Samson Midigo
Kenya

I highly recommend “The Well-Fed Writer” for anyone that wants to start (or grow) their own freelance writing business.

Peter’s second edition of TWFW just came out a few months ago, and I snapped it up as soon as I heard about it. I read the first edition, and I count is as one of the major influences in my decision to start my freelance commercial writing business.

Actually, calling it a second edition doesn’t really do it justice. Content from his second book (“Back for Seconds”) has been incorporated, as well as up-to-date strategies for marketing using the internet.

I too was intrigued that cold-calling remains one of his most highly recommended tactics, but Peter’s rationale is solid. With the information resources available through the internet and online databases, identifying the right person to talk to about freelancing is easier than ever. Personally, I HATE cold-calling, but I have to admit, it is effective. And think about it from the perspective of your prospect: which tactic is more likely to get your attention – an email solicitation from someone you’ve never heard of, or a real, live person on the other end of the telephone? Of course, it also helps to be targeted with your calling, and do some homework on the company first. Looking for possible connections helps too – through LinkedIn, or industry associations, local Chamber of Commerce – something to make that first approach a little “warmer.” The way I look at it, you’re going to have to talk to your prospect sooner or later. Might as well take the bull by the horns.

I don’t want to give anyone the impression that the book is only about cold-calling. Peter also discusses other marketing methods, possible writing projects, clients, computer hardware and software, setting rates, resources for writers, and tons of encouragement, all in a friendly, light tone that makes it easy to absorb (even at 300+ pages).

Highly, highly recommended reading.

Mark
.-= Mark Keating´s last blog ..Bring more jobs to Ohio the goal of solar energy tour =-.

Cold calling does something magical – it connects you with a live person. Imagine that! Emails are easy to ignore, but talking with someone, even on the phone, can help you get across your personality a bit, and really connect with someone. I think if you approach cold calling like asking for the job, you’ll never do it. Approach it like you’re about to meet a new person and you want to get to know what they do for a living. They’ll appreciate the interest, and you’ll appreciate one more contact.