Online Writing Nightmares: 4 Scary, Soul-Sucking Places for Freelance Work

If your freelance life gives you nightmares, you might be chasing online writing jobs in some scary places. It’s a recurring problem I’ve heard from writers for years. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
—Carol.

Do you go to sleep at night feeling good about your online writing work?

Or do you toss and turn, have nightmares about writing for pennies, and wake up in a cold sweat?

Being a freelance writer can be scary. So many online writing opportunities are out there beckoning you to walk down a virtual dark alley without a flashlight.

I’ve seen it happen. And heard too many nightmare tales from freelance writers.

Some shady online writing client lures you in like an unsuspecting victim in a horror movie. And before you know it, you’re hooked into writing copy for soul-sucking rates.

If you don’t want to be stuck in an online writing nightmare, beware of these four places in the Underworld of Freelance Writing that are guaranteed to put your writing career on the road to nowhere.

1. Content mills

If I see one more self-appointed “expert” tell writers that content mills are a “great place to start out and get online writing experience,” I’m gonna scream. Why? This is what you get writing for content mills:

• Lazy writing habits. Content mills teach you to write quickly slapped-together junk that no one wants to read. You learn lazy writing habits. You frequently wind up with nothing you’d be proud to put in a portfolio.
• Poor portfolio samples. Mills’ crappy reputation could actually damage your chances with many legit magazines and other good markets. Meanwhile, pay is so low you have to write constantly just to survive, and never have time to do marketing to find better online writing clients. It’s the stuff freelance writing nightmares are made of.
• Experience that doesn’t count. The type of writing you do for content mills bears little relationship to the writing any good-paying client would want of you. I’ve seen writers say their mill work gave them practice, built confidence, and helped them find their voice. You can do that on your own blog, or writing for your local newspaper, too — and you’ll get clips you can use to get better gigs.
• Frustrated and ripped off. They also have rules that change often, and editors who are often capricious and/or nasty. They can bar you from the site for random stuff they decide. Don’t give any site this much power over your career — especially one that pays $20 per piece or less.

I’ve mentored too many writers who wasted years on mills, only to discover that if they want to earn more, they’re starting from scratch building their career. That can be terrifying. Don’t let this be you.

2. Revenue share sites

It’s a dying model. But there are still online writing sites that promise huge payouts if an article you write generates loads of traffic.

These are much like content mills, except that instead of guaranteed low pay, you don’t know what you’ll get paid — but it will likely be less than you need for gas this month. It all depends on how many eyeballs or ad-clicks your pages draw, depending on the particular site’s pay plan.

The revenue-share model nightmare

Unless there is at least some guaranteed compensation, don’t fool yourself that this is an income-earning opportunity. It’s a scary way to try and pay the bills. Revshare is for hobbyists, and the owners of revshare sites have told me as much. Don’t pretend this is a place where you could create retirement income that will keep paying you for years to come.

First off, because there’s no viable business model here, these sites close down on a regular basis. Demand Studios and Helium are just a couple examples of online writing platforms that have shutdown, crushing freelance dreams in the process. Second, many of them stop paying you when you stop regularly writing for them.

As far as reputation and building a portfolio here, see #1.

3. Bid sites

“I just signed up on Freelancer.com or Upwork.” I get emails like this every day. “Do you think that’s a good option? All of the online writing jobs seem to pay frightfully low wages.”

Welcome to the race-to-the-bottom world of bid sites. Yes, you might occasionally find a decent job here. But problems include too much time spent bidding on online writing gigs you don’t get, poor client communication because there’s an intermediary involved, generally low rates, and low regard for freelancers.

Too much competition = low rates

The model of competing against every other writer in the world for the same gig is not going to bring you happiness, my friend. Your dream gig is not sitting on a mass freelance platform’s dashboard waiting for you — not as long as someone in Malaysia or Kenya or somewhere is willing to do it for $5, and has access to the same clients you do.

4. Craigslist ads

I know many writers who consider their marketing work done if they’ve checked Craigslist for writer job ads this week. Sure, most of the ads they never heard back on, and the ones they do are offering peanuts — or are outright ripoffs. But hey, they’re so easy to check! Listings in every city, too.

Beware of scams and rip offs

It’s true that once in a while, a real client wanders on here who doesn’t know that Craigslist is a cesspit for freelance scams. But the huge amount of time you’ll spend mining for those few tiny gold nuggets means it’s not worth the effort.

I recently mentored one writer who reported she’d been ripped off and never paid for her writing work no less than five different times, doing gigs she got from Craigslist ads. It shouldn’t take this many bad experiences to realize this isn’t a useful place to find good writing gigs. It’s mostly a waste of time.

Ready to kick the habit? Take my 1-month “no-Craigslist challenge.” It works like this: You may not look at Craigslist ads for 30 days.

You’ll have to take action to find clients, rather than responding to mass job ads. This is so much more effective, I’ve rarely seen a writer who takes this challenge go back to checking Craigslist.

The smart way to find online writing clients

If these are the worst places and you should avoid them, how do you get started or find online writing work that pays pro rates?

It’s simple. You want to write for successful magazines (yes, plenty of them still exist), or successful businesses that sell a real product or service in the real world. Ideally, they’ve been around a few years.

Yes, this means doing some research to find clients, and then doing proactive marketing — going to a networking event, sending an email, making a phone call, getting on LinkedIn. And that can be scary. I know.

But after coaching thousands of writers, it’s the only reliable route I’ve found to earning a substantial freelance income. Steer clear of clients in the Underworld of Freelance Writing. And put in the work to find your own clients.

Need help getting better online writing clients? Let’s discuss on LinkedIn or Facebook.

The post Online Writing Nightmares: 4 Scary, Soul-Sucking Places for Freelance Work appeared first on Make A Living Writing.

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Challenge #316 - Anything Goes

Hey everyone! Welcome back to Wednesday morning. Thank you to those who played along with our last challenge - your creations were amazing.

Our challenge this week is -

That's right! Anything Goes, my friends. 

Here are our winners for Challenge #314 - Clean and Simple

#70 Loopyloo

#28 Toni

#25 Lynda Pleckan

#76 Donna R

Congratulations everyone!

Here is the inspiration from the DT for our Anything Goes challenge -

Valentyna

Angie

Monika

Ina

Bobby

Carol

Gwendolyn

Julie

Nandini

Ceal 

Wow! Beautiful work! Over to you now and have fun :)

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Strong Writers Avoid These 9 Toxic Things

Are you your own worst enemy, as a freelance writer? I think this career is such a head game — and strong writers don’t waste time going down an emotional drain.

It’s hard to earn a living with your craft if your brain keeps kicking out negative self-talk and fixated on low self esteem. I’ve always thought there’s a certain mental toughness you need to freelance, dealing with the ups and downs of different clients.

A few years ago, a post on Forbes about mentally strong people and the activities they avoid really spoke to me. And the fact that the post became one of Forbes’ most-popular ever tells me that if you struggle with keeping positive thoughts, you’re not alone! Turns out there’s a popular book about what mentally strong people avoid, too.

I found myself thinking about how the habits of mentally strong people apply to freelance writers, in particular. Staying positive is so essential to freelance success!

So I came up with my own list of bad patterns that mentally strong writers avoid. Reading the forums inside my writer community has given me a lot of experience with the mental rabbit-holes writers tend to wander down.

Want to be a strong writer? Mentally strong freelance writers don’t engage in these negative activities:

1. Feel devastated by rejection

When a company or publication decides not to use your idea or passes on your pitch to write for them…it’s not personal. It’s a business decision. And there could be 1,000 reasons why.

That’s why it’s absurd to be devastated because you didn’t hear back on that query. Nine times out of 10, the reason probably had nothing to do with you or your idea!

The publication already has something in the works. That editor got fired. They haven’t had time to look at it.

Strong writers understand this fact…If it’s going to take you months to overcome low self esteem after being rejected on one pitch you sent (and I know writers who do this), you can’t do this for a living. You won’t have enough time when you’re up and functioning.

2. Waste time longing for the good old days

Millennial writers, you probably get a pass on this one. But I meet older writers by the score who’ve never gotten over the fact that beloved print magazines are shrinking, or that longtime editors have retired or been laid off.

Also, this darn Internet came along. Now, there are a ton more tools to learn, to connect with clients and file stories. If only we could go back to the days when I used a typewriter, faxed in my stories, and didn’t need to learn any computer programs!

Longing for bygone days is a complete waste of mental energy. The only constant in life is change. The world of freelance writing isn’t immune.

I attribute much of my success as a freelance writer in the past decade to the fact that I accepted that the landscape would be rapidly changing — and dove in to learn how to win at 21st Century freelance writing.

Honestly, I think the good ol’ days weren’t as good as now in many ways.

Strong writers focus instead on the positives we enjoy now — the ease of connecting with clients all over the globe, and the ability to have our writing reach readers we’d never have found 20 years ago.

3. Don’t act because they’re afraid to take a risk

We risk our lives every moment we are alive, yet many writers are terrified to even hit ‘publish’ on a post on their own blog.

If you’re highly risk-averse, honestly, you should probably get a corporate job. Cash a paycheck. Running your own solo business is for the bold and brave, not for those stuck in a cycle of low self esteem.

I’m not saying ‘don’t feel afraid’ — I’ve gotten myself into so many situations where I was flat-out terrified I would fail, as a freelance writer.

The strong writer defense…Take action anyway. You have to be willing to take that risk, despite your fears. That’s how great careers are grown. Gotta try new, hard stuff and push the envelope of what you think you can do.

I would have passed up so much freelance income, including a recent $9,000 e-book deal, if I’d been afraid to take the leap into writing jobs that needed skills I’d have to master on the fly.

4. Constantly compare themselves to others

Writer-friends, this one is evil like the flu virus. Nothing feeds low self esteem and sick at heart like sitting around wondering why you didn’t become J.K. Rowling, or Dan Rather, or somebody.

You are uniquely you, and your writing career is unique.

Smart writers only compete with themselves. Every year, set the bar higher — try to get better clients, better rates, more enjoyable assignments. Try to write faster and better.

Strong writers focus on self-improvement, not toxic comparisons that are never truly apples-to-apples.

5. Repeat mistakes over and over

I’ll admit it: this one drives me insane. Writers come to me all sad and broke because they rely on Upwork or Craigslist ads for all their leads. And it’s only bringing them dysfunctional, low-paying, flaky clients. Or no clients at all.

I gently point out that these aren’t good sources of well-paid, ongoing freelance writing work, since you’re in a race to the bottom on price against hundreds of other writers. They nod their heads, swear they’re going to start doing their own marketing…and 2 years later, I run into them again, and it’s the same story.

“Gee, I just never have any luck on Upwork.” You’ve been trying online mass boards or content mills for years, they don’t build a viable freelance career for you…but you still keep coming back to the same poisoned wells.

Strong writers learn from failure. To get your freelance writing career rolling before you go broke and have to crawl back to a day job you hate, you have to learn from mistakes and quickly move on to make new ones. There has to be a learning curve, where we fail and then progress forward, for this to add up to a living.

6. Work unsustainably

One writer recently told me, “I worked so hard last month, I had to take this month off to recover.”

The crash-and-burn approach does not lead to a writing career that reliably pays the bills. It’s physically possible to write 18 hours a day, 7 days a week…but it’s not a good idea. And it’s only doable short-term.

Adopt strong writer habits. Eat healthy, make time for regular exercise, and get a real night’s sleep. Take at least one whole day offline each week. Remember, you’re in this for the long haul.

7. Expect miracles

My other name for this is “waiting for the luck fairy to bring you clients.”

There’s a lot of magical thinking that lives in freelance writers’ brains. That somehow, without building a writer website or a strong LinkedIn profile, without doing any proactive pitching or networking…you’ll get great writing gigs with wonderful clients.

Reality check: That’s not how it works.

If you find yourself saying, “I haven’t had any luck finding clients,” stop right there. Careers aren’t built on luck — they’re built on work.

At this point, I’ve worked with over 10,000 writers. And I don’t know any who just lucked into a great freelance writing life that magically brought a serious income, year after year.

Strong writers understand it takes persistent action on their part to build and sustain the career they want.

8. Feel sorry for themselves

Maybe it’s because one of my early blogging mentors can only move his face, but I’ve always had a healthy perspective on how much I’ve got going for me.

My personal life has no fairy-tale happy ending going on. I’ve made a lot of mistakes in life, and wasted time on plans that went nowhere. I’m not a spring chicken and can’t see super-great these days.

But sitting around bemoaning what we don’t have is a total energy waste (it only perpetuates low self esteem). And everybody’s got their ‘stuff’ to deal with.

Write a daily gratitude journal, if you find yourself wallowing in your own misery instead of counting your blessings. Get out and help some people who have less than you.

The strong writer mindset…Keep your focus on how lucky you are to have the gift of storytelling. Because clients don’t like to hire people who seem all depressed and ‘woe-is-me.’

9. Give up

If a little rejection makes you think maybe freelance writing isn’t for you, it probably isn’t. People who were born to write don’t quit writing. Setbacks don’t deter them.

My mantra is, “Be an unstoppable force of nature and keep going, until you get the career you want.”

I don’t care if you have to take a day job right now to pay bills. Keep writing. Get a client. Get another one.

Strong writers don’t give up. Nay-saying relatives or the occasional client setback doesn’t derail them. Your freelance writing career is only over if you decide it is. If you keep going, learning, risking, trying long enough… you will find the clients who need you, sooner or later.

Tips to help you stay a strong writer

How’d you do, reading that list? I can tell you I’m not perfect here — definitely some areas I could work on!

If you’ve realized you’ve got some toxic waste in your life, I recommend tackling one negative trait at a time.

• Give yourself a week (at least)  to focus on one, single issue. Be aware of negative thoughts or actions on your targeted issue.
• Post positive statements or affirmations to counteract the negative thoughts or behaviors you’re stuck on. Rewrite the negative script and plan out new responses.
• Keep trying. It may be awkward at first. You’ll have to bring a different reaction when things don’t work out. You may need to redirect your thoughts, if you find you’re longing for the past, dwelling on a rejection, holding a pity party, or otherwise indulging toxic ideas.

Nobody said being a strong writer would be easy. But strength leads to success! So it’s worth working on your head game and building a more positive attitude.

What traits do you think mentally strong writers need? Let’s discuss on LinkedIn or Facebook.

 

 

 

The post Strong Writers Avoid These 9 Toxic Things appeared first on Make A Living Writing.

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Pitch Story Ideas to These 99 Markets for Freelance Writing Jobs

If you want to land more freelance writing jobs, to use a baseball analogy, you want to throw strikes every time you pitch a market, a magazine, or a niche blog.

Think of it like you’re trying to win the World Series of freelance writing.

It’s a numbers game. The more you practice, the more consistent you’ll be at landing assignments. And the more money you’ll score for the home team (you).

What should you do before you pitch a story idea? Start with a warm-up.

Study the market. Read back issues. Check the site or publications for the writer’s guidelines playbook. Do a little research or even a pre-interview with a source.

Then wind up and throw a pitch in the strike zone with a great idea for a story or blog post. (If you need help writing a query letter, get a review of your draft here.)

Looking for freelance writing jobs? Pitch these 99 markets to move up and earn more:

1. Abilities

This is a Canadian magazine published to help people living with disabilities. Pitch story ideas with practical tips about travel, health, careers, education, relationships, parenting, and social issues for people living with a disability.

Pays: $50 to $325
Contact: Managing Editor Jennifer Rivkin

2. Afar.com

Afar publishes a print magazine, but assigns most of those stories to in-house and established freelancers. But you can write for Afar.com. It’s a travel magazine for well-educated readers who want to experience other cultures, navigate the day-to-day in a foreign country, and stay current on trends in travel, leisure, and adventure.

Pays: $1/per word and up
Contact: Editor Julia Cosgrove

3. Alaska Beyond Magazine

Best way to break in, pitch a story idea for “The Feed” department. Shorter pieces about business, profiles, new attractions, destinations, and trends, can be a good place to start, too.

Pays: $150 to $700
Contact: Editor Paul Fricht

4. American Educator

This is the magazine for the American Federation of Teachers. Publishes articles on trends in education, politics, education law, professional ethics, and social issues relevant to teachers and educators.

Pays: Up to $300
Contact: Editor Amy Hightower

5. American Falconry

“Our magazine is jam-packed with fascinating articles covering the latest techniques in training, captive breeding and dog handling,” says Editor Steve Jones. See guidelines for additional info.

Pays: $100
Contact: Editor Steve Jones

6. American Gardener

This is the magazine for the American Horticultural Society. It’s readers are experienced and beginner gardeners. Publishes articles about how-to projects, garden design, plant care, and conservation.

Pays: $300 to $600
Contact: Editor Leslie Fetty

7. Animal Wellness

How do you keep Fido healthy, and stop Mittens from tearing the couch apart? This magazine helps pet owners care for their animals and build strong bonds.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Ann Brightman

8. Anxiety Foundation

Did you know that an estimated 18 percent of adults in the U.S. are living with an anxiety disorder? It’s often treatable with medication and behavioral therapy. But it’s still a major public health issue. Pitch a story idea about living with anxiety, or a reported story on an anxiety-related topic.

Pays: $50
Contact: Steven Kirby

9. Back to College

Did you know about 40 percent of adults over age 25 go back to college? It’s a different experience than going straight from high school. Back to College publishes feature stories and essays about financial aid, campus and online programs, study habits, career development, and more.

Pays: $75 to 100
Contact: Donna Rickerd

10. Backwoods Home

Live off the grid. Build your own home. Grow and store food. Homeschooling. Sustainable living. These are the types of topics Backwoods Home readers are interested in.

Pays: $40 to $200
Contact: Senior Editor John Silveria

11. Be a Freelance Blogger

Make money blogging. That’s the focus of Sophie Lizard’s site. And if you’ve learned a thing or two about blogging, writing headlines, landing gigs, search engine optimization, or related topics, pitch a guest post idea.

Pays: Up to $100
Contact: Associate Editor Lauren Tharp

12.Blade magazine

“What we need are stories that are brand new in scope and content,” says Editor Steve Shackleford. “Knives being used for unusual purposes or in adventure settings. New, state-of-the-art knife designs, steels and other knife materials and how they are made are good.” And the sharpest pitch you can make to land an assignment? A story about a celebrity’s knife collection.

Pays: $150 to $300
Contact: Editor Steve Shackleford

13. Blog Paws

Social media training for pet owners. That’s how Blog Paws started. Now the site’s popular blog teaches pet owners how to take better pictures, use apps, and leverage social media to show off their pets.

Pays: $75
Contact: Senior Editor Maggie Marton

14. Blue Mountain Arts

This is a greeting card company. Accepts short, thoughtful, funny, or inspiring messages for special occasions or events. See “What we are looking for” and “What we are not looking for” to pitch greeting-card messages.

Pays: $50 to $300
Contact: editorial@sps.com

15. British Columbia magazine

British Columbia may be known for it’s stunning landscape, but it’s not the only thing you’ll find in this regional pub. “We seek out the exotic, the strange, the unknown, and the rare within our province,” says Editor Jane Nahirny. “Rather than bore British Columbians with what they know and often see, we want to give them something fresh, surprising, remote, or hidden under the surface.”

Pays: $0.50/per word and up
Contact: Editor Jane Nahirny

16. Bust Mold

Proof there’s a niche for just about everything. This Canadian-based mold-removal company publishes blog posts, case studies, and how-to guides about mold removal, asbestos testing, water damage restoration, and more.

Pays: $200 to $400
Contact: Editor Steven Kalevski

17. Canoe & Kayak

Readers of this pub are experienced paddlers who love the outdoors. Pitch stories ideas about canoe and kayak news, profiles, destinations, gear, and trends. Photos preferred with every assignment.

Pays: $100 to $800
Contact: Associate Editor Dave Shirley

18. Catholic Digest

Did you know the Catholic Church has an estimated 1.2 billion members around the world? It’s a culture and way of life featured in the pages of this magazine.

Pays: $100 to $500
Contact: Editor Dan Connors

19. Change Agent

The Change Agent is currently accepting pitches about topics related to indigenous people. Query deadline Nov. 2, 2018. See guidelines for more info.

Pays: $50
Contact: Editor Cynthia Peters

20. Christian Courier

This publication publishes news, features, and opinion pieces with a Christian point of view.

Pays: $45 to $70
Contact: Check guidelines for editors by department.

21. Chronicles of the Horse

This print and online magazine publishes articles about equestrian life, raising horses, and competing in competitions.

Pays: $150 to $400
Contact: Senior Editor Kat Netzler

22. Cig Buyer

When Jeremy Salter decided to quit smoking cigarettes, he switched to vaping. He launched the Cig Buyer blog to help other smokers quit and publish news and information about vaping.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Managing Editor Jeremy Salter

23. Clarkesworld magazine

Publishes reported stories about science fiction, fantasy, and horror writing.

Pays: $0.10/word for non-fiction
Contact: Editor Cheryl Morgan

24. Country magazine

Country magazine readers like gardening, collecting antiques, fishing, and sewing. This pub’s readers also like to travel and spend time outdoors. Study the media kit and editorial calendar before pitching story ideas.

Pays: $100 and up
Contact: editors@country-magazine.com

25. Curbly

If you know the DIY home improvement niche, and you’re good with a camera, pitch Curbly story ideas on home improvement and interior design.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Chris Gardner

26. Desert USA

Desert USA features stories about wildlife, folklore, natural history, travel, and adventure to desert destinations across America.

Pays: $50 and up
Contact: Editor Kris Bonner

27. Devozine

This is a niche magazine created to help teens (ages 14 to 19) develop skills to build faith. Pitch story ideas and how-to-meditations to motivate and inspire. Check the calendar for upcoming editorial needs.

Pays: $100
Contact: Editor Sandy Miller

28. Doctor of Credit

What’s in the fine print for that credit card offer? Can rewards programs really save you money? If you know the ins-and-outs of consumer credit, pitch a story idea to Doctor of Credit.

Pays: $50
Contact: Editor Will Charles

29. Draft magazine

Publishes stories about trends in beer and brewery news for consumers. Also publishes beer-related stories about food, sports, and travel with a national angle.

Pays: $0.80/per word
Contact: Editor Erika Rietz

30. Early American Life

From colonization to life in the mid-1800s, this magazine features stories about history, architecture, antiques, crafts, and travel destinations of from early American life.

Pays: $500 to $2,000
Contact: Executive Editor Jenmarie Andrews

31. Eat Your World

Are you a food writer? This niche blog publishes posts about food and travel, local restaurant round-ups, recipes from other cultures, profile and Q&As with personalities. Complete food and travel destination guides pay the most.

Pays: Up to $500
Contact: Editor Laura Rosen

32. Elite Personal Finance

Do you write about finance? This niche blog accepts guest posts about personal finance topics including saving, investing, retirement, loans, credit cards, buying a home, and more.

Pays: $100
Contact: info@elitepersonalfinance.com

33. Escapee

Escapees RV Club is a membership organization for people who enjoy RV travel. The member’s magazine features travel tips and experiences about RV life. Member stories and sources preferred.

Pays: $150
Contact: editor@escapees.com

34. Family Tree magazine

Publishes how-to articles about family history and genealogy. Pitch story ideas about new software, DNA testing, and photo restoration.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Diane Haddad

35. Freelance Mom

Are you a stay-at-home mom working part-time or full-time? Or know someone who is? The Freelance Mom publishes motivational stories, and how-to posts to show other moms how it’s done.

Pays: $75 to $100
Contact: Founder & Editor Lisa Stein

36. Girls Life

The target audience for this pub is tween and teenage girls. Recent stories cover topics like relationships, health and fitness, personal care, fashion, and more (but without judgement or heavy parenting advice).

Pays: Up to $300
Contact: Editor Karen Bokram

37. Gray’s Sporting Journal

Readers are outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fly fishing, hunting, and camping. This pub even publishes tall tales and poetry about the outdoors. Pays extra for photos.

Pays: $100 and up
Contact: Editor Russ Lumpkin

38. Halifax Media Co-Op

What’s life like in Nova Scotia and the North Atlantic region? Publishes feature stories, profiles, investigative pieces, and more. Watch the video to learn more about pitching this publication.

Pays: $75 to $125
Contact: Editor Rana Encol

39. Hidden Compass

If you enjoy the art of storytelling and travel, pitch an idea to this magazine. Recent submissions included the plight of the polar bear, California’s Redwood Forest, poetry from a trip to Paris, and more.

Pays: $200 to $300
Contact: hello@hiddencompass.net

40. High Country News

You’ll need solid journalism and reporting skills to break into this publication that covers topics that impact the Western U.S. Pitch story ideas about environmental issues, agriculture, public health, climate change, urban and rural development, economic issues, and more.

Pays: $0.50 to $1.50 per word
Contact: Editor-in-Chief Brian Calvert

41. Hit the Road

Hit the Road provides camper-van rental services in the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia. And it publishes a blog about adventures, cultures, road trips, and travel experiences. Original photos preferred.

Pays: $50
Contact: Tim Ahern

42. International Living

If you decided to pack up everything and move overseas, what would you need to know? These are the topics International Living covers in print and online.

Pays: $75
Contact: submissions@internationalliving.com

43. Introspectionist

The Introspectionist publishes persuasive essays, creative nonfiction, and informational pieces of interest for primarily a female audience. Check the editorial calendar for upcoming themes for submitting a query.

Pays: $100 to $200
Contact: submissions@theintrospectionist.com

44. iWorkwell

Publishes content for human resource professionals about recruiting, insurance and benefits, legal issues, and more. Prefers checklist-style posts with action steps.

Pays: $50 to $195
Contact: Editor Dr. Robert Padulo

45. Kitplanes

This is what the Wright Brothers inspired more than 100 years ago. Build a plane from a kit, and fly it. Kitplanes publishes articles about building and design, flight testing, and construction techniques. See guidelines for more.

Pays: $250 to $1,000
Contact: Editor Paul Dye

46. Knitty

Got an idea for a spring or summer knitting project? Pitch guest posts to Knitty to show other crafters how it’s done. Deadline for Spring issue is Jan. 2, 2019.

Pays: $150 to $200
Contact: Editor Amy Singer

47. LadyQs

Ask a question, get an answer…from women who know. That’s the format for LadyQs. But if you pitch a story idea, it doesn’t have to be in the traditional Q&A format. Accepts essays, opinion pieces, profiles, how-to guides, and product reviews.

Pays: $50
Contact: Editor Dawn Qi

48. Long Reads

It’s all in the name. Want to write a long-form essay, or a reported piece on a hot-button topic or current issue? Read and study examples and guidelines before pitching.

Pays: $250 to $500
Contact: Editor Mike Dang

49. LWN

Microsoft Windows isn’t the only operating system out there. LWN features articles, tips and tutorials about the Linux platform.

Pays: $200 to $250
Contact: Executive Editor Jonathan Corbet

50. Midwest Living

This magazine publishes articles about travel, food, home and garden topics in the MidWest.

Pays: $150 and up
Contact: Editor Jess Hoffert

51. Model Railroad Hobbyist

Publishes features, profiles, and how-to articles about model railroad building. If you can provide photos or video, mention this in your query.

Pays: $200 to $1,000
Contact: Editor Joe Fugate

52. Money Crashers

If money management and personal finance is your niche, pitch Money Crashers an idea about investing, saving, retirement planning, estate planning, tax preparation, credit and debt, real estate, mortgages, frugal living, and lifestyle.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: CEO Andrew Schrage

53. MotorHome Magazine

Load up the RV and hit the road. Motor Home magazine publishes travel articles, profiles, do-it-yourself repair tips, and trip planning for motorhome owners. “The easiest way to sell your work to MotorHome is to query us on an interesting and tightly focused motorhome story,” says Editor Eileen Hubbard.

Pays: $50 to $900
Contact: Editor Eileen Hubbard

54. Nevada Magazine

This is the state tourism magazine for Nevada. Publishes stories about the people, places, food, vacation destinations, and history of The Silver State.

Pays: $100 to $200
Contact: Editor Meg Mueller

55. Nutri Inspector

Cindy Wilson launched the Nutri Inspector blog in 2015 to set the record straight about food, nutrition, weight loss and dieting. Pitch well-researched guest post ideas about food and health topics for consumers. How-to guides pay the most.

Pays: $60 to $180
Contact: Editor Cindy Wilson

56. Open Road Journey

Get paid to write about your own motorcycle and travel adventures. Or pitch a story idea about must-see trips and destinations. Must have photos to go with query.

Pay: Based on assignment.

57. Partially Examined Life

Accepts essays, reported stories, and book reviews about philosophy. A multi-media resource to go with your query puts you at the top of the pile.

Pays: $60
Contact: Executive Editor Wes Alwan

58. Paste

This pop culture magazine wants pitches about up-and-coming artists, personal essays, and reported stories on trends in entertainment, social issues, and reviews on new releases in any genre. Pitch a list post to break in.

Pays: $50 and up
Contact: Check masthead info for department editors

59. Photodoto

Even though the phrase “Kodak moment” is still around, digital photography has transformed this artform. Pitch story ideas about cameras, equipment, photography and lighting techniques, and the digital work that happens after a photo shoot.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Chief Editor Nancy Young

60. Polygon

This niche site publishes reported stories, opinion pieces and reviews about the gaming industry. See “What we’re looking for” and “How to pitch,” for more info.

Pays: $0.25/per word
Contact: Check the guidelines for department editors

61. Popular Woodworking

Best way to break in: Pitch a first-person essay about woodworking for “End Grain” or “Tricks of the Trade.” Also publishes project tutorials and features with photos.

Pays: $50 and up
Contact: Editor Mike Wallace

62. Porthole Cruise magazine

Did you know an estimated 20 million people a year board a cruiseliner for a little R&R? It’s the focus of Porthole Cruise magazine. If you want to land an assignment with this pub, here’s what you need to know. “Look for an unusual angle,” says Editor Bill Panhoff. “Almost every story, destination, or ship you pitch has been pitched before. Usually more than once. Look for the unique aspect of where you are going and make that your story.”

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Bill Panhoff

63. PSD Fan

Know how to create a clipping mask, design a composite, create shortcuts, or have tips for designing graphics in Adobe PhotoShop? Pitch a tutorial to show people how it’s done. Here’s an example: Create a Dark Knight Hunter Scene with PhotoShop.

Pays: Based on assignment

64. Rank Pay

Rank Pay features articles about digital marketing, SEO, and social media strategy.

Pays: $50
Contact: Sam Warren

65. Rapid Media magazines

This travel-and-adventure media company publishes four magazines: Canoeroots, Rapid, Adventure Kayak and Kayak Angler, each with a unique audience.

Pays: $0.20/per word
Contact: Managing Editor Kaydi Payette

66. Road and Travel

Commute to work. Drive the kids to school. Take a road trip. This is a consumer-oriented magazine to help readers be better vehicle owners. Pitch stories ideas about buying and maintaining vehicles, safe driving habits, and travel tips.

Pays: $100 and up
Contact: Editor Courtney Caldwell

67. SemaphoreCI

Can you write about the software development process? Short tutorials and in-depth guides are your best option for landing an assignment. The Semaphore CI founders (Marko Anastasov and Darko Fabijan) launched this site after the success of their first software development company Rendered Text.

Pays: $100 to $300
Contact: Dunja Radulov

68. SHFT Blog

This is a niche blog for preppers and survivalists. Pitch how-to stories about firearms, survival skills, and gear.

Pays: $50 and up
Contact: Editor Joel Forge

69. Sierra

This is the magazine published for members of the Sierra Club. Pitch story ideas about outdoor adventure, environmental issues, and people on a mission to “explore, enjoy, and protect the planet.”

Pays: $1/per word and up
Contact: Editor Kristi Rummel

70. Skilled Survival

Publishes how-to articles, list posts, and features on survival and emergency preparedness topics such as food storage, water purification, camping, gear, and more.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: “Just in Case” Jack

71. Smarter Travel

Publishes tips about vacation planning, booking reservations, tech tips, best places to visit, and more.

Pays: $100 to $500
Contact: Associate Editor Shannon McMahon

72. Source

What’s it take to keep a newsroom running in today’s 24/7 multi-media driven environment? That’s the question that drives the editorial content for The Source.

Pays: $200 to $500
Contact: Assistant Editor Lindsay Muscato

73. Sport Fishing magazine

Want to reel in an assignment for Sport Fishing magazine? Pitch a story idea about saltwater fishing in the U.S. with a fresh angle about where to go, how-to, gear, and environmental issues.

Pays: $75 to $300
Contact: Editor Doug Olander

74. Teaching Tolerance

What’s it take to be a teacher who can make a difference? One key trait…tolerance. It’s the foundation of this niche pub for educators, which is a project of the Southern Poverty Law Center. Publishes features, profiles, essays, and curriculum guides.

Pays: $1/per word
Contact: Senior Editor Monita Bell

75. Technopedia

If you know how to speak “computer geek” and translate that into plain English, pitch a story idea to Technopedia. It’s an online resource for IT professionals that covers current trends, best practices, and software development.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Senior Editor Tara Struyk

76. Today I Found Out

Learn something new? Like facts and research? There’s almost no topic off limits here, as long as it helps other people. Recent stories take a deep dive into topics like the time Coca-Cola release a new soda just to spite Pepsi or the truth about using hamster power to keep the lights on at home.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Daven Hisky

77. Transitions Abroad

If you’re planning to work, study, or volunteer abroad, what can you expect? And what do you need to know to prepared? Pitch story ideas, along with sidebar details, photos/videos, and expert sources.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: See guidelines for editors

78. Travel Writer’s Life

Make money while traveling. It takes hustle, creativity, and often an Internet connection. And if you know how to do it (writing, photography, tour guide, etc.), or know someone who does, pitch a story idea for the Travel Writer’s Life.

Pays: $50 to $200
Contact: Editor Lori Allen

79. Tutorial Board

Tutorial Board readers are tech-savvy people who want how-to instructions and downloadable files to master software like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effect, Autodesk Maya, and other design software. Want to know how to break the ice? Mention your Word Cookies score in your pitch (see “Related Pages” below the guidelines).

Pays: Up to $150

80. TutorialsPoint

Can you explain tech-topics in an easy-to-follow how-to format? Read the guidelines and pitch an idea for a tutorial. Check out the tutorials library for examples. Check the “What Are We Looking For?” list for tutorial topics.

Pays: $250 to $500

81. Two Plus Two

Want the inside scoop about poker and gambling? That’s what you’ll find in this niche magazine. Pitch how-to-win at poker strategies, personality profiles, and statistical tricks to play the game.

Pays: $200
Contact: Editor Bryan Clark

82. Unemploymentville

“You’re fired.” “We’re downsizing.” Or you can’t have a regular job because of a disability or personal reasons. No one is ever really prepared for unemployment. This site was created to help people navigate the system, learn to work from home, and share stories of success from unemployed to thriving. The best way to break in? Pitch a guest post about earning a living without a traditional day job, with steps others can replicate.

Pays: $40 to $75

83. UX Booth

A bad user experience? You know it when you see it, trying to use software. But it doesn’t have to be that way. UX Booth publishes case studies, how-to guides, news, and information about design and development to improve the user experience.

Pays: $100
Contact: Editor Amy Grave Wells

84. Wanderful

Wanderful is looking for pieces on travel tips, global issues, traveling as a trans or queer woman, travel issues impacting women of color, and other ideas that may interest their audience of women who love venturing around the globe.

Pays: $50
Contact: Kaitlyn Kirkaldy

85. War Cry

The War Cry is published by The Salvation Army, and it’s been around for more than 130 years. Publishes articles on the people, trends, and issues related to Christianity and Salvation Army work. Check editorial calendar for upcoming content needs.

Pays: $0.35/per word
Contact: Incoming Editor-in-Chief

86. Web Designer Depot

Got insider information or how-to tips for web designers? This is a resource to help others master web design software skills and apps.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Senior Editor Ben Moss

87. Webloggerz

Webloggerz is a resource to help people use WordPress and other online tools. Pitch story ideas about web design, copywriting, screencasts, and infographics. Here’s an example: 12 Important Settings After Installing WordPress.

Pays: Up to $100

88. West Jet Magazine

This is a Canadian in-flight magazine that features stories, travel tips, and off-the-beaten path treasures in Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Managing Editor Diane Bolt

89. Western Art & Architecture

The cowboy-way of life may be fading, but interest in Western art and architecture is thriving. And it’s what this mag is all about. Pitch story ideas about events, auctions and showcases, interior design, architecture, and artists, and people in the business of buying and selling this type of art.

Pays: $400 to $600
Contact: Managing Editor Corinne Gaffner Garcia

90. Wide Open Country

Want to write about country music? Wide Open Country features stories about up-and-coming artists, song writing, and life on the concert tour.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Matt Alpert

91. Wine Frog

Know a lot about wine, or have the journalism skills to interview a wine expert? Pitch a story idea about the wine industry, tech, and current trends to Wine Frog.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor C.J. Leger

92. Wooden Boat

Forget aluminum and inflatable boats, this niche magazine exclusively features news, stories, tips, and how-to articles about building, owning and enjoying wooden boats.

Pays: $250 to $300
Contact: Editor Matt Murphy

93. WOW! Women on Writing

Know a few things about freelance writing, publishing a book, working with literary agents, or building an audience of readers? Pitch a story idea for this female-focused audience of writers.

Pays: $50 to $150
Contact: editors@wow-womenonwriting.com

94. WP Hub

Did you know an estimated 75 million websites are currently designed with WordPress? There’s an entire industry of software developers and designers that use this platform. And it’s what WP Hub is all about. Pitch story ideas about theme design, app development, and integration.

Pays: $100 to $200
Contact: support@wphub.com

95. WritersWeekly

This is a publication for freelance writers and authors. Features how-to articles, profiles, book reviews, marketing techniques, and success stories about writers.

Pays: $40 to $60
Contact: Editor Brian Whiddon

96. Yoga International

Publishes articles on yoga technique, instruction and lifestyle to promote health and happiness.

Pays: $50 to $200
Contact: freelance@yogainternational.com

97. Youth Today

This is a niche publication for caregivers and professionals who work with youth. “Youth Today covers just about any issue involving youth and the adults who work on their behalf, ” says Editor John Fleming. “From direct-care services, health and juvenile justice to government policies and legislation, funding for youth programs and youth development.” Break in by pitching “Stories We Like” and “Stories That Make Us Smile” listed in the guidelines.

Pays: $150 and up
Contact: Editor John Fleming

98. Zafigo

Zafigo was created to be a resource for people who travel and vacation in Asia. Pitch how-to story ideas and tips for traveling in Asia, or a first person essay for Travel Tales.

Pays: Based on assignment
Contact: Editor Vivian Chong

99. Zift

As a parent, how do you navigate the digital landscape to keep your child safe? Pitch guest post ideas, along with lists, infographics, and visual media.

Pays: $100
Contact: Kristin Maclaughlin

Win more freelance writing jobs

Before you pitch any of these 99 markets for freelance writing jobs, or any others, there’s a few things you should do:

• Study the writers guidelines
• Read back issues and blog posts
• Get to know the target audience
• Brainstorm story ideas
• Find a fresh angle, primary sources, and valid research.
• Then take the time to write a well-crafted query letter before you hit the “send” button.

The more you practice pitching this way, the more freelance writing jobs you’ll win.

P.S. Want to write a guest post for Make a Living Writing about the business and craft of freelancing? Check out the guidelines here.

Where do you find freelance writing jobs? Let’s discuss on Facebook or LinkedIn.

Evan Jensen is the blog editor for Make a Living Writing. When he’s not on a writing deadline, or catching up on emails, he’s training to run another 100-mile ultramarathon

The post Pitch Story Ideas to These 99 Markets for Freelance Writing Jobs appeared first on Make A Living Writing.

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Admiral in Strathcona

The Admiral in Strathcona by CH (East Georgia) Limited Partnership is a new four-storey, mixed used development located in the Vancouver neighbourhood of Kiwassa East. Designed with families in mind, this project includes 30 strata townhomes, 7 social housing units, 16,145 SQFT of commercial space and over 6,000 SQFT of amenity space. The Admiral aims to address Vancouver need for housing diversity, while being retaining industrial space for local employment opportunities. This project offers stellar location, located at Glen Drive and East Georgia street, just steps away from schools, parks, restaurants, and East Van craft breweries.

The post Admiral in Strathcona appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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Cambridge Estates Fort St. John

Cambridge Estates by Western Canadian Properties Group is a brand new subdivision offering 95 townhouses and 7 coach homes in Fort St. John’s premier neighbourhood of Garrison Landing. These homes include contemporary living spaces and fenced yards with complete turn-key rental management options. This project offers easy access to downtown with less than a five minute drive to entertainment, shopping, schools, and hospitals. Experience contemporary living while being steps away from the great outdoors.

The post Cambridge Estates Fort St. John appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.

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3 Tips on Designing a Kid’s Playroom

Create a fun, creative environment for your child by designing the playroom of their dreams. Here are useful ideas to get you started:

Photo by Tanaphong Toochinda on Unsplash

Design your kid’s room based on their interest

At one point they would love playing chess or cricket or enjoy playing with barbies and G.I.Joes. Sometimes they will stay calm in front of books or may be the boss of their fake business or school assemblies. Or they can have all at once. In short, design the room the way you would design other home interiors. Know their requirements, understand the scale, match the wall and use effective colour palettes. Source: HomeOnline

Add more storage units

If there’s one universal truth, it’s that kids come with lots of stuff. The best playrooms are those with plenty of storage available to keep all of it out of the way while making it seem part of the design.

Your first step is to consider what kind of storage will work best for your family. Do you need lots of bookshelves for an avid reader, a tricked-out entertainment center for a video game aficionado, or cubbies to hold a menagerie of stuffed animals? You’ll likely need to use a combination of pieces to accommodate all of your child’s interests. Source: Freshome

Discard kid’s unused toys

This is the best kept secret of designing a playroom. In order to avoid chaos you need to make sure to donate toys or furniture your kids outgrow (or get bored with).

Think about how you would decide to donate clothing. If your child hasn’t used or played with something for six months, donate it.

Or if you’re nervous your child will come looking for a specific toy, just set it aside. If they don’t ask about it donate it! Source: CrateAndBarrel

If you’re thinking about the type of flooring to use, carpet is a perfect choice. It protects your kid by cushioning falls and providing a good footing. We’ll be glad to help you with installing it. Call us today!

The post 3 Tips on Designing a Kid’s Playroom appeared first on Curlys Carpet Repair.

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Challenge #315 Photo

Hi everyone, welcome back to ATSM. Our weekly challenge today is a photo challenge!

Take any inspiration you like from the photo. It may be the colours, shapes, textures, photos, theme.

Before we get started, we will announce our winners for Challenge #313 Holiday

# 49 Lady Joyful

#60 Judy V

# 61 Trina P

#32 Caroline-KISS

Congratulations everyone!

Now, here are the Design Team with their take on the Inspiration Photo!

Meena Herale

Heidi Weaver

Marsha

Amy

Shylaa

Susan

Željka

Asha

Monica

Awesome interpretations by the DT! If you would like to see how they came up with their ideas, please visit their blogs :)

Over to you now, have fun.

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