How to Earn Quick and Easy Money Writing

It all started when I found myself in need of some extra cash. I had a good job, so that was no problem. But a few unexpected expenses had come up and I needed a little extra money to cover them. In this article, you'll see how I did it and how you, as a writer, can do it as well.

Have a Plan-
First, you'll need to decide what kind of writing you write well and enjoy. Anytime you tack on more 'work' to the end of your regular workday, it's important to do something you enjoy doing so you won't quit out of boredom or over-extending yourself. Do you enjoy creative writing, as in fiction? Or do you prefer nonfiction? Would you rather write ezine/magazine articles or book reviews? Or, perhaps, if you don't care to get the credit for your writing, you could ghostwrite for someone else. (Ghostwriting is when you take the ideas, manuscript or research of another author and write his book, article, etc. for him with him listed as 'author' on the actual written work).

Research the Internet-
Once you've decided what kind of writing you plan to pursue, you'll want to search the Internet for some writing jobs. If you're reading this article, you'll note that the website on which it's posted is www.associatedcontent.com. If you're a writer and have not signed up to write for it, do so now. You'll find that you can make a little extra money here. Some other websites of interest are:
* www.getafreelancer.com
* www.freelancewritinggigs.com
* www.freelancewriting.com
* www.writing-world.com
* www.writersweekly.com
* www.craigslist.org
* www.bizreef.com

Most of these websites offer a forum or job posting service where you can browse for writing jobs. I've found that the best way to do this is to bid or apply for several jobs that you're interested in. Don't expect to get every one you try for. But once you've made a connection, and completed a job well, you may find that your 'employer' will come back to you with his next assignment. In my experience, doing a job well has brought back repeat customers and that's what builds my client base.

Research your library-
Visit your local public library and look for the latest Writers Market. These are published each year and are full of writing opportunities. You'll find specifications for magazine articles and book publishers. See what the magazines want and then write and submit. I suggest you do this in addition to your writing jobs you land online as it takes a greater amount of time to be picked up by a magazine and get paid. It may take months. In the meantime, you'll want to be making some money with your online contacts.

Next Step: Write!
Breaking into the business of writing for profit isn't always easy or quick. In the beginning, before you even secure a writing job, begin writing. You'll find that the more articles/reviews you write, the quicker you'll be able to put together good writing. And, who knows? You may write something that you can sell later.

When I began writing for others, I felt it was a necessity. The extra income it gave me helped meet my expenses. However, now, I find it to be very enjoyable and find myself writing a bit each evening, whether it's for myself or for a writing job I've picked up. If, like me, you decide to have a go at writing on a more full time basis or want to build a lucrative part time writing service, think of getting your own website. It adds credibility and gives your customers a way to reference you when they need you again, plus a well put together website can show who you are, a professional writer.