Are you new to Pitchfest? Wondering what it’s all about?
Long story short: this is a contest that gives you a chance to wow us with your best guest post pitch and win $100 on publication of your post.
See, I used to pay one guest blogger per month $50 for their post. But those paid guest spots filled up months in advance, which meant newer pitches didn’t stand a fair chance.
Now I’ve taken that same budget and added 2 months’ worth of guest blogger pay into one $100 prize that everyone gets an equal chance to win.
We’ve had three Pitchfests so far (here, here and the original here) and each time we do this, we’re overjoyed to see the range of fantastic ideas freelance bloggers can come up with.
But the real point of Pitchfest is that you hardly ever get to see how other freelance bloggers pitch — what they say, what they leave out, and what the editors they’re pitching to think of it all. Here, the whole process is public so everyone can learn from it.
Let’s get into the details of how to enter.
The rules of Pitchfest
- Anybody can enter the contest by typing (or pasting) a pitch into the comments box at the bottom of this page.
- If you’ve entered a Pitchfest before, you can enter again with a new idea or with a revised version of your previous pitch. Yep, even if you’re the winner of a previous Pitchfest. After all, a blog that’s published one of your posts in the past wouldn’t refuse to accept a second post if you had a great idea!
- We’re only accepting ONE PITCH per person, so make it your best shot. After you get our feedback, you can revise your pitch and re-submit it by pasting it into a follow-up comment below.
- Follow the pitch format I’ll tell you in a moment. If you don’t follow the instructions, you can’t win.
- All pitches will be commented on by me (Sophie Lizard, Be a Freelance Blogger’s founder) and/or Lauren Tharp, Be a Freelance Blogger’s guest post editor. We’ll offer feedback to help you refine your idea, polish your pitch or add in any extra info we feel is missing.
- If you win the $100 prize or a runner-up place, you’ll need to deliver a draft that runs to at least 1000 words with no fluffy padding, so give us a concise pitch that shows your idea is detailed enough to create a post of that length.
- The big winner gets paid $100 for their guest post, on publication, via PayPal.
- Two runners-up get a group mentoring ticket in exchange for their guest post, on publication.
- If the winner’s post can’t go ahead for any reason, we’ll choose a new $100 winner from the runners-up.
The deadline
- Submit your pitch before the end of June 26th, 2014.
- We’ll announce the winner and runners-up on June 28th.
- If we choose your pitch, we expect you to deliver your first draft to Lauren by
June 30th. Oops! I meant July 7th.
How to pitch
- Read through Be a Freelance Blogger’s general guest blogging guidelines, then come back here to submit your pitch.
- Start your pitch with a headline that makes us want to read what comes next.
- Follow the headline with the opening lines you’d use in the post. No less than 30 words, no more than 60. [Yes, we’re counting!]
- You DON’T need to write the whole post before you can pitch — in fact, we’d much rather you don’t write a full draft unless you win the contest.
- After the intro, give us no more than 6 brief bullet points outlining the points you’ll make in your post, and tell us how you’ll support each of those points with evidence or personal experience. Again, don’t write half the post in your pitch! We’re looking for concise pitches that get all the necessary information across in a short amount of time and space.
- After the bullet points, tell us in no more than 3 sentences who you are and why you should write this post for Be a Freelance Blogger. This part is important, so give it some thought.
- Put your pitch in the comment box at the bottom of this page.
- Check the little box that says “Notify me of follow-up comments” so you’ll know when we’ve given you some feedback.
- Submit your comment and if you followed all the steps above, you’re entered into the contest.
Extra tips
- This time around, we’re paying close attention to your ability to follow instructions. If we see you’ve skipped one of the steps above, we’ll let you know — any non-conforming pitches have ZERO chance of winning. Harsh, but representative of a real-life pitching situation. [Because, duh, this is a real-life pitching situation and there’s $100 of my real-life money on the line.]
- If you want to get a better idea of what Lauren and I are looking for in your pitch, check out this podcast episode featuring Lauren with Valerie Bordeau of the Freelance Writers Academy. It’s totally Pitchfest-focused and Lauren tells you all the best ways to get on our “yes please” list! There’s also a full transcript you can download with a ton of useful links inside.
OK, you ready?
Let the Pitchfest begin! This contest is closed.
Alicia Rades says
I guess I will kick this off!
Headline: 14 Freelance Blogger Websites that Rock (And How to Do the Same)
Alternative Headline #1: 14 Kick-Ass Freelance Blogger Websites – In Which We Put Your Website to Shame
Alternative Headline #2: 14 Tips for Landing Clients with Your Website (From Bloggers Who Have Done It!)
Intro:
Life sucks as a new freelance blogger.
You spend your days intently hunched over your computer reading about building your website and client base while making minute tweaks here and there.
Yet nothing seems to work!
You know you need a website, but frankly, you’re completely lost on how to make your site actually work for you.
This post will look at 14 freelance blogger websites (most of them from writers in the BAFB community) and outline what makes the website rock. My intention is to give quality website examples and teach readers how to make their site rock, too.
Bloggers whose websites I hope to look at: Sophie, Lauren, Bree, Francesca, Joy Collado, Kali Hawlk, Ashley Gainer, Margaret McGriff, Williesha, Raubi Perilli, Jessie Kwak, Sue Brackstone, Tiffany Jansen, and myself. I chose these sites because if I were a client, all these writers would be at the top of my list based on their writer website, and as far as I know, they’ve been effective in landing clients.
I hope to contact each of the writers on my list and get a quick tip from each of them about creating an effective freelance blogger/writer website. I will then give my own overview of the site and talk about why I think it rocks.
I’m Alicia Rades, a freelance blogger who has contributed to sites like Problogger, Blog World, and Blogging Pro. Looking through BAFB archives, I noticed that no one has talked much about building a writer/blogger website (with the exception of “Why Your Freelance Writer Website Makes You Sound Like an Idiot” and “3 Questions to Choose an Effective Domain Name for Your Freelance Writer Website”), so I think this is the perfect topic to address. As someone who loves to rip writer websites apart and who spent months making my own “perfect,” I think I’d do a great job analyzing these awesome websites and showing readers how to make theirs effective, too (hopefully without spending as much time on theirs as I did on mine).
Thanks for hosting this again, Sophie and Lauren. I’m sure whoever wins will be very deserving of it. I can’t wait to read the winning post! Good luck everyone!
Alicia Rades says
Mmm…I tried to insert this in HTML format and my bullet points didn’t show up! I thought I could edit my comment, but I don’t see where to do that.
That section should look a little more like this:
*This post will look at 14 freelance blogger websites (most of them from writers in the BAFB community) and outline what makes the website rock. My intention is to give quality website examples and teach readers how to make their site rock, too.
*Bloggers whose websites I hope to look at: Sophie, Lauren, Bree, Francesca, Joy Collado, Kali Hawlk, Ashley Gainer, Margaret McGriff, Williesha, Raubi Perilli, Jessie Kwak, Sue Brackstone, Tiffany Jansen, and myself. I chose these sites because if I were a client, all these writers would be at the top of my list based on their writer website, and as far as I know, they’ve been effective in landing clients.
*I hope to contact each of the writers on my list and get a quick tip from each of them about creating an effective freelance blogger/writer website. I will then give my own overview of the site and talk about why I think it rocks.
Sophie Lizard says
Great topic, Alicia — we could certainly use something like this. I think I like your alt headline #2 the best.
Would this be about web copy, design, or a bit of both? [Now you’ve reminded me, I’m gonna have to get on with my much-procrastinated-over website revamp!]
Alicia Rades says
I plan to talk about both. In each section, I want to focus on my favorite aspect of the website to touch on a bunch of elements that bloggers can take away and adopt on their own site. For example, in Ashley’s section I would talk about the copy because I really love her home page content. In Tiffany’s section, I would focus more on design because I love her header. I hope that makes sense!
JOVELLALINGOD says
This has been on top of freelancer conversations in some FB groups. I’m sure a lot of people will be interested in this.
Alicia Rades says
Cool, Jovell. I never thought there was enough free information out there on building your freelance writer/blogger website. Most of what I learned came from the Freelance Writer’s Den bootcamp and Sophie’s Client Hunting Masterclass.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Great stuff, as usual, Alicia. And definitely something I can relate to — I struggled with my website for years before I finally got it “right.”
Alicia Rades says
Thank you, Lauren. I guess the hard work paid off. It looks great now!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Thanks, Alicia! Sophie actually helped me. I got some mentoring from her last year because I was just plain stumped. She showed me that great theme and gave me some fantastic tips to send me tottering off in the right direction. 😉
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
I hope I get mine too right someday 😐
Williesha Morris says
Aww, thanks! Alicia when I read this, I just about freaked out when I saw my name. I appreciate that, because I’ve been agonizing on the future of my site. 🙂
Alicia Rades says
I know you have (I think I read that in the forums), but I still think writers can learn a lot from your site. I particularly love your home page. Your copy is short, to the point, and includes a call-to-action. I also LOVE your home page photo. It has so much personality!
Sahar says
Alicia, I feel bad, I kind of did research on the websites you mentioned and I am already taking notes on what I should be doing… So thank you for that ::sheepish::
Alicia Rades says
Haha. It’s okay. 🙂
Sahar says
Oh good 😛 And I just the other pitches, so much information it’s awesome!
Archit says
Headline: Pennies to Pounds: How I transitioned from Writing for Free to Getting Paid!
Starting out as a freelance writer is really fun! Often, getting caught up in the excitement of our new career, we tend to accept just about any job that comes our way, no matter the pay. In this post, I’ll detail why this is a bad idea and share my own story to help others avoid my many mistakes.
*Writing for Free. This will be a short paragraph talking about why I decided to start writing and how, for about a year, I wrote for free for a friend. I’ll explain why I thought it was okay and why nobody else should!
*Writing for Pennies. Here, I will talk about how I finally started getting paid for my work. However, I happily took on a job where I was being paid just 50 cents for 500 words. I’ll explain my rationale behind taking the poor pay and why it was fundamentally flawed.
*The oDesk Dream. Here I’ll talk about how I moved to oDesk in hopes of a better pay. I’ll explain why this was not a good idea. I won’t condemn oDesk (I still use it), I’ll just give a few tips to make it work for a writer, or rather, explain the true importance a writer should accord it (according to me).
*Writing for Pounds: Here, I’ll talk about how I finally moved away from all these platforms and started working for well – paying clients. I’ll explain how I landed my first annual contract, specifically how Twitter and LinkedIn helped me do that. I’ll also talk a bit about why, even though I used ProBlogger & Craigslist, I think they are not a great idea for writers.
*Establishing a Website. Here I’ll talk about how I finally decided it was time to start my own website. Why exactly I chose to do this, and what I expect to get out of it. This will be something of a conclusion wherein I’ll talk about where I am as a writer now.
I’m Archit Rastogi, a freelance writer from India and I’ve made a TON of mistakes along the way, a lot of very stupid decisions as a writer. I think I should write this post because there is no post on this website that details any one writer’s journey from start to end, except maybe as discussions in the forum. I have been reading this website extensively for the past couple of months, and I am sure that many other readers like me would benefit from a post like the one I’m proposing.
Sarah Lentz says
If you don’t win with your pitch, I hope you write this article for someone, because I would love to read it. I’m still at the stage of working for free or for pennies, and currently I do more proofreading/copy-editing for money than writing. I enjoy the former, too, but I’d like to do more of the latter (for pay). I’ve joined ODesk, Elance and PeoplePerHour, and have yet to receive the tiniest return on the time I’ve invested on those sites building my profile and pitching clients, but I am still fairly new and the competition is fierce. I would be interested to learn more about how you progressed from that stage to the one where you’re writing for pounds (rather than pennies).
Archit says
Hi Sarah. I’m very glad that the pitch resonated with you. Yes, even if I don’t win, I will put this up on my own website. 🙂 It’s something I wanted to know when I was starting out. Though I bugged a lot of people to find out how they got where they were, I could never really know everything from start to end. This post will be an attempt to do just that.
Also, I know oDesk, Elance, etc. are extremely tough marketplaces. You need to be really smart when working on them. Otherwise, you invariably end up getting ginormous jobs that pay peanuts! You can check out my website for some articles on oDesk. My website is still under construction, but I think you’d like the articles on oDesk. Just click on my name to go to the website. Like I said, it’s not yet ready and hence, not yet indexed, so you need to go via a direct link (clicking on my name).
Sophie Lizard says
Sound awesome, Archit! You’re right, there aren’t many posts that cover the whole journey from unpaid to well-paid. I like this idea a lot. 🙂
I’d like to see a revised intro that really empathises with the reader (who is probably, like Sarah, a relative beginner struggling with the issues you’ll address). Can you describe the *feelings* — emotional or physical — of a novice freelance blogger in your intro?
Archit says
Hi Sophie. Thanks! I’m glad you liked it. I have put in a completely revamped intro that I could start with. This is of course just a quick rough, first draft, but gives the essence of what I will be saying.
No matter how great a writer you are, starting out as a freelance writer is very difficult. It takes time, effort and A LOT of dedication. When I first started out, I was excited. I jumped in joy (literally) when I got my first writing assignment and was downright ecstatic, so much so that I thought my heart would burst, when I got my first pay. But, unfortunately, the ecstasy wore off soon! I realized I was simply not getting any more work. Their always seemed to be someone better who snagged up all the jobs. My ecstasy turned to despondence, giving way to despair. I was desperate for a job! There were so many times I was ready to give up. I thought it was simply not worth the effort. I made a lot of mistakes and took on a lot of assignments I shouldn’t have. Well, I’m glad I stuck it out. Despite all the blows and bruises, I managed to establish myself and below, I tell you exactly how.
PS: As a regular reader, I always felt this was something that was missing on the blog. I suggested this pitch because at one point of time, I was the newbie blogger who really wanted to read it!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Really like this one, Archit. And I agree: We haven’t had a post for “newbies” in a while now. It’d be nice to change that.
Archit Rastogi says
Thanks Lauren!
Alicia Rades says
I agree with Sophie. Blog posts talking about the reader tend to go over better. This is a great topic, but I’d suggest *thinking* about whether this is a post you want to focus on YOU or if you’d rather focus on the readers’ experiences and sprinkle in your own experiences to make a connection with readers. “Pennies to Pounds: How to Transition from Writing for Free to Getting Paid!” for example. (By the way, I really like your headline.)
I’m just adding something to think about. I think either way would be great.
Archit says
Thanks Alicia! What you’ve suggested sounds brilliant. However, I’m not very confident that I can blog authoritatively about other bloggers’ experiences. I also think that my post will, in essence, be what you are suggesting. At least, that’s the way I envisioned it.
I think a lot of what I will discuss, except maybe the *Writing for Free paragraph will apply to all readers. I will write the exact emotions I felt at every stage, the particular reasons that spurred me on to take up that particular step. I think those will be very general, and applicable to all freelance writers.
For instance, in the *The oDesk Dream section, I’ll talk about how after being paid nearly nothing for churning out articles at content mills, I stumbled upon oDesk. I’ll describe how their advert video made me WANT to work on oDesk. How I was wooed by the promises of setting my own rates and working my own hours. I believe this is something every writer, heck every freelancer, experiences.
I could probably change the headline to “Pennies to Pounds: How You can Transition from Writing for Free to Getting Paid!”. I’m glad you liked the headline and the idea in general!
Also, I think your article would be perfect. I hope that you do write it on somewhere, even if you don’t win. I’d love to read it. After all the help I received from you on my website, I think you can actually start your own mentoring sessions, targeted specifically at website consultancy! 😉
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
You could ask some bloggers on the community here and interview them for a few minutes by phone or even email. That would give you the authority, make some connections and add some other perspectives.
Sophie Lizard says
Excellent advice, Ann!
Archit says
Hmmm. That does seem like a good idea. I’ll give it a shot. Thanks Ann!
Sahar says
Archit… I have been thinking all day about how you could have gotten yourself contracts via LinkedIn and Twitter!!!
Archit says
Haha! Well, I won’t tell all just yet. 😉 But, I found the groups feature on LinkedIn very useful. I have actually built up a lot of very useful contacts and consequently, contracts from there. Twitter has been more of a fluke. It was a unique and unexpected thing. I got my very first major contract thanks to Twitter!
PS: I just checked out your blog. It’s amazing! I loved your post describing your blog, especially where you say “monologue to dialogue”! You couldn’t have expressed a novice blogger’s hopes better.
Sahar says
Awwww come on, tell me! 😛 Jk, I will try to patiently wait for your article to be posted. A belated congratulations though on your first major contract, and go Twitter!
Thank you for checking out my blog! It’s a labour of love mostly, but I am still trying to make something more out of it…
Renae Gylbert says
The headline will be something along the lines of: “How To Find Your Niche In A Freelance Writing World.”
Opening line: Ever since grade school, I loved writing. I always looked forward to writing papers in school and through college. Now that I am an adult, writing for a paycheck is quite the challenge! What do I write about? And for who? How can I find my muse in this freelance world?
* Topic #1: Here I will ask the reader the following questions: What is it that you enjoy? What can you jab about all day long to people or even to yourself? I will show the reader how they can take personal passions and hobbies and find not only their niche, but any niches at the same time.
Topic #2: In this paragraph, I will explain to the audience how they find their niche/niches. Most people know the answer: the internet. But I will show them how simply reaching out to people in their localities can make the world of difference in networking and finding possible folks of interest. I will show the audience with my own experiences how to find their niches and hold a position position in their niches on search engines.
Topic #3: I will explain how to make that niche a business. I will explain to the reader how to go about finding paid jobs so they can make money writing about their topics. I will also suggests methods to use that will be more worthy of their time and what avenues and behaviors to avoid. I intend on using myself as an example again.
Topic #4: In this last section, I will show the audience how to reach to people in their audience through alternative means. I intend on using examples like building forums, answering every and all emails they receive, establishing relationships with editors and other bloggers and even writing books!
Sophie Lizard says
Thanks, Renae! Two questions:
Can you tell us some of the ways in which your post will be different to these two?
http://beafreelanceblogger.com/expert-blogger-niche/
http://beafreelanceblogger.com/profitable-niche/
And in the opening, can you focus more on how the *reader* feels when trying to find their niche, then use your experiences to provide context?
Renae says
Those articles had a similar approach I was going to use. Darn! Oh well! Maybe next time! Thanks for the feedback, Sophie! 😉
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
How to Convert International Clients as a Night Owl
Like to sleep in and work late?
Hate to squander travel time and parking money on in-person meetings with flaky clients?
Ditch the Chamber of Commerce, coffee shop meetings and overpriced luncheons. Harness the night and social media to meet global clients with well-funded projects. You’ll pump up your portfolio, stretch your skills and never fear a recession again.
I’ll dig into 13 strategies to convert customers from around the world, while the local competition catches up on their sleep. I’ll demonstrate how to talk up your travel experiences as a kid or university student and to even get personal help from top decision makers. I’ll interview 1 to 3 decision makers (online publication editors & marketing directors) based in different cities to discover what they look for in a freelancer.
One: Talk Up Your Travel Experience
– On LinkedIn, I chatted with a man about Jordan, we linked up and two months later, it led to an inbound lead from a European company about writing newsletter articles.
Two: Apply in International Time to Job Openings
-When a posting from New York went up on a popular job board, I applied immediately (though for me it was 5:00 a.m.) I received an email within an hour, scheduled a call and landed the job.
Three: Join International Conversations in Real Time
– I have social media conversations with people from Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia late at night and developed leads in China, Australia, Dubai and France.
Four: Schedule a Weekly Night Shift
– Schedule a weekly night writing shift from midnight to 5:00 a.m. Write, escape phone calls, email, kids and dogs and regularly show up on international blogs, tweets and LinkedIn conversations.
Five: Ask Questions About Work Culture in Other Countries
– I’m moving to China, have asked about life and work there, and have been offered jobs, city tours and help from CEOs, writers and a marketing director of a Fortune 500 company.
Six: Schedule Social Media Activity for High Traffic Time Periods
– Schedule Tweets, LinkedIn updates or blog posts during high traffic social media time periods in big cities like London, Paris, Dubai, Beijing, Sydney and New York. I’ve had good responses from posting on Saturdays and Sundays from countries that work on these days.
My name is Amy Dunn Moscoso and I’m a content specialist who writes from the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada (and soon Tianjin, China) for businesses, online publications and agencies in San Diego, New York, Paris and cities across Canada. I’ve built a freelance writing business while having two children in just under two years and completing a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing. I began writing from home to land another corporate communications job but now freelance to never have to land a corporate job again.
Alicia Rades says
This is a very cool topic, and I think it would go great on BAFB. My only suggestion is to add some form of “Freelance Blogger” to the title.
Amy says
Thnks Alicia and good idea adding freelance blogger to the title.
JOVELLALINGOD says
I can’t wait to read this article! Stealthy and full of strategies for standing out.
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
I’m finding that making yourself standout is the key to landing clients. And we all do in some way.
Sophie Lizard says
I like it, Amy – I’m a night owl and spent far too many years struggling to fit into local office hours. 😉 This is a clear, concisely presented pitch — thank you and well done!
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Thanks Sophie. I’m a night owl too and never more so than after becoming a mother.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Love it, Amy! I work from 7pm – 7am and no one understands. This would give me something to point to and say “See? I’m not the only one!” 😉
Though, like Alicia mentioned above, I would make sure that the article reflects that it’s directed at freelance bloggers. Other than that, it’s great!
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Hi Lauren,
No, you’re not alone working the night shift. I also know people who don’t get it and am glad to find someone who does.
Amy
Aphrodite says
Amy, you’ve got my attention! This topic is so relevant now. There ARE so many opportunities overseas, but often we miss them because we are trapped by mental borders. Would love to see this written out!
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Hi Aphrodite,
I’m glad to hear this resonates. I used it after trying to convince Canadian companies to do content marketing (some here are a little behind). I found US and companies from other countries were ready to hire freelance bloggers NOW and ended up strategically going after them. I landed amazing work while the local companies are still wondering if they should have a blog or not.
Amy
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Repitch (I’ve changed the headline to be have more BAFB appeal)
How to Convert International Freelance Blogging Clients as a Night Owl
Like to sleep in and work late?
Hate to squander travel time and parking money on in-person meetings with flaky clients?
Ditch the Chamber of Commerce, coffee shop meetings and overpriced luncheons. Harness the night and social media to meet global clients with well-funded projects. You’ll pump up your portfolio, stretch your skills and never fear a recession again.
I’ll dig into 13 strategies to convert customers from around the world, while the local competition catches up on their sleep. I’ll demonstrate how to talk up your travel experiences as a kid or university student and to even get personal help from top decision makers. I’ll interview 1 to 3 decision makers (online publication editors & marketing directors) based in different cities to discover what they look for in a freelancer.
One: Talk Up Your Travel Experience
– On LinkedIn, I chatted with a man about Jordan, we linked up and two months later, it led to an inbound lead from a European company about writing newsletter articles.
Two: Apply in International Time to Job Openings
-When a posting from New York went up on a popular job board, I applied immediately (though for me it was 5:00 a.m.) I received an email within an hour, scheduled a call and landed the job.
Three: Join International Conversations in Real Time
– I have social media conversations with people from Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Australia late at night and developed leads in China, Australia, Dubai and France.
Four: Schedule a Weekly Night Shift
– Schedule a weekly night writing shift from midnight to 5:00 a.m. Write, escape phone calls, email, kids and dogs and regularly show up on international blogs, tweets and LinkedIn conversations.
Five: Ask Questions About Work Culture in Other Countries
– I’m moving to China, have asked about life and work there, and have been offered jobs, city tours and help from CEOs, writers and a marketing director of a Fortune 500 company.
Six: Schedule Social Media Activity for High Traffic Time Periods
– Schedule Tweets, LinkedIn updates or blog posts during high traffic social media time periods in big cities like London, Paris, Dubai, Beijing, Sydney and New York. I’ve had good responses from posting on Saturdays and Sundays from countries that work on these days.
My name is Amy Dunn Moscoso and I’m a content specialist who writes from the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada (and soon Tianjin, China) for businesses, online publications and agencies in San Diego, New York, Paris and cities across Canada. I’ve built a freelance writing business while having two children in just under two years and completing a Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing. I began writing from home to land another corporate communications job but now freelance to never have to land a corporate job again.
Tony Hargrove says
Blogging, making it count:
A writers chance at greatness
Mass produced query letters, writers job boards, over checked e-mails, we all are eager to share our craft and get paid for it. Naturally, we use blogging as the outlet for this craft, but how well are we really using it. Blogging, its our platform for the greatness we desire.
Voice- Successful bloggers need a voice, one that defines them, shows their personality
Flare- Delivery of the subject matter is a huge part of its appeal for readers. Will mention bloggers who are successful to support this.
Quality- Knowing how to create, and craft a message that has clarity is crucial. Highlighting popular bloggers will support this notion.
Niche- Understanding potential in subject matter is the MOST important concept to grab a hold of. I will use personal experience to address this
Audience Targeting- Gripping their attention, understanding their interests and motivation will be HUGE in grabbing returning followers.
Execution- Doing your homework, being diligent with your facts will ensure you know your stuff, and not just a blow hard. Sites like Google and MSN will support this theory with easy to attain information and data
I understand the value in educating writers and how it benefits us all as a community. Understandably, there are better writers out there than myself, but none with my intensity for follow through with commitment. I am ready, I want this because writing defines me with purpose.
Sophie Lizard says
Thanks, Tony. Can you give this more of a freelance angle? Right now it’s very blogging-focused, which is great, but the audience here are (or intend to be) freelancers so they need advice to help them make money by selling blog posts.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hey, Tony! I like the “idea” of this post, but I agree with Sophie — it needs to have more of an emphasis on freelance blogging, not blogging in general. If you can find a way to tweak it, please feel free to try again! 🙂
PS: Should be “flair” not “flare.” 😉
Lori Parr says
Hello Miss Lauren! Thanks for this opportunity.
Blogging Hones Writing Skills
Alternative Title or subtitle; All writers should master the art of brevity, and every freelance blog is an opportunity to hone that skill.
In the reinvention of me I’m birthing a long kindled passion; writing. I’ve had 18 years practice with a self published hard copy quarterly journal on gardening/farming/off grid living, that for various reasons I have been forced to make 8 pages fit onto 4!
Since texting and blogging came along I have become quite creative with descriptions, developed my own lexicon, found better ways of saying my piece.
* Brevity
We oft only get the space of 500 to a thousand words, before we lose someone’s attention or alotted space.
* Embrace being edited
That an editor has taken the time and a fine toothed comb to your work gives opportunity to learn, reconfigure paragraphs, omit redundancies. It’s free schooling!
* Elevator speech
Say it in two minutes; who, what, when, where and why you are on the planet. leave them with a business card. I use mailing labels/stickers and make them stick my contact info inside their purse or wallet, etc. Practice writing with this as a template.
* Tickler file
Outdated term for cloud storage or better yet a Pinterest board, hey great idea, a tickler board with photos to wrap stories around! Keeps your brain clear for the concise writing/blogging task at hand.
Who am I? Well, that is a good question that I am just living into the answer of. Just turned 50, got divorced after 18 years, suffered massive irreversible crop damage the same year to my lavender crop that had defined my world for over a dozen years. Identity-less. Thick in the middle of reinvention. I’ve done it twice before; set my sights on a prize and doggedly attained it, mastered it. I am ripe for being a well known, well paid, highly published writer. I just had to live some experience to write about. I’m writer in residence for a bluegrass concert series, and recently had an essay published in elephant journal. No pay has yet come my way for my developing skills.
And sorry that is more than 3 sentences of an introduction – edit at will! The Pitchfest is a window opening to my first paid gig. Thanks for this great opportunity!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Lori!
Interesting idea for a post. Worried that the first section will be a little too similar to this post – http://beafreelanceblogger.com/how-to-write-concisely/ – but the rest seems promising.
Little note about your bio though… It’s much, much too long. Not that it isn’t interesting. It’s just that the contest guidelines specifically state to tell us who you are in “no more than 3 sentences.” 🙁
Your bio would be more well-suited to the “Introduce Yourself” section of our free forum: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/forum
Lori Parr says
Thanks Lauren,
It was my first pitchfest and a great opportunity to see how it all works. The transparency is fascinating. I learned much about what makes a good post. And yes, it was too much like the one you referred me to, which I read! Thanks.
And perhaps I can re-charge my bio a bit. After Sophie’s post this morning, I realize I am dragging around and old story. Need a new one, and to change my attitude about my problem…
Thanks ladies for this great opportunity.
Lori
Diana says
Hi Lauren and Sophie,
I have a pitch I think will resonate well with your readers.
Headline: “Oh Sh*t! What was I Thinking? 3 ways to avoid disaster when switching careers”
I just quit my teaching job to become a full-time freelance writer and photographer. What was I thinking? I had a steady income, I could work on writing and photography at night and on weekends, and I could clean the house and do the laundry in my spare time, right? So why did I give up the day job? Because the day job was killing me. I was constantly thinking of writing and editing photos when I should have been concentrating on lesson plans and curriculum changes. I was continually distracted with ideas that would fit into my life as a writer and photographer. I needed time to spend developing my passion, and that passion was no longer satisfied in the classroom. So, I quit.
Now that I’ve had a few weeks to get the cobwebs out of my head, I realize that I didn’t prepare as well as I should have for this mid-life crisis. This blog post will highlight three of the areas readers should focus attention on when deciding to leave the security of their full-time jobs to become a freelancer and how to survive any mistakes:
* Money: How much to have on hand before the split and what it will take to recooperate the loss, if there is one.
* Time management: How to structure your day so that you are actually working, instead of trawling the Internet for endless unproductive hours.
* Work/life Balance: Knowing when to step away from the computer is one of the hardest areas of the freelance life for me. I’ll research ways that help to balance this problem for myself and others.
I will research and report on the ideas listed above to help your readers lay out a strategy that will work for them when the right time comes to make the decision to go full-time freelance.
I am a vivacious writer and photographer who seeks to share my vision with those who are like minded and willing to take a leap of faith for the things they are most passionate about. Please hit “reply” if you have any suggestions for making this a winning blog post.
Thank you,
Diana
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Love the title. I think that really fits in on this blog.
Fun, humour, disaster and adventure all in one. I’d love to read this.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Diana!
I love your writing style (it’s full of personality!) and I think this would make a great article… I’m just not sure if it’s “right” for BAFB. It seems to focus heavily on freelancing — which is great — but it’s missing the blogging aspect.
Is there a way you could re-tailor it to focus on freelance bloggers rather than writers in general…?
Danny Rosenberg says
Hi Everyone, I’m throwing in my lot for the contest.
Here are my possible headlines:
“How Blogging is like Learning a New Language”
or “5 Reasons why Starting your Blogging Career is like Learning a New Language”
or “Lessons for Freelance Bloggers from Learning a New Language”
Intro: It can be intimidating to embark on a new freelance blogging career, and scary to begin learning a new language. Most people facing these daunting challenges quickly give up and run.
But not You!
Let’s take lessons from language acquisition and apply them to freelance blogging to give you fresh insights for your blossoming career!
1. Breaking Your Teeth
-When learning a new language, the most important thing is to speak, even if you sound clumsy or awkward. You need to feel the words around your lips
-In the freelance blogging context, this means you must start writing and pitching liberally, often with little chance of success, just to get a feel for the environment.
2. Walking the Walk
-Learning a new language is not just about the saying the right words–it’s about becoming a new person. You have to believe in the identity you’ve created for yourself.
-Even if you come from a different career, you must have confidence in your writing skills. Thrust yourself into the writing sphere and stand by your work.
3. Doing Your Research
-Sometimes practicing and speaking isn’t enough; you have to open that rudimentary textbook to learn the basics of the language.
-Before you even begin writing, read some helpful guides about technical aspects of igniting your freelance blogging career.
4. Finding Your Home
-Not all linguistic environments are right for your stage of learning. Some cities are ‘friendly’ to variety of languages, not just the one you want to learn. Expat communities can be comforting, but a crutch to your acquisition goals
-Similarly, not all blogs or websites are suitable for your articles. If you decide to create your own blog, or a profile on freelance marketplace, make sure it properly represents your talents and reputation as a writer.
5. Open your Ears
-At most you are one half of the communicative process. It’s imperative to learn by listening to the natives. Getting accustomed to the speed of native speakers, hearing various forms of expression, picking up idiomatic phrases.
-Read and read often. Find your new favorite blogger and follow their posts around the web. See how they entice their readers while simultaneously getting their point across. It’s a delicate balancing act, but follow the pros and they will show you how it’s done.
I’m Danny Rosenberg, and I’m a freelance blogger and language learning enthusiast. Immersion into a foreign linguistic environment is one of the most difficult challenges I have ever faced, but also one of the most rewarding. I want to prepare the Be a Freelance Blogger’s audience for the joy and struggles of jumping into a new professional environment by synthesizing my two topics into coherent and compelling freelance advice.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Danny!
I like this. I think it’s a very cute idea. 🙂
My only concern: Your pitch is very long… Sometimes when writers send me long pitches it means they’ve said all they have to say about the topic in their initial pitch. Do you think you have enough information to stretch this idea to our 1000-word minimum?
Sophie Lizard says
This looks like a great idea, but I don’t think it’s quite “there” yet. Aside from the comparison to language learning –which is a cool idea, by the way– these are tips we’ve already seen often.
Can you add anything to this that will make the post seem fresh to an audience that’s already read everything there is to read about freelance blogging? 🙂
Danny Rosenberg says
Yes, that’s a good point. My angle is sincere, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t already been done. It’s tough to create truly novel advice in the freelance blogging community these days–but I suppose the best find a way! And Lauren, you’re absolutely right; my pitch is a bit too heavy. After reading the pitches on this list, it’s clear I need to focus on concision. I could’ve said a lot more with fewer words.
Rob McNelis says
No pitch from me this time; however, I love this contest. 🙂
Sahar says
Did you participate last time?
Rob McNelis says
Not in the last pitchfest, but I have guest posted for Sophie b4. 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Great to see you here, Rob! Thank you for your continued support. 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi Sophie!
I am excited about this pitch fest! I am already intrigued about what I have seen and read so far, several good ideas are already being presented.
I have two ideas that I would like to “pitch fest” your way: 1) Two Business Philosophies that Never Fail, and 2) The Top 4 Ways to Draw Attention to Your Freelance Blogging Business That Pays.
I will start this pitch fest with the first article idea and then I will write a new “comment” pitch for the second one.
Okay.
So, on to the first pitch.
The main two points that I would like to cover in this article are these two philosophies: 1) Never Comprise Integrity for Growth, and 2) Serve to Succeed.
For that first point I will, with whole heart conviction, do my very best to articulate the essential need of Integrity in our freelance writing/blogging businesses. Moreover, I will explain how integrity is one of the main foundational factors to building a strong solid and thriving business.
In addition to all of that, I will explain how comprising integrity for growth is nothing more than a recipe for failure. Also, under this point, I will give examples has to how readers (freelance writers and bloggers) can hold on tightly to their integrity during situations that may influence them to do otherwise.
As for the second point, Serve to Succeed, I will, again, with whole heart conviction, do my very best to explain and articulate the unwavering need to serve your readers, clients, and customers with valuable and empowering content that will make the reader better (and not so much the writer). Zig Ziglar always said, “If you help others get what they want you will unconsciously be getting what you want.” In other words, the more we help other succeed the more successful we become.
I will give examples as to how freelance writers/bloggers can serve their readers, clients, and customers with extremely valuable content.
I’m William Ballard, a freelance writer/blogger who has contributed to sites like Entrepreneur, Writer’s Digest, Wealthy Web Writer, and Be a Freelance Writer.
Looking through BAFB archives, I noticed that no one has talked much about business philosophies (I may just be missing them). However, I think this is a perfect topic to address. As someone who is currently working on a BS degree in Business Management with a concentration on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and someone who is extremely passionate about online businesses, and connecting with prospects, I feel that I can really be of value to your readership.
Thanks for hosting this again, Sophie.
Now, I will pitch my next idea in a new comment.
Sophie Lizard says
Thanks, William — we have a “one pitch per person” rule, so please leave us another comment to let us know which of your pitches you want us to take as your entry into the contest. 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi Sophie!
My apologize. I didn’t mean to break the “rules”.
I guess I will go with the first pitch, “Two Freelance Blogging Business Philosophies That Never Fail”.
JOVELLALINGOD says
Too bad. Now I’m itching to know what you’ll write for your 2nd topic. 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi Jovellalingod,
Thank you for all the kind remarks. I really appreciate it!
Sophie Lizard says
Thanks, William.
Looking at your pitch, there are a couple of ways it doesn’t quite meet the specifications outlined above. Sounds like a great idea, though! If you have time before the deadline, maybe you could re-read the rules above and re-pitch? 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi again Sophie!
Now for my second article idea: The Top 4 Ways to Draw Attention to Your Freelance Blogging Business That Pays.
The top four ways that I would like to present to your readers are: 1) Blogging (Ironically, of course), 2) Social Media, 3) eNewsletters, and 4) Self-Publishing eBooks.
For the first point, blogging, I will briefly mention about an article I wrote on Entrepreneur.com entitled, “The Rule of 5 for Bloggers”, which emphasizes on creation, writing, backlinking (or hyperlinking), editing, calls to action, and publishing.
For the second point, social media, I will talk about the aggressive approach to social media (in all honesty, this point could actually be another article idea in and of itself). This is based off a concept that I heard from Sales Expert Grant Cardone who presented these four top things that you want and need in order to build your business: 1) Attention, 2) Critics, 3) Haters, and 4) Admires. In this article, I will briefly touch basis on each of these components or factors that are must haves if we are going to grow our freelance writing/blogging businesses.
For the point on eNewsletters I will talk about the importance of creating RSS campaigns and how to do it, as well as developing the mindset that those subscribers on your list our your VIPs and should be treated with tender, love, and care. Of course, I will also mention promoting affiliate offers through this communication outlet.
Finally, for the point on self-publishing eBooks, I will talk about utilizing Amazon’s Kindle Store. But even better than that, I will introduce something that a lot of newbies are not familiar with, and that is setting up an account with e-Junkie so that you can start selling digital products. This also allows sellers to create their own affiliate programs so that other affiliate marketers can sell their products, which is a great moneymaker.
Again, my name is William Ballard, a freelance writer/blogger who has contributed to sites like Entrepreneur, Writer’s Digest, Wealthy Web Writer, and Be a Freelance Writer. Looking through BAFB archives, I noticed that not many writers have talked about ways to get attention to our freelance writing/blogging business that actually bring in money (I may just be missing them). However, I think this is a perfect topic to address for your readers. I think this article will be packed with value information (tips and suggestions) that readers can implement immediately.
As someone who is currently working on a BS degree in Business Management with a concentration on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, and someone who is extremely passionate about online businesses, and connecting with prospects, I feel that I can really be of value to your readership.
Once again, thanks for hosting this, Sophie.
JOVELLALINGOD says
I guess I should have scrolled down first before commenting there. Lol! With your background William, you’re in the best position to write this. 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi Joverllalingod!
Thank you for the kind words. I do believe that I am the best fit writer for this article.
Sahar says
Thank you guys for this opportunity! I only recently discovered your website and I have already learned a lot just from the reading in preparation for this pitch, as well as from reading Alicia and Archit’s pitches (guys, if you do not win and end up writing your piece and posting it somewhere, please do send it to me at saharsblog@gmail.com!)
I would like to submit the following pitch for your consideration:
Title: Stick to your Guns: Continue Blogging for the Same Reason You Started
Opening lines: Do you remember the day you launched your blog? Passionate, you knew your non-mainstream but important cause was going to attract the attention of hundreds, if not thousands of people through your consistent, quality posts. But several years later, your blog isn’t getting as much attention as the one your friend started about a mainstream topic.
Outline:
– A couple of options available when one’s blog isn’t doing well
– The easiest road: give up; but you wouldn’t be reading this if this was actually an option.
– The easy road: blog about what gets you traffic, not about your passion. My experience when I did this with Sahar’s Blog and Sahar’s Reviews is that I lost my core, loyal, engaged readers. Writing became a chore rather than a source of pride and joy
– The hard road: find the people who will love your blog. I went back to my original formula but started reaching out to other bloggers with the same interests, as well as meeting news readers in various forums and groups online. It helped, but wasn’t enough.
– The hardest road: find a balance between blogging about the aspects of your passion that are more mainstream while finding the people who will love your blog. The best part about having a core, loyal readership is that they will give you great advice. What they told me: my posts were TLDR; the blogs lacked images; I didn’t have enough presence on other social media platforms. I listened to this advice and doubled my audience in three months.
– So stick to your original reason for blogging; write about what you love; produce consistently high quality posts regularly and share them far and wide on many, carefully chosen social media platforms; find your niche audience through such tools as Facebook groups, interacting with readers of blogs similar to yours, guest posts, amongst others.
Who I am, and why I should write this post: I have been a niche blogger myself since 2008, and got increasingly frustrated as people I encourage to get into blogging are able to rack up the same number of followers I now have in one year by writing about mainstream topics. I started writing about such topics but because they were not my passion, writing became a chore rather than a source of joy. I banded together with a small group of bloggers in a similar situation and we have been keeping each other on our toes and moving forward in a blogosphere unkind to our type of writing.
Sophie Lizard says
This looks like an interesting post, Sahar, but I don’t feel it’s freelance-focused enough for Be a Freelance Blogger. Feel free to re-angle and re-pitch it if you like, or if you want to stick with your original idea then maybe try offering it to a less freelancer-oriented “blog for bloggers”, like Problogger.org or BloggingTips.com.
Sahar says
Hi Sophie!
Sorry about the delay in my answer, life happened. Wait, that would be a great title for a post on this site! 😛 You’re right, I went over it and it’s more about blogging than about freelancing. Even if Pitchfest is over, I’m going to challenge myself to re-angle it!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hey, Sahar!
I’d like to see you write this somewhere, if not here. I like this topic and I think it’s an important one. 🙂
My two concerns as it pertains to BAFB:
1. I can see the “blogging” element coming through, but not “freelancing.” Will you be able to write it in a way that shows how these points are relevant for bloggers who want to be paid for their work (rather than hobbyists/people who blog for fun)?
2. I saw a lot of “I” statements. The information you’re providing is valuable, but you’ll need to make sure it isn’t all personal examples. Those are great, but it’s important to focus on the reader (“you”) when writing a post like this.
Looks good though. And, considering perseverance is a huge part of successful freelancing, it shouldn’t be too hard to shift the focus to include that element…
Sahar says
Hi Lauren!
Thank you for the thoughts! As mentioned previously, I’m thinking of re-angling it, but now I’m thinking of both writing this post up, AND re-angling it towards feelancing (which, as you mentioned, shouldn’t be too hard to do since perseverance is such an important part of freelancing!) I will dig up the stuff I have about other people’s examples – I have a folder of them! – and make it less about me. Thank you!
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Headline:
The 15-Step Guide to Creating A Simple Blogging Calendar for Non-Stop Productivity
Intro:
Ever found yourself starring at a blank blog-editor with no idea what to write? Or delivering bad posts out of want of “inspiration” and/or desperation to beat deadlines?
These should never happen, especially when you can always insure yourself against unproductivity with a simple blogging calendar!
Sure you know too well that consistency’s the key to successful blogging.
This post will look at:
– What a blogging/editorial calendar is, and why every blogger should never start a new business month without one.
– How you can make more money offering “Editorial Calendar Creation” as an extra gig – stand-alone service or as part of your freelance blogging package. And how much you can charge 😉
– The 15 steps to a kick-ass blogging calendar; 1. Determine the purpose of the blog; 2. Identify your audience; 3. Keyword research to determine the best terms posts will be created around 4. Determine the frequency of your posts (3x a week, everyday, etc); 5. Get a Calendar (hard copy or soft copy or online!)…and more…
(NB: I might end up making it more than 15 steps if I win…now saying 15 because of the points currently available to me)
– I will also give links to few resources that will help in planning a perfect calendar. Resources (and tools) like the WordPress Editorial Calendar Plugin, Google Calendar, History Calendar, Google search, and more.
– The (very important) place of flexibility in your blogging calendar. (You should be able to accommodate emergencies, announcements or impromptu event in your client’s company, etc)
– Ways to come up with great ideas to fill your blogging calendar + effective use of media mix…and tips to make sure you never default or deviate from your blogging calendar.
Why I should write this post for BAFB:
I’m Oludami Yomi-Alliyu, a freelance copywriter and web content consultant, and I own http://www.lucrativepen.com – – a blog aimed at giving web writing tips, and helping web writers survive – still trying to relaunch though 🙁 — and I’ve had few blogging clients for years now.
Having a blogging/editorial calendar is very important for those of us taking blogging as serious business and have to post daily on different platforms; the term sounds complex but it’s actually easy to do in few simple steps.
I searched the BAFB blog and didn’t find anything on “blogging calendar” (though merely mentioned in few posts) so I believe it’s needed here…as it will help BAFB readers (including me as I’m in the process of creating one for my blog) in their businesses — talk ’bout better and easier blogging!
Thanks for this opportunity 🙂
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Awww…my paragraphs got condensed by the comments editor 🙁
I hope my pitch is still easy to read!
JOVELLALINGOD says
You had me at “Simple and Non-Stop Productivity.” You’ll definitely get a lot of eyeballs with this post because who wouldn’t be interested in simple hacks but better productivity. But you might want to lean the post more on the angle for “bloggers for hire”, maybe how to create a blogging calendar to organize our client projects. What do you think?
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Hi Jovell!
Thanks for thinking this would make a successful post.
And it’s actually more for bloggers for hire. In fact, I only had to scrap a part that read “more so for your client”…and another like “…client gets upset” all so to make the 60 words limit. (I love how we get limited here tho…it’s a separate brevity training)
One of the perks of blogging is that you can write whatever you like whenever you like; it’s YOUR blog and you are answerable to no one. But you dare not try that with a blog you are being paid to manage.
In fact, if your client refuses to pay extra for the blogging calendar, you had better secretly have one for her to make your own work easier.
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
In addition, Jovell, I believed using words like “deadlines” and “…client’s company” should give the pitch a “bloggers for hire” tone. I still feel it does 😉
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
In addition, Jovell, I believed using words like “deadlines” and “…client’s company” should give the pitch a “bloggers for hire” tone. I still feel they do 😉
Nell says
This sounds like a really interesting post. I’m trying to get more organised now that I’ve launched my business full time and have started a business blog, in addition to my other work. This’d make a great post!
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
That’s the point, Nell. The idea is stemming from my own personal need to get organized and stop having that “what am I gonna write?!!” feeling when it’s time to post something.
And I’ve failed too much at blogging in the past than to not have a content mapping strategy in place now that I’m restarting.
Thanks for your comment 🙂
Sophie Lizard says
Nice choice of topic, and your bullet points are well-thought-out. I like it! We couldn’t run BAFB without a calendar/to-do app (we use Trello), and I have a whole set of colour-coded Google calendars for all my business stuff. 🙂
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Wow! Thanks, Sophie. Glad you like my pitch…and more so, that you can relate first hand to it. In fact, you guys at BAFB are in a better position to write this.
I’ll go check out Trello (thanks for the tip!), and wherever I end up posting this, I’ll make sure I “steal” some ideas from you.
Heck, BAFB could be my model blog 🙂
Thanks again (made my night!)
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
I love this one, Oludami! Love it! 🙂
Just a quick nit-pick about your pitch itself though… Don’t tell editors that you “have few clients.” They don’t need to know that. Just let them think you’re awesome. You never want to have a sentence like “I’d be great at this, but…” Don’t show us your “but.” 😉 http://littlezotz.com/2013/09/q-is-for-querying/ (See #5)
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Oh. Thanks Lauren. Thanks…thanks. Didn’t think of that. That’s the essence of Pitchfest anyways. We later go out there and dole out winning guest blog pitches as BAFB ambassadors 😀
I particularly love this line:
“You wouldn’t show your bare butt to an editor. Don’t show them your “but” either.”
What better way is there to etch that into my pitching skull?!
I’ll go back to read the rest of the ABC. Others here too should!
Thanks again – and for loving my pitch too 🙂
William Ballard says
Hi Sophie!
I noticed my pitches got removed, or are no longer showing up. Could this be comment system glitch?
William Ballard says
Okay. Never mind. For some reason they were not there, but now they are. Must be something with the comment system.
Cat Williams - Stay Calm and Content says
Hi, this post is a little different, but I hope still relevant, so I am giving it a try! Thanks, Cat.
Headline:
The secrets of staying calm and effective during busy periods, whether at work or at home…
Introduction:
The pressure is building. You don’t have time to complete the tasks that are being asked of you, or that you are asking of yourself. You are feeling stressed and starting to panic. If you don’t stay calm the situation will get even worse, but staying calm is becoming increasingly difficult. What do you do?
1) ‘Stress’ is felt when we interpret a situation as being beyond our coping ability.
2) This feeling of being inadequate and overwhelmed (‘stressed’) is a threat to our self-esteem (a combination of self-confidence, self- worth and self-respect).
3) Our brains’ instinctive fight or flight response treats emotional threats in the same way as physical ones, we will feel physiological symptoms such as a racing heart, ‘butterflies’ or sweaty palms. We will then feel hot, agitated, nauseous, or fidgety, and ‘negative’ emotions will be generated such as fear, anger, and frustration. If we act on these emotions, or try to numb them in some way, then we could make a difficult situation even worse.
4) Staying calm and effective is about recognising what we fear about our ‘threatening’ situation. Only we control how we feel about ourselves, the situation itself is actually neutral.
5) Top tips for staying calm and efficient ‘in the moment’.
6) Top tips for preventing stress from building so that you can be more consistently calm and effective in all aspects of your life.
I am Cat Williams, a relationship counsellor, blogger, writer, speaker, and author of ‘Stay Calm and Content No Matter What Life Throws At You’ which has received multiple 5 star reviews on Amazon. I am a military wife and mother of two and I run my own counselling and speaking business via http://www.staycalmandcontent.com . I speak daily to clients who are experiencing every kind of stressful situation whether at work or at home, and I myself have moved house 15 times in the past 18 years, so I know a fair bit about experiencing and dealing with stress.
Thank you for considering me, and for your comments! Cat.
JOVELLALINGOD says
Love this! But you’re right that you need to point out how this relates to freelance blogging aside form the “work at home” angle. Maybe the examples would be specific situations that stress out freelance bloggers? I know I get stressed even if I’m just work on my couch. 🙂
JOVELLALINGOD says
Oooops…typo there. I meant, even if I just work on my couch. 😀
Sahar says
This resonates with me! I wrote a post about this some time last year – but I centered it more on how to deal with intense periods.
Sophie Lizard says
Hi Cat, thanks for this pitch — it’s an ideal topic for our audience.
You’ll need to take a freelance blogging perspective on it to make it work. Can you adapt your pitch to show how you’ll emphasise the value and usability of the info for freelance bloggers?
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Agreed. Really like this one, but I’d love to see those adjustments made.
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Headline:
Who Are You, Blogger? Personal Branding for Freelance Writers
(Alternative: Brand Yourself Before Others Do It For You)
Opening lines:
Personal branding is very much like breathing. We do it without thinking about it – until something goes wrong, or until we realize there’s room for improvement. You can control your breathing with exercises and your personal brand with knowledge. Now take a deep breath and read on to learn how to brand yourself as a freelance blogger.
Outline:
* The subject of personal branding is not strictly blogging-related, but I find it important for everyone trying to build a freelance career, so I’ve decided to cover it in this article. In five main sections of the article I will offer general personal branding tips as well as concrete advice targeted at writers and bloggers. However, the article won’t be your typical “do this, then do that” guide; instead, I intend to lead the readers on an introspective adventure. By the end of the article they’ll have reached the essential answers themselves, and they’ll be able to apply this new knowledge to their situation.
* Personal Branding – what is it and why does it matter?
The first part of the article will serve an introductory purpose, explaining in short what personal branding is and in what ways it can benefit your career.
* Elements of Personal Branding
Here I’ll present and discuss the main elements of a personal brand (with emphasis on freelance blogging). I plan to use my personal experience as an example of how and why it is crucial to have a blog and/or portfolio. The readers will learn about the importance of social media presence and get tips for prioritizing and reasonable management of social media profiles. Finally, we’ll take a look at the fundamental element – the personal branding strategy – which encompasses everything else, including the visual presentation, the type, frequency and amount of content you share, as well as your style.
* Risk & Reputation Management
It’s a common misconception that it’s impossible to preserve privacy when building a personal brand. This section of the article aims to debunk it while helping the readers stay safe and protect their personal information. We’ll also touch upon the subject of monitoring search results and brand impressions with special attention to how other people can influence your personal brand. Since I’ve had experience with “digital doppelgängers” (people with the identical name as myself), I know how frustrating this can be when you’re trying to establish yourself as a professional. That’s why this part of the article will conclude with advice for this particular problem.
* Thin Line Between Private and Public
In relation to the notion of privacy from the previous section, here I’ll examine the problem of staying true to one’s personality while building a professional image online. Another important aspect to analyse is sharing sensitive content and personal opinions, or content unrelated to your (current) brand. In the end we’ll think about rebranding yourself when switching careers and consider the option of maintaining multiple personal brands and profiles.
* The article concludes with a handy, “portable” list of personal branding DOs and DON’Ts which is meant to summarize everything we’ve covered so far and serve as a quick reference that can be easily shared or even turned into an infographic.
Who are you, wannabe blogger?
My name is Ivana Isadora Devcic and I’m a multilingual freelance writer, translator and copyeditor studying English and Swedish in Croatia. Personal branding and information security are two of my interests that overlap in a thought-provoking way, and I’d love to share my knowledge on both subjects in this article. I believe that my article can spark a constructive discussion in which the readers could exchange opinions, advice and personal stories, and from which everyone could gain something useful for their blogging career – including me.
Thank you so much for this great opportunity! I wish the best of luck to everyone – there are really some great ideas here. Looks like it won’t be so easy to choose a winner! 🙂
Nell says
Oh Ivana I like this one. I’ve been thinking a lot recently about my personal brand and how to integrate my brand across social media and my various blogs, etc. This would be a great one to read.
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thank you so much! I’m still in the process of doing the same, so I thought it’d be useful to others if they could learn from my experience.
JOVELLALINGOD says
So interesting! Your 2nd headline sounds better. Or how about “How to build your brand as a freelance blogger,” or “Branding for your freelance blogging business.” 🙂
I’ll definitely read this post because it sounds like you’ll be simplifying a complicated topic which we, freelance bloggers, often try to avoid, since it’s confusing and seems like needs a lot of hard work to accomplish.
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thanks! I love your suggestions – in fact, if my article wins, I’m going to use one of them (with your permission, of course). I’m still a beginner in the blogging world, so I haven’t mastered the art of headlines yet. Obviously. 🙂
JOVELLALINGOD says
No problem Ivana! Writing good headlines is always a work in progress. 🙂
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Hi Ivana,
I really like this. I sometimes think that freelance writer’s don’t think about this enough and attract the wrong kinds of clients. Having a strong brand also opens you up to branding writing work and blogging for strongly branded companies. Interesting.
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thank you, Amy! To me it seems that the biggest problem is putting one’s personal brand in the background, so to speak, or not taking it seriously enough.
Many people tend to rely on “if you build it, they will come” maxim, but they don’t realize that simply “building it” doesn’t work for every type of work. Freelance bloggers need to market themselves, make themselves visible and their style recognizable – and that’s what personal branding is all about. 🙂
I’m really glad you like my idea, and I have to say I love yours – in fact, I think it’s better than mine because it’s much more focused. I’d love to read your article because I often struggle with messed up sleeping cycles, especially when I have to meet deadlines for clients who are from different timezones.
Sahar says
Personal branding is a tough one for me, for many reasons I won’t get into for fear of writing a comment longer than all the other comments combined 😉 I look forward to reading the entire piece!
Sophie Lizard says
Great intro. 🙂 I really love this pitch — you’ve demonstrated genuine insight and it’s an important but often neglected topic for freelance bloggers to think about.
The only constructive criticism I have to offer is that the bullet points section is pretty long! If you could condense it without losing any vital details, that would make it easier to read. (But you don’t need to re-pitch; your first one is valid as a contest entry.)
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thank you so much, Sophie! I feared that my descriptions might be too long, but on the other hand, I wanted to make sure that I’ve covered everything I want to write about. Now I realize that I may have chosen a topic that’s too broad for just one article. Sorry about that. Sometimes I just can’t help being “chatty” when writing…even this comment is getting too long! 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
I really like this one, Ivana. So long as you keep the emphasis on freelance blogging (as you’ve indicated you intend to), this could be a wonderful addition to our archives. 😀
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thank you, Lauren! It makes me so happy that you like my idea.
If I want the article to be original and useful – and I do – then I have no choice but to keep it focused on freelance blogging. So you don’t have to worry about that. 🙂 The Web is already full of generic personal branding advice, which is why I’m aiming for something different.
Aphrodite says
Hi Ivana. Interesting concept. I’m leaning toward your alternate title because it is more evocative and attention grabbing. Just by that title, I understood immediately why it’s important to control your branding. It’s like speaking up. If you don’t do it, somebody else will do it for you–and you won’t like the results. Good luck with this!
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Thank you! You understood exactly what I meant – personal branding is all about taking control of the content related to your name. Of course, others are always going to voice their opinions of you (the more popular you are, the more they’ll talk), but you have to be the first one to start the conversation – by presenting yourself according to your branding strategy. 🙂
Aphrodite says
Hi Sophie and Lauren. I’m loving this Pitchfest idea. Thanks!
How To Squelch Your Freelance Blogging Anxiety… Before It Squashes You
Pssst…. Why haven’t you responded to that interesting job board ad yet? Still sorting underwear instead of making money? Why aren’t you pitching all those great ideas of yours? You’ve got heaps of them! Yeah, I thought so. You’ve got doubts, despair, cold feet… Ready to flush the fear in favor of financial freedom? Let’s talk!
* Face Your Enemy: We freelance bloggers are particularly prone to social anxiety, but often mistake it for simple shyness. We secretly believe we’re hardwired to be broken. The truth is that once we recognize the signs (which I’ll cover in detail), we have the power to change and get our blogging rolling!
* Reframe Your Thinking: Social anxiety therapists, consultants, public speakers … they’ve shared the scoop on how we can successfully rewrite our mental scripts when faced with triggers (emailing pitches, calling clients, networking, presenting proposals, etc.). I’ll also include anecdotes of what’s worked for me.
* Submit To The Dark Side: Forget all that New Age positive thinking hooey… for now. I’ve found that a good dose of channeled anger can be a powerful antidote to self-defeating fears. I’ll explain how.
* Seek Shelter…But Don’t Take Cover: Freelance bloggers are a bashful bunch that likes to hide online. This leads to dark, defeating thoughts that magnify anxiety. In fact, when we engage with real people in the real world, we see that people like us and value what we do. And we get an ego boost from the realization that we have skills that many others lack.
* Wield Your Writer’s Wiles: Social anxiety is a sneaky and insidious foe. Freelance bloggers are writers. Writers know how to structure captivating stories and presentations. I’ll go over specific strategies that bloggers can use to defeat their anxiety demons.
* Take Small Steps To Big Victories: Trying to get to the end in one big leap often leads to failure and disappointment. I’ll share a blueprint for taking small, consistent steps to get more positive feedback and sustainable success. So, all those great ideas languishing in your mental bins… off they go.
As a freelance writer and business owner who has researched and overcome debilitating social anxiety, I want to share my story and practical steps to empower other freelance bloggers to do the same. Not only have I managed my anxiety, but I’ve also discovered that I’ve got a knack for public speaking (the very thing I’ve avoided all my life). How many gifts do we suppress with our anxiety? It’s time to let loose and find out!
Sophie Lizard says
Nicely pitched, Aphrodite. 🙂 Your bullet points could be a bit more concise, but I can imagine the post from the outline and that’s what Pitchfest is all about!
A small but important niggle: your bio is 4 sentences long and we only allow a *maximum* of 3 sentences to convey your awesomeness. To make this a fair contest, I’ve gotta ask you to re-submit your bio using no more than 3 sentences. (ONLY the bio – no need to change anything else!)
Aphrodite says
Sophie, I somehow managed to (mis)read the bio rules several times. So thanks for pointing it out and allowing me to resubmit that part. Here goes…
BIO
I’m a freelance writer and business owner who has researched and overcome debilitating social anxiety. In the process, I uncovered a knack for public speaking (something I’ve avoided all my life) and developed the confidence to pursue and get good work. I want to share my story and practical steps to empower other freelance bloggers to do the same.
Beverly says
Hi Ivana.
I am brand new to this site. Pun, possibly intended.
As I read through mnay of the pitches, your pitch regarding branding grabbed my interest immediately. I do not have any tips on how to win this contest but if you don’t win, I truly hope to read your article on the web in the very near future. Good Luck!!
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Hi Beverly, thank you so much for your kind words!
I’m new, too – I’ve never participated before (though I am a regular reader and I follow Sophie’s amazing work for quite some time). I’ve written an intro to personal branding for a website (not sure if it’s okay to leave links, so I won’t), and I’m definitely going to write about it in the future. I love doing research and learning about so many things, but somehow personal branding seems to be the most exciting at this point :).
Nell says
Okay, here’s my pitch. Thanks Sophie and Lauren for putting on this awesome competition again!
Title: Does Your Blog Make You Sound Cheap?
Lede:
“We want you to write for us. Our payment is $10 for 500 words”.
What’s worse than getting no prospects from your blog? Getting awful low-ball offers that make you want to give up this whole freelance blogger gig altogether and go back to a real job.
Outline:
This post will outline how your blog or writer website is making you sound cheap, and as a result why you’re attracting clients who base their decision solely on cost, not value. I’ll use examples where relevant from successful bloggers websites to show who’s doing it right.
[Note, for this post I assume that the reader has a blog for the purposes of attracting clients, or a standalone writer website – the terms are used interchangeably]
What’s your blog saying?
1. You Say: No matter what you need, I can help you. / They See: I’ll work with anyone, on anything. I just really need the money.
This section will highlight why it’s important to get specific on who you want to work with, in order to make more money for less hassle and to stop attracting Tight Tony and his band of Miserly Men.
2. You Say: Although I only started my freelance business this year, I have plenty of other, related experience. / They see: I’m new at this (and don’t have much experience).
I’ve found a lot of new freelance bloggers essentially apologizing in their About Page or Portfolio for only starting recently and not having a lot of clips. Instead of mentioning your experience (or lack of it) play up your past relevant roles and then write your website as if you’ve been at this for years.
3. You Say: Check out the unrelated [affiliate] product I’m promoting, oh and here are some “helpful” ads in the sidebar / They see: Clutter.
Cluttering up your website with ads tells prospects that your business isn’t going that well, otherwise why would you be trying to make a few bucks off an ‘amazing weight loss trick’ ad. You also confuse prospects who may want to hire you – are you selling ad space or your own services.
4. You Say: Check out this AMAZING deal I’m offering right now. GUARANTEED to make you $$$!!!! / They see: Hype, hype and more hype
ALL CAPS, red text and a profusion of exclamation marks tell your prospective clients that you don’t really believe in what you do, but you’re hoping that if you shout loud enough maybe they won’t notice. Instead focus on getting some great testimonials up on your site to demonstrate the value you can provide from your blogging services in a non-shouty way.
I’m a content creator and community manager for creative small businesses. I believe that having the right words on your website is the first ingredient in attracting your ideal clients. However, no matter how good a writer you are sometimes it’s hard to pass a critical eye over our own content to see if what we have written on our blog is is the reason we are unable to attract our ideal blogging clients.
Alicia Rades says
I LOVE this idea–particularly the “you say, but you sound like…” format.
JOVELLALINGOD says
I agree with Alicia. And I noticed it’s similar to what Alicia pitched. Though we’re bloggers and we write web content, when it comes to our own, we can’t seem to find the right words to sell our prowess and value. Will look forward to this post.:)
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Nice idea, Nell. And I agree with Jovell. I find it easy to critique someone else’s blog or website as a web writer, but I find myself forever retweaking and rewriting my major pages.
This is a post every freelancer should read!
Sahar says
You make me want to go back and proofread six years worth of blog posts…
Sophie Lizard says
Nice idea, Nell — I like the way you’ve structured your tips. I’d say “website” rather than “blog” in this pitch/post, as not all freelance bloggers have a blog but they *should* all have a website.
The only concern I have with your pitch is that it doesn’t feel like enough to build a long-ish post. Are you confident you could write 1000 words based on this outline, while keeping it concise and without adding points you haven’t mentioned in the pitch?
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
I hope Nell comes back to answer your questions because I really dig her idea — it’s a great topic! — but I had the same concern. However, if she comes back and is confident she can write a full-length post about it, I would love to read it!! (Seriously. I love her topic!)
Nell says
I actually half-drafted a blog post and then condensed it for the pitch fest – I’m really confident I could write on this for 1,000 words without adding extraneous content. The post is almost ready to go, actually, just need to add some examples.
Aphrodite says
Nell, great post and format. I love the phrase “Tight Tony and his Miserly Men.” Been firing a few of those myself lately. One picky point: your title talks about cheapness only. Yet some of your bullet points call out clutter and lack of focus. Maybe reframe the title to include not just cheap, but also confused. For me that slight tweak would tie it all together more clearly.
Edward Beaman says
First of all, thank you for this opportunity.
Overcoming blogging anxiety: How 2 years of rocket attacks helped me write without fear
Intro:
Imagine the scene.
You’re sitting quietly in front of your computer. The page is blank and beneath the table your legs shake with increasing tension. In a space of thirty minutes you’ve written and deleted just one measly sentence.
And then everything changes.
You find yourself running with the shriek of sirens sounding in your ears. The rockets are coming.
Bullet Points:
+ How fear can disable a writer. Whether it’s creating a post or putting yourself out there as a freelance blogger, I’ll note some of the ways our progression can be hindered by anxiety.
+ What fear actually is and why it happens to bloggers. I’ll back points up with psychology references.
+ Interwoven within the post will be extremely brief and relevant snippets of my experiences living in a city frequently attacked by rockets.
+ 5 or so individual examples (snippets as mentioned above) and the resulting lessons the experiences taught me on decreasing blogging fear.
These will be:
1. Negative anticipation – waiting for the warning siren – how to deal with the fear of future blogging projects.
2. Your response is what makes you anxious – the siren! – how to work through the writing fear (blockage) as it happens.
3. Focussing outside yourself – life in the shelter – how to use outreach as a way to calm nerves.
4. Calmness carries over – the quiet after the attack – how blogging anxiety can be resolved outside your freelancing hours.
5. Underestimated bravery – rockets again and again – how a little realisation will put a smile on your face and make you feel invincible.
+ How to use the above lessons for everyone to move forwards with their blogging career despite the fears and anxieties they might presently have.
Bio:
A few years ago I lived in a city frequently attacked by rockets. After 100 of these attacks I realised they’d taught me some important lessons about life and this included my writing career. I’m Edward Beaman, a freelance writer, and the aim of this post is to help bloggers overcome freelance blogging anxiety which might be stopping them achieving their dreams, like it once did for me.
Jodie says
I think this is an important topic. I suspect that there are many more people who suffer from anxiety than who will admit it.
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
I agree. And there’s also something about being a writer that can make the most confident professional quake.
Sahar says
Especially in an internet filled with trolls and unhappy people intent on just making life miserable for anyone and everyone in their path…
Sophie Lizard says
This is *fascinating*. I like that you’re using something from your own life, but that most freelance bloggers have never experienced, as support for the advice. And yep, anxiety is a big problem for freelancers (for humans, really).
Edward Beaman says
Thanks Sophie.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
This is fantastic. I love it. It’s something I haven’t seen a million-zillion times before! How exciting!! And, it addresses an issue that nearly all writers/bloggers face (we all have “rockets” in our minds).
Edward Beaman says
Thank you Lauren. 🙂
Ivana Maric says
This is an extremely important topic and I would love to read more about it. Really, really great idea Edward! 🙂
Mohit Tater says
Hi Sophie and Lauren, thanks for the opportunity. This is my first shot at pitching, so here I go!
Headline: Guest Blogging: Stick a Fork or Still Functional?
Lately, the world of search engine optimisation has been abuzz with the war over guest blogging. If you are a seasoned player in the field, you would already know what the humdrum is all about. But if you are new to blogging, content marketing, link building, and all things SEO, here’s your primer on the guest blogging conundrum.
–The Basics. In this introductory section, I will detail what guest blogging is and how it can pay – despite it typically being a free service. I will give real life examples of people and companies that have built a brand largely through guest blogging.
–Google and Guest Blogging. This section will explore Google’s stance on guest blogging. I will present the crux of Matt Cutts’ ‘Decay of Guest Blogging for SEO Purposes’ post, followed by a discussion on Google penalties for violating Google’s guest blogging guidelines.
–Critiquing Cutts. Here, I will attempt to alleviate the scaremongering effect of Matt Cutts’ “decree” by explaining how his stance on guest blogging has been criticised, countered, and modified by various authorities in the fields of content marketing and SEO.
–To Guest Blog or Not to Guest Blog. In this section I will discuss whether guest blogging is really dead as an SEO tactic. I will use Neil Patel’s arguments to establish the viability of guest blogging as a still functional and effective SEO tactic.
–How to Go about it. In this concluding section, I will lay out tips for aspirant guest bloggers on how to find the right kind of guest blogging opportunities, draft pitches to host bloggers, and write a guest post that will not be penalised.
I am Mohit Tater from Jodhpur, India and I am a freelance writer and content strategist. I think I should write this post because guest blogging is a significant focus of BAFB and due to the recent changes in the guest blogging game, bloggers are confused now more than ever as to whether they should guest blog or not. Through this post, bloggers will know exactly where guest blogging stands today and how they can leverage it to grow their businesses and online presence.
Archit Rastogi says
Hey Mohit! I really like the idea behind this post. I especially like the point on critiquing Matthew Cutts. Good luck with your pitch. I’d love to read this article when complete. 🙂
Sahar says
Ibid 😉
Mohit Tater says
Thanks a ton Archit for your appreciation!
Alicia Rades says
Can I be honest? I think this is a great pitch, but I feel this topic has been WAY over done.
Mohit Tater says
Thanks Alicia for your honest feedback, appreciate it 🙂
Sophie Lizard says
I kinda agree with Alicia, in that the whole “Matt Cutts killed guest blogging” story has been done to death.
BUT, I think there’s value in a post that explains SEO and Google’s guest blogging rules in a way that’s tailored specifically for freelance bloggers — our readers may be guest blogging for backlinks to their freelancer website or simply to build clips for their portfolio, and they want to know if they’re doing anything that could hurt their business.
Mohit, if you can angle this a bit more toward *freelance* bloggers who want to write guest posts, I’d love to see your revised pitch. 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Agreed on both counts. The current angle has been done to death the past couple months — BUT, this post has a lot of potential provided it’s given the tweaks described above. 🙂
Mohit Tater says
Sure Sophie, I’ll try and tweak it! Thanks for the feedback 🙂
Sue Chehrenegar says
What Bloggers and Promoters Can Learn from the World Cup
Audiences at the World Cup often contain men and women who are passionate about a certain cause, or who hope to sell a particular product or service. Marketers and promotorers should note the tactics that futbol fans use for getting-across their chosen message.
1) Tactics used by groups that want to promote a food. The Swill copy the Wisconsin cheese-heads.
2) Tactic used by someone who cares about an endangered species. Did Putin notice the fan from Iran who was waving a stuffed animal, one that looked like a white leapard?
3) A stereotype can be juxatoposed against reality. One fan from Mexico stood inside of an object shaped like a burro and wore a large Mexican hat. That stereotype of the Mexican contrasted with the energy and skill shown by the Mexican players.
4) Coaches can use the actions of players to promote a message focused on good sportsmanship. One Argentine player looked quite silly, when he tore the corner flag out of the ground. He was lucky that the referee did not penalize him.
5) Teachers can use the actions of players to emphasize the benefits attached to cooperation. On more than one occasion, a goal resulted from the actions of two players. In such cases, both get credited: one with making the goal and the other with the assist.
6) Advocates for world peace can point to evidence that the World Cup showcases the fact that people from all four corners of the globe can get together and can get along.
I have chosen this topic because I love to write about sports and I also like to offer ideas on marketing. When I was watching the World Cup, I found that I enjoyed seeing the attire worn by fans as much as I enjoyed watching the various games. I saw everything through the eyes of a former soccer mom, a mother who has become a freelance writer.
Sophie Lizard says
Sue, these sound like valid points but I’m not feeling the connection to freelance blogging. Can you explain what action a freelance blogger should take once they read each of your points? 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Same. I feel like you (Sue) may have gotten a bit too wrapped up in the World Cup side of the article and forgot that the focus is supposed to be on freelance blogging. 😉
Aleks Samoylov says
Mine might be a bit general, but I figured I’d give it a try.
Potential Title:
The Happy Hustler’s Handbook, or the Three Sacred Truths That Every Budding Freelancer Should Know
Potential Opening
“There are those who sally forth toward adventure in response to an irresistible call, and there are those who have adventure thrust upon them. True greatness, however, does not cowtow to circumstance. Whatever your origin, you are a freelancer, a knight errant, a lone rider among the inhospitable hills of modern commerce.”
– The Mission
This article aims to offer a positive, and humorous, twist on the perennial “things I wish I’d known when I started” concept, and is directed to freelancers at large (not just freelance writers and bloggers). It is my hope to draw upon my many years of freelance experience, especially the many lessons learned by bitter trial and error, and to make those lessons available, sans bitterness, to relative newcomers.
– Know Yourself.
This section would discuss the importance of balancing one’s personal and professional personas, of being conscious of (and building on) one’s strengths and weaknesses, and of developing a workflow and lifestyle that is true one’s own self. The bulk of this section would be supported by personal experience
– Know your needs.
This section would discuss one’s financial and personal needs, and their points of intersection. Most importantly, it would encourage the budding freelancer to take an active interest in his or her finances, to strive for success over mere subsistence, and to take advantage of a surplus effectively. This will mostly be supported by personal experience, but will likely bring in, as a source and recommendation, Making Your Life as an Artist, the excellent (and free) e-book by Andrew Simonet (available at http://www.artistu.rg/making/). While it focuses on artists (as a very general label), freelancers of every stripe would benefit from the practical advice contained therein.
– Know your worth.
This section would discuss negotiations, client relationships, and the need to periodically “level up” (drop low paying or toxic clients in favor of better ones). It would present, essentially, the culmination of the preceding tenets, a sort of synthesis. If you know who you are and what you’re good at, and once you know what you need to thrive as opposed to merely survive, you can start to charge aproapriately.
About me:
While I’m still a relative newcomer to the world of freelance writing, I’m a veteran freelancer. I have made a living through self employment since I’d graduated from college and am intimately acquainted with the joys and perils of the lifestyle. While this article idea is admittedly short on external sources, I believe that my own direct insight would prove valuable to those in the early stages of their freelance journey.
Sophie Lizard says
I like the overall idea, but you’re right: in its current state, this pitch is a bit too general for our audience. If you can bring it into tighter focus on freelance writing and freelance blogging, feel free to re-pitch it! 🙂
Jodie says
I really liked your title, so I hope you keep it if you decide to re-pitch it.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hey, Aleks!
I’m loving the freelance aspect, but the blogging element just isn’t there… There needs to be both to be a “true” BAFB post.
That said, I really like what you’ve pitched. If you want to keep it as a general article for freelancers — regardless of whether they’re bloggers or not — then I hope you find somewhere else to get it published! (Or publish it on your own blog, if you have one). Good luck!
Seth Bauer says
Title: “You Can’t Handle the Truth!” Five Freelance Blogging Lessons from a Former Trial Attorney
Intro: Look, I know…attorneys are the worst. But you have to admit, trial attorneys are the best of the worst. Who hasn’t fantasized about emulating the protagonists of A Few Good Men or My Cousin Vinny? While my career as a trial lawyer wasn’t quite that exciting, I did learn a few lessons that you can apply to freelance blogging.
Five Bullets:
-Be Thorough but Concise. This point will have a humorous anecdote about how I once put a juror to sleep. It will go on to propose that not all blog posts need to be short, but they all need to be concise.
-Know the Subject Matter. This point will have a humorous anecdote about the first time I tried a case involving evidence seized from a computer. It will go on to propose that a freelance blogger must have real knowledge of the subject matter he/she writes about, not just an assortment of facts and ideas collected from other blogs and regurgitated to meet a 750-word requirement.
-Know the Rules. This point will have a humorous anecdote about how I nearly lost a case for failure to understand a key rule of evidence. It will go on to propose that a freelance blogger needs to understand both the written and unwritten rules of the blogs he/she wants to pitch ideas for.
-Be Confident. This point will have a humorous anecdote about my first trial, during which I was very clearly not confident. It will go on to propose that, when pitching a piece, writers should use language that conveys confidence in their product.
-Work to Live, Don’t Live to Work. This point will have a touching anecdote involving my two-year-old son about why I decided to abandon a career as a trial attorney and begin a freelance writing career. It will go on to propose that the best freelance bloggers are the ones who value their life over their work, and who use their life to inform and improve their work.
I am Seth Bauer, once a trial lawyer but now “just” a father, and I should write this post for Be a Freelance Blogger for two reasons. First, because it contains useful freelance blogging advice which will be memorable because of the anecdotes attached to each piece of advice. Second, because it comes from a writer who will resonate with BAFB’s readership: a person making the transition from some other career to freelance writing and whose success or failure has not yet been determined.
Sahar says
I love how you were able to put your experience as a lawyer to such practical use in your blogging career!
Alicia Rades says
I love this unique angle and your title.
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
This is a truly original idea; I don’t think I’ve ever read an article with an approach like yours. I’m rooting for you! 🙂
Seth Bauer says
Thanks, Ivana!
Sophie Lizard says
I like this for the same reason I like Edward’s pitch: you’re using something most of us have only seen on TV to illustrate lessons for freelance bloggers. 🙂 And I’m curious to read your anecdotes — they sound great! A good idea, well pitched.
Seth Bauer says
Thank you, Sophie…I appreciate the kind words and, more importantly, your dedicated contributions to this community!
Seth
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Love this, Seth! It gave me that “I must read this post!” feeling. (I love that feeling). If you were writing to me behind-the-scenes, I’d be asking you to send over your first draft. Well done!
Seth Bauer says
Thanks Lauren, I appreciate it!
Kirsten Puls says
Dear Sophie,
Should You Ever Lie to Your Kids?
Have you ever told your kids a white lie? Ever said ‘Santa’s coming tonight’?
In the adult world, white lies don’t usually land me in trouble. And they’re so useful. Like telling my cleaning freak husband that yes, of course I separated the washing into five different piles and washed them all separately. Besides, is the truth really so sacred?
• I question whether telling a lie is always morally wrong, quoting writer Iain Banks
• I examine why we sometimes tell white lies to our kids, and why it so often backfires, using two (rather embarrassing) examples from my own experience
• I share what I’ve learnt about my behavior with reference to the work of Professor of Behavior Economics Dan Ariely.
I’m an Australian medical writer who’s just entered the blogosphere. I’m a mother of four and an absolute expert at lying to kids. I confess I’ve told mine a bucket load of white lies over the years (and not just about Santa Claus!) – let’s just say it’s an issue I’m well placed to discuss.
Sophie Lizard says
Hi Kirsten, this sounds like a great post but it would need a clear relevance to freelance bloggers for us to choose it for this blog. Feel free to re-angle and re-pitch it, if that perspective interests you. 🙂
Kirsten Puls says
Hi Sophie,
Yes, I realised this after reading everyone else’s! I thought it could be a blog on anything. I can’t really write on being a freelance blogger as I don’t know much about it yet … I’ll just pull the pitch for the moment. Thanks,
Kirsten.
Lori Parr says
Kirsten, I read every link they referred to in the original email I got because I was excited to write a blog about my motorcycle but was wondering why everyone elses blog was about blogging. I dug deep to find this and found it finally on a transcript from an interview. Otherwise the directions were laid out well and easy to follow.
Sophie Lizard says
We mention the freelance blogging focus in the guest guidelines (which I linked to at the start of the How to Pitch section of this post) but next time, I’ll make that clearer!
Thanks for the feedback, Kirsten and Lori. I hope you both find good homes for your pitches — let me know when you get those posts published so I can check them out. 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Oh hey! Someone listened to/read the interview I did! 😀 http://freelancewritersacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/LaurenTharp_Pitchfest_FWAepisode16.pdf (Freelance Writers Academy podcast: Episode 16)
Thanks, Lori! 😉
Lori Parr says
Research! I love that part. I read the transcript, I learned a lot about what to and not to do to run with the likes of you gals.
I have one question, is it possible I did not have ‘allow follow up comments’ on when I sent in my pitch?
Thanks for this response. And, you are indeed welcome.
Sophie Lizard says
Kirsten, check out the Ultimate List of Better-Paid Blogging Gigs [there’s a link to it at the bottom of most of my emails] where you’ll find a section with details of parenting blogs that pay between $50 and $300-ish for freelance contributions. 🙂 Pitch your idea to them — don’t let it go to waste!
Debashish says
Hi Sophie, Hi Lauren
Wow, the Pitchfest keeps getting better each time! I’m seeing some brilliant pitches this time around too. Like Alicia’s (14 blogger websites), Oludami’s (15 step blogging calendar), Edward’s (overcoming blogging anxiety), and Mohit’s (guest blogging & Google).
Having participated in the last 2 pitchfests, and going through the recent posts on BAFB, I noticed a broad topic that hasn’t been covered – the idea of blogging as an art form. I have a sneaking suspicion this topic will resonate with BAFB readers but, I’ll never know if I don’t pitch my idea. Here goes nothing.
Headline (I have never been able to come up with good headlines until after I’ve written the post. So please bear with me on these terrible headlines) :
How To Let The Blogger Take Over And Send The Freelancer For A Vacation
OR
How To Rekindle Your Passion For Blogging And Keep The Freelancer In You Happy
OR
A Freelance Blogger’s Guide To Rekindle The Passion For Blogging
Intro: Cast your thoughts to the day when you received your first payment. Feel the emotions you felt on that day. Elation, hope, disbelief, and most of all your love for blogging. You probably felt like you could take on the world! Did you care how much money you had made, or how many hours you had to put in?
Main Content:
# A short discussion on how focusing on money diverts us from the pursuit of creative fulfillment. And how Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory supports this point of view. (This section will include the links to recent BAFB posts on how to get more clients, how to be more productive, how to get paid more).
# How the story of the Mexican fisherman (and the American businessman) made me think about “What’s the point?” and how I could draw from my personal experience that my motivation for writing goes deeper than money. It’s about learning, making an impact, and contribution.
# A recent personal incident that helped me ditch money as the guiding principle for pursuing freelance writing as a career. And how I am going to pursue my passion for blogging by freelancing.
# What freelance bloggers can do specifically to pursue creative fulfillment – free writing, publishing regularly on a personal blog, guest contributions to large online publications, taking on projects for a cause rather than the money – that helps them write about what’s close to their heart, and it also enhances their reputation as a blogger. (This section will include links to examples of bloggers who are practicing one or more of these techniques).
Why I should write this: My name is Debashish and I started blogging to record my journey to quit my corporate job; not to make money. Over the past few months I’ve let money take over as the primary motivator and was reminded of the error of my ways as I was finding it easy to write for other people but kept getting stuck in writing for my own blog. When I looked at the deeper why (thank you, Corbett Barr) I realized I blog because I’m passionate about it and the act of writing is a source of creative fulfillment (and flow).
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Hey Debashish! Thanks for the mention 🙂
I love your idea too; most freelancers suffer same. Talk about the physician being unable to treat himself!
I’d choose your 2nd headline over others. #JustMyOpinion
Wish you the best
Debashish says
Thanks for the appreciation and feedback, Oludami.
Great metaphor – physician not being able to treat himself. I’d really like to read your post because I’ve been trying to create an editorial calendar for myself but, that’s part of the reason why I’m getting stuck in writing posts. I’d really like to give the editorial calendar strategy more chances before I give up on it. For me 15 steps is a bit much. I’d still like to read your post though.
Best of luck to you too.
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Thanks Debashish!
And I’m actually talking about 15 simple steps like “Get a Calendar”. These are so simple they will make “15” seem so not much.
Sophie Lizard says
This is an interesting story, Debashish. I’d really like you to come back and pitch it to us again at the *next* Pitchfest in August, though, so that you can tell us how the story ends. 🙂 With an extra couple of months to see what progress you make, what’s easy and what’s hard, etc., you’ll be able to write a post that’s much more useful to the reader. Does that make sense?
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Debashish!
Glad to see you made it to the latest Pitchfest! 🙂 Always good to see a familiar face.
I really like this topic idea. It’s something that many freelance bloggers — myself included, at times! — struggle with.
However, it doesn’t feel quite “there” yet. I could be wrong, but it feels like you’re still in the epiphany/pondering stages yourself — not quite ready to advise others on how to deal with this issue. And it’s hard to write an informative, advice-filled, blog post if you don’t know what to do yourself.
Of course, I could be way off base! If you do have actual tips to share, then I think this post would be great! 😀 But, if you’re still feeling out the solution yourself…maybe come back again for the next contest? (I think Sophie may have said the same thing, more or less).
Your pitches keep getting better each time!
Also, a note for other entrants: What Debashish did at the beginning in which he mentioned a noticeable missing element to our — relevant! — topics was brilliant. It showed that he’s a regular reader (and loyal readers are often the best writers!) and that he was paying attention. The key phrase, of course, is that he mentioned a relevant missing component. He didn’t say “You don’t have any articles on guitars!” Because…yeah…of course we don’t. He made sure that he made it about our niche (freelance blogging).
Well done! I hope you come back for the next one!
Debashish says
Thanks for the wonderful feedback Lauren. You are right. I’m still in the pondering phase. Maybe this post will have more impact when I repitch it in August.
PS – The intro to my pitch was something I got from Ramit Sethi (of I Will Teach You To Be Rich fame). Be polite, be genuine, keep it short, and do your research before you even think of pitching.
Susan Huebert says
Guest Blog on Dealing with Physical Barriers to Writing
Possible title: My Back Hurts and I Can’t Type: Overcoming Day-to-Day Obstacles to Writing
Alternate Title: When Writer’s Block is Not the Problem: Physical Barriers to Writing
First Paragraph:
Writing can be challenging, especially when ideas refuse to come. However, the practical side of writing—the physical ability to put words on a page—is just as important. Having trouble with the mechanics of writing doesn’t have to mean the end of a career, however. You can still be a successful writer despite the challenges.
Points to cover:
I. Blind authors—Harriet Tubman, John Milton, Joseph Pulitzer, Sue Townsend (Adrian Mole author) http://www.disabled-world.com/artman/publish/famous-blind.shtml
II. Authors with multiple disabilities—Helen Keller http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helen_Keller
III. My experiences with techniques for overcoming physical barriers—Typing slowly, standing and walking around, etc.
IV. Benefits of dealing with minor disabilities—taking life more slowly, choosing my jobs with care, taking breaks to ease the discomfort
V. Suggestions for writers dealing with physical challenges—voice-activated computers, dictating to another person, etc.
VI. Conclusion—Would I want my physical challenges to disappear?
My name is Susan Huebert, and I’m a part-time writer with experience in publishing articles for children and adults. Since a bicycle accident left me with the inability to bend my left wrist (basically reducing me to one-handed typing), I have gained considerable experience in the topic of my proposed blog post, and I think that many other writers or aspiring writers would be able to identify with the kinds of challenges I have faced. I think that a post like this one could be useful for people who want to write but who feel unable to do so because of physical barriers.
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Interesting pitch Susan – Jon Morrow, king of blogging, comes to mind. Would love to read this article.
Sophie Lizard says
Hi Susan, this sounds like a good post but it’s very similar to one Pinar Tarhan wrote for us a while back: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/writing-disability/
If you have time before the deadline (which is 11:59pm Pacific time TONIGHT, 26th June) feel free to re-pitch a different version of this idea that avoids covering the same ground as Pinar’s post. 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Agreed. I was going to mention Pinar’s post too. (It’s one of my personal favorites as it came at a time when I was having trouble physically writing as well!).
That said, I hope you write this post anyway, Susan! If not for us, then for someone else (or your own blog). It’s an important topic and suffering writers may not find their way to BAFB — even though we’re amazing.
It’s a wonderful idea and it could ease a fellow writer’s suffering. I hope you find a way to get it out into the world.
Charlene Woodley says
Hi everyone! This is my first Pitchfest, so I’m shaking in my boots but glad to be here, so let the pitch begin!
HEADLINE: 12 Eye-Opening Reasons why Bloggers should Keep Diaries
OPENING LINES: You know that feeling of exhilaration when starting a new project and you’re super excited?
Me too – great!
Do you also get the ‘Oh crap, I don’t think I can do this’ feeling?
Me too – not great.
So, you pull up a random file to vent your frustrations when suddenly, you’re hit with a plethora of ideas…eureka!
Bullet Points/Explanations:
*Creative Ups and Downs: The post starts out showing how bloggers usually start out excited and ready to conquer the world with their ideas and writing. It seems easy at first, but stumbling blocks do exist, and doubt is the first of them. Creativity can take over in the midst of a writer’s doubt, fear, and/or anxiety, and once again – it’s up-time! An example is given to show how those endless possibilities are haphazardly thought out, but may or may not be documented correctly.
*Lesson Learned Keep it Simple: This section explains how a common solution is in order when frustration and disorganization is present. The answer lies in simplicity which is the best way to escape a confusing situation.
*Bloggers and Diaries: In this section, we find a common solution to the issue of unorganized documentation. The practice of keeping a “blogging diary” can keep a writer positive on a motivational level as well as staying focused on execution.
*Staying on the Happy Track: The last portion of the post displays how the offline diary should be set up with actual entry titles and tips on how to submit the entries. Keeping these personal files will help us identify our weaknesses and strengths, while opening our eyes to what we can accomplish.
Who I am/Why I should write: I am Charlene Woodley, a freelance writer from Tennessee who stands in awe of the ideas that are before me, and I’m glad to say that hanging out at Be a Freelance Blogger has given me the encouragement that I need to come out of hiding and branch out with my writing. I have become eager to reach a wider audience through motivating and inspiring others who experience the same frustrating issues that I have dealt with, so I wrote the post because I believe that using the negative side of writing and pinpointing those hidden issues that we don’t always voice can help someone to know that it happens to us all. My goal is to show and prove that any stumbling block can be overcome by simply being honest as well as willing to step out of the comfort zone and I would like to thank you for the opportunity to reach someone.
Good luck to all!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Charlene!
Welcome to Pitchfest! 🙂
This is a neat idea (certainly a handy tip!), but it’s not quite “right” yet. The blogging aspect is coming through strong, but it’s missing the freelancing element. (i.e. How will keeping a diary help bloggers earn more money?) 😉
Charlene Woodley says
Ahh, I missed the most valid element, so thanks a bunch for pointing it out for me I realize that the pitch deadline is over, but if it would not be too much trouble, please check my revision to let me know if the new one would have been better. Here goes:
HEADLINE: 12 Income-Earning Entries for a Freelance Blogger’s Diary
OPENING LINES:
You know that feeling of exhilaration when writing a new pitch and you’re super excited?
Me too – great!
Do you also get the ‘Oh crap, I don’t think I can do this’ feeling?
Me too – not great.
So, you pull up a random file to vent your frustrations when suddenly, you’re hit with a plethora of ideas…eureka!
6 BULLET POINTS OUTLINING MY POINTS WITH EXPLANATIONS FOR EACH:
Creative Ups and Downs: The post starts out showing how freelance bloggers usually start out excited and ready to conquer the world with their ideas which will fill their bank accounts. It seems easy at first, but stumbling blocks do exist, and doubt is often the first of them which can have a domino effect in a downhill direction when not careful to keep a clear mind. Although creativity can take over in the midst of a writer’s doubt, fear, and/or anxiety, a lack of focus and discouragement can lead to a halt in progress. If you’re not writing, you’re not pitching, which means no work – no pay.
Lesson Learned Keep it Simple: This section explains how a common solution is in order when frustrated and disorganized. The answer lies in simplicity which is the best way to escape a confusing situation by mentally preparing ourselves to in our case, accomplish financial results. To avoid the disastrous situation of losing motivation and drive as a result of confusion and discouragement, an example is given to show how the elimination of all negative aspects rectifies the unfortunate yet temporary situation. The absence of doubt leaves us with the right mindset to move forward in getting work.
Bloggers and Diaries: This section explains how a typical diary and a blogging diary serve the same purpose in staying motivated, focused, and organized. Creating this type of support system for ourselves enables us (especially beginners) to confidently make our way through the freelance writing world with our eyes opened to opportunity. With clear minds, we are able to position ourselves for well paying jobs without the fear of not being able to follow through in producing and submitting pitches and posts. Knowing where we’re going and how to get there simplifies the aspect of getting out there and pitching to paying clients and becoming true income earning freelance bloggers.
Staying on the Happy Track: The last portion of the post displays a list of entry names for your blogging diary. The list is representative of how freelance bloggers can apply each item in the diary to reach specific goals just as one does who keeps a personal diary. With actual document names and tips on how to submit the entries, each item will have an explanation of how freelance writers can increase their earning potential by regularly acting on each point given.
3 SENTENCES ON WHO I AM AND WHY I SHOULD WRITE THE POST: I am Charlene Woodley, a freelance writer from Tennessee who stands in awe of the ideas that are before me, and I’m glad to say that hanging out at Be a Freelance Blogger has given me the encouragement that I need to come out of hiding and branch out with my writing. I have become eager to reach a wider audience through motivating and inspiring others who experience the same frustrating issues that I have dealt with, so I wrote the post because I believe that using the negative side of writing and pinpointing some issues that when conquered, we open the door to being official, income earning freelance bloggers. My goal is to show and prove that any stumbling block can be overcome by simply being honest as well as willing to step out of the comfort zone and I would like to thank you for the opportunity to reach someone.
Better? I hope so – thanks Lauren! 🙂
Sophie Lizard says
Thanks for the update, Charlene!
Obeid Khaan says
Thanx Sophie and Loren for letting writers write, read and express with spirit of competition. It indeed thrills and excites…
HEADLINE:
Tete o Tete with Desperation in Freelance-Writing: Tips to Keep the Writer’s Flame Burning in You.
UNWRAPPING
While encountering continuous failures and looking at multiplying figures of bigwig writers, all you end up with is loads of desperation.
Don’t throw away the freelance writer in you; Give it to me. How to explore the writer in you: Writing world needs you. Most block-busters are hit by novices.
Desperation is the biggest enemy of freelance writers. Let’s fight it out by following simple practical steps. In addition let not luck find you, rather channelize luck your way in writing while keeping the writer’s flame burning.
Writing world needs you: Don’t be carried away by these small failures, no matter how many they are. Just write. Rest my platform is available to raise your vocals.
POINTS
1. How writing menace sits on a normal person and convinces him/her being apt for jumping into the freelance writing world.
2. Typical failing game plan of a newbie in Freelance Writing world, that drags him/her even from start line to backside bleachers.
3. Factors and pressure points that eventually kill 80% of the newbie writers within four weeks. The non-medically classified types of desperation a newbie feels.
4. Present Freelancing practices followed by top of the line freelance writers who live with depression too.
5. Common mistakes by newbie writers in succession, disliked by the community and continually turn a normal person to social hermits.
6. Tips to keep the writing flame keeps burning in the new writers while successfully shooting down any depressing factors there and then. Above all a better person with writing skills emerges out, likable to all around and eyeballing.
OOPS! I DID IT !!
I am Khaan Obeid, ‘A no-one with nothing but everything’. As a freelance writing experience spread for over six months, practically, I gained almost nothing. Thinking of conquering the writer’s world like a tsunami, turned to cyclone, to high tide and eventually to low tide, but still is touching the writing shores with depleted energy with a will, not to destroy but to convey the message that I exist and can communicate sense. In a series of strives, I learned quite many lessons and experimented them to save the writer in me that almost succumbed to harsh experiences and failures. At present I am not on the top of list and not a very successful writer/blogger but am alive and had gained acknowledgements in writing cadre which is slowly raising my financial graph. I thought of sharing these experiences in this platform to give CPR to the low/no-pulse writers. This might be that ‘everything’, you were wondering.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Aww… You spelled my name wrong. 🙁 (Don’t worry — that happens all the time behind-the-scenes. At least you didn’t call me “Sir!”)
As for your actual pitch: It kinda feels all over the place. Is it about dealing with freelance desperation? Is it about maintaining a passion for writing (blogging)? Is it about depression? Networking with other writers?
Those are all decent enough topics, but I feel like you need to pick one aspect and focus on it.
Sophie Lizard says
Yeah, I got a little lost there, too. What we’re looking for is a logical progression through your points, so that by the end of your post the reader’s thinking “it’s all clear to me now!”
Obeid Khaan says
Was still uncertain that my words will reach such elite community forget to pay GOOD LUCK wishes to such beautiful people and beautiful words they come up with.
Well to all of you, you all are already winners of heart and mind of readers, it will just be an intimation to the selected one to win hearts more….
Alison Mant-Melville says
Hi all,
I’m an aspiring freelance blogger and the opportunity to participate in such a transparent process as Pitchfest is priceless. This is my first pitch (yes, really) so be gentle with me, but I look forward to some constructive criticism too. Here goes. . . .
Title: Like a Virgin – a newbie view on how to beat your writer’s fear.
Alternative title: How a blogging virgin can help get you out of your freelancer slump.
Pitch:
Do you remember your first time? The embarrassment, anxiety, and fear? I‘m in the grip of it right now. If you’re reading this, I’ve taken the plunge and lost my blog virginity. But it’s not just first-timers fighting self-doubt and writer’s paralysis. Even seasoned freelancers can relapse. Use these four pillars of wisdom from a blogging innocent’s to beat THE FEAR and reinvigorate your writing.
I’ll frame my blog around two complementary ideas – 1) Getting started as a newbie reminds me of the turmoil of ‘getting serious’ romantically for the first time. 2) The feeling ‘it’s all getting a bit scary’ is a powerful source of procrastination, so how did we overcome these the first time?
Don’t lose control of the situation
– The Fear feeds on chaos. As a freelancer it is easy to lose control of time, money, productivity. Don’t want to wake up feeling guilty and disappointed in yourself.
– How to shape widely-held freelancing advice to your own particular scenario: if you can’t write something every day, even though the experts recommend it, don’t write every day. If your days also includes part-time work, children, or a business, write every other, or third, day instead. But set yourself a productivity goal.
– Get the control back by setting variable milestones, or arranging coffee with a friend where you’ll show them an idea/draft/pitch for feedback. If you don’t come through then it’s your shout.
Don’t stay in a bad relationship with your blogging topic:
– Fallen out of love with your blog subject? Abandoned what you love for what you think will make you money?
– How to rediscover the romance and what inspired you to blog in the first place – e.g. write about the things you debate in the pub, start talking to people who disagree with you to get new perspectives.
– If what you love isn’t an earner share your it more widely e.g. if (like me) you love science, write quirky science blogs for complete novices on health, beauty, sport, or arts sites when the stories are relevant and entertaining for those audiences.
Embrace your inexperience:
– Inexperience also means bringing fresh ideas and new perspectives to a topic without having to be an expert. So start a new love affair and write about something new (or just start).
– Tackling a new topic can inspire new angles on old topics. Change is as good as a rest.
– I’ll use examples of trying to write popular science, hitting a rut, and finding a new motivation here on BAFB writing about a completely different area.
– Screwing up is the best teacher – I’ll include a quote on lessons learned from another blogger’s first 12 months in the game.
Don’t ‘save’ yourself for perfection.
– I want my writing to be perfect. I tweak it. Then I tweak it a bit more. I craft it towards perfection for hours. At the end I’ll have something that. . . well it doesn’t matter because there is no end. I know that now. The ‘Fear’ knew it from the beginning, and it’s so tempting. . .
– I’ll discuss how to know when good is good-enough using tip from my previous experience in the deadline driven editing world.
Ultimately I want this post to encourage people to overcome writer’s anxiety. That’s what I’ve done for this post. I just hope it’s not a one write stand!
So now for a bit about me: Well, I’m as fresh as it gets in the freelance blogging world but I believe we learn best by engaging with people with diverse backgrounds and at all points on the experience spectrum. I use my many ‘lives’ as a PhD student of human evolution, a wannabe freelance-blogger and science-writer, and expat three-times over as my writing inspiration. Now I just need to get my ideas out there. . .
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Alison!
First off: Congratulations on your very first pitch! Woo-hoo!! 😀
Next up: Your pitch was a bit long. Especially for this contest. If you’ll remember the 5th Rule for this month’s Pitchfest: “After the intro, give us no more than 6 brief bullet points outlining the points you’ll make in your post, and tell us how you’ll support each of those points with evidence or personal experience. Again, don’t write half the post in your pitch! We’re looking for concise pitches that get all the necessary information across in a short amount of time and space.”
Or, in keeping with the sexual theme: Don’t shoot your wad in the pitch. 😉 Leave us wanting more! And never let us think that that’s all you’ve got. (Quite often, when a blogger sends in a lengthy pitch, it means they’ve said all they have to say…)
I don’t know whether we’re ready to take your blog post virginity, but I love that you put yourself out there and wrote this pitch. Keep it up!
Also: “One write stand.” I lol’d. 😀
Aphrodite says
Oops… I thought I posted my pitch at the bottom of the page as a fresh comment, but on my screen it looks like it may have been embedded as a reply?
Aphrodite says
Okay, let’s try this again in the correct spot this time. Sophie, Lauren, and fellow pitchers, please disregard my earlier misplaced post.
How To Squelch Your Freelance Blogging Anxiety… Before It Squashes You
Pssst…. Why haven’t you responded to that interesting job board ad yet? Still sorting underwear instead of making money? Why aren’t you pitching all those great ideas of yours? You’ve got heaps of them! Yeah, I thought so. You’ve got doubts, despair, cold feet… Ready to flush the fear in favor of financial freedom? Let’s talk!
* Face Your Enemy: We freelance bloggers are particularly prone to social anxiety, but often mistake it for simple shyness. We secretly believe we’re hardwired to be broken. The truth is that once we recognize the signs (which I’ll cover in detail), we have the power to change and get our blogging rolling.
* Reframe Your Thinking: Social anxiety therapists, consultants, public speakers … they’ve shared the scoop on how we can successfully rewrite our mental scripts when faced with triggers (emailing pitches, calling clients, networking, presenting proposals, etc.). I’ll also include anecdotes of what’s worked for me.
* Submit To The Dark Side: Forget all that New Age positive thinking hooey… for now. I’ve found that a good dose of channeled anger can be a powerful antidote to self-defeating fears. I’ll explain how.
* Seek Shelter…But Don’t Take Cover: Freelance bloggers are a bashful bunch that likes to hide online. This leads to dark, defeating thoughts that magnify anxiety. In fact, when we engage with real people in the real world, we see that people like us and value what we do. And we get an ego boost from the realization that we have skills that many others lack.
* Wield Your Writer’s Wiles: Social anxiety is a sneaky and insidious foe. Freelance bloggers are writers. Writers know how to structure captivating stories and presentations. I’ll go over specific strategies that bloggers can use to defeat their anxiety demons.
* Take Small Steps To Big Victories: Trying to get to the end in one big leap often leads to failure and disappointment. I’ll share a blueprint for taking small, consistent steps to get more positive feedback and sustainable success. So, all those great ideas languishing in your mental bins… off they go.
As a freelance writer and business owner who has researched and overcome debilitating social anxiety, I want to share my story and practical steps to empower other freelance bloggers to do the same. Not only have I managed my anxiety, but I’ve also discovered that I’ve got a knack for public speaking (the very thing I’ve avoided all my life). How many gifts do we suppress with our anxiety? It’s time to let loose and find out!
Sophie Lizard says
I saw the other copy first, so I commented there instead. 🙂
Aphrodite says
I posted my updated bio up there as well. Sorry again about the mixup.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Really digging this, Aphrodite! If Tumblr has taught me anything it’s that we humans are FILLED WITH ANXIETIES!
Also, I really like that you followed the proper pitching format for this contest. Headline, short possible intro, six brief bullet points, and a small author bio. Well done!!
Jodie says
Write Better Blog Posts Using the Four Stages of Creativity
It is easy enough for a freelancer to come up with an idea for a blog post. Ideas can be found almost anywhere. But once you have one, now what? Without a writing plan, a freelance blogger can feel lost and adrift out in the enormous ocean of the blogosphere.
1. Preparation
First, you are going make sure you understand precisely what your client expects from you, write your initial thoughts about your topic, and do any necessary research.
2. Incubation
In the second stage, we take a step back and do something else for awhile. Time to put the unconscious to work. Even though in this stage it may seem like you are doing nothing, you are still actually working.
3. Illumination
This is the breakthrough you have been waiting for, the moment when you feel ready to write your blog post.
4. Implementation
Time to actually sit down and actually write your post, now that you are fully prepared.
I am a Canadian freelance and fiction writer. I have avid interest in the psychological aspects of creativity.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Jodie!
I like the idea of a post on the importance of planning ahead — important both for freelancing and blogging — but your outline feels a little…bland. I know we asked for brief bullet points, but I feel like I need to see a bit more in order to determine whether you have a unique take on this topic. And if you have enough information to meet the 1000-word minimum.
Note for everyone: When you’re pitching a topic that’s relevant — but has been “done” over and over again — you need to really, really stress what will make your version unique (other than the fact that you’re the one writing it). Most editors don’t mind publishing “evergreen” topics…provided they have a “fresh” angle.
Kate Staron says
Headline: 7 Ways to Write Faster Now
First lines: No matter how much you get paid, the faster you write it all down, the more money you make per hour. And the more time you have to do something else, even if that’s more writing.
I will explain seven ways to write faster including; how to get ready to write, what to do when a decision is slowing you down, and how to trick your brain into writing more. These are tips I’ve learned from personal experience as I try to cram a few thousand words into my day without giving up my actual life. I can provide word counts before and after on how some of these techniques helped me write faster.
About me: I’ve gone from writing a few words here and there to consistently writing thousands of words a day after using these tricks to write faster. In the past six months I have written over a quarter million words, something I never thought I’d be able to do before discovering these tricks. These are tips that have personally helped me write faster and I’d like to share them with beafreelanceblogger.com.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Kate!
I’m sort of curious… If you were pitching to me behind-the-scenes I’d ask you for a more-detailed outline. Three sentences just aren’t doing the trick — we need more.
Also, we’d need to know that your focus would be on freelance blogging and how learning to write “faster” would help freelance bloggers succeed.
Sophie Lizard says
I agree — writing fast is cool, and I’d be interested in a post on the topic, but this doesn’t show us how it benefits freelance bloggers. If you re-angle it and give a bit more detail on your pitch, though, this would be a good one.
Cindy Brown says
Hello, Lauren and Sophie! As requested, I will keep my pitch brief.
Headline: How Being a Freelance Blogger Helped Me Become President in One Year
30-60 opening line words:
I joined the group with low expectations. I wasn’t a chiropractor, insurance executive, or realtor like some of the others. “I’m just a writer,” I thought. Oh pshaw – thinking… it’s so over-rated!
One year later, I am now the President of the local Toastmasters club and I want to share how freelance writing and blogging helped me get there.
No more than six brief and concise points:
1) Confidence with guest posts and being finalist in contests (BAFB, FPM, RachelintheOC, 3KOP).
2) Writing speeches is easier than for a non-writer (one helps the other – giving speeches vs. writing pieces – different skills and methods benefit both).
3) Material is cross-platform (speeches are blog posts, blog posts are speeches and that’s a win-win).
4) The “in your face” Freddy Kruger approach. Be involved everywhere. How a presence in social media, in meetings, and online can groom you for success).
5) Credibility is king (e-book contributor, anthology contributor, running FB groups or pages, “professional writer and blogger” – my Toastmasters reminded me that I’m accomplished and “everyone” doesn’t have a blog)!
6) Drive, goals, and consistency preside over fear – if I can do it, so can you (qualities of a good leader).
3 sentences about me and why I should write for BAFB:
I wrote a piece for BAFB previously about having the balls to be a freelance blogger and this piece would be a great follow-up. Being innovative and creative in writing and having the guts to put it out there gave me confidence to write edgy speeches on subjects such as marijuana, dog sex, and incestuous propositions from my grandfather, all of which contributed to gaining the respected position of Toastmasters President. I am a freelance writer and blogger, recently appointed editor of the FB page, The Grammar Doctor, and want to share my successes with your audience because I was once a new blogger, too, and I believe sharing my experiences and accomplishments can be both a great source of encouragement and a confidence booster for the BAFB readers.
Personal note: Thank you, Lauren and Sophie, for taking the time to respond to all of us 🙂 The time you put into our growth and success is exemplary.
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Hi, Cindy!
Nice to see you pitching again. 🙂
At first I was a bit confused by all the “Toastmasters” stuff. All I could think of was this: http://www.nick.com/videos/clip/powdered-toast-man-commercial.html Fortunately, we live in an age where doing research is relatively easy, and I was able to find out that you’re the president of a fairly prestigious organization that likes to give a lot of speeches. (Congrats!)
As awesome as your personal accomplishment is, if this were a real post, I’d like to see it take a back seat — used only as a supporting example. That said: I think you’ve potentially got something here!
I’d love to see this written in a way that shows how freelance bloggers can get into speech writing and/or public speaking. I think that’d be really great! 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
Of course, it would also need to show how speech writing and/or public speaking would benefit the freelance blogger’s blogging career as a whole. 😉
Cindy Brown says
I can work it any way you like. I’m very editable ;0)
Oh, and that clip you shared exposed me to something I had no prior knowledge of as well. Weird. But then, Ren & Stimpy was pretty weird most of the time.
Toastmasters is a great organization for writers to join, for many reasons. I could go on and on about how public speaking and writing go together and benefit each other. I’m here to spread the word. I will certainly blog about this at a later date on my own blog if I am not selected here.
Thanks for the input.
Sophie Lizard says
I love that you can use a headline about becoming President. 😀 And yep, I agree with Lauren — “how freelance blogging made me a public speaker” isn’t quite as on-target as “how freelance bloggers can branch out into public speaking”. Minor difference, but important perspective shift (especially if you can tell us how to make money from the speaking).
Ivana Ivanovic says
Dear Lauren and Sophie,
Here is my contribution to the Pitchfest. Thanks for reading and considering my proposal!
TITLE: “6 Reasons Why Your Previous Work Experience is Relevant to Freelance Blogging”
INTRO:
Oh, how the enthusiasm of a new freelance blogger drops when she learns that everyone out there has previously written for national magazines, published e-Books plus a novel to boot, and makes big bucks with business writing…whilst she has zero writing practice.
Fret not, Newbie! Your experience – any and all experience – is vitally relevant to freelance blogging.
OUTLINE:
I will outline six skills crucial for freelance blogging, and how they can cross over from many professions.
Organization (i.e. “You know how to organize”). Executive Assistants, Project Managers, Event Planners have skills that will help succesfully plan an editorial calendar, regular and quality content (link to http://www.copyblogger.com/weekly-content-plan/) , and, most importantly, blog posts.
Ability to prioritize. New freelance bloggers are overwhelmed with education options, technical work on their web sites, getting business cards, networking…that they frequently cannot find time for quality writing. Stay-at-home moms, office managers, and busy executives know how to quickly sift through noise and get the most important things done first.
Attention to detail. A financial background, while typically considered anti-creative, will not only help in establishing rates, but can help jumpstart a career via writing for finance blogs. Paralegals and law secretaries do not submit work with mistakes and can follow publishing guidelines.
Providing value. People in client service oriented jobs – waiters, hostesses, corporate Client Service Managers – know what people need and how to give it to them- in other words, they know how to provide value (link to http://beafreelanceblogger.com/freelance-blogger-value/).
Stamina. Athletes, dancers, dog walkers know how to draw energy for that last pitch of the day: perhaps the very pitch that will bring in the first client.
Authority. Security guards, firemen and policewomen, teachers, and, of course, parents, know how to project an authority even if perhaps they don’t quite feel it on the inside. After all, they know that we are all experts (link to http://beafreelanceblogger.com/you-are-an-expert/)
My name is Ivana Ivanovic and I am the world’s top dilettante. I have worked in restaurants, sold clothes at Banana Republic, assisted Executives, project managed in law firms – and, perhaps most importantly, worked in HR. Seven years of hiring and working with people have taught me that careers and skills cross-fertilize in unexpected ways that bring new and original ways to succeed – surely in freelance blogging, too!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
This is great, Ivana! And I especially liked that you referred back to previous BAFB posts to back up your points. Nice touch!
If you’re interested, we actually have a conversation going about a similar topic in our free forum: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/forum/marketing/using-old-jobs-to-land-new-jobs/
Ivana Ivanovic says
Lauren,
Many thanks for the nice feedback. As you know, it means a lot to any blogger, as does this wonderful open pitchfest.
I really appreciate the link to the forum – what a great way to continue to infiltrate 🙂 Very helpful to know what others are doing in this regard! Thanks for helping the “transitioners”!
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED!
Thank you to everyone who entered and/or followed along. You’re awesome!
I’m still catching up on replying to pitches (family emergency threw off my schedule!), but, if you pitched, you WILL get a reply. Promise! <3
After we've had a look at everyone's pitches, Sophie and I will discuss who we think should win... And then we'll announce said winner (and the runners-up!) on here on June 28th. So stay tuned!
Thank you again! Well done, Everyone!!
Charlene Woodley says
I forgot to mark my bullets, shoot.
Sophie Lizard says
OK, we’ve pored over all your comments and narrowed it down to a shortlist. 🙂
The winner of the $100 prize on publication of his post is:
* Edward Beaman — see his pitch here: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/hundred-dollar-pitchfest/#comment-30780
The runners-up who win a group mentoring session are:
* Seth Bauer — see his pitch here: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/hundred-dollar-pitchfest/#comment-31339
* Aphrodite Knoop — see her pitch here: http://beafreelanceblogger.com/hundred-dollar-pitchfest/#comment-32613
Other people whose pitches we feel are ready to draft (and we’d welcome them on Be a Freelance Blogger as traditional, unpaid guest posts — if you’d like that, email your draft to lauren@beafreelanceblogger.com for yet more feedback!):
* Alicia Rades
* Archit Rastogi
* Amy Dunn Moscoso
* Oludami Yomi-Alliyu
* Ivana Isadora Devcic
* PLUS Nell, Mohit, and Cindy, IF they revise their ideas in line with our Pitchfest feedback.
Big thanks to everyone for your pitches and your input on other people’s pitches! The next Pitchfest will be in August, and we hope we’ll see you there. 🙂
Alicia Rades says
Congrats everyone!
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
Woah…what a contest!
Big congrats to the winners; Edward, Seth, and Aphrodite! I look forward to your posts.
And to others (we) who are asked to submit our first drafts too, congrats.
Any blogger that gets featured on any big blog (like BAFB) definitely submitted a winning pitch.
Thanks for this opportunity, Sophie and Lauren. Get in touch with you soon.
Oludami
PS: Sophie, do we get a LinkedIn recommendation too? 😉
Sophie Lizard says
Yep — anyone who’s guest posted on BAFB can get a LinkedIn recommendation from me. All you need to do is wait until the post’s published and then send me a LinkedIn recommendation request. (That and be patient with me; I don’t get on LinkedIn very often or for very long so it might take a couple of weeks.)
Oludami Yomi-Alliyu says
OK. Thanks, Sophie!
Aphrodite says
Congratulations, Edward! Well deserved! You too, Seth, Alicia,
Archit, Amy, Oludami, and Ivana. I’m awed to be in such company and loved being able to give and receive open feedback.
Edward, regarding the similarity of topics… I think there is so much fear and anxiety in the freelancing community (and the world at large) that different viewpoints can only help. Yours especially, put the subject in proper perspective: True, physical danger and courage in the face of fire vs what I call existential anxiety. Start writing! 🙂
Sahar says
Congratulations!!!!
IvaIva says
What a delight to see that the best man wins – indeed a super original and relevant post, and can’t wait to read it. Congratulations to all the winners! I joined late in the game and did not have much time to comment, but I have been reading all the posts and want to thank everyone for a really fun and interesting week. Go bloggers!
Edward Beaman says
Thank you Sophie and Lauren!
I’m delighted to have won especially since the competition was so strong.
I really enjoyed reading through the other pitches and thought I’d have a tough time beating the likes of Seth, Aphrodite (especially on a similar topic), Danny, Alicia, and many more.
Well done to the runners-up and I look forward to reading what others write in the near future.
Right, better get down to drafting. By the end of the 30th right?
Thanks once again!
Edward
Lori Parr says
Congratulations Edward, your post definitely stood out.
Seth Bauer says
Edward,
The competitive former lawyer in me hates to lose, but I’ll still offer up my congratulations. 😉 (Read the sarcasm into the first clause, not the second.)
But seriously, I had your pitch pegged as the likely winner. Your background is just so intriguing, I have to read it!
Seth
Edward Beaman says
Thank you Lori and Seth (you sure that’s sarcasm? 😉 )
Sophie Lizard says
Oh, crap! That’s a typo, Edward — my bad — you’ve got until July 7th to create your draft. 🙂
Edward Beaman says
Thank you Sophie. I thought the deadline was a bit short compared to previous ones. 🙂
Amy Dunn Moscoso says
Congratulations Edward – I can’t wait to read your post.
Congratulations as well to you Seth and Aphrodite.
Thanks Sophie and Lauren. Lots of fun and a great experience. Also, I appreciate the opportunity to submit a guest post draft. (Lauren, I’ll be following up soon.)
Amy
Sophie Lizard says
ATTENTION, WINNERS!
I screwed up on the submission deadline. (That’ll teach me not to copy & paste the deadline section from previous Pitchfests!)
You actually have until JULY 7TH to submit your drafts to Lauren. 🙂
Lauren Tharp, BAFB Community Manager says
It’s my day off, but I had to sneak back on and congratulate this month’s winners! <3
We had a really hard time deciding who to pick this time around! Everyone was really on point this round and it was very exciting. 🙂
Wonderful job, Everyone! Come back next time!
Ivana Isadora Devcic says
Congratulations, Edward! I can’t wait to read the post. Same goes to runners-up – you all had amazing pitches and I learned so much from this experience, so thank you for that! 🙂
Of course, I also want to thank Sophie and Lauren for the offer – I’m so honored (and a bit shocked :)) that you liked my idea. I’ll get in touch when I finish my draft.
Williesha Morris says
Yay congrats y’all! It was fun reading these. Oh and Sophie, you aren’t paying for posts anymore? LinkedIn recommendation would be awesome!
Archit says
Wow! This is great. Congrats Edward. I really look forward to reading your post. It is extremely interesting to say the least!
Thanks Sophie & Lauren. I’m really glad you guys liked my pitch. I’m extremely excited about getting a post up here. Phew, submission is 7th July.
Charlene Woodley says
Congrats Edward! 🙂
Rebecca L. Baisch says
This post addresses writers or bloggers who are having trouble connecting with an audience or client and gives them tools to correct that problem to improve sales.
Hed: What is the #1 thing successful bloggers and writers have in common?
Lede: So what do (italics here) all successful writers have in common? They plan their deliverables around these these six things.
1. Who is the audience for your (or your client’s) blog or article?
Offers strategies for deciding who will read the material.
2. What do they want?
Differentiates between the writer’s opinion and the reader’s needs.
3. Why do they want it?
Discusses reader motives for reading the material
4. When do they want it?
Does the material solve an immediate need or a long-term goal? Examples: Do they need an instruction manual for their new phone, or are they planning to buy a home in two years?
5. How well did you meet their needs?
What makes them feel the time to read the material was well-spent?
6. Does the end product succeed meeting the sales goals(for you or a client) ?
If you were reading the material, would you buy the product or service?
My name is Rebecca L. Baisch. I’ve been a freelance writer full-time since 2008. I write two blogs, and contribute to various business, NGO or general interest blogs . I also provide consulting services to startups, so I often deal with people needing help or advice.
Gail Purvis says
Vocal negotiation
Did you see that Eve has now overtaken Siri to becoming your handy helper!? Gaberlunzie actually refuses to use Siri. Why is Google is so enamoured of a voice instruction? Typing the text is simpler and will not lead to the hilarious vocal accents furore, as exercised in the “Voice Activated Elevator” U-Tube show.
Having been out to dinner and seen a Siri user get a totally wrong bottle of red wine, thanks to the voice managing to mangle the wine’s name, the hotel having uncorked it, refused to take it back in exchange for the rightly named lovely red!
So OK, now you can use your voice to switch on the kettle and record your units power use and quickly make your own tea or run your bath! But Eve is not much good at judging whether porridge has reached perfection, or bath is the perfect temperature is it? To add insult to injury, activating Eve will set the two lurchers off into full throated frenzy. A human voice to lurchers means worker owner, having returned home, is now about to take them out on walks! Bark, bark, long, lovely, immediate, very exciting walks. See, they have fetched their own leads, which is more than you can say for Eve fetching hers.
And of course once the lurchers have started belling, the ginger Siamese cat, who is always hungry, is bound to join in with a falsetto miaow pitched in a precise C♯ that can be continued for at least an hour, unless he is not immediately fed on tuna chunks and treats.
He falls silent, your head continues to resonate! And to think that a cat saved Muhammad from a snake and in gratitude, Muhammad stroked the cat’s back and forehead, thus blessing all cats with the righting reflex or stripes that cats have on their foreheads, reputed to record the touch of Muhammad’s fingers.
What I was waiting impatiently for was Mind Control to emerge, but having wandered around the internet idly, I read that if you have control of the human mind, you have control of everything! (no, not cat’s!!).
The most underrated criminal activity to exist on earth is the elites’ psychological control of your mind, declares one commentary. But you can take heart, as whoever “they” are, they can never control your spirit (includes wine too?) ! It’s when you appreciate that, that you can begin to take back control of your mind. It is estimated that almost 100% of the world’s population is under some kind of mind control, the influence of mass indoctrination and electromagnetic frequencies.
Rather puts Eve into the negotiation shade, wouldn’t you think?