Just Say No...

...to writing for Spec.

Writing for "spec" means you put in all the blood, sweat and tears to craft a sales letter. Then the recipient (notice I didn't say "client") pays you if they like it.

Maybe.

Sometimes, they'll offer to pay you if it converts well.

The thing is, they don't have anything invested in your letter, so it isn't valuable to them. They may think it's too long, or too provocative or - well, you get the idea. They may even change it up because they want to add their personal touch.

Even if you submit the most brilliant piece of persuasion in print, the recipient may not bother to put in the extra effort and expense to mail it or put it up on their website. Your letter may never be seen by a prospect.

Bottom line is, they got the letter for free and they aren't going to value it.

Think about it. Any time we pay for something - and especially if we pay a premium - we value it.

Here's an example. I have two drawers full of t-shirts. My "work shirts" for things like cleaning house, painting, and yardwork. Most of those shirts I got for free - mostly by wandering around campus at the beginning of each fall semester. These are faded, ripped, and splotched with paint.

I paid for all of my other t-shirts. Mostly concert shirts, conference shirts, or t-shirts that I brought home from vacation. Those I take care of.

I know how exciting it is to have your work published. But it's not nearly as thrilling as getting PAID to write. And there are plenty of businesses out there desperate for good copywriters.

Respect yourself, your chosen profession, and your clients. Ask to be paid what you're worth, do a great job, and turn it in on time.

You'll be glad you did.

Writing on Spec, Copywriting, Freelance