Writing is Hard

"Tom McParland" (tommcparland)
01/13/2014 at 12:32 • Filed to: rant

Me complaining about dumb stuff below. Here is a picture if you don't want to read Last week I came across a site that supposedly "pays" freelance writers to submit content. While I do not consider myself a "freelance writer" I did read some of the accepted articles and wasn't terribly impressed. I figured since I have had some success creating content here that Matt was nice enough to share to the FP why not give it a go.

I submitted some topics that I had already created pieces for. The representative said "Those are good topics but we want to see what you can do. We need an article that does brief reviews of mid-size sedans." They also want it in 3rd person style similar to Consumer Reports. Can I tell you how soul-sucking car reviews are to write! No wonder Jalopnik switched to their system, it wasn't for us. It was for their own sanity! So I submit my stuff, they said it was good and "might" publish it. I ask how exactly do freelancers get "compensated." Basically, you write something then use social media and whatever else to send traffic to the site. Once your article reached a certain page-view threshold you will get paid. Average pay is $25-$50 per piece. You know what... forget it. I will stick to writing here for free, no deadlines, no obligation and I have an audience that is responsive and fun.

Anyway, I have a new found respect for what Matt and company do. They all seem like they really enjoy what they write but I'm sure it has to be a drag on occasion. But I really think having a responsive audience makes a difference. I blogged for a little bit before Oppo but hardly anyone knew about my blog...so I stopped writing. Here I know people will read, agree, disagree and engage.

So thank you Oppo friends and Matt for keeping me motivated.

DISCUSSION (23)

ddavidn > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 12:33

That sounds like a terrible deal. I can't imagine trying to be a freelance writer.

Tom McParland > ddavidn
01/13/2014 at 12:34

It is, but I thought it might be good exposure. But I scrapped that plan.

ttyymmnn > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 12:37

It's not worth it.

As a freelance musician, I learned long ago that there is a fine line between taking a gig that didn't pay very well vs. being used. I learned that lesson the hard way. Life is too short to be used, and having a few less dollars in your pocket does not (hopefully) ruin your life. Sounds like you made the right choice.

Leadbull > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 12:38

Do you mind if I ask which site this was? Just curious.

d00mZ > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 12:40

I've done the same with some "turn in your writing for money" type of site where you upload pieces (Novels, Essays, Poems, Reviews, etc...) and its shit like this that ticks me off as well. Kinja has potential, it's just not there yet. I mean we are a blog with a wide range of "skilled" writers and we do publish reviews and such, but when it comes to "money", Kinja actually takes the cake here.

Tom McParland > ttyymmnn
01/13/2014 at 12:40

Yeah I don't really "need" the money just thought it would be a good experience. Not worth it.

Victorious Secret > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 12:57

Freelance anything sucks. You get crapped on if you aren't a vicious bastard yourself and actively hunt for those commissions.

Tom McParland > Leadbull
01/13/2014 at 13:08

Helium Network or something

Doug DeMuro > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 13:27

Having a responsive audience is essential. Thank you for always being so supportive, Automatch. I hope all is going well. Keep writing!

Tom McParland > Doug DeMuro
01/13/2014 at 13:28

Thanks Doug! Am I to assume you have a NAIAS wrap-up Demuro style in the works?

Doug DeMuro > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 13:32

Hah! Those are so unpopular, I'm thinking this one will be the first time I don't do it.

William Byrd > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 14:09

Hang in there. If you could find a gig writing without payment, but could write pretty much whatever you wanted, would you be interested?

Tom McParland > William Byrd
01/13/2014 at 14:10

I found that gig...it's called Oppo :D

William Byrd > Tom McParland
01/13/2014 at 14:20

True enough! You have established a pretty solid Oppo portfolio (Oppofolio?) Let me know if you are interested in being more of a feature writer, can't guarantee any payment for the short-term though. You can keep posting to Oppo naturally as I have.

Tom McParland > William Byrd
01/13/2014 at 15:07

Oh derp, I didn't know that you had a direct connection. I thought you were talking hypothetically. Sure, I would be interested in at least investigating what you have. Drop me a line we will discuss further.

AutomatchConsulting@gmail.com

Thanks!