Want to be a better writer? Relax! You hear it frequently. You may say it to yourself. And it’s very important. When you’re relaxed, you help keep your body healthy and you preserve energy that your mind needs to get your writing projects done. Here’s what you need to do… Proper Ergonomics I’ve written a […]
Create Time Blocks to Do the Small-But-Important Things
As a writer you need to write: that’s usually the most important activity for your career. But there are also many other important things that support your writing, and there are many important things that you need to for the rest of your life to flow smoothly. We’ve talked about scheduling time for doing your […]
New Edition of Writing College Textbook Supplements Coming Soon, Plus a Survey
This summer I’ve been working hard on the third edition of Writing College Textbook Supplements, the ebook that details how to succeed in my main niche, which is creating test and quiz questions, lecture outlines, instructor’s manuals, and student study guides for college textbooks. Already Bought a Previous Edition? Great! You’ll be getting a free copy […]
The One Magic Word that Completely Changed My Copywriting Cold-Call Results…
Successful freelance copywriters figure out the best ways to land good clients. This post discusses one strategy that will definitely boost your results. It’s written by Omaha-based healthcare freelance copywriter Matt Seidholz, and Matt originally shared it in the forums over at the Freelance Writers Den. Boosting Freelance Copywriting Cold-Call Results This is based on my experience trying to […]
What Is the Best Use of My Time Right Now?
If you want to be successful in life — whatever success means for you — and if you want to be happier, ask yourself this crucial question many times a day: “What’s the Best Use of My Time Right Now?” Ask this question to determine: What to do more of What to do less of […]
LinkedIn Profinder for Freelance Writers: Pros and Cons
Should a freelance writer like you consider using LinkedIn ProFinder? Many freelance writers are wondering if LinkedIn ProFinder is worth the cost and effort. Troy Lambert has used the service and shares his perspective in this review… We all know freelance job boards like Upwork are tough places to find good paying freelance gigs. It […]
How Deep Work Makes You A Better and More Productive Writer
Applying “deep work” principles allows freelance writers and nonfiction authors to get more high-quality work done in less time, and that’s what we’re all about here at Productive Writers. So What Is Deep Work? Cal Newport’s highly successful (and highly recommended) book Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World came out in […]
Secrets of Successful Meetings with Freelance Writing Clients
As a freelance writer, you will occasionally or frequently have meetings with clients. It is vital that these meetings are well planned and well run; otherwise both you and your clients will waste valuable time. I’ve had hundreds of phone meetings and face-to-face meetings with freelance writing clients. I’ve learned the importance of following the crucial […]
Setting Challenging Yet Realistic Writing Goals for 2017
The right goals are crucial for success in your writing career, and creating and implementing the right goals are a key focus here at Productive Writers. I adjust my goals and create new ones periodically throughout the year, and you should, too. However, in our culture the beginning of a new year is the main […]
Your Complete Guide to Mastering LinkedIn
LinkedIn is THE essential site for business professionals, period. If you want to be a successful freelance writer, you need to be on LinkedIn and you must have a complete profile that sells you and your services. LinkedIn is also an excellent place to network with people who can help you, and it can be a very […]
Lost All Your Freelance Writing Clients? Do This…
Are you a freelance writer? Got all the clients you can handle? Great! But there can come a time when you lose important clients, perhaps all of them. Or perhaps you’d like more clients? Better clients? Let’ see what veteran writer and editor Tom Mangan has to say… Help! All My Clients Ditched Me! A […]