Tips for Freelance Journalists

Author: Karen Miles, Freelance Journalist
Karen Miles is a freelance Magazine Editor and journalist (and co-Director of Youth 2 Youth!).

The first 'rule' for any freelancer is never, ever miss a deadline - your credibility is on the line.

Generate your own ideas - be a fountain of story ideas for the publications you're targeting, don't just rely on them to give you work.

When meeting a client, dress like you're the Editor, not the freelancer who works from home.

Always refer to your workspace at home as your office, never say to a client "I'll call you when I get home"!

As a freelancer, your workflow is often like a roller coaster - when you're not so busy, make the most if it and relax. Don't fall into the trap of comparing yourself to people who work 9 to 5 office hours, you're a professional no matter what hours you work.That's the freedom of freelancing!

Get yourself some professional business cards printed and maybe even some stationery.

Join a business network or three. Working from home can get lonely, and networks are also a great opportunity to land new clients and learn new business skills.

If you're lacking motivation or just having a bad day - take a break. Even though we're not 'artists' in the traditional sense, you still need to take time out occasionally to recharge your creative batteries.

The best way to generate more business for yourself is through word of mouth. You are only ever as good as your last assignment so always give 110% effort - in fact, over deliver and the client will hire you again. And hopefully recommend you to other businesses!

When you send your resume to a publication, always follow it up with a phone call two days later. Don't be scared, they're just people too!

To get your foot in the door of a publication you'd really like to work for - donate your time, but never call it work experience - that's for Yr 10 students, you're a professional. Contact the publication and say you're looking to build your skills in a particular area and you were wondering if you could work free of charge with the Features Editor, for example, for one week or every Monday for a month etc, to add to your skill base. Once you get your foot in the door and they like your attitude and work, you'll be physically there to pick up extra work that may come up, and by putting a face to your name, you're more likely to be considered for freelance work over any old cv that comes across their desk. Then, add the publication's name to your resume - future employers don't need to know the work wasn't paid!

Final tip…always be yourself and choose work that rocks your world. You may have to take on some uninspiring assignments at first to pay the bills, but always let your passion, interests and ethics guide your choice for the publications you work for and the kinds of articles you write.

Good luck!

'Copyright 2003 Youth 2 Youth'

Disclaimer: This article is for your information, but it may not apply to or be suitable for your situation, so seek professional advice. Youth 2 Youth cannot be held liable for anything resulting from how you use the information provided in this article.