Essential Resources for Freelance Writers

There are a lot of advantages to being a freelance writer. You work for yourself, you set your own schedule, and there is no dress code. There are also disadvantages; you work for yourself and you set your own schedule. It can be difficult to be disciplined and focused when the only one cracking the whip is your own creative self, and you must be both prolific and constantly seeking and querying after work. There are a few essential resources that all freelance writers need in order to help them in their career and writing life.

Every freelancer should have their own current copy of The Writer's Market. While the public library generally has a current copy available it's not a check out item. It contains vital and current information and advice, such as how to query different markets, advice from published authors, contact information and querying protocol for agents, publishing companies, magazines, and contest information. It's a thick book and costs about $30, so if you really can't afford it put it on your birthday or Christmas list as a "must-have" gift.

Mediabistro.com is a freelancer's dream. It's a website devoted to freelance writers, photographers and writers in general. The site covers daily news, journalism industry jobs and news, how-to pitch magazine and agent guides, writing classes, and much, much more. If you pay the low yearly fee of $49 you can create an email account, resume page, personal homepage, and more. You can even purchase health insurance and receive discounts at Barnes and Noble. It's a worthy investment, especially for newbie freelancers.

Check out Anne Wayman's blog at thegoldenpencil.com. She's a freelance writer who publishes a blog that helps us all out. She writes about writing issues, other writing blogs, freelance job listings and much more. You can sign up to receive her almost daily compilation of freelance job listings at her blog. It's free, helpful and fun!

Subscribe to absolutewrite.com and their newsletter. This is a fun ezine that publishes everything you want to know about writing, whether fiction or non-fiction. They have regular columns, writing classes, industry news, and lots of links to jobs, contests, and other writing info. The newsletter is free and informative and they're also always looking for writers to contribute to their magazine. They pay approximately .20 a word and a $10 minimum.

Hopefully these resources will lend a helping hand to new and seasoned freelancers. We're lucky to be able to work for ourselves, but we'll all benefit from giving each other a hand and supporting fellow freelancers. Good luck, and good writing!