I have done freelance writing for 26 years, mostly non fiction. In browsing articles and such about ways to earn additional $$ several things keep coming up. Advertorials, fliers, brochures. Those I can do. There's also (usually with "take this course for $500") promises of great wealth in writing business letters...the ones like "I needed a new kitchen so in a few hours earned the money for it writing a business letter". I'm sure that exists but not for most and not without an 'in'. So I'm wondering - for the average business owner - do you use writers? For what kind of projects? What kind of business do you have - and/or what kind of business would be most likely to use outside help? I'm looking at options with another goal long term - but want to be realistic too. I haven't found such "opportunities" and am not sure if I'm looking for unicorns or if I just haven't found them yet. Feedback and suggestions appreciated!!
2006-06-29 04:38:22 · 3 answers · asked by Jan H 5 in Business & Finance ➔ Advertising & Marketing
Small to medium advertising agencies use freelancers all the time, especially if you are a subject matter expert.
The same goes for medium to large businesses that have in-house marketing departments. They can get overloaded, for example, during trade show season for their industry. Learn the cycles of the businesses you will be approaching.
The problem dealing with small businesses directly is that they typically lack marketing experience and they will make tactical decisions without a sound communications strategy.
Develop your own promotional mailer and make it really distinctive. Send to production managers in agencies (they keep the list of trusted resources) and marketing managers in corporate environments. Follow up with calls and a parallel email campaign.
Good luck. You can do it.
2006-06-29 07:00:23 · answer #1 · answered by Joe D 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I write fundraising letters for small organizations that I have become a part of or affiliated with in some way. Also, you're on the right track with small businesses, remember, they also need press releases and other marketing documents - product descriptions, new venture announcements. Many foundations have monthly or quarterly magazines they provide and often need researchers and writers. That may be an option. Hope that helps.
2006-06-29 04:43:38 · answer #2 · answered by Resume Guru 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Consider writing ebooks. Good information on this site.
2006-06-29 06:16:28 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋