It’s Day 3 of my gift to you writers out there!
A lot of writers believe that they are out of the game because they are lacking in experience.
But here’s my next Christmas gift tip for you: Find a loop hole.
Think about what you have to offer a potential client that your competition can’t. Think about the time you can give, the passion you have for the position, your “I’ll try anything” attitude, and you might just score yourself a job and steal that ball away from those with more experience than you.
Here’s how I did it:
I applied for a job once or twice, or maybe thrice and was inexperienced and unqualified.
But I almost always got the job.
How?
I found a loop hole.
1. Network.
I networked with other writers and eventually met someone who had a friend of a friend who was looking for a copywriter. Bingo! After they gave me a chance with an interview, I passed their test with flying colors.
2. Ask and you shall receive.
If I was turned down for the job of my dreams, but didn’t get it, I rarely stop there. Like Cher in Clueless, I just think of it as the starting point for negotiations. In fact, I talked about it here. When you’re unqualified for the top job, don’t be too big in your britches to ask what else you can do. There’s no shame in working your way up to the job of your dreams. And maybe you’ll end up loving that job more. It’s happened to me more than once and I’m usually grateful that I didn’t get the job I originally applied for.
3. Celebrate what makes you “you.”
You may not have years of experience on your shoulders, but your enthusiasm may win over your next client. Or it could be your crafty niche or your spiritual side. Use what makes you unique as a way in and see if that won’t get you the job of your dreams.
That’s it for todays tips!
Have your own? Won’t you share them with us below?
And if you enjoyed it and would love more tips, subscribe so you’ll get them emailed straight to your inbox.
I think a lot of writers that are just getting started don’t “get” networking but I have to say that it is one of the best things you can do. Having a reputation can make a big difference between “making some extra cash” and being a “professional” writer. Your reputation is important and you can’t get a reputation for anything if you don’t network!
Danielle McGaw recently posted..How Dare You Write for Peanuts
Hi Danielle!
You are so right. I think when I first started, I did reach out to other writers. Scared and nervous as I was. And that started the domino effect to meeting other writers and getting more and more opportunities. Thanks for your comment!