Freelance Author's Beware - How to Spot Publishing Scams

If you have to pay them to publish your creative works or to send you a book...it's a scam! If you are a well developed writer, a publishing house will give you money and copies of your creative works. As a struggling freelance writer, you must beware of publishing scams that exist on the internet. According to Mrs. Allen (2007), you should investigate the publishing company that you plan to sell your work too. So many, gifted writers actually get caught up in these types of scams.

Before signing any contract with a publisher, please take time to investigate the history of the company. Start, by calling the Better Business Bureau and ask them about the company's history of complaints. Then, look for local or online writing communities and ask other writer's about the publisher that you was approached by. Many of these writing groups have information about current scams that exists.

Then, take time to research the many paying markets, which are waiting for a talented writer to come their way. Your writing should speak for itself and it will, if you treat it as a career and keep learning as you write. Keep submitting your work often and listen to the editor's notes, because they know what they want or need. Never allow other people to edit your work, instead taking writing course online or at the local community center.

Next, search the internet or your local bookstores for books that list the current paying markets. There are many books that deal with every writing market like: magazines for children and adults, novel and short stories, poetry, and song writing. You may find a home for all of your writing and you won't have to deal with annoying scams. Also, you may find some freelance markets or communities on the internet.

However, watch out for the freelance communities that exist on the internet that charge you money, but don't bring you any work. Always look for communities, which allow you to speak with their other authors through discussion forums or chats. Only you can protect yourself from being swindled, by the phony promises of a swindler. As an author, it is your job to sell your writing, so spend time researching the market and its preferences.

Finally, never sign any contract without reading it and seeking legal advice from a qualified lawyer. This way, you will know, whether it's a scam or a reputable publishing company, who is ready to give you a place for your writing to shine. It doesn't matter is you are a struggling freelance writer or a passionate hobbyist. If you can choose to submit your articles for publication, you should treat it as an important business deal!