Comments on: 5 Ways to Sell Your Writing Value

By: lwidmer

lwidmer — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 20:48:39 +0000

Paula, that’s exactly how to handle it! I don’t mind helping clients out, but the last-minute stuff, if it’s a pattern, is too disruptive to the schedule. I can’t drop any client’s project for continued last-minute projects. I think you did it right — if it’s going to mess up your schedule, then you need to be compensated for that (for now you’re working through the night or a weekend).

By: lwidmer

lwidmer — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 20:45:55 +0000

In reply to Devon Ellington.

Devon, I agree. My dad has a saying about elections that I’ll share with you in private (not for public consumption, believe me!).

I agree with you on the being genuine point, too. I just posted on Peter Bowerman’s blog that I’m older, wiser, and too tired to fuss with people. They either fit or they don’t, and I don’t fault them if they feel we’re not a match.

I don’t like fake corporate speak, either. It’s not doing them any favors, and it drains the life out of me. That’s my sign that I should be advising them on what may not be working for them.

By: Paula Hendrickson

Paula Hendrickson — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 17:34:26 +0000

Not long ago, a client I do occasional copy writing and editing for had be write several executive bios. A week or so later a straggler came in (and a week after that another straggler). It’s always annoying when this particular client tacks more stuff on at the last minute, and because I was so busy I was in the position of power. I told them how much it would cost (almost the same amount as a batch of four bios I’d done the week before), and when I could do it. Because they were in a bind, they didn’t argue. Funny how the stragglers became far less annoying when the client had to pay a premium because they weren’t included in the initial group. There’s no reason I should pay the price for their disorganization.

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Mon, 14 Nov 2016 14:59:40 +0000

I suppose it’s best we learn sooner, rather than later, who would throw us into the incinerator.

I don’t know about you, but I intend to enjoy this last holiday season before the Apocalypse! 😉

To answer your question: I stopped trying to be what “they” want and am completely myself. I convey my strengths and the unique skills I can bring to the table. Either it’s a good fit with the client, or it’s not.

I can mimic voice well, and i have no problem doing that for a client. But there are clients who want something far more “fake corporate” than I do. Also, if an assignment goes against my integrity, I don’t take the job, for instance, I don’t design “lifestyle campaigns” for tobacco companies. Unlike far too many people in so-called “public service”, I don’t take the job and then try to make them change to fit my beliefs. I graciously say no, thank you, and we both move on.

Clients who want something fresh, new, and unique are the best fits for me. Or who want to put a new, humorous spin on something vintage.