Freelance Writers: Are You Ready for the Busy Fall Season? Here are 4 Areas to Check to Help You Easily Land More Jobs
August 30, 2011
The following email from an aspiring freelance SEO writer inspired this post. She wrote:
Question from a New Freelance Writer
Hi Yuwanda,
I’ve started [contacting] SEO companies using the template you provide in one of your ebooks . . . .
My question is simple: How long should I expect it to take to hear back from someone? I’m nervously drumming my fingers over here, not sure what to expect. Also, I’ve heard summer is slow, but at what point does ‘summer’ become ‘fall’ in that regard? Late August? September?
Thanks for your help – you’re wonderful!
~AB
My Answer
Editorial is cyclical and after Labor Day (September 5th this year) is the start of the busy fall season.
Following are some common questions I receive – especially from new freelance writers. Resolve these issues for your freelance writing business so you can “hit the ground running” next week.
Freelance Writers: Are You Ready for the Busy Fall Season? Here are 4 Areas to Check
I. Freelance Writing Rates: I’m not going to tell you how to set rates because there is no one size fits all. What I will tell you is this – rates can always be adjusted. So if you’re new and are unsure about your rates, do some research.
You can start by researching the blogs of other freelancers, consult industry sources, and lurk in freelance writing forums. This should give you enough info to set your rates initially. Then, if you’re not happy with what you’re making, the jobs you’re getting, or how long it’s taking you to land jobs (or the fact that you’re quickly overwhelmed), then you can adjust your rates accordingly.
More Posts on How to Set Your Freelance Writing Rates
Freelance Writing Rates: What to Charge for Proofreading, Copyediting, Writing, Etc.
Freelance Writing Rates: And the Debate Rages On . . .
SEO Writing Rates: How to Determine What to Charge as an SEO Copywriter
II. Service Offerings: Have you decided which services you will offer? Are they clearly listed on your website? Have you defined parameters (eg, one round of edits; $X for 500 words; $X for technical content as opposed to general content; turnaround times; etc.).
Have you lined up outsourcers (other freelancers) to handle services you’re no intimately familiar with and/or just don’t want to do (eg, social media management)? Have you gotten paperwork in place for them (eg, asking them to fill out a 1099 form)?
Advice for New Freelance Writers: Start off offering services you know how to do well. It’s difficult enough when you first start out without worrying about having to “manage” a staff. You’re going to be nervous; there are going to be situations you have to figure out how to handle before you get over being a newbie.
Don’t complicate this by adding management duties onto it. Wait until you’ve ironed out some kinks in your freelance writing business (and there are always “kinks”) before taking it to this level.
So, set your service offerings and clearly outline them on your website, then go from there.
As you grow, you can always add more services.
III. Marketing Schedule: Get in the habit of marketing from Day 1. Putting together a freelance writing marketing plan will ensure that you do so. Some freelancers get busy right away; for others it takes a while.
One thing I can guarantee is that if you don’t market – consistently – for freelance writing jobs you will have more dry spells, be constantly frustrated and may even give up on a freelance writing career before you ever get started good.
And that would be a shame. There’s plenty of work out there for everyone. But, you have to be proactive in getting it.
IV. Mentally Adjust: Freelancing is a wonderful career – but sometimes you have to have nerves of steel because there is no steady paycheck. You have to go out and kill your dinner (eg, market for work) in order to eat.
And sometimes, it may seem like you’ve fired every weapon in your arsenal, yet you can’t drag anything home. That’s when panic sets in – ie, you start to think, “I can’t make a go of this; I was a fool to start and/or quit my FT job.”
Hold up there buddy . . . I’m here to tell you, you’re wrong! Don’t throw in that towel. As I wrote in the post, How to Build a Successful Freelance Career (Part 2):
No matter how talented you are, what your background is, or how well connected you are, there will come a time when work just seems to dry up. At this point you may start to question your abilities, seriously consider a full-time job, and/or wonder if freelancing is for you.
If this is the existence you’ve decided you want, stick with it. Continue to advertise, even when it seems that no one is interested. The average consumer has to see your advertisement at least 7-28 times (depending on what article you read) before they will act on it. So be confident that if you advertise consistently, when they need a service/product that you offer, you will be at the forefront, rather than the hit-and-run advertisers.
After all, the quickest way not to succeed is to quit.
Why My Gut Tells Me the Fall Is Going to Be Busier Than Ever
If the success some freelance writers have experienced this summer has been anything to go by, this fall is going to be a busy one. The American economy (indeed, the world economy) has been in a rut for the last 3-4 years. And while it’s still not great, things are slowly turning around.
And, ad spending in internet marketing is set to explode. Proof?
According to the article, Online marketing spend to increase significantly in the next few years, a study done by Forrester research revealed that:
. . . by the year 2016 advertisers will spend $77 billion on email, social media display and mobile outreach efforts. The total will make up 35 percent of all advertising by that year, accounting for a major portion of money spent in the sector.
The study, U.S. Interactive Marketing Forecast, 2011 to 2016, also found that by 2015, the adoption rate for smartphones will increase by 150 percent and 82 percent of consumers are expected to own tablet devices.
What does this mean for freelance writers – particularly those who specialize in web copy?
More writing work – in pay per click ads; social media management; SEO articles for blogs, newsletters and websites; landing pages; SEO press releases; etc. You name it and clients will be ordering it!
Are you set up to get your slice of this freelance writing jobs pie?
Til next time!
Yuwanda
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P.S.: Get the ebook that pushed my freelance writing career to the next level – allowing me to travel and live abroad, get out of debt and really “live the freelance life!”
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Writing and Selling Ebooks Online: Diary of My Quest to Publish 50 Ebooks on Amazon in One Year, Part XI
August 29, 2011
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Sell Ebooks Online: More Insights from a Self-publisher
Note: See links to all entries in this ebook writing series at the end of this post.
Misstated How Many Books I’ve Published
In the last post in this series on self publishing ebooks on Amazon, I relayed that I had 24 ebooks on the site. I misstated that. I have 22. Just wanted to clarify that.
But, it will soon be 23 because I …
Self-Published a “Non” Freelance Writing Ebook
Yep, I created a pen name and published an ebook outside of the freelance writing/small business/internet marketing genre.
To be honest, even though I have so much more to say in these niches, I get tired of writing about how to become a freelance writer – and the other topics I cover. I blog about these topics, create newsletters about them, answer questions about them – in short, I cover them ad nauseam.
So, it was nice to write something that had nothing to do with these topics. And because I wrote under a pen name (it’s a relationship ebook), it was freeing. I could “let it all hang out,” so to speak.
I’m also anxious to see how this title fares as it is in a different niche. I won’t be doing any marketing for this ebook because I just don’t have the time right now. I’m just going to let it “do it’s thang.” It’s an evergreen topic, so it’ll be fun to see how it performs – especially around Valentine’s Day.
Note: As it’s published under a pen name, you won’t be able to find it by searching my name on Amazon. You’ll just have to trust that – to date – that’s my 23rd title on the site.
Make Money Selling Ebooks: How “Pullout” Sales are Going
My ebook pullouts are accounting for about 10% of my ebook sales. I’m encouraged by this because I haven’t uploaded nearly as many as I want to. At this point, it’s all I can do to write a title and upload it. I just don’t have a lot of time to go back and divvy the book up into pullouts and upload them.
But I think that having these pullouts push sales of others because they allow a reader to “sample” my writing cheaply. For example, the pullouts I have on Amazon all come from the “How to Write an Ebook in 3 Days” ebook. They sell for about a quarter of what the entire ebook retails for.
So when readers buy one and see how in-depth and well-written it is, it gives them faith that the rest of the ebook will be just as informative. Hence, doing pullouts is not only beneficial from a direct financial perspective, it helps ebook sales indirectly as well.
Selling Ebooks Online: What Sales are Looking Like This Month Compared to Last Month
My sales have more than doubled what they were last month, and we still have more days in the month. If I really pushed it, I could probably triple them – but as I talked about in the last post in this series, I just don’t have time to market like I need to.
I’ll do more of this early next year when this “quest to publish 50 ebooks” is over.
Why You Need This to Make Money Selling Ebooks Online
What is it? A lot of products. As stated, I currently have 22 ebooks on Amazon. And, I’ve sold copies of 14 different titles. There are about 5 that account for the bulk of my sales, but the others certainly add up – and I think they push sales of the main sellers.
Another benefit of writing a lot of ebooks is that it allows you to see what’s popular with your ebook buyers. Then, you can add more titles in these niches. This is like “money growing on trees” because when you see one ebook “take off,” you’re practically guaranteed sales if you produce follow-up / complementary titles.
While writing and selling ebooks online is not all that hard; it’s not easy either. So, why leave sales on the table? Give readers what they want.
Make Money Selling Ebooks: How Many Do You Need to Sell to Make a “Good” Living?
This will be different for every person, but when I looked over my sales and figured out what my average sale per ebook was, I was dumbfounded to learn that I only have to sell about 1,000 copies per month to be making some very good money (a financial milestone I’ve had in mind for a few years now).
Many fiction authors like my self-publishing guru, JA Konrath, average hundreds of ebook sales per day – and sell tens of thousands of ebooks per month.
Although it would be nice, I don’t need anywhere near these numbers to make a very good living – and I mean, very good. By 2013, I hope to be there, although at the rate I’m going, it’ll probably happen before that. Why do I think this?
Why I Expect My Ebook Sales to Continue to Grow
I don’t market my ebooks anywhere near as much as I should;
I haven’t even published on other outlets yet, eg, Barnes and Nobles, Smashwords, etc.
I’ve hired an e-publishing assistant to help me with many of the backend duties of self publishing; and
I have many more titles planned – across different genres.
So again, I’m encouraged.
One final thing I want to point out is that I still sell the majority of my ebooks from this site – which accounts for about 60-65% of my income these days. Internet marketing and freelance writing jobs from clients account for the other 35-40%. So averaging 1,000 copies per month in ebook sales on Amazon is gravy. Even if I didn’t sell another copy via Amazon, I’d still be ok.
I just want to because it’s another income stream – that’s almost passive — which is what I’m striving for.
Some Insight about Pricing Ebooks You Probably Hadn’t Thought Of
My ebooks are priced all over the map – from 99 cents to $59.95. And you know what — the higher priced items sell very well too. This pushes the average price of each sale way up. So it helps to have a mix of lower and higher-priced items in your ebook catalogue.
Ebook Writing Going at a Turtle’s Pace
I’m constantly behind schedule, but will start to pick it up this month. I’ll be publishing two ebooks this week (God give me strength – please!).
A lot of this is due to non-work-related stuff: I’ve had family and friends visit, I’ve gotten a personal life (yes!) and I’ve been enjoying the summer (a little too much). Hey, I’m currently living in Jamaica – can you blame me?!
But now that summer is almost over, my brain is starting to refocus.
I practically can’t wait for fall because I’ve had a bang up summer in ebook sales.
So, how’s your ebook writing coming along? Have questions, comments, insights? Share them in the comments section below.
Enjoy the week. I’m off for a long beach run now, so I can come back, have some lunch and settle into a long afternoon/evening of . . . what else, ebook writing!
Yuwanda
Find this post informative? Please RT It and Follow Inkwell Editorial on Twitter.
P.S.: Get the ebook that pushed my freelance writing career to the next level – allowing me to travel and live abroad, get out of debt and really “live the freelance life!”
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Freelance Writers — How I Do It All: Publish My Own Ebooks, Market for Freelance Writing Jobs, Write for Clients and Still Have a Life!
August 24, 2011
Over the last few weeks, I received questions from a couple of freelance writers that asked, in essence, how to do it all as a freelance writer. One freelancer kinda summed it up, writing:
Question from a Fellow Freelance Writer
Hi Yuwanda,
I am not sure if this is a statement of question, but for the last week, I was entirely swamped and drained from writing the back to back projects that I literally had to take 4 days off to refresh! The days off were great, but it totally put a damper in my Marketing. Damper in marketing means no quick cash
That’s why I am looking to create a small team to handle all the marketing tasks. I guess the question would be how can you manage your time when you are pulling all nighters to reach deadlines, and still get your marketing groove on?
I fired off the following answer to her (just below). This newsletter is my more detailed response.
My Quick Answer
Short answer is — you work a helluva lot. You don’t take 4 days off to recoup, but maybe an afternoon or a day. Realize that it’s going to be this way for a while and give in to it. Let laundry go, yard work, house work, getting your hair and nails did — and a whole bunch of other stuff. Let them go. You just knuckle down and work, then eat/sleep (and only cuz they’re necessary) and get up and do it all over again.
An in-depth post is coming on this on Tuesday [I’m a day late – sorry] though, so stay tuned!
And congrats!
Here’s More Insight Into How I Manage My “Freelance Writing / Self-Publishing Empire”
The good news about this post is that many freelance writers are busy – even during this, what is supposed to be the slow season. See the workflow cycle of the editorial industry.
But, it can be downright harrying when you’re so swamped that you can’t see straight. I’m right where this freelancer is – and have been since the beginning of the year because of my quest to publish 50 ebooks on Amazon this year.
I had no idea what I was getting into. Hence, every second of every day is filled to the brim with something to do – writing jobs for clients, writing and self-publishing my own ebooks, updating my blogs, writing and scheduling newsletters, answering queries from other freelance writers, tweeting, article marketing to promote my ebooks, etc.
In short, the work is never ending.
I didn’t purposely set out to do it all those years ago when I started freelancing (1993), but what I’ve managed to build is a thriving little “writing / self-publishing empire.” And it’s steadily growing . So how do I manage it all – and still have a life? Following are a few insights.
How to Manage a Busy Freelance Writing and Self-Publishing Career
I. Time Block My Days: This is key to staying on track. I talk about this in the post, Freelance Writers: Are You Sticking to Your 2011 Freelance Writing Goals? 3 Reasons to Pull Out the List & Assess Where You Are.
Time-blocking is so important that I made it one of four goals I had this year. If you get up every morning and open up your “To Do” time-blocked list, it makes it so much easier to get right down to work because you know exactly what you should be doing every minute of the day.
II. Get Marketing Done First: When I actively hunted for freelance writing jobs (I no longer do because my focus is now on my ebook writing and I’m at the point in my career where referrals sustain me), marketing was the first thing I’d do each morning.
Getting it out of the way assured that I wouldn’t put it off (eg, if you know you have a client project on tap that’s going to take all day). Sometimes, this meant getting up an hour to an hour and a half earlier. But as the freelance writer who wrote in highlighted, NOT marketing means “no quick cash” (or any cash for a while if you keep putting it off).
This is a mistake, by the way, that a lot of freelancers make. They stop marketing because they get busy or family problems come up or any of 1,001 other things that can get in the way.
But, if you want to avoid a “feast or famine” existence as a freelance writer, you must market consistently. Dry spells are gonna happen — it’s the nature of the freelance writing beast. But if you market consistently, there will be fewer of them (and they’ll be a lot shorter).
Learn more about how to market consistently to land more freelance writing jobs.
III. Mentally Adjust: As in, accept that this is the way it’s going to be for a while. This may be the most important tip of all when trying to manage a busy freelance writing career.
For example, when I decided that I was going to spend this year in essence writing ebooks, I knew I was in for a lot of work (ok, I didn’t know quite how much). But I psyched myself up for it by mentally committing to “a year of pure work.”
When I get overwhelmed, frustrated and just plain exhausted, I remind myself why I’m doing it (to make more passive income over the long haul as I head toward retirement). And this is why having a life plan is so important.
I talked about the importance of hard work and having a life plan in a post last October, ie, Freelance Writers: Are You Living the Life You Really, Really Want? If Not, Here’s How to Start Doing So, writing:
I was telling my sister the other day that I’ve worked harder the last three months or so than I ever have in my life. And, not to get too personal but I don’t have a significant other (or children). And to be honest, this not having a mate thing is not by choice. So it gets kinda lonely.
But I said to myself, “Yuwanda, why don’t you take this what feels like empty space in your life and use it to press forward with your goals. God has given it to you for a reason, so use it judiciously.”
And that’s exactly what I’ve been doing — and to be honest, the results have been quite amazing – financially and spiritually.
IV. Embrace Hard Work: This piggybacks on the last point. There really is no substitute for hard work and when you hunker down and do what you’re supposed to do – amazing things happen. I never would have dreamed that I’d be living the life I am right now.
But, I made a decision a few years ago about how I wanted my life to be on a day-to-day basis. And, the only way I knew how to make that happen was to work hard. There are no shortcuts – at least none that I know of.
V. Let Stuff Go: I don’t believe you can achieve too many big goals at one time. So, you have to prioritize and really focus on the one that is the most important to you.
Things I’ve Let Go Of/Let Lapse in Order to Achieve My Self-Publishing Goals
Following are a few things I’ve let go / lapse in order to achieve this goal, eg:
The Girl a Go Go series about living in Jamaica (updated less often);
My internet marketing for novices newsletter (published less often);
Interacting on social media accounts like Twitter less often;
Answering questions that come in from freelancers on a more regimented schedule (eg, not as soon as they come in);
Updating my minisites less often; and
Less peripheral marketing (eg, placing ads on backpage).
And we won’t even get into housework that slides; yard work that goes undone; bikini waxes, hair and nail appointments that are never made, etc.
When you’re focused on a goal and it’s important to you, a lot of stuff has to slide.
THIS is how I manage to do all that I do. I prioritize, let stuff slide and time block my days to the hilt.
VI. Eat Right / Exercise: This is as critical to your freelance writing success as any marketing you’ll ever do. If you’ve been a reader of this blog for any time, you know that I run marathons. Running not only keeps me in good physical shape, it’s a great stress reliever. I love this aspect of it probably more than any other benefit it provides.
I also happen to be a pretty healthy eater. I keep lots of fresh fruit on hand for snacking and don’t buy junk food because if it’s not in the house, I won’t eat it. If you work from home (as most freelance writers do) and are prone to raiding the refrigerator — which thank goodness is not a problem for me — keep this tip in mind.
Final Note about Trying to Do It All as a Freelance Writer
Give yourself a deadline as to how long you want to push yourself if you find that you’re working more than you want. For example, this is my “year of ebook writing.” Next year will be building more passive income streams.
By the beginning of 2013 (see how important that life plan is), I hope to be able to relax a bit – cutting my work week from 6-7 days, down to 3 or 4 (and then for only 5-6 hours a day). But I know that for the next year and a half or so, I’m going to have to work like a madwoman to get there. And this is fine, because I’ve mentally prepared myself for it.
What keeps me going are the incremental successes I’m seeing from my hard work (which is what usually happens when you dedicate yourself earnestly to a task).
My Income Steadily Increases Month After Month
Month after month, my income increases – some months it’s only by $50 or so; other months it’s by ten times this much — or more.
Ebook sales are creeping up; Google AdSense income has been insane the past couple of months compared to before; other affiliate marketing like Clickbank is growing – and this all happened during the slow summer season. I can’t wait for fall!
And, lo and behold – I’ve gone and gotten myself a personal life and manage to fit that fun in too! Who woulda thunk considering I had practically no time to actively seek this out. But, that’s what happens when you’re working hard and focused on “doing your thang;” the universe rewards you on many levels.
I hope this sheds some light on what it takes do “do it all” as a freelance writer.
It ain’t easy; but it’s worth every second.
Best,
Yuwanda
P.S.: Yes, you can live and work from a tropical island paradise like Jamaica: Learn how in the ebook, How to Work and Live Abroad from the Caribbean: It’s Easier Than You Think to Make the Move to an Island Paradise.
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
How to Work and Live Abroad from the Caribbean: It’s Easier Than You Think to Make the Move to an Island Paradise
August 18, 2011
PREFACE
LIFE IS SHORT – DON’T WAIT TO “RETIRE” TO ENJOY IT – RETIRE NOW!
Ever wished you could pick up, move and live/work from a tropical island paradise like Jamaica?
Well you can – and it’s easier than you think. This ebook provides step-by-step instructions – you’ll learn how to start planning as much as a year out – on how do it.
This “change your life kit” is only $59.95.
[See all Inkwell Editorial Titles that Help You Live the Freelance Life!]
All the Info You Need to Create a Portable Lifestyle to Live Anywhere You Want
Nothing is left to chance. There is detailed budget information, 7 steps on how to create a mobile working lifestyle, what to expect as far as daily living, how to find an apartment, how much to expect to pay, how to get utilities turned on and so much more.
As an American freelance writer, I’ve lived part-time in Negril, Jamaica since March 2010. I come here for 2-3 months, then go back home for a month or so; all the while earning a very good living. In this ebook, I tell you how to do the same thing.
My sister (who lives in Negril as well part-time) and I joke all the time that we’re semi-retired because we live a life that most people wait until the retire to experience.
And, we get never-ending questions about how we manage to do what we do. Well, this ebook shows you exactly how.
And, it’s something everyone who really wants to can do. It’s not nearly as hard (or hard at all, really) as you may think. With the carefully laid out steps within, six months to a year from now, you too can be calling a tropical paradise like Negril, Jamaica home.
Tired of Waiting for an “Annual Vacation?” Have that Rum Punch in the Middle of the Afternoon
There’s no need to stay stuck in a job you hate, waiting for an annual vacation of a week or two just to let loose and have some fun. This can be your daily existence!
Now, while I do work – a lot! – I also take off and go to the beach when I feel like it, meet friends for lunch at a beachside café and have rum punches when I want, go for early morning swims, sleep late, etc.
In short, my life is not dictated by someone else’s time table.
I work when it’s best for me, which happens to be late mornings into the evenings (I’m not a morning person at all).
Never Have to Report to a Job Again
And you know what, I can’t imagine having to report to a job again (I’ve made my living completely online since 2007, as I detail in the ebook, Living the Freelance Life: How I Live Internationally and Have Earned a Living Completely Online Since 2007 & You Can Too!.
Following is a complete table of contents.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Page 8
PREFACE: Page 9
How the Info within Can Help You Move Wherever You Want in the Caribbean: Page 9
How/Why I Discovered and Moved to Jamaica: Page 9
The Beauty of Jamaica: Page 9
Why I Love to Travel: Page 10
My Love of the Outdoors: Page 11
Family Connection: Page 11
My Love of Travel . . . Sated: Page 12
SECTION I: BASICS ABOUT JAMAICA (AND NEGRIL): Page 13
Location: Where Exactly Is Jamaica: Page 13
Population: How Many People Are There In Negril: Page 13
Language: What Language(s) Is Spoken in Jamaica: Page 14
Money: What Is the Official Currency of Jamaica: Page 14
Race/Ethnicity: What Is the Ethnic Makeup of Jamaica: Page 14
Religion: What Religions are Practiced in Jamaica: Page 15
The Geographic Layout of Negril: The West End (The Cliffs) vs. The Beach: Page 15
When Is Low and High Season in Negril & Why You Need to Know: Page 16
SECTION II: WHAT TO DO 6 MONTHS TO 1 YEAR OR MORE BEFORE YOU MOVE: Page 18
Moving to Jamaica: Seven (7) Steps to Creating a Mobile Working Lifestyle: Page 18
Why You Should Save at Least Three Times as Much Money as You Think You’ll Need: Page 23
SECTION III: GETTING THROUGH IMMIGRATION IN MONTEGO BAY: Page 25
Tips on Filling out the Customs Form on the Plane: Page 26
How to Get to Negril from the Montego Bay Airport Cheaply (This Knowledge Alone Can Save You $75+!): Page 27
SECTION IV: PREPARING TO MOVE – WHAT TO DO 30 DAYS BEFOREHAND: Page 29
Plan Second Trip: Page 29
Know Your Money: Page 29
Start Closing Up Loose Ends at Home: Page 30
How to Handle Your Mail in Your Absence: Page 30
SECTION V: HOW TO FIND AN APARTMENT TO RENT IN NEGRIL, JAMAICA: Page 32
Negril Apartment Hunting Tip #1: Page 32
Negril Apartment Hunting Tip #2: Page 32
Negril Apartment Hunting Tip #3: Page 33
Negril Apartment Hunting Tip #4: Page 33
Important Tip When Hunting for Apartments Abroad – No Matter Where You’re Going: Page 34
Negril, Jamaica: Apartment Scams on Websites Like Craigslist, Et Al: Page 34
How Many “Renting in a Foreign Country Apartment Scams” Work: Page 34
Tips for Avoiding Apartment Hunting Scams in Jamaica on Craigslist (and Other Websites): Page 35
In My Opinion, the Best Way to Find an Apartment in Jamaica (or Any Foreign Country): Page 36
The Process of Renting an Apartment in Negril, Jamaica: Page 36
A Note about Utilities When Renting in Jamaica: Page 36
How to Get a Tax I.D. Number in Jamaica (Which You’ll Need for Certain Utilities): Page 37
How Much Should You Expect to Pay in Rent for an Apartment in Negril, Jamaica: Page 37
What I’ve Paid in Rent in Jamaica (3 Different Apts/Houses): Page 38
Just How Important Is a Beach Chair in Negril?: Page 38
Questions to Ask When Apartment Hunting in Jamaica: Page 38
What to Bring to Furnish Your Apartment: Page 44
How to Transport Items Cheaply to Jamaica: Page 45
Information on Duty Taxes You Will Have to Pay If You Ship Items to Jamaica: Page 45
SECTION VI: LIVING EXPENSES IN NEGRIL (BESIDES RENT): Page 47
Cell Phone Costs in Jamaica: Page 47
Ways to Call Home Free and/or Very Cheaply: Page 47
Transportation — Getting around Negril via Taxi: Page 48
How Much Taxis Cost in Negril: Page 48
Taking Taxis in Negril – The Local Way: Page 49
Food: Shopping for / How Much to Expect to Spend: Page 49
Toiletries and Household Incidentals: Toothpaste, Soap, Dish Detergent, Deodorant: Page 50
Clothing: Where to Shop – How Much to Spend: Page 51
Budget Overview: How Much You Can Expect to Spend Per Month WITHOUT Including Entertainment: Page 52
Entertainment: What to Do and Where to Go in Negril: Page 53
Things to Do in Negril: Concerts: Page 53
Things to Do in Negril: The Beach and Water Sports: Page 54
Things to Do in Negril: Exercise: Page 54
Things to Do in Negril: Walk and Explore (Bring Your Camera!): Page 54
Things to Do: Nightclubs / Live Music: Page 54
Affordable Restaurants/Bars I Frequent in Negril: Page 55
Getting out of Negril: Day Trips: Page 60
About “Tourist Traps”: Page 60
Budget Recap: Total Monthly Expenditures INCLUDING Entertainment: Page 61
A Note about Incidentals: What They Are, How to Calculate Them & Why You MUST Include Them in Your Budget: Page 61
SECTION VII: JOB OPPORTUNITIES: Page 62
Finding Work in Negril, Jamaica as an American / Foreigner with “No Papers”: Page 62
Negril, Jamaica: Types of Businesses That Would Do Well in Here: Page 64
The Unemployment Rate in Jamaica: Page 64
The Low Season in Negril, Jamaica: When You Can – and Cannot – Make Money: Page 65
The Bottom Line on Finding Work in Negril, Jamaica as a Foreigner: Page 65
SECTION VIII: DAILY LIVING — WHAT TO EXPECT: Page 66
The People: Page 66
The Heat: Page 67
Walking: Page 68
Critters: Page 68
Clean Up or Move Out: Page 68
The Dust: Page 68
Excuse Me, It’s My Turn: Page 68
Going to the Dogs: Page 68
The Ocean: Page 70
Extra Tips, Insights and Info about Living in Negril: Page 70
Food on the Side of the Road: Page 70
Food on the Beach: Page 71
Many Places Closed During Low Season: Page 71
Sunday Is Family Day: Page 71
Stores Close Early: Page 71
Where to Get Online if You Don’t Have/Don’t Want to Get Internet Access in Your Apartment in Negril: Page 71
Items to Always Have in Your Purse, Backpack and/or Beach Bag: Page 72
Emergency Numbers: Page 73
SECTION IX: WHAT TO DO IF YOU WANT TO STAY LONGER THAN 3 MONTHS: Page 74
How to Become a Jamaican Resident: Page 74
Getting Residency: Paperwork Required: Page 74
First-hand Account of an American Who Applied to Become a Permanent Jamaican Resident: Page 75
SECTION X: MY FINAL THOUGHTS AS AN AMERICAN LIVING IN NEGRIL: Page 76
Negatives of Living in Negril as a Foreigner: Page 76
Positives of Living in Negril as a Foreigner: Page 77
Change Is Good: Page 78
Conclusion: Life Lessons Learned as an American Living in a Foreign Country: Page 79
ENDMATTER: Page 81
Ready to change your life?
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How to Become a Freelance Writer: How to Market Consistently to Start Earning $100-$200 Per Day
August 16, 2011
Recently, a freelancer who took Inkwell’s freelance writing ecourse sent in the following question. She wrote:
Question from a Fellow Freelance Writer
Yuwanda:
… when sending cold emails to prospects (I’ve sent 75 to date now), do you follow up with those that don’t respond? If so, when and how frequently? I was thinking that I might follow up in one week with an offer to email them my free ebook, and if I hadn’t heard from them, two weeks from them with some kind of a “sale” email with an exclusive discount or the like…is this worth the time, or no?
Thanks in advance,
J-
My Answer
J-:
Definitely keep in touch. I think I say in the freelance writing ecourse to keep a calendar of your marketing efforts. That way you can track who you contacted, when, what you said, etc.
Some will never respond; others will after 6 months, a year or even two years. But I’m a firm believer in follow up. And it doesn’t have to be elaborate — just a quick, “Hi, remember me, keep us in mind if you ever have content needs we can help you with.”
Sending a special report every quarter or so can help to boost your image. Otherwise, I’d follow up every 30 days with a simple message like the one above — with a link out to your site.
And of course, stay in touch with those who ARE giving you work. Most freelance writers forget this (I know I’m not good about it). But, remember the Pareto Principle — 80% of your work will come from 20% of your clients. So stay in regular contact with those who are giving you work. Say thank you, offer repeat customer discounts, bundled service offerings, etc.
Hope this helps, and feel free to send in other questions if you have them.
I just want to expand upon this answer a bit.
Freelance Writing Advice on How to Consistently Market to Land Jobs
Your Marketing List: When you put together your marketing contact list, this is your “get business” list. So, don’t ever stop marketing to it because someone doesn’t respond. You’ll read some studies that say if after a year or two or three years a lead doesn’t respond, then you can remove them from your list.
But as email doesn’t cost a thing, I say continue to market to them unless/until they ask you not to contact them again.
I’ve had prospects contact me over two years later who’d never responded to any of my e-campaigns. Then, out of the blue, they call/email and want to get started. Or, they may start the inquiry process and it may be another few months before I hear from them again.
So in my opinion, it’s best to keep marketing to “nonresponders” say, once a month or so. This is just enough to stay top of mind without being a nuisance.
About Creating a Free Giveaway: One of the things I advise all freelance writers – especially niche freelance writers – to do is to write a client-focused, benefits-oriented ebook and offer it as a free download from your site.
It accomplishes a number of things: (i) showcases your writing talent; (ii) tells prospects specifically how you can help them; and (iii) puts you ahead of the competition because many freelance writers just don’t take the time to do stuff like this.
Stay in Touch with Regulars: Many freelance writers get so busy looking for new clients that they forget about existing clients. I know I’m guilty of this.
But as I said above, according to the Pareto Principle, 20% of your clients will give you 80% of your work (I know this to be true firsthand); hence, you literally can’t afford to ignore your existing clients.
Stay in touch – and not just to always solicit work (although that’s always the underlying goal). Offer them discounts to show your appreciation, send links to industry-related news items that can help their business, and/or just send an “I value your business, hope you’re having a great day” email.
Like in romance, it’s not the big things, but the little, simple things you do that make you stand head and shoulders above the competition.
If you market consistently using these guidelines — and you make enough contacts (10-20 per day) — you can easily earn $100-$200 per day as a freelance writer. Most freelancers don’t stick to it though. They fail to market when they get busy, or family stuff gets in the way.
You can’t! Especially during the start-up phase.
Hope this insight helps you to land more freelance writing jobs, and that you’re having a fabulous week!
Me? I have a stress-induced cold sore. I’m so swamped I can’t even see straight. And, I have family and friends coming from the states to visit this weekend. While I’m super excited to see them, it means less time for work. But . . . family first, no?
P.S.: Easy Internet Riches?
If you’re looking for an easy way to make money, this freelance writing ecourse is not for you. This is a REAL work-from-home opportunity. What you will learn is how to earn $100, $150, $200/day or more working from home as a freelance writer.
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
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Writing and Selling Ebooks Online: Diary of My Quest to Publish 50 Ebooks on Amazon in One Year, Part X
August 15, 2011
Editor Note: We’re having problems with our RSS Feed. It’s been disabled because we had some problems with our hosting company — too many requests for it which caused bandwidth problems. Until we can do some back-end stuff, the feed will remain disabled.
The best way to get our content is to subscribe to the newsletter. Ok, on to today’s post.
Make Money Selling Ebooks: Well, It Ain’t Just about the Writing
My ebook writing is going slow, slow, slow. I’m still working on the travel ebook. But the writing is 90% done. I hope to finish this one up today, at least the writing and editing. Then, I’ll do the proofing, create the cover and upload it tomorrow. At least that’s the plan.
Note: See links to all entries in this ebook writing series at the end of this post. Get the ebook that came out of this series: SELLING EBOOKS ONLINE: How I Published 50 Ebooks on Amazon in One Year – And You Can Too!
Writing and Selling Ebooks Online: The Backend Process
One of the reasons this whole process is going so slow is that there’s a lot to be done on the backend when you write and sell ebooks online. Namely:
Editing/Proofing: You can hire someone to do this, but you’ll still wind up going over it yourself (trust me, you will) and making more changes. This causes it to have to be proofed and edited again; usually by you.
Creating the Cover: Although this can be done pretty easily, as outlined in this create your own ebook covers publication, it is still another step in the process after the writing and editing has been done.
Creating a Sales/Landing Page: This can take a few hours; I can do mine in about an hour because I have a system in place, but when you first start out, it can easily take you a few hours.
Coding Sales/Landing Page: You can do a sales page in plain text, but bold, ital and other text formatting is part of what makes a sales/landing page professional, so when you upload it to your digital download service provider (eg, e-Junkie), you should have to HTML code it. This takes time.
Formatting for Amazon: When you convert your Amazon ebook from Word to Kindle, there are going to be formatting errors that you’re going to have to fix by hand. It usually takes me about 45 minutes to correctly format and upload an ebook. Some have taken me as long as 3 hours though (when I first started out).
It all depends on how long the ebook is, and how graphic-heavy it is.
Speaking of graphics . . .
Formatting/Finding Graphics: Need them for your ebook? You either have to create them, or research and purchase them, or search for suitable free ones to use, etc.
Again, more time.
Uploading to Multiple Outlets: I upload my ebooks to my site, as well as e-Junkie. Then of course, there’s Amazon, as discussed just above.
Each time you upload it, it’s a process – whether it’s filling out the correct information in e-Junkie, or getting text perfect on your website, or formatting graphics that seem to just “go haywire” for no reason at all.
There goes more time, time, time.
Researching Keywords: You should do this before you even write your ebook (this is part of how you determine if your ebook will sell before you write it). You’ll not only need keywords for your product description pages, but to promote your ebook (eg, in your article marketing campaigns).
Time!
Speaking of marketing . . .
Marketing: This is an ongoing process afterward your ebook writing is done; it never stops. But, you especially need that initial push. I’ve fallen off badly on this. Luckily, I have an in-built client base, but I could easily double or triple my sales if I did more marketing.
My plan next year is to do less writing of new products and more marketing of existing ones. I’ll probably turn out a title or two per month, instead of this crazy “writing one ebook a week” thing I’m trying to do now (and yeah, I do know it’s crazy, but I started it so I’m hell bent on finishing it!).
Writing Ebook Descriptions: This can come from your sales page. But for example, when you upload it to Amazon, there are space limitations, so you’ll likely have to edit it down to get it to fit. I’ve spent as much as two hours cutting, cutting, cutting, while trying to keep the best stuff in so my sales page / description on Amazon sells properly.
Research Pricing: This is something that should be done up front too. But, you’ll likely do a little more just before you upload so you can see if anything new has been published by a competitor that would throw off your ebook pricing.
As you can see, there’s a lot to be done beyond the just the writing of ebooks as a self-published author. I need an e-publishing assistant!
I had no idea of just how much stuff I was doing when I published just a few ebooks. Now that I’ve turned myself into an “ebook publishing machine,” boy, do I realize how I underestimated just how much work it would be.
But c’est la vie, no?
Now, a few more notes:
Ebook Sales: My sales are steadily progressing. I’ve sold exactly 50% more ebooks so far this month than I did last month, and it’s just past half the month. So even though I’m not making tons of money yet, this encourages me a lot because I know this is a marathon, no a sprint (good thing I’m a marathon runner, no?) 
I imagine what my sales will look like 2, 3 and 5 years from now as I keep producing. This is what keeps me motivated.
Variety of Sales: So far, I’ve sold copies of 10 different titles this month. To date, I have 24 different ones on Amazon. Speaking of . . .
Upload Week: I spent all of last week uploading all of the pullouts from the How to Write an Ebook in 3 Days ebook to Amazon. There were four of them, ie:
So that was four more products, which brings my total number of products on Amazon to 24, as mentioned above.
And that’s the latest on my quest to publish 50 ebooks on Amazon this year.
Special Deal on Travel Ebook
The ebook I’m working on now is tentatively titled, How to Move To, Live and Work from a Caribbean Island: Everything You Need to Know to Make the Move to an Island Paradise. It’ll definitely be uploaded by Friday (as I said, I’m shooting for tomorrow).
I cover everything from how to find an apartment; to how much to expect to spend on a daily/monthly basis; to where to where to eat/drink cheaply; to how to create a mobile working lifestyle.
I even give you a plan for as much as a year out on what to start doing to prepare to make the move. Nothing is left to chance; it’s literally a bible on how to pick up, make the move and start living/working from Jamaica.
This ebook is going to sell for $59.95 (on Amazon and on this site), but you can pre-order it for $39.95.
How to Pre-Order the Travel Ebook
Send $39.95 to payment@InkwellEditorial.com. Put “Pre-Order Travel Ebook” in comments section of PayPal payment. Once the ebook is finished, you’ll be sent a copy. This special ends at midnight this Thursday, August 18th (U.S. EST).
How’s your ebook writing coming along? Have questions? Sound off in the comments section below.
P.S.: Want to write and sell ebooks online for a living? You can! Get the guide that shows you how to start a successful self-publishing career — start immediately.
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Legal Advice for Freelance Writers (and Other Content Producers) from an Intellectual Property Attorney on How to Protect Your Work from Copyright Infringement and Other Types of On & Offline Theft
August 9, 2011
A few weeks ago, I disclosed how I discovered that I was a victim of copyright theft (this happens so often it’s crazy!). Another alleged freelance writer had not only stolen portions of one of my ebooks and was passing it off as her own, she also stole my professional credentials.
Warning — this is a monster post on copyright infringement, digital theft, plagiarism, libel and how to protect your works (and reputation) online and off. It’s over 2,200 words long . . . but worth every single one of them if you’re a content producer (ebooks, video, graphic designer, etc.).
Freelance Writer’s Copyright Rights: An Intellectual Property Attorney Speaks
I was so angry when I discovered that my content had been stolen that I spent an entire day researching the subject – and a copyright attorney to put on retainer — because the next time I discover it, I’m giving no warnings, I’m suing. One of the lawyers I contacted was kind enough to answer some questions. Her name is Tonya M. Evans; she’s an Intellectual Property lawyer, as well as a professor.
Her bio reads as follows in part:
Tonya M. Evans is Assistant Professor of Law at Widener University School of Law (Harrisburg campus) and an attorney specializing primarily in the areas of entertainment law (literary, music and film) and intellectual property (copyright and trademark).
She is a nationally recognized speaker who presents to various audiences regularly on publishing and intellectual property law issues.
I point this out to underscore how important it is to get info first-hand from a qualified professional who knows what they’re talking about. Read Ms. Evans’ full bio at http://legalwritepublications.com/about.
A shout out to @InVinceWil for pointing me to Professor Evans; I had an awesome response to my query for recommendations of copyright attorneys from quite a few in Twitterville.
Freelance Writers: Why It’s Time to Get Serious about Protecting Your Work (Online and Off)
Attorney Evans was kind enough to give some detailed answers to some very specific questions. It’s a lot of reading (which is why I never made it to law school probably; took the LSATs and applied, but never went). But, I digress.
In this digital age, it’s extremely important for freelance writers to get serious about protecting their work. And this is particularly true if you’re a self-published author – as many freelance writers are dipping over into.
Copyright theft is rampant online – and it’s only going to get worse. So, following is what Professor Evans had to say regarding a myriad of questions I fired off to her. She sent quite a few links, so I’ve boiled down her “essential answers” (in my opinion), and linked out to the full posts so you can read all the detail she provided.
Q&A with an Intellectual Property Attorney on How Freelance Writers Can Prevent Copyright Theft
Question: I want to do a post for my website within the next couple of weeks on copyright infringement and how self-published authors like myself can protect our works online. I’m not naive (worked in legal publishing for years — on the editorial side), so I know that nothing is 100% proof. Can you give some insight on this?
Answer: Copyright Law 101 — Copyright protects a literary or artistic work that’s fixed in a tangible medium (ex: when a song is recorded or a news article is written).
Once the creative work [eg, ebook] is “fixed” then, presumably it is capable of being reproduced, adapted, distributed, or performed or displayed publicly. This litany of uses make up the “bundle of rights” that a copyright owner holds. Therefore anyone who uses a copyrighted work without right, permission or defense will be liable for copyright infringement.
The cost to file a lawsuit is relatively low. And with the statutory damage awards available in copyright infringement suits (anywhere from $200 – $150,000 PER infringement), the potential gain — either with a successful suit or settlement — can be considerable. [bolded emphasis added]
In a case where the copyright owner (eg, ebook writer/publisher) sustains the burden of proving, and the court finds, that infringement was committed willfully, the court in its discretion may increase the award of statutory damages to a sum of . . . $150,000. Source: U. S. Copyright Office: Copyright Law.
Read full article, Can you REALLY copy an ENTIRE news article online and claim fair use?
Editor Note: Bottom line writers — if you find that your stuff has been stolen, it’s worth it to sue! Copyright theft is the new white collar crime, in my opinion, and courts are going to start taking copyright infringement much more seriously – and levy heavier penalties and maybe even jail time.
Question: I’d really like to know – once you discover that your work has clearly been plagiarized/stolen, what steps can you take legally to put the other person on notice that, “Hey, this is mine. I know you stole it, and if you don’t remove it pronto buddy, I’m gonna sue you.”
I’ve filed DMCA notices and all that — and they seem to work just fine for some. But, is there a “scarier,” for lack of a better word, legal tactic that can be used to get the perpetrator to say, “Hey, she’s serious, better remove her stuff.”
Answer: An online work is no different from its physical counterpart, except for the way the information is viewed or perceived.
The same law presented in Copyright Companion for Writers and Literary Law Guide for Authors applies to works displayed and distributed on the Internet, despite the all-too-prevalent erroneous assumption that if it’s on the Internet it must be free for anyone and everyone to use.
By law ISPs have to remove the stuff. It’s impossible to police infringement on the front end – what people actually upload to the Internet – but to avoid secondary liability for infringement ISPs must follow the DMCA guidelines regarding takedowns, as you are aware. This is a method to control infringement on the back end.
It’s far easier to get an ISP or OSP to remove the content than the actual content provider. [emphasis added and I’ve discovered this first-hand] So although I can certainly understand adding additional ammunition to discourage infringing activity, other than building in technological protections like disabling the cut & paste or print functions etc. the back-end approach via ISPs and OSPs is really your best and most time and cost-efficient approach.
Speaking of, following are a list of ways to reduce [copyright] infringement of your material on the Internet and to encourage responsible uses:
- Include copyright notice (ex: 2011 Tonya M. Evans. All rights reserved) at the top of each post.
- Include clear instructions for permitted uses if you encourage copying, reposting and sharing socially. Also note whether your permission includes commercial or only non-commercial uses.
- Disable the copy + paste functions in your html code.
If you have a Word Press blog, you can use WP-CopyProtect plugin to disable right click in your blog.
Read the full post, Copyright Protection in the Digital Age.
Question: Libelous content — I’ve had a cyber stalker for about a year now who’s posted libelous content about me all over the web (http://inkwelleditorial.com/scam). I think it’s actually kinda helped my business, so haven’t worried about it too much. But recently, he attacked another business owner’s site that wasn’t mine (but he claimed it was), so I want to proceed with a civil suit.
I can prove everything — as I’ve saved all correspondence, screen shots, etc. I want punitive, compensatory and any other damages I’m entitled to. How do I proceed?
Answer: You’ll have to contact a lawyer who can actually represent your care. I have several referrals listed on the Resources page of my website at http://legalwritepublications.com/resources.
Note: The following did not come from Professor Evans. As she astutely alluded to, each case is different, so it’s best to consult with an attorney. Following is what I found doing some web research.
What Exactly Is Libel?
In order to be libelous, a statement must meet these conditions: Note: Source for most content in this section is from PublishingCentral.com.
- There must be some negligence on the part of the writer
- It must be defamatory (false and injurious to the plaintiff’s reputation)
- It must be published (distributed to someone other than the plaintiff and defendant)
- It is not privileged communication*
- The plaintiff must be identifiable to the reader
How to Prove Libel
There are several ways a person must go about proving that libel has taken place. For example, in the United States, the person first must prove that the statement was false. Second, that person must prove that the statement caused harm. And, third, they must prove that the statement was made without adequate research into the truthfulness of the statement. These steps are for an ordinary citizen. Source: Wikipedia.
I can prove all of this in my case, so it’s a pretty easy one to win in court. That’s why it’s important to keep everything (correspondence, screen shots, etc.). Oh, and in the case of someone trying to hide their identity, a subpoena from an attorney served on the host/IP company will make them supply you with the identity of the perpetrator.
Remember, if what someone writes about you is true – even if it’s unflattering – it’s not libel. But, if they intentionally and maliciously lie about you (eg, claiming you stole money from them when you never even did business with them, or that you’re defrauding customers out of money when you’re not even privvy to this info because that’s not how you operate your business) then that’s a clear-cut case of libel.
Penalties for Libel: Be Careful What Write About Someone on the Web – It Can Cost You – Big
First, if you’re the defendant in a libel suit, you must pay all your own legal fees, no matter whether you win or lose.
Secondly, in many states there are both civil and criminal penalties for libel, so along with monetary penalties imposed in a civil case, a defendant found guilty of libel may also face a jail term in some states.
Legal fees notwithstanding, libel is not cheap. Most of the damages awarded in libel cases are general or compensatory (compensation for humiliation, grief, etc.). Since there are no limits or standards to these sorts of damages, they often surpass the $1 million mark.
Editor Note: After talking with a couple of attorneys and doing in-depth web research for this post, I’m going to proceed with my civil suit. I was going to let it go, but when I found out how relatively easy my case would be to win — and the fact that this perpetrator continues to harrass me and my businesses online almost a year later, I thought, “Why not?”
Following are all of the links Professor Evans sent. Bookmark her site, for it is packed with info on this subject and trust me, if you write online, at some point, you’re going to find yourself needing the advice she dispenses.
Can you REALLY copy an ENTIRE news article online and claim fair use? http://tinyurl.com/3tqtyyc
Copyright Protection in the Digital Age: http://tinyurl.com/3tcnnud
Copyright for Writers on the Internet: http://tinyurl.com/3fn9elg
The Difference between Fair Use and Public Domain: http://tinyurl.com/3wsleuz
And, just so my carcass isn’t in hot water with Professor / Attorney Evans, following is the disclaimer I’m posting for her so generously allowing me to reprint all of the aforementioned material:
About the Author: Tonya M. Evans is an intellectual property expert, award-winning author of a series of legal reference guides for writers and professor of law at Widener University School of Law. Visit her website and blog at http://www.legalwritepublications.com and follow her [on Twitter] @LegalWritePub.
Copyright Weapons for Freelance Writers
Check out Professor Evan’s book, Copyright Companion for Writers, and a few others she has that she’s bundled together so you can have all the legal weapons in your arsenal that you need — at your fingertips — to protect yourself from copyright theft.
Love This Idea: Affordable Legal Help for Freelance Writers
I’d thought about something similar myself – brilliant! Any baby attorneys out there willing to be takers? I know I’d regularly contribute a certain amount each month.
The following is from the post itself – and comments left on the post, A Case of Copyright Infringement (A True Story).
It would be nice if we could pay a fee into an Indie Author Defense League so if Amazon or other booksellers decide to turn their noses up on indie authors, we’d have a professional and legal organization that would hold them accountable for checking their books more thoroughly when it’s time to publish them.
. . . as authors, we could raise money for such an endeavor by making a certain of the month the day we encourage indie authors to donate their profits or a percentage of their profits to the legal defense fund. For lawyers, it would be a good place to advertise affordable representation, as those earning on their books have need for legal representation at an affordable rate.
And FYI . . . There IS an organization that fights for writers. It is called the National Writers Union. http://www.nwu.org. . . . [One writer recounts] . . . They have helped me numerous times when I have had contract and infringement issues.
Further Reading: Other Posts Where Ebook Authors Recount Copyright Theft
Drew Wagner: Free Ebooks Stolen and Sold on Amazon without His Permission
The Kindle Swindle: How Spammers Have Moved from Content Farms to Ebooks
I know this is a lot of info, so bookmark the page to come back to later if you can’t ingest it all in one reading. And feel free to share it, as we all have to look out for each other and the more info we’re armed with – the better.
And, happy writing!
P.S.: Quickly Become a Published Author: Learn how to FINALLY get that ebook out of your head and onto a page. Just think, you could be done and making sales this time next week!
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Writing and Selling Ebooks Online: Diary of My Quest to Publish 50 Ebooks on Amazon in One Year, Part IX
August 5, 2011
Since my last update, I’ve uploaded one more title to Amazon, which brings my total to 17. I’m working on my latest title, a travel ebook about how to live and work from the Caribbean (finished it; get it here). It’s kicking my butt because it’s so packed with info.
Note: See links to all entries in this ebook writing series at the end of this post.
But I’m getting very detailed because I want it to be a valuable, step-by-step resource for anyone who wants to take the plunge (it’s easier than you think). Nothing will be left to chance; you’ll have a roadmap to follow from as long as one year out, all the way down to the day you make your move (see why it’s a monster write!).
Yeah, I’m still behind by a title or two, but will be doing some shorter ebooks in the coming weeks. Also, I still have pullouts and existing titles to upload, so I’ll make my 50 by year’s end.
That’s the latest on me. Here’s what’s been on the mind of fellow/aspiring ebook writers.
Some Questions from Aspiring/Fellow Ebook Writers
Question: When you submit your ebooks, have you had problems uploading graphics, certain fonts, links etc.? Is there any type of formatting that you know of that just doesn’t work?
My Answer: I follow the directions found here. FYI, I don’t bother with the coding (eg, <p width=”0″>, which is probably why I have some of the formatting problems mentioned below.
The formatting can get a little screwy (eg, font changes from upper to lower case and indents sometimes happens where they shouldn’t, but really, no major problems).
I need to do more digging around the Amazon formatting forums to learn how to fix simple stuff like this, but no readers have complained (and from what I understand most just want well-written content), so I’ve let it slide for now.
Question: How well do your ebooks do on Amazon? I never added mine . . . not sure it’s worth the effort? Note: This question is from a self-published author who has a pretty good selling ebook on social media.
My Answer: I do ok on Amazon; I still sell the majority from my site, but for me selling on Amazon is about developing a long-term strategy for self-publishing success. I think it’d be worth it for you simply because of the traffic Amazon gets. Although to make a “bundle” I think you need more than one ebook — especially as our niche is “non-fiction business.”
Fiction, especially in certain genres (eg, horror, murder) does very well.
Hope this insight helps.
Question: I am an Inkwell Editorial subscriber so I received one of your latest e-books for free and it was truly inspirational. You are my favorite e-book writer and all-around freelance writing blogger because I feel like you bare your soul to us fellow writers and I for one appreciate it. I definitely enjoyed that e-book.
I couldn’t resist purchasing two more of your e-books for my Kindle on my iPhone-the FT self publisher and e-book writing and marketing e-books and I was not disappointed.
I have an almost finished e-book about to publish to boost my . . . writer platform and that is thanks to you, as is the fact that I am very confident in my goal to write on e-book a week for the rest of the year. I hope to be successful and to do the same thing in the coming year as well. Woohoo is this exciting-I am glad that I came on board for this.
I just wanted to let you know that your kindness and your advice has been very helpful to me and you’re helping me get to a point where I can support my family like I want . .
Oh, and before I go, I wanted to ask you what you think of the formula I have been using to project monthly sales income of my e-books:
Pat from smartpassiveincome.com says that in the top slot of Google you can expect 40% of the traffic, and I know as a copywriter that a 1% conversion rate is a moderate estimate, so I have been using the targeted keyword’s estimated global monthly searches * .4 *.01 to arrive at an estimated number of sales, then multiplied that by the expected royalty per sale.
My Answer: I’m not quite this organized when it comes to my ebook sales. But, I think this is an excellent strategy to use to write ebooks that will sell.
Why haven’t I taken this very good approach?
Because I have a built in audience who basically tell me what they want me to write about. So I know the ebooks I write have the potential to sell even before I write them. To be sure, some titles do much better than others, but as I talked about in the free ebook you get when you subscribe to this website, I don’t worry so much about individual ebook title sales.
I’m focused on getting my “catalog” of ebooks published (ideally 200-300 over the next four or five years). Once an ebook is written, it can be a “forever” money maker. One that doesn’t sell so well now could become your best seller in three years. As long as you have quantity, you will make sales (if you’re not writing junk).
My Ebook Sales to Date
Speaking of ebook sales, for June and July, my sales were basically the same (I sold one more in July than I did in June). But, August is off to a banging start! I’ve already sold half as many this month as I did the ENTIRE month of July, and it’s only 5 days into the month.
Individual Title Ebook Sales
Also, I’m noticing that I’m selling a lot of different titles; ie, my sales aren’t coming from just one or two ebooks. Last month, I sold copies of 11 different titles. I ended the month with 15 ebooks on Amazon (I think). So far this month, I’ve sold copies of seven different titles.
Ebook Prices Don’t Seem to be Affecting Sales
Another thing I’m noticing is that the higher-priced ebooks have been selling too. I have ebook prices on Amazon that range from 99 cents, to $59.95. I could probably sell more by lowering some of the prices, but I’m seeing steady increases in sales, and I’m happy with my overall ebook earnings, so I’m just gonna leave them alone for now.
Amazon Sales Seem to be Driving Website Sales
I’ve also seen an uptick in ebook sales from this website. I think some of this may be because of the wider exposure I get from being on Amazon.
I literally can’t wait for the fall because summer is supposed to be a slow season (especially July and August), and I had a fantastic month last month. So October, November and December should be really good.
Self-Publishing Ebooks on Amazon: What’s Up for Me Next Week?
Even though I’m behind by a title or two, I don’t think I’m gonna start on a new ebook next week. I’m doing what I call “Upload Week.” There are some titles I want to package and sell; some others I need to do ebook pullouts on; and yet others are already created pullouts that just need to be uploaded to Amazon.
So that’s what I’m going to work on for the most part next week. This travel ebook is kicking my butt (packed – and I do mean PACKED with details), so I’ll be good and ready for an ebook writing break when this one is done this weekend.
And that’s the latest on my quest to get at least 50 ebooks on Amazon by year’s end.
How’s your ebook writing coming along? Have comments/insight? Share in the comments section below. Have questions? Send them in (see contact link on every page of this site). It just might appear in my next update in this ebook writing series.
Here’s to some productive writing time!
Yuwanda
P.S.: Quickly Become a Published Author: Learn how to FINALLY get that ebook out of your head and onto a page. Just think, you could be done and making sales this time next week!
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Blog Mentors: How to Find Successful Ones Online to Help You Grow Your Freelance / SEO Writing Business
August 2, 2011
The following is a guest post by Esayo Tetteh.
Two years ago when I realised how many hours I spent on the net researching, surfing, googling etc., I decided it was time I put this love to my advantage. I needed to find ways of making money either surfing, researching or writing and this was how my journey began.
And oh what a journey it has been!
I am still not yet anywhere where I’d like to be in terms of making money but I’m somewhere; at least, I have a website (Win Against Odds) and I have a hubpage Beauty Foods hubpage, an e-book which I soon will be uploading and I am awaiting approval of articles I’ve written for Ezine Articles.
Getting Started Making Money Online — 2 Years of Being Overwhelmed!
It’s a start. But, for those of you just starting out, green as I was, it does get overwhelming because there is a plethora of information out there, scams, and a mass of gurus and experts out there too. I spent the first two years just researching the ‘Make money on line’ option and it was scary.
An Online Blogging Mentor Materializes
As I persevered, my searches kept leading me to articles written by the same authors and eventually one authors’ article kept hitting a chord with me until I finally landed on her website, read about her, read more of her articles, googled her and found that she was the leading SEO writer.
Through this SEO guru and webtrepreneur (web entrepreneur), I have learnt so much, taken some of her courses, bought several of her e-books (you don’t have to do all this) taken part in her e-book tourney so I could write my own e-books and more. Through her newsletters and links and my continuous researching, I have stumbled across other credible webtrepreneurs whom I also follow.
The web can be a daunting place. Unlike the real world, you take risks without seeing or ever meeting the people behind the websites. I have never met Yuwanda Black but she writes with integrity and honesty that I have yet to find online.
Beginners’ Rules for Finding a Blogging (Freelance Writing) Mentor Online
Note: These are my rules.
1. Keep your search simple: Find the one area that interests you the most online and ‘Google’ (research) it. Read as many articles as you can on the topic and take note of the authors and their websites. Bookmark them.
2. Read the “About” page on the websites you visit to learn more about the author.
3. On your potential mentor websites, take note of their references and links because these will lead you to articles and information that will truly help you or to other mentors who might lead you to exciting niches.
4. Don’t give up. There’s something out there for everyone.
Web mentors are extremely busy people, follow them through their newsletters, websites, articles and so on and only contact them via email if you have a truly pertinent concern and can’t find the answer online.
Good Luck!
About the Author: Esayo Tetteh is an SEO/Freelance writer and a Communications and Public Health Consultant. You may contact her at winagainstodds[at]yahoo.com. Visit her online at http://winagainstodds.com.
Editor Note: First, I (about) did not pay for this post (although, I’m certainly tempted to!). Thanks Esayo for the kudos.
I just wanted to shed a little more light on this post.
Secondly, successful webtrepreneurs (love that word!) are extremely busy. I wake up each morning to an inbox full of emails that I simply can’t get to on a daily basis anymore. I do try to eventually answer, but if it is an obvious question (eg, how do I get started as a freelance writer), I probably won’t because that’s what this site is all about.
And, if you haven’t taken the time to do basic research (like what you’ll find on InkwellEditorial.com that I’ve written about a bajillion times), then I can’t tell you anything “new” to get you started.
Finally, I love to answer questions from those who write in — especially if it’s one that you’ve searched the site for and can’t find an answer to. And, that’s why so many of this site’s posts start with:
Last week/yesterday/etc., I received the following email from a fellow / new freelancer writer . . .
But, it has to be specific.
I’ve only achieved some modicum of success. And some of you have outgrown this site and my advice, so as Esayo so astutely points out, check out links to others on the web that I reference. These are most likely MY gurus; the folks I’m learning from.
Hope this additional insights help. Following are a couple of related posts for more info on this topic.
Additional Reading on Mentors/Mentoring
Laid Off? Out of Work? 5 Tips for Transitioning to a Career as a Freelance Writer
SEO Copywriters: Advice on Finding a Freelance / SEO Writing Mentor
P.S.: Get Inkwell Editorial’s latest ebook, Freelance Writers: Why You Should Self-Publish Your Own Ebooks — 12 Reasons That’ll Change Your Career … and Your Life!
P.P.S.: Want to start a successful career where you have the mobility to live and work where you please? Visit our freelance writing bookstore for a ton of opportunities (freelance writing and internet marketing) to get you started.
Freelance Writers: Why You Should Self-Publish Your Own Ebooks — 12 Reasons That’ll Change Your Career … and Your Life!
August 1, 2011
Only $4.95! [See all Inkwell Editorial Titles that Help You Live the Freelance Life!]
PREFACE
If you’re a freelance writer, this ebook will give you a new way of thinking about your career, whether you’ve been doing it for years, or if you’re a newbie.
If you’ve never thought concretely about it before, the info/ideas discussed here will start you thinking about things most freelancers – especially newbies – don’t take into account.
I’ve been a freelance writer since 1993, and didn’t experience real success until I started implementing some of the things discussed within. Hopefully this insight will help you do the same – and go on to create a more profitable, long-term career that you control – not outside forces.
To this end, following are 12 reasons I believe every freelance writer should write and self-publish their own ebooks.
Reason #1: This has taken my career in a whole new direction since I started writing and publishing my own ebooks: Page: 6
Reason #2: I no longer worry about this since I started building my “information empire.” Page: 8
Reason #3: This has come a long way, making it more possible than ever to be a self-published author. Page: 10
Reason #4: Want to become a successful author; this reason is why you definitely SHOULD publish an ebook (in fact, many ebooks). Page: 13
Reason #5: I started landing more clients when I become an ebook writer, partly because of this reason. Page: 14
Reason #6: Never worry about finding a job again — this reason is why. Page: 17
Reason #7: Why ebook writing will land you more clients — this reason explains in detail. Page: 19
Reason #8: Don’t want to worry / tired of worrying about when/if the next client project is going to come in? And, if it’ll be enough to pay the bills? This reason explains why ebook writing can alleviate this worry. Page: 20
Reason #9: Never lose your competitive edge again — as a freelance writer, online/internet marketer. This reason explains why. Page: 21
Reason #10: Would you rather be a rich writer or a “New York Times” best-selling author? The answer may surprise you after reading this reason. Page: 23
Reason #11: Like your sharp wit? Want to keep it into old age and stave off “mental mush”? Learn why you may be able to in this reason. Page: 25
Reason #12: Want an exciting career that can turn into other revenue streams? This reasons tells you how that’s EXACTLY what’s happened to me — and why/how it can happen to you too! Page: 26
P.S.: Ok, I want to know why I need to start self-publishing my own ebooks.
Only $4.95! [See all Inkwell Editorial Titles that Help You Live the Freelance Life!]
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