What’s on the iPod: Life by The Avett Brothers
Starting tomorrow: Writers Worth Month: Join us tomorrow and all month for the 6th Annual Writers Worth Month celebration! Read inspiring advice and posts by writers just like you. Plus, there’s still time to contribute your own thoughts. Get in touch via lwbean AT gmail and let’s talk.
After a nice few days off, I jumped back into work yesterday. I started some new projects, updated a blog, and started another project. It was noon before I knew it, and the afternoon sailed by almost as fast. Much to do this week, this coming month. Writers Worth starts tomorrow, and like last year, my writer friends have stepped up to offer their own perspectives on how you can build the confidence in your own self-worth and help your career improve.
But in the meantime, let’s finish off this month properly with our monthly assessment.
Queries:
There weren’t any queries going out this month. There were too many assignments for me to want to put another deadline into the mix. The queries from March paid off big time, as did the relationships built with editors who contacted me with assignments. I do have some ideas from previous months that I’ll rework in May and send out again.
LOIs:
I sent just a half-dozen well-targeted letters this month. Of them, I received two notes back, one which has turned into a collaborative relationship. The other is still in an information-gathering stage, so it’s tough to say just yet what will come of it.
Social media:
I connected with 20 new people this month, a few of whom I’ve had some nice conversations with. I love that there’s a camaraderie in my chosen specialty. I truly don’t care if work ever comes from it; I just enjoy knowing people.
Existing clients:
All of my work this month has come from my regular pool of clients. I reached out to a few, but the work came from those who got in touch directly.
New clients:
No new clients this month, though I do have two contacts from the past who want to talk after the trade show this week. I’m still bummed I couldn’t go to the show, but I’m pleased to have long-time contacts wanting to work together.
Earnings:
So much work from so few clients; four clients have helped me come inches from my targeted earnings goal. Because I had a week off due to my mom’s visit, I couldn’t get the other project done in time to push me over the top earnings-wise. Still, one client accounts for three article projects, the last of which will be done this coming month. With a wedding coming up and expenses I’m sure I’ll see, it’s nice to spread out the income a little.
Bottom line:
My relationship-building work is paying off. Much of my work was in the form of clients contacting me, which is always great. It was mostly magazine work too, which is surprising. However, now that the trade show is about to wrap up, I hope to get back in touch with clients who have other projects to complete. I love magazine work, but I like having a little variety.
I’ll continue my marketing efforts in the new industry area as that’s getting me a bit more traction these days.
How did you do this month?
What worked? What didn’t?
What surprised you?
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