themes, he now runs FEELGOODER.COM, a site that discusses relationships, health, time management tips, etc.

And it's wonderful. And yours may be too. So make the decision and make a move!

Tell me what your thoughts are here. Multiple blogs or no? Have you ever tried?

Image Andrea Brill

Rejection Etiquette For Guest Posts

2011-08-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Trust me. For today’s busy blogger juggling a multitude of tasks and creative to-dos, a guest post from a contributing blogger is a sight for sore eyes.

In fact, it could be considered as the equivalent of a gift from a friend, family member, or admirer. But much like a “gift”, sometimes it just doesn’t suit your taste.

Either it’s the wrong style, fit, or category. Or maybe you have one like it already, (like the five pair of mittens you got for Christmas).
(Problem is, you can’t “regift” it.)

Sometimes this is the case with guest posts submitted for consideration, particularly by eager beavers that don‘t do research beforehand.
Like “clueless in Seattle” who had the best of intentions when he emailed his article on fitness tips, although your blog is on entrepreneurship.

Or, that faithful follower to your Blog, who is a dear soul, but doesn’t know grammar basics, sentence structure, or the art of crafting a creative piece. But still wanted to send something because she’s a huge fan.

It goes without saying that you appreciate their efforts. There are literally hundreds of Blogs they could have potentially submitted to; still they chose yours.
So what do you do to handle this potentially awkward situation?

Here are a few things to consider:

DO’S

1. In the interest of saving time, (both yours and guest posters), establish and post guidelines on your site outlining the word count, topics accepted, and procedures to follow for acceptance. The clearer you are, the clearer potential posters will be.

2. Entertain the possibility of drafting a standard rejection letter that’s brief and courteous. Make sure to thank the writer for his time and his consideration.

3. Another alternative is to state something in your guidelines on your site like, “ We receive a lot of submissions. If you do not hear from us in two weeks, we unfortunately were not able to use your piece. Best of luck.”

4. Post an example of a successful “Guest Post” to serve as a guideline.

DON’TS

1. Never post a piece on your site that is of poor quality out of a sense of obligation. At the end of the day, no matter who wrote it, it’s a reflection on your Blog.

2. Don’t ignore the poster. In most cases, some response is better than none at all. That is unless you choose to follow the steps in # 3 as outlined above.

3. Don’t feel the need to go into great detail by explaining how the piece could have been made better, or editing errors discovered. Remember, you’re not their high school English instructor. Not to mention, it could be perceived as condescending or insensitive.

4. Don’t ever feel guilty about saying no. It comes with the territory, like it or not.

Used properly, these tips can take the sting out of rejecting pieces that are not appropriate for you and your Blog audience. This also insures that you are able to maintain high standards of quality and integrity as a Blog owner.

Image Photostock

4 Reasons You Should Click With Your Clients!

2011-07-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

The savvy scribe recognizes that the simple laws of supply and demand only scratch the surface when it comes to a successful freelance business.

He knows that the better he is able to connect, collaborate, and carry out the wishes of those whom he serves, the greater the likelihood of future projects, referrals, and continued profits.

But, it‘s not just about doing good work.
(If only it were that simple.)

In fact, many clients and customers can attest that they have severed business relationships with some very competent folks because there was a key ingredient missing in the mix.

In a word…it’s called chemistry. You need to click with your clients.
Whether it’s in the corporate arena, or the world of freelance---people like to work with people they like. Bottom line.

I’m not saying that you have to be passionate about each other.
But there does have to be mutual respect, an atmosphere of trust, a similar “language” being spoken, and a general meeting of the minds.

Though it doesn’t always happen, sometimes a client even becomes a friend. And that’s an added perk that’s more valuable than pay.

With this being said, here are four reasons you need to click with your clients.

1. Chemistry makes whatever the project less stressful. As someone who has passed up paying clients, and also someone whom clients have decided to pass by, nobody wants to operate in a business relationship that is full of tension, turmoil, discomfort, and trifling-ness, (Is that a word?) :-)

2. Good chemistry brings out the good in all parties involved. People who don’t feel as if they are constantly being “tested” typically perform better.

3. Good chemistry increases productivity, because there are fewer issues to resolve, and less time devoted to non-creative “agendas”.

4. Good chemistry makes your work experience more enjoyable and your projects ultimately more successful.

How do you feel about chemistry with clients? Do you think it’s important in the overall scheme of things?

Image Salvatore Vuono

4 Ways Google Plus Has Improved Image Sharing

2011-07-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

GUEST POST BY JAMES MARTELL

Good things come to those who wait, right?
Of course, some of us will be waiting longer than others.. More on that later.

Google has been trying very hard to provide a reasonable alternative to Facebook, and it appears that Google Plus might just be the platform.

Charlie Sorrel was writing in the Gadget Lab at Wired.com and offered his opinion on Google’s new adventure in social networking; “It has been said that the biggest feature of Google Plus is that it’s not Facebook. However, there’s another feature that may be of interest to all you Gadget Lab photo nerds out there: the photo integration. It turns out that G+ is a pretty sweet way to manage and view your shared photos.”

It’s obvious why Google is likely to do well with a platform that seems to cater to image sharing. The photo gallery is one of Facebook’s most widely used features, so if Google can create a better photo gallery, they’ll get a better response from the legions of Facebook faithful.

What isn’t obvious, though, is why Google chose such a restrictive method for launching their new platform.

Google Plus is available by invitation only, and while it is very smartphone friendly, the only smartphone with the appropriate app is Google’s Android. Consequently, if you have the right invitation and the right phone, you can see for yourself how incredibly cool the new Google Plus is. If not, you’ll just have to wait for the actual launch like the rest of us. Yes, I said “us”… more on that later.

For now, let’s talk about four ways that Google has improved the art of photo sharing.

Improvement #1: Google Plus Offers More Convenient Image Sharing

There are several ways in which Google has made image sharing more convenient, but perhaps the most obvious one is the way in which you can load your photos. You click the photo, and it loads. Really. No configuring, toggling, cropping or translating.

Depending on your current hardware/software combination, this could only translate into one or two less keystrokes than your current process, but it could make a difference.

Imagine the number of keystrokes you could save the next time you upload someone’s wedding photos!

Improvement #2: Google Plus Offers Better Looking Image Sharing

Facebook never advertised itself as a showcase for photography buffs; Flickr and 500px were designed for that. However, Google Plus can load higher resolution photos, offers larger, more detailed thumbnails and provides a very nice-looking lightbox background.

The result is a professional-looking gallery for snapshots as well as a proper venue for high speed, high resolution or infrared photography.

Improvement #3: Google Plus Offers Immediate Image Sharing (From The Right Phone)

It’s now later, so I get to talk about “us” who will be waiting slightly longer than “they” will. If you happen to have an Android, you will be pleased to know that you can load photos directly from your phone onto the Google Plus website.

My friend Vinny has an Android, and he uploaded some great 4th of July fireworks photos onto his Google Plus gallery before he even got home. He also had the option of loading the pictures into a private album, giving him the option of deciding later on who actually needs to see them. My son Justin also has an Android, and is really having a great time with both the phone and the new website.

I, on the other hand, am an iPhone owner. Like many of you, I can only enjoy the full benefits of Google Plus from an actual computer. Being surrounded by happy Android owners, however, has helped me to make one certain decision; my next phone will be an
Android. I’m tired of being left out.

Improvement #4: Google Plus Offers Better Organized Image Sharing

Once your photos are loaded and properly displayed, it’s time to share them, and this is where Google Plus really shines. Facebook offers you two options; share with your friends, or share with everybody.

Life isn’t like that, though.

Some of your friends really want to see your son’s graduation photos. That same group of friends, however, might not really care what your new rain garden looks like. And,

Naturally, only select friends need to see the “before” and “after” photos from your latest trip to the tattoo parlor.

Rather than offering you the option of showing the world or showing all 172 of your closest friends, Google offers you the option of categorizing your 172 friends into distinct circles. You’ll be able to choose which circles you share images and other information with, which makes a lot more sense.

So, What Does The Future Look Like for Facebook?

That’s up to Facebook.

David Seaman from BusinessInsider.com explains it simply; Google Plus “… will be a huge success, and Facebook is in trouble – although by no means obsolete.”

It’s unlikely that Google Plus will completely replace Facebook, and perhaps Facebook doesn’t need to be replaced.

What is likely, though, is that Google will give people who use phone cameras, movie cameras and digital infrared cameras a viable alternative to their current image sharing options. Ideally, Facebook will respond by improving their own site, and then Google will in turn raise the bar with more upgrades or innovations.

There’s no way to know for sure who will ultimately “win” the social networking wars, but I do feel certain of one thing. It’s going to be quite a show.

About the Author

Internet pioneer James Martell discovered the rewarding world of affiliate marketing in 1999 and has been mentoring other Internet entrepreneurs for the last decade. In 2003, James launched Affiliate Buzz, a highly popular affiliate marketing podcast which is still running today.

Image Maggie Smith

Do You Suffer from the "Super-SIZE " Syndrome?

2011-07-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

There's no doubt about it: in these economically challenging times everybody is trying to get more for less. True?

We often opt to super-size our meals and our deals.
Some mistakenly of the mindset that "bigger is always better." Not always.

In fact, it's one of the reasons that far too many potentially promising bloggers lose out on reaching their traffic goals and would-be fans.

Let me explain.

I often read some very engaging, effective bloggers across the Net. But I don't "follow" them, or sign up as a subscriber because they don't update their sites regularly. And frankly, I get tired of playing "hide-n-go seek" trying to figure out when the heck they'll update their blogs.

But, what I'm finding out is that the culprit for many is time and a lack of ideas.
So they don't post anything. Sometimes for days. Sometimes for weeks. Sometimes for months. Then they lose their mojo.

Folks, let me break it down as simple as a fraction reduced to its lowest terms.

A blog post does not have to be lengthy or laborious to be "quality".
Are you with me here?

Trust me. In my frequent travels across the Net and with different niches, I've read posts that were long, and went on and on and bored me to tears. If it were a "live" performance, I'd be searching for the nearest exit. For real.

Conversely, I've read stuff that was short and sweet and fun to read.
It's not the size, but the content and the level of engagement that matters.

To help you to discover ideas for fast and "fulfilling" updates, I offer the following suggestions.

1. Post motivational quotes and a beautiful image to inspire readers. Karen Lange at Write Now often uses this technique successfully.

2. Share vacation photos, or pictures of your family or garden. I love learning about the person behind the blog. Don't you?

3. Post a music video. Cynthia at Simply Positive Blog often entertains me with her choice in artists.

4. Share some writing related trivia, or trivia as it relates to your particular niche.

5. Pose a problem or thought provoking question and ask readers to weigh in.

6. Sponsor a contest.

7. Share links of other interesting reads across the Web.

Get the picture? Now get it in gear!

Thoughts?

Image George Cochrane

Weekend Announcements...

2011-07-24T05:55:00.000-07:00

In the middle of the madness, I wanted to check in with you groovy folks to keep you updated with projects and progress here at Pen and Prosper and items of interest around the Net.

So, let's get started...

I'm pleased as punch to announce that I have a guest post over at Men with Pens! The topic? "6 Reasons Every Serious Blogger Should Blog for the Big Dogs!"
Do you think that strategy is important to blogging success?

If you have an opportunity, stop by and weigh in. I'd love to get your thoughts, and already there has been a pretty interesting exchange under way.

Coffeehouse for Writers will present its new line-up of fun, interactive online classes on August 1st. There are great offerings for writers of all levels and genres. Popular classes include: Blogging for Profit, Grammar Boot Camp, Social Media Savvy, How to Quit Your Day Job, and more. Enroll today for a more profitable and prosperous writing future! See Coffeehouseforwriters.com/ for details. Please note that the site is currently under construction, so if you are not able to register successfully, try back again on Tuesday, (which is the estimated time of completion).

New clients have brought about new projects. Though there is much to be said about the ecstasy of a byline, I'm also digging the dynamics of ghost writing these days. Look forward to a future post to recap my adventures over the last year or so.

Hope Clark is sponsoring her annual contest for writers. The theme is Diligence. Check out her site for more details at Fundsforwriters.com.

Anything interesting happening in your neck of the wood? Good news? Do share.

Image DigitalArt

Get More Eyes on Your Blog by Using YouTube!

2011-07-21T05:31:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to welcome today a guest post from Evelyn Parham of Become a Healthier You.

I started using YouTube in 2008. Back then, I was making videos for fun with no purpose. I had a large following but after a while, my passion and interests shifted. Long story short I closed that account.

I had another YouTube channel where I focused on healthy living topics. I wanted to connect with people who had an interest in what I had to share. At this time, I have around 933 subscribers and 107,612 total upload views. Not bad for someone sharing information about healthy living, vegan recipes, and hair topics.
Last year, I became interested in the YouTube Partner Program and applied for the program. I was rejected, but I have not given up on becoming a YouTube Partner. My total upload views look very good and I have recently reapplied. I’m just waiting on their decision.

I said the above to share with you that YouTube can help your blog in many ways. You are probably saying to yourself, “She has got to be kidding, I’m not interested in showing my face.”

You do not have to show your face to share information on YouTube. However, it is better to show your face a few times, to build that trust and to build your community.
Here is a comment that someone made on my Facebook page about a Raw Cheese Cake recipe that I made and the commenter is a fellow blogging friend.
“Just did a search in Google for raw cheese cake and guess who’s face is all over testing her raw cheese cake. That is so cool and yours looks great.”
I uploaded “How to Make a Raw Vegan Cheese Cake” to YouTube over a year ago and have since received 5,979 views. Not to mention I uploaded photos to my Flickr account.

Let’s not waste any more time. Using YouTube can help you gain more eyes to your blog.

1. Connect with others who really want to learn from you. Sometimes a YouTube subscriber will pop up on my blog and leave a comment showing their support. That is one of the best feelings because I know the subscriber is reading my blog.

2. Gain subscribers to your blog newsletter. One way you can do this is to hold a contest and ask your You Tube subscribers to visit your blog and subscribe to your newsletter. I did this when I first launched my blog and I got very good feed back.

3. Word of mouth about your blog travels fast. Can you imagine shopping in a store and being approached by a stranger who knows your name. The woman told me that she watches my videos on YouTube and that she reads my blog. I gave her a few cards to share with her friends. These are potential clients.

4. Good traffic source for your blog. Each time I upload a video, I make sure to hyperlink my website in the description box. I do get some traffic to my blog from You Tube. At this current time, You Tube ranks #14 for traffic referrals, but it use to rank a lot higher. I’ve been a little slack in uploading videos to You Tube.

5. Reply to comments and messages. Treat your YouTube channel like you do your blog. Whenever you receive comments on your videos, take time to reply to the comments. Even if it is a simple “thank you.” You will be amazed how much those two words mean to others.

Conclusion

I realize that You Tube is not for everyone, but it is a great way to get more eyes on your blog, if you are interested. You never know how helpful your videos can be until you try it.

Do you have a You Tube channel? If you do, how has it helped you get more eyes on your blog?

Author Bio:

Evelyn Parham blogs at Become a Healthier You (http://evelynparham.com) and is the Health Editor for Biz Chick Blogs. You can also catch her on YouTube (http://youtube.com/evelynprather). She enjoys writing, reading, singing and cooking.

7 Ways to Make More Time to Make More Money

2011-07-18T05:29:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest challenges for today’s successful writer is time management.
Let’s face it: in a tough economy, many of us are expected to do more with fewer resources.

Add to this, the never-ending juggling of family obligations, projects around the house, marketing for new clients, and “socializing” via the ever-present social media scene. Hello!

Still, the savvy scribe recognizes that there is great truth to the adage, “time is money”, and acts accordingly.

So, today, let’s look at some ways to make the most of your time, to make the most profit, and move forward in your freelance career.

1. Learn that there is a difference between being “busy” and being “productive“. Surfing the Net for hours is being busy, researching on the Net to write a feature piece, or to gather statistics for an interview is being productive.

2. Control your daily distractions. What’s your guilty pleasure? Some are FaceBook fanatics. Others let computer games get in the way. I personally dig music videos on You Tube. It’s okay to indulge in moderation; it can break up the monotony. But give it a limit. Time, like money, should be budgeted wisely for the best results.

3. Work smarter, not harder. Instead of spending endless hours drafting and crafting queries, expend that energy into polishing pieces for editors that don’t require queries in order for you to get paid and published. Go even further. Once you’ve sold those pieces, don’t stop there; sell them as reprints (if your retain the rights, of course).

4. Rise early. There’s great truth to the adage, “The early bird gets the worm.” Believe it or not, there is so much more productivity for those that get up and get going early in the a.m. And I should know--I’m one of them! I can tell you that lines at the grocery stores are usually shorter and faster, there are fewer phone calls to answer, traffic is lighter, and
there’s a greater climate of calm, (which facilitates creativity), before the hustle and bustle of the day really sets in.

5. Be wise and prioritize. With only 24 hours afforded each day, it’s virtually impossible to cross everything off those pesky to-do lists. A better game plan is to get the most important stuff out of the way. Why? Missed deadlines for clients, or missed due dates for bills can cause stress and unwanted penalties. Stress can impact creativity. No output means no income. Get my drift?

6. Set Goals. Goals are like a compass that guides direction. This ensures that you spend less time being lost on the road to success. For example, every year I set short and long term goals that govern how I spend my time and where I want to be in my career. Consequently, everything I do either supports my goals, or takes away from them. This mindset keeps me on track. It will for you too.

7. Make multi-tasking a daily practice. Though there are different schools of thought on this one, I can attest that it helps me to get more out of my days. Of course, it should be noted, that not all tasks can successfully be done simultaneously. Like, I wouldn‘t advise texting while driving. Or cooking while shampooing your hair. Use proper discernment.

Follow these seven tips and you’ll have more money and more time to spend it.

IMAGE John Kasawa

They're "JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU"-- Common Barriers to Blog Success...

2011-07-14T16:51:00.000-07:00

Most Bloggers come on the scene with the best of intentions. And regardless to our niche or knowledge base, we typically have one thing in common: to connect with our audience and enjoy a degree of popularity. True?
(To be appreciated would also be a plus).

Though some won't fess up to this, why else would we go "public" with our "penned" thoughts and actions, and display our creative works before "virtual" strangers.
Pun intended.;-)

Still, some Bloggers experience slow growth, little interaction from readers, and unknowingly sabotage their success. They unfortunately toil in vain by committing the following blogging blunders.

How many are you guilty of?

1. Not maintaining the right Blogging frequency.
For far too many it seems to be feast or famine. Either they post every blue moon, or you hear from them more than your relatives! A good rule of thumb is to post no less than once a week, and no more than 3 times a week. Though it also depends upon the nature and purpose of your Blog. And word to the wise: If you're going to take an extended leave, for whatever reason, post it to your site, so readers won't have to bounce back and forth trying to guess the appointed time that you'll re-enter the Blogging world.

2. Not responding to readers' comments.
Maybe it's just me, but I don't care how big of a "hot-shot" you are, if I post a comment to your site twice with no feedback, I'll be giving you the "silent treatment" in the future. That is, unless you have hundreds of comments that you receive and it becomes impractical and time consuming to address each one. We should all be so lucky. ;-)

3. Failing to study and learn from successful Blogs.
No doubt about it: Blogging is not rocket science. But, it still involves certain tools and techniques to do it well. Think about it. Though there are millions of Blogs in the Blogosphere, routinely you'll see the same dozen or so to receive recognition and top the popular Blogs lists time after time.

4. Not providing enough take-away value for readers to take away.
Whether your Blog is designed to educate or entertain, readers should come away with a lesson, reflection, or a laugh.

5. Going off on the deep edge, or not staying on topic.
Though there are different schools of thought here, I think that most people like to go to a Blog knowing what to expect. How about you?
Of course, this is not to suggest that you can't add different topics now and then; especially if you can tie it into your Blog's theme. But, by and large, you should have an identifiable "topic" and stick to it like Velcro.

6. Not having a unique voice in the Blogoshpere.
I've said this before, but it bears repeating. If you want to be relevant and remembered, your style, voice and approach to blogging must stand out amid the chatter.

7. Poor grammar or inappropriate language.
This can serve as an eye-sore for some.

Agree or disagree? Did I miss anything?

Image Ambro

7 Tips to Sell Yourself as an Expert Writer

2011-07-13T20:06:00.000-07:00

Guest post by Sarah Grace V. Villaflor

Working online means financial and creative freedom for people who don’t want to be tied down to a nine-to-five job in some stifling, crappy office. Online jobs offer the greatest flexibility in terms of schedule, earnings, skills requirement and career growth.

The best thing about being an online freelance writer is that you can pick and choose which projects you want to work on. You deal with your clients and customers personally, and you work at your own pace and on your own terms (within designated deadlines, of course). You don’t have to think about having to get along with rude co-workers or trying to please your nasty supervisor.

Where to start?

Despite the obvious benefits of working online, however, not too many people are able to launch their online writing careers. Part of the problem lies in the inability to offer the right set of skills and competencies that online employers are seeking.

The even bigger issue that you have to address is learning how to sell your services as a reliable, ethical and professional expert writer. Since you’re going to work in a virtual office, you have to work hard to convince your potential employer that you can actually do the job. Unlike working in a physical office environment, your client won’t have the chance to personally and periodically check on your progress and the quality of your output.

The genuine article

Almost all online jobs require tons of trust from both you and your client. To build that trust, you need to sell yourself in just the right way—convincing but not too pushy, honest but still modest. There is nothing to be gained by lying about your credentials or passing off certain published articles as your own.

Here are seven tips to increase the odds of closing your first online writing deal:

1. Put up a website to advertise your services. If you’re not content with just creating profiles in different freelance marketplaces like oDesk.com, Guru.com and Elance.com, you can start crafting a simple website to promote your services online. You can use Blogger, LiveJournal or WordPress as your platform.

2. Provide ways for people to contact you across different media. Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter are just a couple of ideas for you to start spreading the word about your writing services. The more people you can reach, the higher your chances of getting hired.

3. Put together samples of your work, especially those that have been previously published online. The best way to impress your future clients is to gather all your sharpest written works into a great portfolio. Include the links to the places where your work was published so that potential clients can see your articles for themselves. You can also include referral letters and testimonials from previous clients to bolster your chances of getting more work in the future.

4. Be open to trial tasks and pre-employment interviews. Some clients will ask you to do a 500-word trial article to determine if your tone and style is what they are looking for. Don’t be stingy with your effort just because you won’t get paid—work with the same fervor and intensity as if the article will add money to your bank account. Talk to your clients before you accept a project so that you can find out if you can handle the work.

5. Write guest posts for other websites and blogs if you have time. Doing guest posts is a great way to build your reputation and gather contacts in different niches and markets. By writing for other bloggers, you get to showcase your talent as well as increase your exposure to your target audience. It will also help your portfolio if you are able to point potential clients to some guest posts you’ve already established.

6. Always be honest about what you can and cannot do. Don’t pretend to be good in both writing and graphic design unless you can truly deliver on your word. At the end of the day, it’s your reputation that will suffer if you don’t produce a good product for your client.

7. Work at competitive prices. Proper pricing is an important factor when it comes to deciding which online writer will get the job. Your clients want value for their money, but they also want good quality work that is submitted on time.

Sarah Grace V. Villaflor is part of the team that manages ACC, a blog based in Sydney, Australia that wrote about personal finance and small business credit card tips. Before she joined ACC, she was an assistant editor-in-chief of Sandigan.

Image Pixomar

Premature Emancipation: Should You Quit Your Job to Freelance Full-time?

2011-07-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

There’s no doubt about it. Freedom is a seductive mistress. So much so, that her allure causes many to fantasize, and make impulsive and uninformed decisions to court her and experience her sweet embrace.

Especially when it comes to the life of a freelancer.
Folks idolize it. They envision countless hours of leisure, Margaritas in the mid-afternoon, and liberation from oppressive bosses.
Perhaps you’re one of them.

Well, I’ve got some good news and some bad, before you abandon your job or your senses.

But, first let’s rewind to how this blog post became a topic of conversation…

It was a sunny summer Sunday.
In my weekly blog hop and general site surfing, I was reading a post “penned” by a fellow writer who had decided to forego “job security” and benefits to go full-time as a freelancer. From what I had read, they’ve been writing for a few years, with a few bylines to boast.

Now, I don’t know this person personally. In fact, I’ve never even posted a comment to their site. But, I’m rooting that they’ll be able to make a go of things. Really.
After all, everybody loves a winner. Right?

Anyhow, I don’t think it was a smart move. Courageous maybe, but not very business savvy.
And since I don’t know this person well enough for them to give a crap about my two cents, I figured I’d share it with you, my “blog family.”
So, read and heed. ;-)

Okay, as I was saying here… Contrary to popular opinion, freelance writing is hard, folks.
It’s even harder when it’s your bread and butter occupation, and moreso in today’s age of the Internet, when everybody and their momma wants a piece of the action.

It’s even harder if you’re unmarried and have only one source of income.
It’s even harder in an economy with a high unemployment rate and high uncertainty in terms of economic direction. It’s even harder amid a climate with a myriad of changes in the publishing industry.

It’s even harder if you have no business management background from which to draw.
Are you with me here?

So, what’s the moral of the story?

Proceed with caution.
In the words of court T.V. Judge, Mablean, “Look deep before you leap!”

Despite stories of people who have landed lucrative contracts, had “overnight success”, and hit it big, the reality is, very few of us will reach the heights and widths of Elizabeth Barrett-Browning, J.K. Rowling, Nicholas Sparks, and other famous authors and poets.
Is it possible? You betcha.
But not likely.
The odds are as much against it as Keanu Reeves proposing marriage to me.

(Side bar---for new readers to my blog, my celebrity crushes are bad-boy rapper 50 Cent and Keanu Reeves).

So, with this being said, here as I promised at the beginning of this journey, are the good and bad things about freelancing full time, and what you can hope to expect. Word up!

1. Freelancing gives a whole new meaning to the famous line of Charles Dickens: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. “ Some weeks you’ll dine to steak and lobster, other weeks you’ll be praying that the expiration date on your few refrigerated items is just a “guideline” and not gospel. In lean times, the cupboard may be as bare as a baby’s bottom. Don’t say I didn’t warn
you.:-)

2. Along with more freedom is less medical coverage. Are you prepared? Do you have a back-up plan in the event of illness, accidents, or an unexpected surgery? (Look into your homeowner’s plan as a viable option).

3. Expect to have more discipline than an athlete in training. Why? Unlike some are afforded on a regular gig, you can’t “fake” productivity by looking busy. And you can’t take “mental health days” without detriment. Typically you’re a one person show. No work means no pay. You’ll have to resist the urge to play computer games, or spend hours watching the “soaps”, or talking to your mom on the phone about family issues with Aunt Gertrude. You have to buckle down to move up!

4. Know that “love is not enough”. No matter how much you “love” writing, (and trust me, I really, really do), tough decisions have to be made, and a reality check is needed. Think about it. How many times have you been in love but the relationship didn’t go the distance due to incompatibility, or timing, or other stuff? True?

5. Know that there is a right way to jump ship. For example, author and Funds For Writers creator, Hope Clark, shares that before she took the plunge, she had been offered an early retirement and had some financial security in which to fall back on. Not to mention a detective hubby.

Do you need the same? Nope. But in the infamous words of Mr. "T",
"I pity the fool." :-)

Thoughts? Anybody here take the plunge successfully? Do tell.

Image worradmu

5 Ways to Get More Bang For Your Blog!

2011-07-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Whether you're blogging to make money or "make friends and influence people", the right approach can mean all the difference.
Without a doubt, certain tools and techniques will help to elevate your status in the Blogosphere, separate you from the pack, and take you from zero to hero!

In today's blogging environment, it's important to remember that we are competing for the attention of today's busy reader, with an array of choices and limited time.

To increase your blog following and decrease your bounce rate, here are a few tried and true methods to try your hand at.

5 Strategies to get more buzz (and bang) for your Blog:

1. Consider having a cute tagline or slogan for your blog and what it represents. It helps to become more memorable and furthers your branding. For example: Pen and Prosper is promoted as "Required reading for today's smart writer."
My blogging buddy Sibyl uses, "Live today better than yesterday."
You might use something like "the small blog with a big heart!" Get the idea?
People should know what your blog is about without having to spend 10 minutes navigating different sections of your site.

2. Provide variety. It is indeed the spice of life.
How? Have guest bloggers present different voices and viewpoints. Tackle controversial topics from time to time. Do interviews with other artists.

3. Post pictures that show other aspects of your life, or share a hobby that adds dimension to your online personality. Some time ago, I did a post about "Craft Therapy", where I shared and discussed how writers have other areas of creativity that allow them to unwind and express themselves through other gifts.
Like how many times singers might paint, or authors also sing. While I dig creating gift baskets. Anyhow, I ran that post on the weekend, and it was very popular!

4. Post on weekends. Although some see it as a kiss of death, in terms of traffic, it sometimes is a way of attracting new followers who are looking for fresh content at the end of a grueling work week.

5. Make it a point to share positive readers' comments and testimonials. Let's face it---we all think that our Blogs are hot spots, true? But it takes on a whole new meaning and new levels of awesomeness when others echo it.

Well folks, that's my story and I'm sticking with it...
What's yours? Agree or disagree?

Image Contributor Photostock

My Fave Five ...Bodacious Blogs!

2011-07-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Get your mouses ready. (Or mice).
You're gonna' love the line-up today of my favorite Blog/Web picks!

It's a nice mix of men and women, and spans multiple niches.
So grab your brew of choice and let's get rolling and reading...

1. AFTER TROY (HEKTOR KARL)

...Where do I begin? His was an unexpected pleasure. Like a fine wine savored for the first time. Intoxicating.
He did me first. The result of a referral link. So, after crossing my path, I clicked on his image for an obligatory visit.
And I stayed. Long.
I found Hektor's writing to be sexy. Cerebral. Sensitive. Silly. Soulful.
And you will too.
If you stop by, make sure to read, "Do Real Men Cry?" It's among my favorites.
In fact, if I must admit, (and I shall), even his "about me" section is creative and intriguing. When it comes to writing, Hektor is Herculean. And you can quote me :-)
Let me know what you think, readers.

2. ESCAPE NORMAL (JACQUELINE BOSS)

Tired of the rat race? Then this is the spot for resources and recreational reading to cope with corporate ties. At least until you're "liberated." I dig the design, the topics are diverse, and it's easy to navigate. Definitely the destination spot for dreamers.

3. MARC & ANGEL HACKLIFE

Tips on productivity and enlightened living, provided by a couple devoted to helping others to live better. The site and its creators were also listed among the "60 Best Minds in the Blogosphere" over at Possibility of Today.com.

4. PURPLE SONG PROJECT (VANESSA)

Using her artistry to bring awareness to the devastation brought about by Domestic Violence, Vanessa writes songs and provides music therapy for healing and helping.

5. BROKE PROFESSIONALS

Interesting approach to personal finance and frugal living for "the overeducated and underpaid," created and maintained by a husband and wife team. Topics are timely with good take-away value.

Check these sites out and then check back in with me to let me know your thoughts. Are these types of posts useful to you? Is there a blog you've discovered that I should know about? Do tell.

Image Dan

Do, Re, Mi...Tips to Cultivate Your Writer's Voice!

2011-07-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed that when you tune into your radio, certain artists have singing voices that are immediately identifiable?

No doubt, before the D.J. even announces the singer and the title of the cut, you can figure it out. Right?
Consider folks like Michael Bolton, Beyonce, Celine Dion, Jose Feliciano, Josh Groban, and Michael Jackson, (who are also among my favorites).
Are you with me here?

Well as a writer and blogger, the same principle should apply.
Your words and style of expression should be heard (and ring unique) amid the chatter of “online voices” and “performers,” particularly in this very saturated medium. Hello!

So, let’s start from the top.

La, la, la, la…What exactly is voice?

Voice is referred to as how your words “sound” on the page. It is the reflection of your tone, your style of expression, your choice of words, your personality.
And the more authentic it is, the more it will resonate with your readers.

Now that you know the “what,” here are some “hows” to help develop your “chops”!

1. Read.
Yep, reading helps to develop your voice by hearing the repeated use of language, rhythm, and other important dynamics.

2. Be true to who you are.
“Sing” a little off key if it sounds good to your heart’s ear. I must admit, I don’t always write according to the rules. If the mood hits me, I use fragments, Ebonics, Pig Latin, and any other device that keeps me in the moment and makes sense for my particular audience and how I’m vibin’ at the time. Of course this doesn’t mean I’m advocating improper grammar, poor spelling, or inappropriate language. Or that your writing should lack clarity or consistency. That’s a whole ‘nother thing and a whole ‘nother post topic. Stay tuned.

3. Broaden your horizons.
This goes back to point number one. I bet you’ve heard most popular singers say that they were “influenced” by the styles of other great singers. Even those from former decades. Follow suit. Study and assess the best. If you’re a fiction writer, check out the writings of non fiction writers. Check out the authors that top the NY Times’ Best list. Get lost in a Harlequin Romance. Read outside your niche from time to time. Add some poetry to the mix, even.

4. Have fun with your audience, when the situation dictates.
Humor, when used appropriately, often makes your voice more likable. Use colorful anecdotes, ah-ha moments, and universal experiences to connect and show your versatility.

5. Go Acapella.
This is the equivalent of having the courage to “sing” without accompaniment, or in other words, having the chutzpah to speak out on issues where you may not be in the majority.

Follow these five tips and you'll successfully "speak" to the masses and be an engaging performer.

Thoughts?

Image:

Contributor digitalart

JEN IS OUT OF THE BUILDING...!

2011-06-29T14:02:00.000-07:00

For a much needed vacation break. I'll miss you! Let's reconnect July 8th. Look for more reviews, guest posts, how-tos, "ah-ha" moments and stimulating conversation!

Image Salvatore Vuono

Feng Shui For Your Blog!

2011-06-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

Feng Shui---"The ancient Chinese practice of placement to achieve harmony."

Okay. So, you know how when you're expecting "visitors" you tidy up, wash down, rearrange furniture, and accessorize to accentuate the positive aspects of your home?

Well, a similar effort has been underway here at Pen and Prosper. This brought about by a few guest posts on influential sites and "online love" provided by links from fellow bloggers.

Though I had the best of intentions, I ended up exhausted from all the "mental" and creative lifting, rearranging, re-organizing, and re-assessing.
Over the last few months, in fact, you may have noticed that this spot has been blue, beige, white, and many of the colors of the rainbow.
Like a mad scientist, I experimented with different formulas, shapes, sizes, and styles.

Here are a few "decorating" lessons I've learned along the way.

1). Be true to your own sense of style, personality and expression. At the end of the day, just like your home, your blog is a reflection of who you are, and your personal preferences. Of course your readers should be taken into consideration, but in moderation.

2). Don't overcrowd your space. Too much "stuff" is more of a distraction than an enhancement. Sometimes less is more.

3). Recognize that there is a psychology to colors. For example, red and orange are invigorating colors, while beige and earth tone colors typically have a soothing effect. Make sure to choose complementary colors that provide for visual appeal and flow.

4). Don't overlook comfort. Regardless to trends, analytics, or what's going on in the Blogosphere.

5). Align your Blog elements in a way that is easy to navigate and user-friendly.

Keep these five tips in mind in any future make-over efforts. You'll be sure to achieve a state of Nirvana. :-)

Thoughts? Agree or disagree? How do you like the new look?

Image Salvatore Vuono

Q& A With Georgina Laidlaw

2011-06-24T04:18:00.000-07:00

They say that behind every successful man is a good woman.
Meet Georgina Laidlaw.
She’s the Content Manager for Darren Rowse’s hugely popular ProBlogger.net site, as well as FeelGooder.com.

Having been published at both sites before, I’ve had the opportunity to work with her, and definitely have become a fan. She and Darren continue to provide quality content to the masses to help us to become better bloggers!

Today, I welcome Georgina to Pen and Prosper, in an effort to provide a behind-the-scenes look at her role and what she requires from guest bloggers.

1. How did you become acquainted with Darren Rowse and ProBlogger?

I met Darren through a friend and colleague who’d also done some work with him, and heard he was looking for someone to help him with content. I’d heard of ProBlogger, but I wasn’t really a reader or a follower—it was all new to me.

2. How does a “content manager” differ from an editor…or does it?

You know, I think the two are pretty much synonymous. It’s just that one is applied exclusively to electronic media, where the other tends to be used more in offline publishing.

I work on both sides of the fence—as well as being CM for ProBlogger and FeelGooder, I write for publications and work with CMs and editors—and the roles look very similar from that side of the line, too.

3. How many submissions do you receive in an average week for ProBlogger and FeelGooder?

I’d estimate somewhere between 25 and 30. Darren has a great community, so a lot of people want to make a contribution to the sites. About half of them are good or better, which I think is a good strike rate.

By “good or better”, I mean that they don’t need language editing—once we get them, we just need to format them and apply the house styles and they’re good to go.

4. How can readers increase their chances of publication on these popular sites?

Actually, we just published an article on that very topic at ProBlogger:
http://www.problogger.net/archives/2011/05/31/how-to-get-your-guest-posts-accepted-every-time/

The main reason we turn articles down is because they rehash information that’s already been covered on the site, or they’re not practically focused—they don’t deliver enough value in and of themselves. These are really important elements of the content on both sites.

Occasionally I’ll get an article “pitch” that’s a title only—that’s no good, either, because what you’d write, and what I’d write, to that headline will be completely different.

Finally, since we publish so much content on these sites, the more finished and polished the article is, the better. We’ve recently taken ProBlogger to a twice-daily publication schedule, so we’re publishing 12 articles there a week, and five at FeelGooder (though we’re looking to ramp that up, too).

I have about nine or ten hours each week to review and prep the content for both sites. That means that, more and more, I’m opting for content that’s well written, as well as containing a great idea, since I don’t have much time to edit for language these days. A great idea on its own doesn’t make the cut on these sites—we need excellent writing as well.

5. Do you have your own personal Blog?

I do: http://backstoryesque.blogspot.com/
It’s intended to focus mainly on the laughable realities of working in communications, and with language, but I also publish snippets of fiction I’m writing, excerpts from books I’m reading and loving, and so on. It’s eclectic, and I basically write it for my own pleasure.

6. What would it surprise people to know about you?

How much loose language I use on my personal blog!

7. Any guilty pleasures?

Too many to name! But among them are: gin and tonic and a good book in an hours-long bath, and chocolate for “lunch”. Or any meal, really…

8. Anything else you’d like Pen and Prosper readers to know?

Only that I’d agree with those who say the secret to good writing is good reading.
Recently I had a short but solid lull in my nonfiction reading, and although I was still reading fiction, I found it much harder to write. Since I’ve started reading nonfiction again (The Return of the Crazy Bird, by Clara Pinto-Correia) [http://www.amazon.com/Return-Crazy-Bird-Strange-Tale/dp/0387988769], it’s as if new synapses have started firing in my brain. The broader my reading is, the more ideas I get—the more fluid my thinking is.

So I’d encourage those who want to pen and prosper to read as much as possible, and as broadly as possible.

Stats, Stage Fright and Stuff...

2011-06-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting week, folks. And if I must admit, today I'm experiencing a little "stage fright" of sorts.

Let me explain...
As typical, I spent the week working on clients' blogs, preparing articles, doing research...you know, the whole kit and kaboodle that goes with this way of life.

Then, as I concluded another episode of Jeopardy yesterday, (which I never miss), I received an unexpected Email. Much to my surprise, I was featured as one of "60 of the Best Minds in the Blogosphere" over at Possibilityoftoday.com!

I had to read it several times for it to register. :-)

I can't tell you how much it made my day, my week, my month, my year!
And get this--I'm included with some serious heavy-hitters like Seth Godin, Leo at Zen Habits, and Ali Hale of Aliventures.

A special thanks to Sibyl, (who, by the way, is a Harvard graduate) for bestowing this honor. Additional thanks to all those who extended kind words and comments by Email or blog "shout-outs".

Which brings us to today's "stage fright"...
With the anticipated traffic and new eyes potentially coming my way from her readers, and others that made the list, I agonized over how to approach today's post.

Should I be sassy? Cerebral? Funny? Reflective? Philosophical?
Well, you get my drift here.
Ferklempt, I decided to just write the darn post.:-) Hope you enjoy.

With that being said, here are a few stats and announcements for Pen and Prosper for this anniversary month:

1. To date, there have been 236 posts written.
2. There are 132 followers and (?) subscribers.
3. 1904 comments have been registered.
4. Pen and Prosper has received 31,417 Page Views.
5. Page Views by country--United States, Iran, Russia, Germany, Ukraine.
6. The average reader is female with a postgraduate education.
7. Google Page Rank is "4".

Announcements

Coffeehouse for Writers will begin its new session of popular, online classes on June 27th. With an array of "menu items" to choose, surely there's something for you too!

To properly prepare for upcoming projects, birthday celebration continuation, and the holiday, Jen will be "out of the building" from June 29th to July 8th for summer break.

As always, thanks for spending your time with me. Have a wonderful week.

Image Sayan Samana

The Pros and Cons of Creative Collaborations

2011-06-21T15:43:00.001-07:00

“Two heads are better than one.”

Creative collaborations can be a great way to expand your portfolio, increase your bottom line, and partner with someone whose artistic strengths complement your weaknesses. Whether it’s a graphic designer teaming up with a writer for the creation of a website, several authors coming together to pen an anthology, or a lyricist providing just the right words to complement a musician’s score--it can definitely be a win-win situation for everyone involved.

But much like a marriage, these alliances should be approached sensibly and with great caution. The wrong partnership can be as harmful to the creative process as Kryptonite to Superman!

This epiphany came to me after working with folks with whom there was the best of intentions initially, but very little compatibility in key areas.
I learned the hard way that what makes for a good personal union does not necessarily make for a good business relationship.

The price for these mismatches? Strained relations, frustration, and lost productivity.

So if you’re considering joining forces with someone for future business growth and better opportunities, take heed.

Here are ten ways to make your vision a reality and create a winning combination!

1. Get your project off to a good start by providing for the “right fit.” Don’t be fooled. Not everyone we like, or with whom we enjoy a friendship, makes a good business partner. Is he or she like-minded? Do you have a similar work ethic? Are your temperaments compatible? Choose wisely.

2. Not sure where to start? Get recommendations from people whose opinion you value—people in your creative circle or writers’ group.

3. Put in writing who will be responsible for what and when. The more parameters you have regarding roles, the better.

4. Make sure that your strengths and weaknesses are complementary and not conflicting.

5. Learn the art of compromise. Even in the best scenarios people disagree on how things should be handled. Be willing to see your partner’s perspective, and to find a happy medium.

6. Carry your weight. There’s nothing worse than working with a slacker. It can also be a detriment to future referrals.

7. Brainstorm individually and collectively. (Some of my best creative ideas actually come to me when I’m all alone in the solitude of a bubble bath, when my muse is not being pressured.) Your “genius” may come to you while working in your garden. Whatever works, work it!

8. Make sure that you and your partner not only have the same agenda, but also the same sense of urgency. In other words, if you are very deadline oriented and the other person has to wait for the “right mood” to move forward on things, it will cause tremendous stress, and potentially sabotage your collective success.

9. Remember to treat him/her with respect and as a valued professional. In too many scenarios, one person wants to act like a parent or supervisor. Let go your ego! “You are not the boss of me.”

10. Be each other’s cheerleader. It’ll keep you both motivated and bonded, and give you a sense of fun until you reach that finish line!

Keep in mind that not only can creative collaborations enhance your professional horizons, but many have actually resulted in romantic relationships, or long term friendships.
And certainly there's no better profit than that!

Thoughts? Have you ever collaborated on a creative project?

Note: This piece was originally published in Hope Clark's Funds for Writers. It also was included as a chapter in the book, "The Write Direction"-by Author Donna Goodrich.
Image Salvatore Vuono

Five Ways to Seize the Summer and Earn Hot Cash!

2011-06-16T04:40:00.000-07:00

Summer season is upon us.
Not only does it usher in hot weather, but it also offers endless opportunities for writers to earn extra dough through events of the season.
All that’s required is a little creativity and some cool lemonade.
And the great thing is that these ideas work regardless as to where you live, or what genre you write.

Here’s how to explore various topics to potentially pen poems, essays, how-tos, features or fictional pieces and to earn hot cash in the process.

Make a list and check it twice.

Here’s what it might look like:

Themes:

Graduations and Proms---A look at college career choices, a nostalgic look at your first love, or an essay on defining success for today’s graduate.

Summer reunions---this could include genealogy references, family recipes, or colorful characters.

Summer vacations---Great for travel writing pieces, rating of hotels and restaurants.

Summer gardening---Tips on successful planting, pictures of your back yard and stories of trial and error, or how to cultivate a green thumb.

Summer barbeques and recipes---How to use beer for tender barbeque, or the art of romantic picnics, or how to make the best baked beans.

Summer weddings---Wedding traditions and how not to become a “bride-zilla.” Unusual stories on how couples met.

At-home activities for kids—Arts and craft activities, how to host a book club for teens, summer safety tips. Time management for busy moms.

Summer fashions---Popular trends, hot sales, styles that flatter different figures, foot care for sandal wear.

Holidays
Fourth of July
Labor Day

National “Awareness” Days
National Safety Month—June—Why and how it came into existence.
Parents’ Day---July---Gift-giving tips
Friendship Day---August
Grandparents’ Day---September
Special Olympics

Choose the most interesting and relevant topics based upon your interests and experiences, and narrow the list down. For example, for me, since I’m an incurable romantic, summer weddings would definitely be at the top of my list. Summer barbeques would also be a definite possibility since I enjoy food and backyard barbeques. The weddings might inspire my romantic poetry or a personal essay, or even a how-to on planning an economical but beautiful wedding for penny-pinchers!

Address the 5 Ws of journalism: who, what, when, where, why. Don’t forget to provide colorful anecdotes and quotes to provide richness.

Start sketching and fleshing out viable ideas. Ideally the more passionate you are about the subject, the easier and more enjoyable it is to write, and the less research required.

Identify potential markets. This is almost a no-brainer. Wedding pieces would go to places like Today’s Bride or Bride’s Noir. Recipes would find a home at Taste of Home or Woman’s Day. You’ll also find a great database of magazine guidelines at Writing for Dollars. Once this is done, check the publication’s archives and their editorial calendars to identify the best time to approach the publication with a query or completed piece.

Follow these five tips and you’ll find creative projects and pay to last the whole year!

Image Salvatore Vuono

Honeymoon Over? 4 Ways to MaintainYour Blogging Mojo!

2011-06-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

Ah, young love! Whether it’s relational or creative, the beginning is always magical.
You know the script:

You’re geeked about spending time with the object of your affection--be it a soul mate, or fans of your work. You cherish the time you spend together. They make you feel special. They seem to "get you". The interaction is engaging.

But, weeks, months, maybe years into it, they don’t seem to show the same level of appreciation. You know they’re digging you, but the effort is not as great on either party’s part. The cute compliments are far and in between. Some days it may feel like an obligation, instead of a passion. “You’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’.

Could it be that the honeymoon stage is over?

Don’t despair. And don’t call your mom. You can still salvage the relationship and have a happy ending, if you follow these tips to go the distance.

1. Keep a positive perspective. Truth is, every relationship goes through stages and tests. And your blogging experience will be no different. Sometimes you’ll receive rave reviews, and other times, well…let’s just say there will be a hush over the land. Don’t personalize it. Instead, remember what appealed to you in the beginning. And stick to it like Velcro.

2. Try something different. That’s right; what relationship isn’t enhanced by a little variety? For instance, if your posts are always short, make them long. If your tone is always serious, try a playful approach. If you typically do book reviews, try how-tos. If you post on Fridays, sneak in a Monday post. Never become boringly predictable. Change your “look” every once in a while.

3. Take a break. There’s great truth to the expression, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” Spend time away regrouping and renewing your spirit. Time apart can lead to a greater level of interest and esteem. Try it, you might like it! Just make sure to give notice and give it a time limit.

4. Recognize that there's something to be said for a job well done. Even if nobody's saying it. Take satisfaction in your commitment to your craft, and your contributions to the blogosphere. And before you know it, and maybe when you least expect it,(if it was meant to be), one day you'll feel that magic again! :-)

What say you? How do you maintain your "mojo"?
Image Arvind Balaraman

Weekend Recommended Reading!

2011-06-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

In my typical "blog bonus" of exposing you to new and noteworthy blogs and websites, I've combed the Web to come up with some hot spots I believe you'll enjoy.

Some are related to the craft of writing, while others are entertaining and enlightening in areas of personal development, blogging, and lifestyle.

As time permits, I hope you'll check them out and let me know your thoughts.

If you dig what you discover, say hello to the host as well, by leaving a
comment. :-)

Here's hoping you have a wonderful week with many new discoveries and old comforts.

1. The Art of Manliness---I was intrigued by the title and captivated by the content. Though its main readership is for "Mars" inhabitants, I think that it's really interesting, and covers a wide array of topics from grooming, to health, to sports. Okay fellows, here's something that speaks to your heart. Speak to me and let me know if it was useful. I hope it inspires and uplifts.

2. Richgrad.com---This award-winning site deals with personal development in a unique and clever way. It markets itself as "personal development for the book smart." Read it and move to the head of the class! Be sure to check out "Girls are like apples on trees."

3. Coffee on the Patio---Serves up hot conversation and stimulating thoughts for women over 40. Here you'll find a wonderful assortment of topics of interest, regardless of your age. It's eye-appealing and easy to navigate.

4. The Adventures of Sugar Belle---I'm not sure. Perhaps it's because I'm a foodie. But everytime I visit this site, I get a warm, fuzzy feelin' inside. And with over 3000 followers, it appears I might not be the only one! Sugar Belle makes baking cookies an art form! I love the bright colors, the photos of her "work" and the recipes and tips. You will too!

5. Blogger Buzz--- Many of you, from what I can tell, blog using the popular Blogger platform. With this being the case, you may want to check out this site for the latest features and forums that deal with tech issues, widgets and new developments to your sites. Knowledge is power, right?

Until next time, have the best time!

Imageningmilo

No Heavy Lifting Required- 8 almost effortless ways to support writers!

2011-06-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

There is great truth to the adage, "There is strength in numbers."
Collective efforts can make a positive difference, whether it's a boycott, a bake sale, or getting behind a worthy cause.

Which is why I'm sometimes baffled by the lack of participation and support in literary circles.

For example, in my area, local bookstores will often sponsor book signing events, poetry readings, and exhibits for folks that are not well known, but have work that merits recognition and exposure. I try to attend as many as my time and resources will allow, even if I've never heard of the poor soul. Why?

Because it opens doors for the rest of us. I also recognize the effort involved.
Contrary to popular opinion, support need not always be about money, nor a great investment of time.

With this in mind, here are 8 ways to support writers and create win-win situations for us all!

1. If you can't attend an event, please pass the word on to friends, associates and family members. I can tell you from personal experience that it really helps to see a few smiling faces in the audience to help make it through the day.

2. When you visit a Blog that you enjoy, post a comment. Think about it. There must be something of value that you get from going to that person's site, or you wouldn't be there. It's a really cool gesture to show appreciation for others' efforts, insights and time. Perhaps in a rush? (I can relate.) Simply add your name to the Blog as a follower. Or promote it through your social media network.

3. Provide a link for other writers you admire on your site. Or highlight other bodacious blogs by doing a listing of your weekly favorites! You benefit by having their fans and followers click in on your site. This helps build new audiences and creates good blog karma.

4. Offer to do a guest post on someone's site. It enables other blog owners to have a day off, and also provides variety at their site.

5. Write a review of other writers' books, classes, or products.

6. Send a motivational Email to someone who's struggling with completing a novel, or dealing with doubt and/or editors' rejections.

7. Barter services to help each other to save money and expand resources.

8. Participate in polls and surveys as they apply to your lifestyle and circumstances.

...BONUS! Send a word of appreciation to someone whose work you admire. Make someone's day.

Sometimes it takes so little to mean so much...

How do you do your part?
Do you agree or disagree? Weigh in.:-)

Imagephanlop88

A Guest Post by Rebecca Kiel

2011-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Host's note:
Today we have joining us Rebecca Kiel.
Rebecca is a writer, blogger, former psychotherapist, and member of Chicago Writers Association.
Here she discusses how being "driven" has allowed her to achieve her creative and personal goals. Please welcome her. Enjoy!

Whenever we returned from a family roadtrip, as soon as the car was off, my dad would yell, "Run around the house!” My brother and I would clamber out of the car and set off running as hard and as fast as we could. We would fly around the house, chasing, racing, releasing any energy pent up from being trapped in the car.

There was only one problem: the bush.

At the front corner of the house grew an enormous dogwood bush as tall as the garage. To run around the house we'd have to run all the way around the bush. And running around the bush always slowed us down. One fateful day, while my parents worked in some other part of the yard, I decided to do something about that bush. I got the longest tool from the garage my nine year-old frame could manage, and began cutting. When I was done, I had made a spectacular tunnel.

Problem solved.

This is how I've always been. Oh, there's a bush in your way? Trim it, make a tunnel! That century-old dresser full of clothes needs moving? Then take your 5 feet 3 inches and move that sucker! My husband teases me for my “driver” quality. My response in always the same: "I get things done."

It's true, this “driver” quality of mine has allowed me to write 85,000 words in a year and a half despite raising two young children, and relocating ten days before Christmas. I get things done.

While the wise saying goes, the only way out is through, I don't think this is always meant to be taken literally. Sometimes this driver part of me ends up in the maiming of fine greenery, or in me missing that it really is important for my son to show me the dirt he dug, or in me hurting myself (because I really have no business trying to move that antique dresser).

Stepping back or slowing down is a challenge for a tree-trimming-make-things-happen kind of gal who really wants this novel ready to send. As a writer, being a “driver” doesn’t always work.

Good writing takes time. It needs time to rise like a warm ball of bread dough. We all know there are times that our writing, to be its best, needs fresh eyes. It is difficult to look at something with fresh eyes if you’ve been staring at it every night for three hours.

The point is, there are times we need to walk away from our writing. Consider a moment of writer’s block or a stuck point in the plot a sign that it is time to do something different, even if for a couple hours. Step back and give yourselves the perspective that might save your manuscript from looking like it belongs on the grounds of Disneyland with my crescent-shaped dogwood.

So what to do about the desire to finish a book, build a writing career, or get on to the next project that is waiting in the gates like a thoroughbred? What do we do with the part of ourselves that doesn’t want to wait a week to review that query letter, but send it off and send it off now?

Thoughts?
Visit her site at:
http://rebeccakielpages.blogspot.com/

Image: dan

The Rhythm is Gonna Get You! How writers can use Poetry to hone their craft...

2011-06-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

“The rhythm is gonna’ get you!”---Gloria Estefan

Would you like to be a better “performer” on page? To have your words “wow” today’s reader? Do you have difficulty with structure and flow? Or perhaps your goal is to be brief but substantive in your expression.

If so, you might be surprised to discover that there is much that poetry offers to writers of all genres seeking to enhance writing skills and
become more profitable. And I should know.

Long before I earned a living at doling out advice to the lovelorn, penning profile pieces, or blogging, I published poetry. Lots of it. Some good---some not so much.
Still, this “former life” and creative license has often caused editors to comment positively on my flow, smooth transitions and facility with words. Appealing like “music to their ears.”

Which ultimately translates into greater interest, a greater acceptance rate and greater pay.
If you too want your work to stand out, require less revision, and say more with fewer words, here are a few tips and poetic techniques to enhance your efforts and your bottom line.

1. Keep it short and sweet. Word economy is crucial in poetry. Crafting couplets, quatrains and Haikus requires a specific amount of lines, and sometimes even syllables. You’ll find that adhering to structured formats will help you to maintain editors’ word counts and submission guidelines for projects like anthologies and interviews.
Need a quick refresher on poetic techniques and definitions?
Check out: www.poemofquotes.com/ and experiment. You’ll also find that poetry proficiency lends itself to writing for greeting card markets as well.

2. Read your work aloud. To render a specific feel, sound and impact, poets often read their words aloud to perfectly polish their pieces. You should too. It’s the best way to detect typos, awkward phrasing, and poor structure.

3. Make use of metaphors. A Metaphor is a figure of speech that implies a connection between two unlike things. For example, life is often compared to a journey, or to a road, or to a lesson. Metaphors do to writing what spices add to cooking: they enhance the overall experience and add a little “flavor“.

4. Exercise your creative license. Poets are known for distinguishing themselves by daring to be different. e.e. cummings was noted for using lower-cased letters and breaking capitalization rules, for instance. Though you should observe most rules for formal writing, there are a few that can be broken to your benefit. I sometimes use fragments, or end sentences with prepositions, when doing so makes sense and suits my creative purpose. Word!

5. Establish symmetry by varying sentence length. Sentences that are too short throughout your piece come off as choppy. Long ones can cause the reader to over labor and become lost. Use a combination of both for greater success in your word choices.

Follow these five tips and you’ll give your work a more competitive edge and increase your earnings. Charles Baudelaire perhaps said it best, “Always be a poet, even in prose.”

Image cjansuebsri

An Open Letter to My "Followers" & Readers...

2011-06-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

It's June. And I'm filled with Joy! Not only will I be blessed to celebrate my birthday in the next few weeks, this officially marks Pen and Prosper's two year anniversary in the Blogosphere. Yay!

Although I was a professional writer long before I jumped on the Blogging bandwagon, I admit that I find myself now, somewhat at a loss for words.

I can not begin to tell you how humbled, honored, grateful, and sometimes (even surprised) I have been at your collective support, inspiration and friendship.

I have been inspired by your words, we have laughed together, learned together, Emailed between posts, prayed during tough times and losses, followed each other's career moves, and even shed a tear or two. :-)
I feel blessed by our association.

I am particularly grateful for my first 12 people, (and you know who you are)who clicked the "Google Friend Connect" when I was just starting out and trying to feel my way through things.

For quite a while, I wrote without any validation or comments. I didn't know whether I was on the "write track" or the road to ruin. :-)
Seeing your faces on my Blog is what kept me going. Truthfully.

Although I may not have received any Blogging awards by noted organizations, I still feel very "accomplished" and successful for the community we have created here. Different faces. Different places. From across the globe.

You guys rock! I couldn't do this without you.
Of course, I don't know if I'll be up to the challenge of doing this for 2 more years; only time will tell.

But it's been a blast so far! And I look forward to our future journey.

XOXO

Jen

Image jscreationzs

4 UNexpected Things to Expect From Blogging!

2011-05-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Holiday...
As many of you are aware, next month, Pen and Prosper will celebrate two years in the Blogosphere! Yay!

So I thought it would be kinda' groovy to reflect upon what I've learned both here at my site, and also collectively through guest posting at some fabulous spots as well.

Whether you've been at it for two months, two years, or beyond. Here are a few surprising things you'll discover along the way.

1). Blogging is harder than it looks.
Whew! It really is folks. Though it doesn't take a Rocket Scientist to pull it off, it does take a great deal of creativity, commitment, patience and hard work to go the distance.

2). Some of the posts you devote a great deal of time and sweat equity to will produce the least results.
And shockingly some of the stuff you think will garner very little response ends up being a huge success. Right? Go figure.

3. Blogging is a great way to "win friends and influence people."
What started out as merely a recreational medium for expression, has morphed into endless opportunities for folks to make money, connect with great people, champion a cause, and an array of other perks and possibilities.

4. Blogging can become addictive!
Yep. It starts a little at a time. In small and subtle ways. Then before you know it, it begins to be as habit forming as dark chocolate, or the "soaps"! :-)

How about you? What about blogging has surprised you thus far? Any of these ring true for you?

Image Photostock

The Art of Blog Commenting-How to do it right and get results!

2011-05-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

“It’s not what you say, but how you say it.”

Some time ago, I received an email from one of my writing clients whose goal was to increase her fan base and her bottom line. She was frustrated that in the two years since her site launched, her growth was as slow as the country's economic recovery.

I had previously shared a few tried and true methods that had worked for me, (one being commenting on other blogs). She tried. It didn't work. So she found herself again seeking my assistance.

It's a common problem for many bloggers.
They mistakenly expect that if they create a cute site, post some pictures, and put out content on a weekly basis, they will build a following, a community of supporters and make money.
Not so.
Although these practices and principles can contribute to overall success, the savvy blogger recognizes that due to vast competition, he must employ a more strategic approach.
The premise, “If you build it, they will come” doesn't work in the virtual world, my friend.
This is where the art of blog commenting can make a difference.

Here's how to master it and improve your stats! Stat!

Understand blog culture.
Not all sites are created equally. Depending upon how involved the host is at social media sites, respective readers may be more inclined to “tweet” or “like” their content as opposed to commenting on it. Your comment might get ignored. Do your homework.

Recognize that some niches are typically more “active” than others, because of the subject matter and popularity.
Some examples would be personal self-development blogs, frugal living, and work and career sites.

Make a good first impression.
Double check to be certain that your words are spelled properly, and that your input is intelligent before you hit that “send comment” button.

Pay attention to what people pay attention to.
Here are a few things to consider. Does your blog have an interesting name? Is your comment unique or funny? Is your response accompanied by an attractive gravatar image?

Don't be a blog snob.
Many folks flock to the well-known, popular sites, because these spots typically have a lot of readers and prestige. But the down side is that they also may have 50-200 comments posted. As such, yours may or may not be read, depending upon where it falls in a sea of many voices.

Have the courage to take a position that is contrary to that of the majority, if you are so inclined.
You may not win a popularity contest by doing so, but I guarantee it'll get attention. In the words of singer Bonnie Raitt, “give em' somethin' to talk about.”

Keep it brief.
This is no time to “hog the microphone”. Say what you need to say then exit gracefully. Short and sweet is the key.

Increase your odds for increased traffic by making sure that your site is up to par and welcoming when others hop over from a referring site. If not, you have defeated your purpose.

Give it your best then give it some time.
Follow these sage tips and you‘ll have more traffic than the Eisenhower expressway during rush hour!

Comments? :-)

Image Idea go

Reality Check-Where are You With Your Writing Resolutions For This Year?

2011-05-25T04:03:00.000-07:00

My post yesterday at ProBlogger had me on high. Really, Y'all. :-)
Not only because of its reputation as a leader in its niche, but because it represented success on a more personal level.

I had tried my hand at guest posting there before and failed. So I kept trying.
Which made recent publication even sweeter because…

A). It showed that perseverance pays.
B). That accomplishment meant that I had one less goal to check off in my resolutions for this year.

Of course, there were plenty others that fell by the waist side: securing an agent for my book, winning a Writer’s Digest award…well, you get my drift.

When you put things into perspective, next week marks June--the midpoint of this year. Can you believe it?

Time seems to be flying by and leaving many of us scrambling to make things happen and make an impact .

As they say, “talk is cheap.”

Where are you, as it relates to your creative goals for 2011? Are you on point, or feeling pointless? :-)
What would you like to see happen?

Share and let’s keep each other accountable. Your turn…

Image: Salvatore Vuono

Teachable Moments - Lessons on Writing From Celebrity Apprentice

2011-05-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

Guest Post by Karen Lange

The Celebrity Apprentice grabs me every year about midway through the season. It always surprises me a bit, as television viewing usually gets trumped (no pun intended!) by my first loves - reading and writing.

Pondering this, I realized that I enjoy watching the challenges play out between the celebrities. Their interaction is a fascinating study in human character. The tasks are interesting and provide ideas, as my mind is always on alert for a different angle for my writing. It is refreshing too, to see the importance placed on charitable giving in a world wrapped up in the “me, myself, and I” mentality.

If you aren’t familiar with the show, Donald Trump invites celebrities to compete and raise money for charity. Trump divides the group into two teams and assigns a task that focuses on product marketing. The teams choose a project manager and put together an advertising package. Mr. Trump and other professionals choose the winning team, whose manager wins money for their charity. A member of the losing team is fired. Teams are whittled down to two celebrities who face off in the final episode for the title of Celebrity Apprentice.

While contemplating my interest in the show, it struck me that there were parallels between The Celebrity Apprentice and writing. See if you agree.

1) It’s all about the angles. The week’s task is the same for both groups. Each group, however, pulls it off using a different approach. Similarly, we have the opportunity to put our unique spin on our work. Writing a piece on the Civil War? Why not write it through the eyes of the women and children left at home? Pitching a travel article? Highlight out of the way, yet fabulous destinations.

2) Don’t whine. Not only is it unbecoming, it is immature and unprofessional. When the limo whisks the newly fired celebrity away, who earns your respect, the celebrities who point fingers and complain? Or the ones who say they are grateful for TCA experience or comment on "how cool is it to be fired by Mr. Trump?” Editors and clients don’t want griping or excuses. Writers who talk and work like an adult get more work.

3) Be respectful. This should be a given, but when emotions run high, judgment can be impaired. Was NeNe Leakes’ angry tirade at Star Jones productive? On the contrary, it may have cost NeNe’s team the win. The old adage, “Do unto others…” goes a long way in business. Respect and good etiquette are professional. Period.

4) Learn from mistakes. To help determine which two make it to the finale, Trump has the 2008, 2009, and 2010 TCA winners interview the last four celebrities. Trump weighs his decision heavily on these interviews. The celebs who were cut may be rethinking what they said during this process. Once those words were launched, though, there was no taking them back. Real life offers few do-overs, but there’s valuable insight gained for next time around.

5) Everything’s better with editing. The creators of TCA wade through lengthy footage before an episode airs. Editing provides a balance for an appealing show. Thankfully, we can tap into good resources such as word processing programs, books and articles, editors, and critique partners to polish our work.

6) Aim high. The stars look to win challenges and ultimately the title of The Celebrity Apprentice. This year’s final two – Marlee Matlin and John Rich – made it that far because they set their eyes on the prize. Their determination and hard work paid off. We too, can set high, yet realistic goals by being teachable and polishing our skills to reap first-rate results.

We may never gain quite the fame as The Celebrity Apprentice gang but we can have a rewarding and successful writing career. Are you up for the challenge?

Thoughts? Which lesson resonates most for you?

BIO:
Karen Lange is a writer, blogger, and online writing instructor at the Coffeehouse for Writers. Her articles have appeared in parenting, educational, and writing publications. Visit her blog at karenelange.blogspot.com.

Image Michal Marcol

Have You Heard? May's Month-End Announcements...

2011-05-22T05:16:00.000-07:00

I hope you guys are enjoying a great week, and an awesome spring season so far!

Here's the 4-1-1 on what's happening with yours truly and here at Pen and Prosper:

1. Pen and Prosper will celebrate its 2 year anniversary in June! Yay! Look for some exciting guest posts, a contest or two, and other celebratory activities.

2. I'm so geeked to announce that I have a guest post scheduled to appear at ProBlogger.net next Wednesday. If you get a chance, stop by and check it out. I'd love to get your input!

3. It's not too late! Coffeehouseforwriters.com will present a great line-up of exciting, interactive classes online Monday, May 23rd. Don't miss an opportunity to hone your craft and earn more cash! Classes are designed to fit your schedule and your budget. What are you waiting for? :-)

4. Thank you for your patience. Due to tech glitches beyond my control, the formatting here is still off. I'm working on correcting it.

What's going on your way? Anything newsworthy or noteworthy?

Image: Michal Marcol

6 Ways to Bounce Back After a Bad Blogging (or writing) Episode!

2011-05-19T06:53:00.000-07:00

It happens to the best of us. The worst happens. For me, it was a simple task to tweak my blog and make it more appealing to give it a more competitive edge.

Two lines. I tell you, just two lines.
And what should have taken two minutes took about three hours. GEE WHIZ.
“I could’a had a V-8“!

I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs, but feared my neighbors would call 9-1-1 thinking I was crazed, or had been attacked.

So, for the purpose of venting and edification, allow me to elaborate.

I had a guest post appearing at a few highly-ranked sites this week, and simply wanted to make sure that if the link to my blog created a few more “new eyes” and potential fans, I would be up to par.

I kind of liken it to when visitors and family members come to your home. You know the deal: you make sure you tidy the washroom, have all the essentials, infuse the air with aromatherapy candles---that kind of stuff.

In and out was my objective.
Especially in that my to-do list was in need of getting done.
To my horror, it was like a blogging episode from hell.
Can’t say just why, but the Blogger software, or platform went all askew. The formatting was looking fiercely wrong, and no matter how much I revisited, revised, ranted, and wrestled with the thought of tossing my laptop out of the window, I was stuck. Nothing was going right. Simple changes that I had made many times before on my blogs, as well as clients’ was just not happening.

If you blog recreationally, it’s perhaps not a biggie, and depending upon your topic and tone, folks may be a bit more forgiving. But, if you blog professionally, (as I do), it can have different consequences, as both potential clients and “fans” who view your blog as a blueprint for their personal success, can come to question your ability and credibility. After all, appearance matters. And you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.

Hopefully, it won’t happen to you, but if it does, here’s how to bounce back from a bad blogging (or writing) episode and still score winning results!

1. Don’t retreat, reload. I’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating. The more you freak out and feel frustrated, the more Murphy’s Law prevails and spoils your day. Don’t let the “forces” force you to give in! I fixed a big bowl of Captain Crunch, refocused, and started again.

2. Write a Blog post or article about it. Perhaps it will help someone to troubleshoot a similar problem and earn you cash. For example, when I had a negative experience, some months ago, with customer service provided through tech support, I wrote an article entitled, “5 Tips to better customer service” and earned fifty bucks and a published piece at WorkAwesome.com.

3. Shift gears. Instead of hiding under the covers, or escaping through your favorite soaps, make needed phone calls, answer Emails, do research, or jot down article ideas. Stay the course. After all, no output means no income.

4. Have realistic expectations. Technology has flaws! There, I’ve said it. With all its capabilities, it still has flaws, limitations, and drawbacks. Keep it in mind to move forward. Make sure to have hand-written notes for back up, as well as other means of retaining your work.

5. See the humor in it. It can be a challenge. But you’re up to it!

6. Cut yourself some slack. No matter how hard any of us try, perfection is impossible. Excellence, instead should be our daily goal!

Keep these six tips in mind to make the most of any writing day, and to earn the most for your efforts.

How do you bounce back? Is it a cup of tea? Wine? Meditation? Prayer? A break? Curious...
Image digitalart

What's Your "Connection" Style? This Inquring Mind Wants to Know!

2011-05-17T04:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of doing a guest post at FeelGooder.com, and it was a groovy experience.
The piece was entitled, "Why a good relationship should be on your "to-do" list."
If you have an opportunity, and are so inclined, stop by and tell me what you think.

Anyhow...

That post got me to thinking.
The reason?
What I find is that when it comes to blog interaction, most people have a certain "connection" style.

In other words, some folks think it's sweet to Tweet. Others like to engage in conversation by posting a comment, while some are likely to show love through FaceBook sharing.

No style is right or wrong, or categorically good or bad.
But there are a few advantages and disadvantages as I see it.

Here's my 4-1-1- on the pros and cons of certain response styles.

COMMENTING---Given my druthers, I prefer commenting on most blog posts that I read and enjoy. Why? Call me old school, but I still dig a good conversation and the exchange of diverse ideas.

The Pros- Commenting leaves a "virtual trail" back to your site. It also is more personal, in my opinion. Not to mention, the number of comments is a metric by which many judge blog success.

The Con- It typically takes more time.

TWEETING
The Pros- Tweeting is fast and furious! It allows work to be read and tapped into by broader audiences, and builds fan bases.

The Con- It's less personal, and it really doesn't allow for individualized input. And to be honest, people have even admitted "Tweeting" posts that they've never actually read, just because it was the quick and popular thing to do.

FACEBOOK POSTING
The Pros- FaceBook is one of the most popular social media forums, which means that info posted can be seen by many eyes, and folks can become familiar with you and your work.

The Con- Not everybody is on FaceBook. And those that are, don't necessarily read it every day or every week. I myself am guilty. :-)

So, what about you? What's your blog response preference and why?

Image Danilo Rizutti

Pen and Prosper Picks for the Best in Blogs & (Websites)! The Fab 4...

2011-05-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

When it comes to surfing the Net, I've earned the equivalent of frequent traveler miles. In this week's adventures, I've discovered some online destinations that were real gems that I think you'll truly treasure.

As mentioned before, we all know about the "big name blogs", as they are often Tweeted, talked about in social media forums, hailed, and held up as examples for us to use as blueprints for success. And many should be!

Still, there are also some pretty impressive sites, that perhaps do not promote themselves as much, or are not part of popular cliques, that deserve mention, as they are making an impact as well.

So, here for their well-deserved 15 minutes of fame are my top picks for May, 2011.
Please visit, follow, comment, or show link love as you see fit.

And also, don't forget to let me know what you think either before or after your visit, (as some may be on your list already as well).

Enjoy!

1. FeelGooder.com
Darren Rowse does it again. The creator of the ever-popular ProBlogger, has launched this site to address a vast array of topics--from relationships, to social good, to health, to finances. This spot is hot. I also love the inviting bright, beautiful, design colors of lime, white and baby blue. In a day and age where many of us are frayed from having too much to do with too few resources, it's nice to be able to tap into tools that will help us to enjoy a better quality of life and uplift our spirits! That's what FeelGooder is all about.

2. Connect With Your Teens
What a great, novel idea! As the name implies, this site helps to bridge the generational divide by helping parents to learn the need-to-know info about pop culture, teen interests and technology. And by doing so, improves communications and relations with today's teens.

3. She's Self-employed
She’s Self-Employed is for “chicks who write their own checks.” In the spirit of “you’ve come a long way baby,” the creator, P.S. Jones, has created a site that empowers, enlightens and entertains. Fierce females who have ventured the entrepreneurial path will find resources, support and useful information to make the most of their journey.

4. Doing Too Much
You’re gonna’ love this. Posts are short but substantive, and there’s something for everyone. Everything from how to remember names, to goal setting, to quick fixes for fashion emergencies.

Thoughts? Who's on your fave four list?

Image seaskylab

5 Ways Writing for Free Can Get You Paid!

2011-05-09T05:48:00.000-07:00

Many seasoned scribes turn their noses up at the prospect of “no pay” projects.
They consider “pro bono” a no-no.
In fact, it’s a bone of contention addressed on writers’ bulletin boards and popular blogs across the Web.
After all, as “professionals,” these writers feel they’ve paid their dues and expect to be compensated accordingly.
Perhaps you’re one of them.

As a veteran freelancer who has successfully earned thousands of dollars for hundreds of articles, commentary pieces, essays, and even verse, I can attest that writing for free can indeed be profitable. That is, if you know the unwritten rules of the “road less traveled.”

As a point of reference, other creatives “labor in love” to establish themselves in their careers, particularly in the initial stages. It’s not unheard of. For example, best-selling author, Michael Baisden worked for free as a radio host for Kiss-FM in New York, because they originally didn’t have a budget for him, and later became a huge success.

With this in mind, here are five often overlooked ways writing for free can earn you cash for your efforts and elevate your career.

1. It helps to build your portfolio. Editors seeking to add to their stable of writers often request writing samples and resumes for a reason. Your publishing credits and types of publications for which you’ve written speak to your versatility, skill set, and experience. The more you’ve written, the more likely you’ll be hired to write more.

2. It helps to hone your craft. A writer buddy of mine recently shared how her various free creative projects allowed her to discover her “voice”, increase her knowledge base, and sharpen her skills. She’s now a paid (and popular) columnist for her city’s newspaper. Practice makes perfect.

3. It establishes important contacts and networking relationships. As they say, sometimes getting that lucky break can be a matter of not what you know, but who you know. Consider that an editor with “connections” whom you’ve enjoyed a good working relationship may be in a position to refer you to other projects with future pay.

4. It gets your foot in the door. Sometimes a publication that can’t pay you in the beginning, will “come up with the funds” if you’re able to establish your value by the quality of your work and your level of commitment. Here‘s a case in point. One of my first unpaid publishing credits, (a commentary piece I wrote for a popular singles’ publication), ended up impressing the editor so much, that she wanted to see more of my work. She “officially” hired me a few months down the line as a contributing writer, and has been one of my longest and most profitable gigs to date.

5. It helps to increase your confidence---which leads to enhanced perception.
Let’s face it: whether it’s cooking, dancing, or dating, the more experience you get under your belt, the “bigger” you feel. And repeated bylines have the same effect. The better you feel about yourself, the more you’re able to project that “I can” attitude and convince others to have confidence in you too.

Now that you know how it works, here are a few strategies to work it!

1. Keep in mind that writing for free should not be indefinite, but have time limits. Give it a deadline. Say maybe two or three months with a particular publication. At that time, consider approaching the editor with your track record and your desire to earn pay for your say. After all, you never know until you’ve tried.

2. Have a strategy. Target the most impressive publications if you’re going to write for free. Sometimes it’s a matter of perception. For example, an unpaid commentary piece you’ve had published in Newsweek or L.A. Times would mean more to your career than earning 10 bucks from a virtually obscure or new publication.

Approached correctly, writing for free can increase your visibility, your confidence and your bottom line!

Thoughts?
Would you write for free? What criteria do you use to decide?
Image photographer worradmu

A Mother's Day Tribute-Guest Post by Karen Lange

2011-05-07T04:31:00.000-07:00

M is for the million things she gave me.
O means only that she's growing old.
T is for the tears were shed to save me.
H is for her heart of purest gold.
E is for her eyes, with love light shining.
R means right, and right she'll always be.

Song lyrics by: Howard Johnson, 1915

I can still picture my Mom, with a twinkle in her eye and a hint of a smile, singing this to my sisters and me. Why? Well, you see, there had been a bit of grumbling over some chores, and perhaps an argument brewing among the ranks.

For the record, Mom was not the type to throw guilt trips on us. She was smart and funny, and cared about us enough to teach us right from wrong. I think maybe Mom’s invisible lyrics to the song went something like this:

“Get moving girls! I am your Mother; this is but a small task I ask of you today. P.S. Someday you will have your own children and understand.”

Mom was right. As the mother of three grown children, I get it. Boy, do I get it. So this Mother’s Day, I thought I’d use the song for inspiration to pen a small tribute to Mom and the things she taught us.

M – is for memories, big and small.

O – is for others, to show kindness and compassion.

T – to treasure family times together.

H – to have a heart that loves.

E – is for every little thing that she did.

R – to remember the legacy left in four daughters.

Thank you, Mom. I cannot repay you for all you did for me, but I can be forever grateful. You may be gone from us on this earth, but never in our hearts. Happy Mother's Day. I love you.

Karen Lange is a writer, blogger, and online writing instructor at Coffeehouse for Writers. Stop by her blog at karenelange.blogspot.com, she’d love to see you!

To listen to or learn the history of the song, visit: http://parlorsongs.com/issues/2000-5/2000-5.php

Image Carlos Porto

Video Or No? The Pros & Cons of Video Blogging

2011-05-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

Lights, camera, action!
There's a new phenomenon emerging on the blogging scene.
One that not everybody is embracing, but interesting nonetheless.

It's called Video Blogging, or Vblogs.
Now, I'm no expert at this technical stuff.
Heck, truth be told, I not too long ago found out how to do text messaging on my cell phone. And I was tickled pink. Word! :-)

Anyhow, Video Blogging, at least from my understanding, essentially is another interactive medium that allows bloggers to "engage" their audiences with video messages as opposed to text-type posts.

In other words, it's like you're watching them on T.V.
Pretty progressive, huh?

Seems that many of my favorite sites have taken the plunge. Some I've enjoyed. Some, not so much.

And, as with all things, there are inherent advantages and disadvantages.
Today, let's discuss a few of them.

Here's the 4-1-1 as I see it:

ADVANTAGES:

1. It allows the blog host to present another side of their online personality. You get to see the "person behind the words" and get a better feel for who they are through their tone, sincerity, and body language.
Right?

2. It provides variety and can serve as a visual aide of sorts. It can be particularly useful if you're trying to demonstrate a task or teach a skill via your blog.

DISADVANTAGES:

1. In my opinion, it can magnify communication flaws. In other words, if you have a habit of saying "ah" and "um" and stumbling when you speak, (and let's face it, um, most of us do), it can take away from an otherwise "smooth" image.
Consider this.
When we write our blog posts, we can view it, edit it, take all the messed up stuff out, and ultimately shine. Not so much with video blogging.

2. Sometimes the presentation comes across as unnatural or awkward. Or like a low budget movie. It all depends on who is doing it, what's being done, and a few other variables.

And while we're on the topic, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that one of my blog followers and colleagues just wrote a book on this very topic!
It's called the ABCs of Live Blogging. I hope to get my hands on it soon.

In the meantime, check it out here: The Write Design

Okay readers, your turn. How do you feel about Video Blogging? Thumbs up or thumbs down? Have you tried it?

Image suphakit73

Blog "Hecklers"? 6 Ways to Show Class When Comments are Crass!

2011-05-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

Guest Post by: Alexis Bonari

No one is immune to criticism. By the very nature of our occupations, bloggers, writers, and other creative types perhaps know this best of all. We hope that when we hit the publish button, something miraculous will happen and nobody—nobody—will hurl a single rotten tomato.

But when it hits, it hits hard. Every time.
So, in those moments we hear and feel nothing but our own pulse in our ears and the blood rushing to our cheeks, how do we deal with criticism?

1. Count to ten.
Mama was right about some things. Shut your eyes, step away from your computer, and walk away. Go walk the dog, take a shower while blasting angry music and belting the lyrics at the top of your lungs, and then chill out with some yoga.

2. Suspend the urge to get defensive. Remember that the same thing that made the critical remark so hurtful—that it was made publicly in a comment thread, a forum, or a blog post—is true for you, too. Your impulse to angrily respond, should you choose to act on it, will be public. This will reflect poorly on you. Even if your response is witty and snarky, someone will be unhappy to see it.

3. Remember that there’s a person behind the name "Anonymous". Nobody walks around with a digital blur for a face. Remember that there may be a reason why unhappy commenters are unhappy. Maybe they just got laid off from work. Maybe a friend of theirs was diagnosed with a serious illness. Think about the times you said things that were hurtful and the reasons you did it. Try to find a link between yourself and the critic.

4. Glean nuggets of truth from the criticism. We can either be victims or volunteers. Even if the criticism was made in poor taste, there might have been a point that stood to be made. Seize the opportunity to not only take the high road and maintain your poise, but also learn how to improve your craft.

5. Thank them for their criticism. The best thing to do when someone’s being nasty is to smile at them. It’s disarming. It’s humbling. It can be frustrating, but anything the other party does in poor taste afterward just comes across as unnecessary and mean-spirited. Few other critics will want to jump on that bandwagon. So, humbly thank them for the criticism and try to initiate a civil and honest dialogue. The second part is what keeps it feeling like you’re rolling over and showing your belly.

6. Some people just don’t want to play nice. That’s not your problem. It’s theirs. It’s best to ignore them at that point and move on with your day. More than likely, you have a hundred positive remarks on your blog for every random, nasty comment. If you’re still having trouble cooling off, force yourself to smile. Even a fake smile releases the same chemicals in your brain as a real one!

Bio: Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and researcher for College Scholarships, where recently she’s been researching scholarships for returning students as well as scholarships for social workers. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Okay, spill the beans. Readers, how do you deal with negativity and name calling regarding your creative efforts? Anybody have any experience in this area?

Image:photographer photostock

Quick Announcements....

2011-04-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Rebecca Kiel and Barb Hodges. Both were selected for April's Poetry Month Comments Contest!

Please Email me @ Gemsjen@yahoo.com with your mailing address to receive your free copies of Yasmin's newly-released poetry book.

Coffeehouseforwriters.com will begin its new session of exciting, interactive online classes on May 23rd. Popular offerings include: Boot camp for writers, How to write a column for pay, Blogging for pleasure or profit, and many more! Credit cards and Paypal accepted. Register today and you could be learning and earning in time to finance that summer vacation!

I'm seeking guest bloggers for the upcoming months, (May and June). Particularly Mothers' Day Tributes. Please see guidelines listed in the right margin, under "pages".

Have a wonderful and productive writing week!

Stuff That "Made My Day" This Week!

2011-04-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, come clean. No matter where you are on the freelance writing spectrum, chances are that some days you simply question your “success” and your sanity. True?

You contemplate, meditate, cogitate, on Shakespeare’s infamous question---”to be or not to be?” That is the question.

Either you wake up on the wrong side of the bed, or you start off great, but you get a biting rejection from an editor, who obviously didn’t get the memo that you are indeed a human being with feelings behind those words. Hello? :-)
Or maybe it’s a client that doesn’t pay on time. Or perhaps a sinking feeling that everybody else has more on the ball than you do when it comes to the freelancing game.

Anybody with me here? :-) “Don’t it make your brown eyes blue?”

Well, my week started off in that direction. Don’t know why exactly. But I felt I wasn’t “achieving” enough. That I didn’t have enough income based on my output. That I was overwhelmed and underappreciated. Yada, yada, yada. You get the script.

And though I admit that it doesn’t happen often, I too have days where I host my own pity party. Yep. I do, y’all. But that’ll be our little secret.

Anyhow, to make a long story short, without much effort on my part, things started shaping up like Kirstie Alley!

Here’s the stuff that made my day this week, turned my direction around, and merited mention!

1. I got a new Pen and Prosper follower. No matter how many I get, I’m always pleased and tickled pink to add to the mix. A special welcome and shout-out to all of you that joined recently. I appreciate your time, interest and support. Please feel free to jump in and comment. I dig the exchange and the energy!

2. Pen and Prosper was referenced in one of my favorite, popular sites for freelancers! And I quote: “When veterans like Jennifer Brown Banks speaks, I think we should listen.” See it all at : diaryofamadfreelancer.com/

3. I had some really good shopping days, where I scored some household and gift items dirt cheap! And what woman doesn’t love that? I also made some more lovely gift baskets that I'm thinking of donating to local charities.

4. I was able to bounce back and realize the benefits of a new virus protection computer membership program that I recently signed up for. I was surfing the Net, (actually Googling for some of my listings), when I accidentally clicked on a site that rendered the following warning: “this site contains files that may be harmful to your computer.” All of a sudden, all kinds of weird stuff started to pop up! But, luckily I didn’t have to sweat it, as the situation was rectified almost immediately through tech support. Yay!

Okay, that’s it for me for now. How about you? Anything you can relate to here? Anything that made your day this week? Do tell…

IMAGE Photographer domdeen

What You Need to Know About Anchor Text...

2011-04-27T05:33:00.000-07:00

Guest Post by Scott Spjut

Scott Spjut is a writer and editor who has been featured in various magazines, newspapers and websites - including Newsweek, the Washington Post, CBS News and the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Scott currently works with Professional Marketing International helping people change their lives.

Without hyperlinks, the power and effect of the Internet would be greatly diminished. Often referred to just as “links,” hyperlinks are the text, image, or other feature which – when clicked on or otherwise accessed – directs the user to another place on the website, another website, or some other location.

In the instances where text is used as a hyperlink, the specific text utilized to display that link is called anchor text. The author is able to decide which text they would like highlighted or otherwise set apart in order to distinguish it is a link. Most often, a link will be underlined and will be a different color (usually blue) but most content management systems will allow you to customize those features.

There are several purposes to anchor text. Firstly, the anchor text should give the reader a good idea of what they’ll be seeing if they click the link. That highlighted text will give them a brief insight as to what they author wants them to see.
Secondly, from an SEO perspective, anchor text is one of the many factors which contribute to search engine results pages. If search engines see that various websites are each linking to the same website using the same anchor text, the search engine will likely rank that website higher when people search for that phrase.

Because of these factors, there is some strategy when selecting anchor text. The most important factor should always be the user’s experience. If they’re going to be confused or surprised when clicking on that specific link, it’s probably best to either place the link elsewhere or present it differently. Keep the SEO benefits in mind, but pay more attention to how it will affect your readers.

IMAGE idea go

Six Sure-fire Ways to Stay Motivated in 2011!

2011-04-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

Some months ago, while browsing the Writing For Dollars database for creative inspiration, I was pleasantly surprised. I discovered that out of the top ten “most popular articles,” four of my pieces ranked in the top 10! Imagine that.

Well I was as proud as a peacock. I was as tall as the Empire State Building.
I was…let’s just say I was totally geeked!

So much so, that I quickly proceeded to print out a hardcopy of the webpage to include in my marketing materials to potential writing clients.

Three weeks later, in need of a little motivation and affirmation to get me going on new projects, I revisited the site to marvel at my magnificence.

Guess what? I had fallen off the list.
That’s right, in that brief period of time, not even one of my pieces remained in the top ranking. Nada. I had lost my lofty standing and bragging rights.

Jennifer who? I laughed at the valuable lesson I learned: success is fleeting.
So if you want to stay motivated, stay in the “black”, and enjoy the spoils of writing long-term, heed the following six pointers:

NEVER REST ON YOUR LAURELS---If you want to experience longevity in this business, and go beyond being a one-hit wonder, keep going! Always keep your eye on the prize—amidst rejection and the rigors of everyday life. Though I don’t believe that it’s necessary to pen thoughts to paper each day, you should devote consistent effort to honing your craft and marketing your talents. Remember, complacency can kill cash flow and dreams.

SET LONG AND SHORT TERM GOALS--- Where would you like to be in five months? How about 5 years from now? Plan then pursue. Goals help to measure growth and guide our path. Remember to reward yourself for periodic victories along the way.

COMPETE---Not in a dog-eat-dog kind of way, but in a way that allows you to use others’ success as a benchmark for your own. Do you have any writers whose work you admire? Be inspired to new heights.

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS---Job dissatisfaction is at an all time high. Additionally, studies show that the average worker changes careers an average of four times in an employment span. What a joy it is to be a writer and to get paid for something we love to do. Wouldn’t you agree?

JOIN A WRITERS’ GROUP---There’s nothing quite like the inspiration and support of other souls who enjoy and understand our life’s work.

My involvement in various arts organizations over the years has allowed me to form important alliances and avail myself to greater resources than I ever would have flying solo. And you can experience the same benefits too. Look online for listings in your area, or sign up for the many national organizations and bulletin boards available via the Internet.

KEEP A FILE OF FAN MAIL OR SUCCESS STORIES---Whether it’s in the form of YAHOO folders, file cabinet hard copies, or even letters that you pin to a bulletin board that you view each day in your office space. Remind yourself of all that you’ve achieved, and all that’s possible to those who dare to believe!

…Because when all is said and done, nothing succeeds like success!

How do you stay motivated amidst the madness? Do you agree or disagree with these pointers?

IMAGE: Photographer dan