Hello friends! I hope your week is off to a lovely start and you’re enjoying some beautiful spring weather and activities. I, um … watched TV and movies all weekend inside. Couldn’t have been better, really.
Anyway! Today we’re going to cover an often-overlooked but absolutely key component of any successful freelance business: How we present ourselves and our work to potential editors.
I’ve invited freelance writer and former editor Liz Massey to share some insight and knowledge on the topic that she’s gained from her many years on both sides of the equation.
Take it away, Liz!
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Getting on an editor’s “regulars” roster can be a tricky, mysterious affair, a process that is equal parts skill, reliability, being able to deliver the goods, and sometimes just plain luck. However, there are two things within your control that you can do to help your odds of getting that initial response, gain an editor’s trust, and put your best foot forward: (1) Construct your online portfolio thoughtfully and with intentionality, and (2) Be extremely mindful and methodical about how you portray your published work.
I’ve experienced the writer-editor relationship from both sides. I’ve worked for more than 30 years as a freelance writer and editor, and I was on staff as a magazine editor for more than 15 years. I have seen firsthand how improving your self-presentation to editors can take your career to the next level and remove obstacles to showcasing your talent.
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