Comments on: What Shade of Gray Are You?

By: Cathy Miller

Cathy Miller — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 18:51:42 +0000

While most of my business is healthcare/insurance industry-related, I colored outside the lines when I started writing for a global logistics management company. I've also dabbled in bios and resumes.

I hope everyone has a happy, healthy & prosperous 2013 - no matter how you color. :-)

By: Paula

Paula — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 18:26:47 +0000

I specialize and generalize. In other words, the bulk of my work comes from one area, but I don't limit myself to that one industry. I'd die of boredom if I did.

My goal for 2013 is to expand some sub-specialties and continue seeking new markets.

Merry Christmas, Lori. Happy Holidays to all. And to everyone here in the Midwest: good luck shoveling!

By: Joseph Hayes

Joseph Hayes — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:19:01 +0000

My shade of gray is very evident in my hair. I think I do more editorial writing than a lot of the folks who gather at your feet, Lori, so my pitch is a bit different. But food and travel are my mainstays (I know, poor baby) and 90% of my business it from my own efforts, the rest coming from referrals and the small amount of clients who find me online – yes, it does happen.
Anyway … happy holidays!

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 15:53:02 +0000

As you know, I generalize. I can write about almost anything, and I will, as long as I don't find it ethically unpalatable. I move between all kinds of writing.

I'm still trying to find my ideal client -- I would say, good communicator, interesting work, pays on time.

This past year, as I was disentagling myself from a long term client, I took a huge financial hit -- part of why I had to cut off that client. I am in the process of doing a new brochure and going after new clients.

I've always been a big believer of finding a company you think is amazing and then creating a position for yourself in it, convincing them they can't live without you.

I prefer to work for nonprofits, in spite of the lower pay. However, I can't work for a company if I don't respect them, and, if I can really get excited about their mission, my writing is much better than if I'm lukewarm.

I have never found pleasure or success in taking a gig "just for the money." There needs to be more to it than that.