At Last, Mini Series Part Three
Written by Michele T on January 17, 2008 – 6:30 am -Somehow time got away from me and I failed to finish up the three part mini series I started. (Sorry!) The first post highlighted where freelance writing began for me and I shared with you how I finally overcame the obstacles that kept me from writing for so long.
In part two, I continued by listing ten tips that have helped me develop relationships with editors and get published (a writer’s dream!) numerous times.
As promised, today I’m sharing a few methods I use for finding places to submit my work to, as well as some actual sources for markets you can pursue.
One way I locate markets is by subscribing to several newsletters and e-zines, including:
Above are just a few of the many helpful newsletters and e-zines out there. I was also subscribed to the Write-from-Home e-zine, but December, 2007 was it’s last new issue. It’s still worth checking out, though, because there’s a wealth of articles about freelance writing, contests, and (paying) markets in the archives!
Another way to dig up places to get published is to google the words: writer’s guidelines, contributor guidelines, call for submissions, etc.
I was elated when I stopped by Get Paid to Write Online one day and read what Sharon Hurley Hall said in her post: I, Ghost Blogger. Sharon is so clever! She set up a google alert for ‘blogger wanted’ and you could also choose other words like: hiring bloggers, blogging jobs, or looking for blogger, writer’s guidelines, etc. How awesome is that?!
At 1,170 pages, the Writer’s Market,
This copy also includes five new sections:
- Newspapers
- Syndicates
- Screenwriting
- Playwriting
- Greeting Cards
There are also different versions for those who write for children, poetry, novels, etc. I cherish my copy. It’s flagged and highlighted throughout and I’ve actually sold work through markets I found in these pages!
That covers the markets.
For guidelines, you might want to invest in a copy of
The American Directory of Writer’s Guidelines
Compiled and edited by Stephen Blake Mettee,
Michelle Doland, and Doris Hall, this 6th Ed.,
904 page, resource will help you find out what
various markets require for submissions to editors
and publishers, as well as what is required of you if
you make a sale to them. How awesome is it that the
Magazine Editors and Publishers actually share what
they’re looking for from us freelance writers?! Divine!
If you’re interested in Christian markets, Sally Stuart has gathered some really good ones in her treasure of religious markets , Christian Writers’ Market Guide
How’s this information for starters? Do you feel I’ve left anything out? Do you have some great tips, markets, or methods for finding guidelines, etc. that you’d like to share? Feel free to join in the conversation and share your own writing wisdom!
As always, I wish you much success writing the cyber highway!
Posted in Writing Wisdom | 16 Comments »
January 18th, 2008 at 5:02 am
Michele,
This is a good list of resources. You might also note that Writers Market is available by subscription at writersmarket.com.
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January 18th, 2008 at 5:09 am
Hello Lillie,
Thanks so much! Yes, I failed to mention that it’s available online. I also have a couple of other resources swirling through my brain… Of course, I could write forever but posts have to end somewhere.
Thanks for being the first to comment!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
Michele, this is great stuff. I’ll toss you over some link love.
)
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January 18th, 2008 at 2:02 pm
Those are great resources.
I purchased the Writers Market book and I also have their online subscription. I like them both.
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January 18th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
In my experience, the highest paying jobs are those I create myself. That means I see a company I’d like to work for and tell them why they can’t live without me!
The second best source I’ve found for decently paying jobs is Media Bistro, even on their free membership.
And, of course, Funds for Writers is a long time favorite.
Great stuff — thanks so much for all the terrific info.
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January 18th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
Thank you, Lori! How sweet of you.
You’re too kind!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
Hi Opal,
Like I told Lillie I forgot to mention the online version of Writer’s Market. There are a couple other strong points I’d love to add but blogger seems contrary and won’t let me revise my post. :’( I’ll try again, though.
Thanks for reminding us of the online subscription!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
Hi Devon!
I believe you are right – and maybe a bit bolder than some writers. That’s a good thing, though!
I intended to link to Media Bistro and tell a bit about it, but as I mentioned to Opal I forgot and now blogger won’t let me edit my post. I’m going to keep trying, though.
I’m glad you liked the info. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your awesome method!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Michele, thanks for sharing these. I’ve bookmarked this post so I can check out all the links and resources over the weekend.
Melissa Donovan
Writing Forward
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January 18th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
Hi Melissa,
I’m glad you enjoyed this post and are keeping it bookmarked for future use.
Thanks for stopping by!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 10:17 pm
Great list, Michele!
I’d just like to add Freelance Writing Tips It’s a source for markets and a wonderful source for freelance writing jobs.
Now, I’ll have to check out the ones you’ve mentioned that I hadn’t come across yet. Thanks!
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January 18th, 2008 at 10:23 pm
Thanks for the link, Rebecca, and for the compliment!
I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I wanted to add to it, but blogger won’t let me. It’s contrary sometimes. :’(
I appreciate your contribution to the freelance writing resource, and I’m so glad I could share some you weren’t already aware of!
Smiles,
Michele
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January 18th, 2008 at 10:23 pm
Michele,
This is a wealth of great information! Thank you!
Smiling right back at you,
Tina
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January 18th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
Thanks, Tina, I’m so glad you think so!
It’s an honor to share information that is helpful to other writers.
Smiles,
Michele
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January 19th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Great post. Definitely stumble-worthy!
Dana
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January 19th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Hi Dana,
Welcome to Writing the Cyber Highway! Thanks for joining the conversation, and for the nice compliment.
I appreciate it!
Smiles,
Michele
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