How to Be Supportive of a Friend's Internet Freelance Writing Career

More and more these days people are looking for different ways to make money. People with the inclination and qualifications toward writing are looking for an outlet for extra income or an alternate to now scarce traditional jobs. Many internet freelance writing jobs are often able to be done using a home computer and internet connection. Freelance writing from home however doesn't mean what someone is working on is any less important or that freelance jobs have more relaxed standards than any other job.

Although in freelancing people are often able to set their own schedule, this may be less true in economically difficult times or if a writer depends solely on their writing for their livelihood. In such situations, the writer may write regardless of interest in the topic and/or they will arrange other parts of their lives in order to work.

Friends and family of those who freelance write may not realize when they interfere with their friend's or family member's work, tips contained herein may help reduce friction between readers and their writing-for- a-living loved ones. Being supportive of someone who writes for a living is easier than you might imagine it doesn't require much other than a little patience or consideration.

When talking to your writer friend or relative try to remember that freelance writing can be hard work. Deadlines are an ever present fact of life for writers, as is doing a lot of research. There may be very little time to chat on the phone, write lengthy emails, or have surprise visitors. If deadlines are not met this can negatively affect their reputation, career, and income. Frankly, if you don't meet a deadline as writer, you're often not paid.

Try to realize that your writer friends work just as hard as you might at your job. People who work from home may also do household tasks while on a break. They may respond to phone messages or emails related to their work or from family and friends. Once these breaks are over however back to the old grindstone they often go until their work for the day is done.

When visiting or speaking to your freelancing friend over the phone, avoid phrases such as "when you get a real job" or "you've got time, you're at home all day". This is not only disrespectful but when accompanied by rude behavior can be downright disruptive. When someone you know writes from home be considerate of their time.

Don't visit without calling, get angry when they have to end a phone call, or cut a visit short. Having to do these things is not always a choice of the writer. In fact, if they have work they need to do it has to be done often to put and keep food on the table, pay bills, buy clothes or pay for other necessities.

Next time you get upset over a friend who is a writer not returning your calls right away or not having much time to visit with you. Put yourself in their place. Imagine if you were trying to work and people keep interrupting. Imagine not getting things done on time because of it and struggling to finish under a fast approaching deadline because your livelihood depends on it. Doesn't seem so easy does it?

Writers like every one else, love their families, and care for their friends. However, when writers are working they may not be available to chat on the phone about the happenings on a soap opera or send an 8 paragraph email. Emergencies are different but in general being considerate and respectful will always keep things going smoothly between you and your writing loved ones.