How to Survive a Freelance Writing Slump

Freelance writing is notorious for having its ups and downs. Writers often find themselves toggling between having entirely too much work to no work at all. Having to meet strict deadlines in a crunch is far more appealing than having to meet creditors with empty pockets. It helps to have a plan for possible freelance writing slumps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Contact list
• Budget
• Resume
• References and writing samples
• Access to the Internet

Preparing for a Freelance Writing Slump

1. Anticipate the feast or famine cycle. In many cases, the cycle is inevitable in the field of freelance writing. Putting away some savings in case of a freelance writing slump will take some of the sting out of the drought. Put aside at least a month's income for emergencies, if possible.

2. Secure at least one consistent client. There is nothing more appealing to a freelance writer than the notion of stability. Consistently produce quality work to retain a relationship. Ask if this person would serve as a reference even if the projects are ghostwritten.

3. Leave a little space between larger assignments. Give plenty of time for completion. If the client expects the assignment to be finished in two weeks and it is done in one, she'll be pleasantly surprised.

4. Learn to say "no." This is perhaps the most difficult aspect of freelance writing but it is far better to be remembered as the writer who was too busy to take on an assignment than as the writer who dropped the ball.

During the Slump

5. Volunteer writing services for a nonprofit organization while trying to survive a freelance writing slump. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community while honing skills. It also looks wonderful on a resume.

6. Contact former clients to touch base. Many writers trying to survive a freelance writing slump are surprised to discover that former clients have been meaning to contact them for other assignments.

7. Actively visit various writing forums. There are plenty of opportunities to find work through other freelance writers. Most are happy to share leads and subcontract an overspill of work, if their clients approve.

8. Go local. There are many opportunities for professionals trying to survive a freelance writing slump in their backyard. Consider the slump as an opportunity to circulate at home. Many clients prefer to work with a local writer.

9. Send queries to the glossies. The freelance writing slump may be an opportunity to gather queries for print magazines, publishers and literary agents. Make good use of "The Writer's Market" during the free time.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the most of the downtime.
• Stay productive.
• Look at the slump as an opportunity for new experiences.
• Avoid slacking off completely. This will lead to a possible end of the freelance writing career.

[Geargirl113]

on 12/9/2008 Great article. I have put aside 6 months worth of bill pay money, just to be safe.

[leanan]

on 12/8/2008 Awesome article, thank you!

[missforty]

on 6/19/2008 Good advice.

[Terri84]

on 3/5/2008 I've only been working freelance for a couple months now, but this article really opened my eyes. I haven't hit my first big slump yet, but I think I'll be ready for it. Great article!

[jenfoote]

on 2/6/2008 Great tips. I, unfortunately, learned the hard way when I first got started. I didn’t know how to say no at first. Of course, when I finally starting saying no I ended up in some slumps. Thankfully, things have balanced themselves out for now, but your tips will leave me better prepared in the future. Thanks.