The Odd Ways I Found Jobs

I’m not sure how common this is, but I rarely find jobs on online job boards and never found any in the newspaper. So how do I rack up the clients and freelance writing opportunities? Instead of going on the same path with the rest of the thousands of other freelancers vying for the same positions, I find the path least traveled. It’s kind of like waiting until the crowd flocks to the parade at Disneyland, then running quickly toward the rides on the other side. There’s less competition and more chance for better opportunities.

Here’s a few often overlooked areas you might want to try for yourself:

1. I network with other nonwriterly people. This means that I often attend networking events or meetups. I don’t just check out groups for writers, but events for professional women and small business owners. Although my intention isn’t to talk shop at these events, I often find that once someone gets to know you, they’re more likely to offer you a job. The best part? Once you make a connection with someone, there lies potential for a future position. Several months later, that person you met may contact you for a position or refer you to a friend who’s looking for a writer. I’ve found a few jobs this way and I’m sure you can too!
2. Trying again. Have you ever received that obligatory email saying, “Thank you for your application, but we’ve found someone more experienced/better fit than you?” Do you delete that email and say good-bye to that job and that client forever? Big mistake! The single most important secret I have is to give it another go. Just because you didn’t get that position, doesn’t mean you’ve lost your chance for good. I’ve won articles that way and clients. How? Be kind, courteous and ask them if there’s anything else you can do for them. You may be surprised by the answer.
3. Tell everyone you know you’re a writer. I’ve found in the past that by spreading the word about my business, business comes back to me. Even if the person you tell doesn’t need your services, they might know someone, who knows someone else that does. Believe me. It works!

What about you? How do you find those plum jobs? Willing to share them here? Would love to hear them!