Highlights from Previous Seminars: Freelance Writing 101

Digging through the archive of handouts and seminar presentations, I thought I’d post the notes from one of the roundtables I participated in.

What is a freelance writer?

  • An independent contractor “for hire”
  • A savvy business owner
  • Has great “time-management” skills
  • Knows what they are worth
  • Has realistic expectations and goals
  • A qualified individual performing a service
  • An “expert” in their field

How do I promote myself?

    Online

  • Establish your identity
  • Follow-up emails and thank yous
  • Be professional
  • Avoid “flame wars”
  • Distinguish yourself from fans
  • Network through social media
  • Use proper “grammar” (avoid L33t or LOL-speak)
  • Referrals

    Offline

  • Non-Gaming Seminars
  • Business groups
  • Community organizations
  • Conventions
  • “Best” Time to talk to publishers
  • Dos and Donts of what to say
  • Portfolio/Resume or not to Portfolio

How do I find work?

  • Develop your Own criteria
  • What will you accept as payment?
  • What do you want to write?
  • Who do you want to work for?
  • Be realistic based on experience
January 29, 2008
, Appearances



Monica Valentinelli is an author, artist, and narrative designer who writes about magic, mystery, and mayhem. Her portfolio includes stories, games, comics, essays, and pop culture books.

In addition to her own worlds, she has worked on a number of different properties including Vampire: the Masquerade, Shadowrun, Hunter: the Vigil, Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn, and Robert E. Howard’s Conan.

Looking for Monica’s books and games that are still in print? Visit Monica Valentinelli on Amazon’s Author Central or a bookstore near you.

Want to Interview or Hire Me? Send Fan Mail?

Would you like to hire me? Don’t be afraid to reach out! Visit my Contact Page to send me an email. I typically respond to work-related e-mails within one-to-two business days.

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