Re: Freelance Questions

[Al Geist <al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com>]

   Jessica Desautels wrote:

  I am interested in exploring the field of freelance technical writing but am 
unsure how to start or what qualifications I will be required to present to pot
ential employers.  What skills (i.e. project management, software, level of exp
erience, etc.) do I need to become a more desireable candidate for freelance em
ployment?
   
  Where does one begin to become a successful freelance writer?  
   
  

   I haven't checked lately, but the archives are probably full of
   answers to this question because it comes up all the time.  In fact,
   Derek Torres just wrote an article for TECHWR-L titled "Surviving as a
   Contractor" that may be helpful.
   To become a successful contractor (freelancer), you need to understand
   the business side of technical writing in addition to having a sound
   foundation in the field of technical writing you pursue (there are as
   many avenues in technical writing as there are technologies), the
   discipline of being able to write under impossible deadlines while
   every distraction in the world is knocking at the door and the ability
   to let a project go at the end of the contract, even though you know
   it could be improved with a little more tweaking.
   As long as you don't take it too seriously and enjoy adversity, it's a
   fun way to make a living.
   Al

   --

   Al Geist
   Technical Writing, Online Help, Marketing Collateral, Web Design,
   Award Winning Videos, Professional Photography
   Voice/Msg: 802-658-3140

   Cell: 802-578-3964
   E-mail: [1]al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com 
   URL: [2]www.geistassociates.com (online portfolio/resume)

   See also:
   URL: [3]www.geistimages.com (fine art prints for home for office, and
   note cards for all occasions)
   "When they call the roll in the Senate, the Senators do not know
   whether to answer "Present" or "Not guilty.""
                            Theodore Roosevelt

References

   1. mailto:al -dot- geist -at- geistassociates -dot- com
   2. http://www.geistassociates.com/
   3. http://www.geistimages.com/
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