Monica Valentinelli: Author, Game Designer and Consultant

Posted on January 29, 2008 - by Monica Valentinelli

Highlights from Previous Seminars: Freelance Writing 101

Digging through the archive of handouts and seminar presentations, I thought I’d post the notes from one of the roundtables I participated in.

What is a freelance writer?

• An independent contractor “for hire”
• A savvy business owner
• Has great “time-management” skills
• Knows what they are worth
• Has realistic expectations and goals
• A qualified individual performing a service
• An “expert” in their field

How do I promote myself?

Online

• Establish your identity
• Follow-up emails and thank yous
• Be professional
• Avoid “flame wars”
• Distinguish yourself from fans
• Network through social media
• Use proper “grammar” (avoid L33t or LOL-speak)
• Referrals

Offline

• Non-Gaming Seminars
• Business groups
• Community organizations
• Conventions
• “Best” Time to talk to publishers
• Dos and Donts of what to say
• Portfolio/Resume or not to Portfolio

How do I find work?

• Develop your Own criteria
• What will you accept as payment?
• What do you want to write?
• Who do you want to work for?
• Be realistic based on experience

Related posts:

1. Freelance Writing Tip #31: Use Technology Wisely for Online Networking
2. Freelance Writing Tip #18: Unpublished? Unread
3. Freelance Writing Tip #25: Don’t Rely on Future Payments
4. Freelance Writing Tip #12: Exercise Diplomacy with Editors
5. Freelance Writing Tip #1: Freelance Writing is a Business