Copy Chatter for Freelance Writers with Ashley Gainer: Recent Episodes
Ashley Gainer
Learn the ins and outs of being a freelance writer so you can bring in some extra $$$ from home, on YOUR schedule.
I’m not a life coach. I’m not a mental health expert. I’m not particularly brilliant or insightful especially when it comes to human psychology and behavior.
But I’ve learned a few things about burnout. And I’d like to share those things with you.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
Get the Gainer Email and supercharge all your email sequences!
https://thegaineremail.com
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Want to become a ghostwriter? Awesome! There's some stuff you need to know... let's talk about it.
Ready to go all-in on ghostwriting? Head over to ashleygainer.com/ghostwriterschool and get on the waitlist. You won't regret it! (psst that's an affiliate link)
ONE LAST THING. Go to ashleygainer.com/rates and pick up my new guide to setting and raising your freelance writing rates! It's called Rates Redux and I think you'll love it. More soon!
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
I’ve been learning a lot lately about the importance of running your business your own way instead of just following everyone else’s advice. Their advice might work for them, but it might not work for you. This is your reminder to make your own rules.
Ever heard of an audit? Some of you are going to love this. Audits are a type of copywriting service that are less about the writing and more about you leveraging your knowledge and expertise. This is not for beginners, but it's definitely something to have on your radar. In this episode, I'm talking about 11 reasons why I LOVE audits and why I think they can be a great addition to your services, when you're ready.
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If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
The dreaded question... What do you charge for that? I have lots of workarounds for NOT answering that question when I'm on the spot and not totally sure what to say, but I also know it's important to give a real number in some contexts.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Knitting, baking, walking around my woodsy neighborhood. What do these three things have in common? They keep me from burning out.
When you're running a freelance writing business, especially if it's a significant source of your family's income, it can be easy to slip into "I should be working" mode around the clock. But let me tell you from personal experience... this doesn't work long-term.
You will burn yourself out until you're basically fried crispy.
This episode of Copy Chatter delves into why it's so important to give yourself downtime, as well as some of my favorite things to think about when it comes to taking downtime and what to do. This is one of those heart-to-heart episodes that's more about advice than about business tips, and I hope you benefit from the mistakes I share.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Whether you're just getting started or you've been at it for a little while and you want to feel more legit... these are 3 things I recommend you do ASAP to set your business up and make it feel official and happy.
The IRS form mentioned in the episode can be found at https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online (or search the web for "apply for EIN").
As always, let me know what you think of this episode!
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
As a writer, one of the most important things you can do to sharpen and refine your writing skills... is read. Read good books. Read good samples. Prioritize it. Make time for it. Reading is fuel for your writing engine. Don't limp along, running on fumes. BONUS RANT included.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
So what exactly are you? What am I? Who are they? What are we even doing here? This short episode clarifies some of the most frequently used (and commonly misunderstood) terms referring to what our roles are.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Nobody wants to miss deadlines, but what do you do if you're facing that particular reality? I don't have a ton of experience, but I did miss a deadline or two over the past 12 years... and I've had a lot of deadlines missed on me, as well. With all those experiences in mind, I'm giving you 7 things to do when you realize that you, too, will not make that deadline. Make sure you stay for #7, because it's the most important one!
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Nobody wants to be in crisis mode, but sooner or later we all find ourselves there anyway. Today's episode goes into my best 5 tips for weathering a crisis, no matter where you are in the timeline.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Should you get that course? It's kinda expensive. I dunno... maybe? Ooorrrrrr... maybe not. This episode gives you some things to think about when you're considering a niche skills training, and what some of the alternatives are.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
There's no love lost between Upwork and me, and one of my goals is to get every struggling writer off those bidding sites. Today's episode should help you begin to get your head around the whole "why would anyone work with me when there's a bunch of platforms where they can hire someone for pennies?" situation. This one's a little bit on the shorter side, but I think it'll help you no matter where you are in business.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Client calls don't have to be so scary! As long as you keep these 5 things in mind, you can go in confidently and end the call confidently as well. One of the perks of this gig is getting to meet interesting people doing interesting things inside interesting businesses and organizations, and the client call is one of the most enjoyable ways to do that (when it goes well)!
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Do you need a CRM? Do you even know what a CRM is? Is it worth paying for? I'm spilling all my personal CRM beans so you can make the right decision for you.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Once you enter the world of freelance service providers, it's easy to get swept away in all the different types of offers out there. Group coaching programs and masterminds are two of the biggies that are supposed to help you grow your business... but do you really need to join one? And if so, which one? How do you know when it's time?
I've been around the block a few times, and I have stories to tell. This episode goes into what a mastermind is, what a group coaching program is, what the benefits are, and how to know if it's time to join one.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Once you get up and running, looking for marketing strategies for your freelance writing business, it's easy to fall down the rabbit hole of email lists. Do you need one? How frequently should you write? What do you even say? I remember getting caught in the vortex a few different times as I considered and reconsidered my email list situation.
Today's episode is all about the email list, the "lead magnet funnel," and how the whole shebang works, so you can make an informed decision about this particular strategy.
The email service provider I recommend to people just starting with an email list is MailerLite. I've used them for years and have always been happy with them.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Do you need a website to be a freelance writer? Short answer, no. Longer answer: no, but you need something. You can't just have nothing. This episode goes into some alternatives to the website, most of which are ideal for the non-techies and struggling perfectionists among us.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Lots of people talk about the benefits of offering your own course. This is something I get a lot of super-secret questions about... it seems like many of us are afraid to say it out loud. Today I'm giving my one woman's hot take on whether or not you're ready to put out your own course. I'm mentioning a lot of the things I wasn't thinking about when I put my own course out, as well as some of the things that have surprised my fellow course creators along the way. This one's a little bit different, and it's not for everyone, but it's definitely something a lot of us are thinking about anyway.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Whether you're trotting the globe or plotting a staycation, a break from work is on the docket for you (I hope!). But how does the whole vacation thing work when you're a service provider and not a salaried employee with paid time off and all that? I've had travel on the brain (but sadly, not on the calendar) for a while now, so I thought I'd share some of my tried-and-true pointers for working out a vacation for yourself when you're a freelance service provider.
Here are some links I mentioned in this episode: - blog post on the same subject: https://ashleygainer.com/how-to-take-a-vacation-when-youre-a-freelancer/ - Julie Stoian's pin drop protocol: https://juliestoian.com/the-1-thing-that-prevents-overwhelm-at-work-after-being-away-on-vacation-or-leave/
Taking a vacation any time soon? Pop into the Facebook group and let me know! I've got cabin fever...
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
The biggest obstacle to your freelance writing success is that wrinkly grey blob between your ears. Today I'm busting 4 myths we writers tell ourselves, so next time you hear one of these ricochet around your head you'll know how to deflect it. Plus, that link I promised somewhere in the middle: ashleygainer.com/stop
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Everyone's favorite mystery: SEO! Sometimes it can be awkward to work with SEO keywords. This episode goes over 3 of my best tips for making it work.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ageditorial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
Internal, external, no-follow, do-follow... we're talking all about links today. What you need to know, what you need to avoid, and what you need to consider when it comes to the where, when, and why of links in your copy.
If you haven't joined the Facebook group yet, click here: https://theinkwellguild.com/
Check out the blog for more writing tips: https://ashleygainer.com/blog/
FREE RESOURCES:
Get a FREE copy of Freelance Writing Starter Pack: https://ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
Join the FREE 5-Day Email Niche Challenge: https://writingnichechallenge.com/
FOLLOW ASHLEY
Facebook: Ashley Gainer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.gainer/
How do you know when it's time to start offering that new writing service you've been thinking about? Or what do you do when a client or prospect asks you if you can do this other thing you've never done before? This episode lays out a step-by-step process for figuring out if now is the right time. Join us for more writing tips in the Ink Well Guild! Just head to theinkwellguild.com.
If the idea of interviewing sources makes you quake in your boots, today's show is for you. I'm giving you my best journalist tips for interviewing so you can get great quotes and information from your sources. A good interview can add a lot of shine to your piece, so you want it to be good! Don't forget to join the Ink Well Guild Facebook group at theinkwellguild.com.
This one's a listener request! How do you do the research you need when it's time to sit down and write? I'm laying out my process, drawn from 9th grade English class (thank you, Mrs. Hagler), and giving specific examples of how to conduct and note your own research. THIS is how you avoid rehashing the same ol' stuff everyone else is rehashing. As always, let me know if you have any questions! Don't forget to join me on FB... theinkwellguild.com will take you there.
If you've bought a lot of courses and other training, you might be familiar with the woes of forgetting what you have. This episode goes through my simple setup for making sure I actually use all that stuff I buy. Let me know if you unearth any gems while you get yourself organized! Don't forget to join us over at theinkwellguild.com.
If you're gonna be in business, you gotta keep tabs on your income. I'm going over my (ridiculously basic) system in this episode, plus giving you suggestions for working out your own method. Bonus pep talk at the end, too. Don't forget to hang out with me at theinkwellguild.com!
You've identified a place to pitch, but how do you know where to send this? I'm sharing 7 things I did consistently, for years, when I was pitching for new clients. These aren't the only things you can do, but this list of tactics never failed me. Don't forget to join the Ink Well Guild on FB or at theinkwellguild.com!
This episode might get me in hot water. I've seen people get really heated about what I'm about to share with you. Let's go over what I'm even talking about, how to do it right, and what NOT to do if you want to stay in the Good People Club. Don't forget to join the group at theinkwellguild.com!
If you want to get noticed and turn on the inbound marketing engine, you've gotta show up. But it doesn't have to be a chore! In fact, a lot of it is pretty natural. Today's episode is stuff that any writer can do, no matter what level of experience (or pay rate).
Is it ok to do more than just writing? Sure it is! You just need to pick one thing and lead with it -- not try to build two separate businesses at once. But once you're solid with writing clients, you can think about expanding a little bit to make yourself more well-rounded. Today's episode goes into how that might look. Don't forget to join us in the free group! www.theinkwellguild.com
Well... it's 2021, and things are still crazy, BUT it's totally and 100% possible to find awesome writing clients, right now. In this episode I'm diving into 4 super-current methods for finding clients today. Don't forget to let me know what you try and how it works out!
It's a fresh new year! And while we already know what could go wrong, this episode is all about what could go RIGHT for you. I've got 3 things to implement in your writing business this year that will boost your confidence, effectiveness, and overall awesomeness. The last one may surprise you!
If 2020 left something to be desired, you aren't alone. I'm getting raw and real about 2020 as well as 2021 and what I'm doing to dust myself off and move forward.
Freelance writing is awesome, but it's definitely not the right move for everyone. So... how do you know if it's the right move for you? I'm talking through some of the considerations to make in today's episode. Let me know what you come up with!
There are countless perks when it comes to freelance writing. On today's show, we're talking about a few of the biggest and best ones. THIS is why we all keep going. What would you add? Let me know at theinkwellguild.com
There are 5 types of relationships you need for your business to be successful. Sounds like a lot, but really it's the makings of a fun, profitable business that keeps you fed and happy.
What's the difference between pitching and cold emails? Does it matter? Which one should you do? All that and more in this episode.
I love freelance writing for many, many reasons. In this episode, I'm sharing 7 reasons why I think freelance writing is the BEST at-home business you can start... especially these days.
Whether you're just getting started or you're ready to start offering a new writing service, you're gonna need a portfolio. But how do you get writing samples when you don't have any gigs yet? That's what my wailing toddler and I are talking about today.
Managing expectations isn't the most glamorous discussion to have, but when client expectations go wrong, they go REALLY wrong and I want to help you avoid that! I have 7 tips to share with you about managing client expectations and staying happy as a freelancer.
If you wanna be a professional writer, you gotta be improving your writing skills along the way. I'm sharing 9 tips to help you out. Get cracking!
Good news and bad news: You don't have to get on the phone for every client... BUT, there will be times when you'll need to get on the phone if you want to get the gig. Client calls have a lot of benefits, but they're really intimidating for new writers. In today's podcast, we'll talk about why calls are a good idea, go over some pointers for conducting your calls, and then talk about setting boundaries around the whole "availability" thing.
There's a dirty lie out there telling new and would-be freelance writers that they should write for free for a little while to "get established." I offer loads of juicy (and sometimes counter-guru) advice in this week's episode.
Landing a recurring writing gig is GREAT for your business. In this episode, we talk about what recurring work looks like and why I'm such a fan.
As a writer, I can get a little neurotic about my writing. Perhaps you can relate? What I've had to learn over the years is that there's a difference between doing a great job... and just being neurotic.
Being neurotic is fine, if it's not the thing keeping you from getting paid (or paid enough). But for many of us, it's a big block. And one of the neuroses I see out there in freelance writer land? They come down to various "reasons" why we can't write faster. Today I address those issues head-on.
If there's one thing I've learned this year, it's that if I go down... everything goes down. I've been focusing on ramping up my self-care routines, and in this episode we'll go over my top recommendations for self-care specifically for the work-at-home warriors among us.
There are three different ways you can niche down, and you can combine any of these three to niche down even further. We're exploring what they are and how that looks in this episode.
I've been around a long time, and I did a whole lot of making it up as I went along. These are some of the huge mistakes I've made in my decade-long career... and how you can do better
People ask me all the time if I will guarantee their results if they join my programs. My answer might surprise you.
If you start as a generalist, it will eventually make sense to niche in some way. Here's how it looks.
If I'm gonna tell you it's ok NOT to have a writing niche, I'd better back it up with advice about how to proceed, right? Well... here ya go!
Everywhere you look, people are shouting about the millions of things you need to have or do or schedule or send or publish. We're bombarded with a massive list of things that we need to master and execute before we've even begun! It's completely overwhelming. Just-in-time learning is what will SAVE you. This podcast shows you how it works.
Are you a good enough writer to make it as a freelancer? There's only one way to find out...
Are you wasting your time on any of these major mistakes? If you identify with any of these, you'll be better off stopping and changing focus.
- spending months on a website
- social media profiles and content marketing
- trying to start their blog at the same time
- researching all day and all night without taking action or implementing anything; getting ready to get ready
- making drafts but getting stuck in editing mode and never publishing them
- spending months applying to job boards and nothing else
- ghostwriting without being clear whether or not they can use those pieces in their portfolio (and not charging enough)
- doing anything and everything to avoid looking for clients
How do you get anything done when life is chaotic? Whether it's a dropped nap or a global pandemic, instability and situational "noise" can put a damper on your productivity. In this episode, I share a few tips for keeping yourself in motion.
After a string of illnesses and then The Pollening, my vocal cords have been decimated. I'm hoping to be healed up and back behind the microphone in May -- and in the meantime, here's a quick message for you.
When you're thinking about getting a new course or joining a new program, how do you know if it's the right move? In this episode, I lay out 4 situations when it makes sense. Otherwise, you might be looking at some expensive procrastination tactics. I'm also giving you three things to ask yourself before giving it the green light. Keeping yourself in check is an important part of success, and this is one of the key areas that will make or break your career!
I've seen it pop up a lot recently... questions about things like "work history" and "qualifications" and freelance writing resumes. These are all symptoms of employee mindset, and they will keep you STUCK. So let's talk about why freelancing isn't the same as being an employee, and how to shift into freelancer mode. I'll also give you a list of things your freelance clients are legally NOT allowed to ask of you (even though I see it all the time).
If the fortune is in the follow-up... then how do you follow up? If you're using any kind of email strategy to find writing clients, there are a few different follow-up approaches you can take. I'll go over the spectrum of recommendations in this episode and offer you a few quick templates you can adapt, too. The most important thing is to DO SOMETHING! Keep testing and seeing what gets you the best results.
I want you to get off Upwork and Fiverr and all those other race-to-the-bottom, pennies-per-word sites. There are websites with a similar setup that will actually pay you what your writing services are worth. I scoured the web and put together this list of 10 content marketing agencies that "feel" similar to Upwork in a lot of ways, but the pay is loads better. I'll also give you my evaluation method for any writing gig, and 3 hot leads for agencies to pitch.
Maybe you've heard the rumors... you can find writing clients on Facebook. I'm here to tell you once and for all... that it's TRUE. And in this episode, I'm laying it out for you. What types of groups do you join? What does the process actually look like? How can you turn this into a major marketing strategy? All that and more!
Your writing rates are possibly one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make as a freelance writer. This decision alone can set the course for your business, good or bad. One of the best tools I know of to help you set -- and stick to -- your rates is the rate guide. In this episode, I talk about what a rate guide is, what to put in it, and how to use it. We'll also get into whether or not to post your rates on your website and the best ways to handle inquiries about what you charge.
The new year is a great time to look back and look ahead (though I say you can do that ANY time of the year). In this episode, we're talking about specific things you can do to set your business up right for the new year. Plus, we'll get into some strategic planning and talking about how to shape your business around the life you want.
Goal setting and quarterly planning are basically fancy ways of saying "figure out where you want to go and then figure out how you're gonna get there." In this episode, I break down my annual planning and quarterly planning methods to help you set and reach your own goals. This is something you can start doing TODAY, no matter what week or month of the year it is. Feeling stuck? Come ask your questions in the Facebook group!
This episode is unlike most of the other ones. I talk about the HUGE mistake I've been making over the past few months, what the fallout was, how I figured it out, and how I fixed it. Plus I invite you to my favorite place on the internet, so we can all hug it out together. If you're frustrated, anxious, and maybe a little resentful about the very reason you got started as a freelance writer... this one's for you. You're not broken and you're not alone.
Ever stared at your calendar with dread, knowing you had some gaps to fill and no work to fill it? One of the best ways I've found is to ASK for work... and I don't mean pitching. In this episode, I'll share what I do... and what I've seen tons of other successful writers do... when it's time to get new work, fast. Every time I have a gap in my pipeline and I need to drum up more writing gigs, I do these things first.... because THEY WORK.
When you hit a slow period in your business, it's time to crank up the marketing machine. These are a few things you can do to build some momentum when client work has slowed down for you.
I've been in business for almost 10 years now... and for the first 9 of them, I did pretty much everything by myself. Now I know better, and I want you to know better, too! There's a LOT that a VA can offer you, even if you're "just" a freelance writer. In the time I started working with my VA, Heather, I've learned how amazing it is to have someone else taking care of all the "little stuff" in my business so I can focus on big-result stuff. YOU can benefit from a VA, too, and it doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg, either. In this episode, I share how I work with my own VA and how I think you, as a freelance writer, could also benefit from having one. I'll also give you some pointers about how to know when it's time to hire, what things to outsource first, and where to find a great VA for yourself. (Hint: her name is Heather and she's awesome! breakingtheconfines.com or contact@breakingtheconfines.com) Don't miss this one!
We've talked about the difference between copywriting and content writing before, but today I want to take a closer look at the career trajectory, the pros and cons of either niche, and how much money you can make. With this info, you can start to map out where you are and where you want your career to go.
One thing I've dealt with many times over my career -- and I've seen other writers deal with it constantly, too -- is this idea of accepting low rates (or even zero pay) in exchange for "exposure." Normally I'm pretty skeptical and would say don't do it, but there are a couple of exceptions. This episode shows you what they are and gives you a framework to decide for yourself whether or not writing "for exposure" is worth your time.
What are some signs of a bad-news prospective client? Let's chat about the red flags that are set off by the people you DON'T want to work with.
It doesn't happen often, but there will be times when your client is less than thrilled with something you turn in. How should you respond? And what can you do to avoid the awkwardness?
Should you ever discount your rates? What do you say to someone who says you're charging too much? This episode shares some of my thoughts... and it gets a little feisty.
One of the most important questions you can answer for yourself is whether or not a niche is profitable. Now, I personally think it's possible to make some money doing just about anything. HOWEVER, there are some niches that just have way more opportunity than others. These are my best tips for knowing when you've found 'em (and some clues for finding them in the first place!).
I'm getting tons of questions right now about how to move into a new niche, whether it's a new one or one that you just want to add to the docket. In this episode, I'm sharing my "bridge" technique -- with real life examples -- to show you how to move into a new niche.
I've been talking a lot lately about why you should NOT pick a freelance writing niche, but that advice isn't forever for all people. So when DO you know you've found a good niche? And how do you move into it? That's what we're talking about in today's episode!
Probably the #1 question I get (or objection!) when I tell people they don't HAVE to pick a niche is this: "But how do I even market myself as a generalist?" This episode answers that question. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions, and the best way to do that is to join my free Facebook group! Find us at ashleygainer.com/facebook
I recently sent an email to my list about how it's ok NOT to choose a niche, and it sparked a lot of interesting discussion. This month, I'm bringing the conversation to the podcast. In today's episode, I'm sharing why I changed my mind on the whole "writers must have a niche" thing and offer comfort and encouragement to those of you who are struggling to get started because you don't have a niche. Join us in the Facebook group (ashleygainer.com/facebook) or send me an email with your thoughts and questions (support@ashleygainer.com).
My mentor and dear friend Julie introduced me to the concept of the paper whiteboard. I took her idea and combined it with my trusty composition book strategy, added a dash of the bullet journal, and now I've got all my notes and brainstorms in ONE place. It's amazing. Now you can do it, too! Want more? Visit copychatter.com.
I've tried a bunch of goal-setting and time-management systems... and also no system. Calendaring is the thing that works for me, so today I'm sharing my mad method with you! Like what you're hearing? Come hang out with me on Facebook! Look up the Ink Well Guild... or just go to copychatter.com and follow the link. See you there!
Probably my least favorite question is some variation of "how do I keep going when I don't feel like it?" Here's my take on that whole "motivation" issue and what to do instead of relying on that flighty feeling. Want more? Copychatter.com has links to all my good stuff, including the Facebook group!
One of the things I get asked about the most is how to get stuff done when there are kids everywhere. I've got 3 small kids of my own, and I'm working from home... so I have a ton of experience and a LOT of opinions about this. Hear my best advice on today's episode. Want more? Check out copychatter.com and/or join us at the Ink Well Guild on Facebook.
I get a lot of questions about what my work looks like these days. In this episode, I'll share some of the major shifts my career has taken over the past 8 months or so and give you a peek at what's coming. Eek! You can get links to a bunch of this stuff over at copychatter.com, or pop into the Facebook group and ask away.
It's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Where do you find freelance writing clients who pay well? In this week's episode, I give you some pointers. Come join us in the Facebook group! Search for the Ink Well Guild -- that's where I'm hanging out these days. And if you liked this episode, would you mind leaving a review? That's such a big help for people like me. Many thanks in advance!
I get questions about blogging all the time, which tells me there's some confusion between blogging--running your own blog-- and freelance blogging--which is what we're doing. Learn the ins and outs, the key differences, and whether freelancing or blogging is right for you! for more info on any of the jibber jabber, visit copychatter.com. Don't forget to subscribe!
This is the second in a 2-part discussion of what lies "out there" beyond blog posts, for freelance writers. Last week we talked about other types of writing; this week I want to pull back the curtain and show you all kinds of services that pair well with writing. Have fun with this!
If you're looking for help finding freelance writing clients, check out my new course! It's called Client-Bound and you can get all the info at copychatter.com/clients.
I like to teach my new freelance writers to start with blog posts, but there's a whole lot of other writing work you can do besides blog posts! I offer suggestions and resources, try to give an idea of the sub-types of gigs there are, and generally show you the great big world of freelance writing. (And next week, I'll talk about the other types of non-writing work you can do alongside freelance writing)
To learn more about the podcast, visit copychatter.com. To learn more about Client-Bound, visit copychatter.com/clients. Leave a review if you're so inclined! And of course, don't forget to subscribe!
I feel a little bossy with the last two podcast titles, but I hope you'll hear me out! I see SO MANY freelance writers going around telling clients how new and green and beginner-ish they are. Stop doing that!! In this episode, I show you why that's such a problem and then we go over some alternative ways to present yourself. Please, please, please listen and get this right. Future you -- the one with all the writing gigs -- will thank you.
On to today's links:
ashleygainer.com/niche-challenge
copychatter.com
and the Facebook group is called the Ink Well Guild.
If you're a new freelance writer, the last thing you need to be worried about is SEO for your website. It's the long, slow game. It might bring you work in 6 months, but it will not bring you work tomorrow. When you're just getting started, you need to focus on things that will bring you work tomorrow. Hear what I recommend you do -- and not do -- when it comes to SEO for your writer website.
If you're interested in this and other methods for finding writing clients, I invite you to check out my new course, Client-Bound! Learn more at copychatter.com/clients
There are tons of marketing strategies for freelance writers. All of them fall under one of two categories. Do you know the difference? And do you have a favorite?
If you're ready to take your client-finding game up a notch, I highly recommend you join Client-Bound. You can learn more about it at copychatter.com/clients
And as always, you can reach me any time at ashley@ashleygainer.com.
How many times have you NOT applied for something because you didn't think you qualified for it? Well... stop doing that!! Listen to learn more, and while you're at it, how about a review?
Find us on Facebook by looking for The Ink Well Guild (and yeah, you gotta answer the questions to get in). And get your free guide to pitching and establishing yourself as a freelance writer over at copychatter.com.
I used to worry that I was training up an army of freelance writers to flood the market and drown in competition. Then I did some math....
If your pitches are getting you no work, or if you haven't even started pitching yet, download my FREE pitching guide and template at copychatter.com.
Exposure doesn't put food on the table. Don't work for free. Plain and simple.
One of the most frustrating and heartbreaking stories I hear is of the earnest writer who's trying to figure out how to get ahead, only to fall for scam after scam. Don't let that be you!
Visit www.copychatter.com to get your free copy of the Freelance Writing Starter Pack!
Want me to cover something specific on the podcast? Send me an email at ashley@ashleygainer.com and, odds are, I'll do an episode for you :)
While there are many ways to get started as a freelance writer, often those different paths tend to follow the same steps. If you want to become a freelance writer today, these are the 5 steps I recommend you take.
Get your downloadable copy at https://www.copychatter.com/starterpack.
What does a Disney princess have to do with freelance writing? Hang with me as I pluck one of my favorite emails from the archives and share it with you. I don't know about you, but I'm ready for some Mickey waffles and a krispie treat right about now.
As always, you can reach me any time at ashley@ashleygainer.com. Let me know you're listening!
I have writers with income goals anywhere from $500 to $10,000 per month. My own income goals have shifted wildly over the years. Where are you on the spectrum? (There's no wrong answer.)
As always, email me anytime at ashley@ashleygainer.com, or find the group on Facebook here.
The main benefit of being a freelance writer, in my mind, is also the benefit you want to be able to exercise as infrequently as possible. Setting up the right systems will make your life a whooooole lot easier when you need it, though. As always, feel free to email me with any questions! ashley@ashleygainer.com
You're not alone... even if everyone around you is laughing at your ambition. Ask me how I know.
As always, reach me any time at ashley@ashleygainer.com
How should you be spending your time when you're standing at the beginning? Here me rant my thoughts :)
Free resource mentioned at the end: ashleygainer.com/starter-pack
And as always, reach me any time at ashley@ashleygainer.com
There's a particular "secret" to freelance writing success that I rarely hear people discuss. Maybe I'm only aware of it because I experienced it first-hand, while many of us writers never have? Anyway, if you'd like to join my tribe, you can find us at ashleygainer.com/facebook
Imposter syndrome is something we all face. I share some of my own experiences with the Imposter, as well as 3 different things I've done (and still do!) to push through imposter syndrome and get the hard things done. Questions? Find me at ashleygainer.com.
My origin story as a freelance writer. Every freelancer's path looks different! Here's where I've been and what I'm up to now. Please share yours with me, if you'd like!