Lost in Translation
Still sporting the itch this afternoon, so no posts about queries. Tomorrow…

What You Won’t Read About in the Ads:

– The more paperwork and legal loops a freelancer must jump through, the less the pay will be.

– The more emails that pass between you without any mention of pay, the smaller the chance it will be worth your time.

– The more you’re required to do/have in terms of education, experience, published pieces, etc., the less likely you’re going to receive payment that matches those requirements.

– Phrases like “This is a start-up position”, “Easy work for the experienced writer”, “College grads welcome”, “Get in on the ground floor of this exciting opportunity!”, “Your work published for free!” and “Steady work for the right person” usually mean you’ll be lucky to get any money at all.

Read the ads closely. Eventually, you’ll see the pattern. You’ll be able to spot the ones who want something for nothing.

Interesting conversation on one of the forums today. Someone was awarded a gig, but she wasn’t sure it was worth taking as the “start-up, therefore no money up front” line was used. She’s right to doubt – that’s a deadend. If you follow one like that, you’re going to bust your hump for no cash. What’s more, you’re going to be spending your time working for free instead of actively seeking actual paying jobs. Yes, you’ll get clips, but why not just house those on your own site? Any time someone is set to make money off a venture, that venture should also pay its contributors. If not, don’t do it. Just don’t. You’ll be kicking yourself later.