Want to be paid to write? If you're a pro writer who's looking for small (or
large) writing projects, join my Writers' Job Board. I can promise you a lot
of fun and some interesting and exciting jobs.

Access to the Writers' Job Board is by invitation only.

Please send me a couple of samples of your work, in the body of an email
message, NO ATTACHMENTS, please.

Also tell me what kinds of writing you're experienced in.

Please put "Writers' Job Board" in the subject line, and send your message
to angela@...

I'm looking for a group of around ten writers for ongoing work.


Many thanks.

Angela

It's 2006! Are you determined to make this your BEST writing year ever?

As you know, the boom in writing for the Web continues. Anyone and everyone
is making money online now. People with quite modest Web sites who are
running AdSense on their sites are scooping in five figure sums -- monthly.
Yes, monthly. And these people by and large are NOT writers; they're
marketers who know a good thing when they see it.

How can you join the online gold rush?

Invest in your writing career and your future with my 100-page ebook
"Writing For Online Cash: Turn Your Words Into Instant Gold"

http://angelabooth.com/Write%20Online%20Cash/online%20cash.html

I've been test-marketing the book for a couple of months at the current low
price. If you've been reading my blog, you know that I said the price would
go up on January 1.

Therefore, this is your last chance to buy the book for instant download at
this special price.

In 24 hours, the price will be $97 -- and it will still be a bargain at that
price. You get insights and tips on how to build your writing career that
you'll find nowhere else.

Enjoy. I wish you everything you wish for yourself in 2006. Have a wonderful
day on the first day of this bright and shiny new year.

To your writing success!

Best wishes from

Angela


Angela Booth
http://angelabooth.com/
http://copywriter.typepad.com/

I'm a keen subscriber to InfoGoRound, a new service for writers that has
amazing benefits for you if you want to boost your Internet presence and
generate big income.

Scroll down for a special message from the creator of IGR that I had to pass
on to you. (Watch for more information in upcoming issues on how you can use
Private Label products.) It's a holiday season special offer with huge
gifts.

I love InfoGoRound, and you will too, because it helps you to generate
ongoing profits - with almost no work. What's not to like?

Enjoy.

Hugs and season's greetings from Angela




Here's how to get YOUR hands on 5
platinum quality niche info. product packages [valued
at over $1,992 dollars] with FULL RESALE RIGHTS...
For NO COST!"


Hi

If you haven't already signed up for IGR at

http://angelabooth.com/recommends/IGR

here's an offer you'd be crazy to pass up!...

Sign up for IGR TODAY (within the next 24 hours) and as
a *special bonus* I'll send you the following *premium
quality* information product packages with full resale
rights!  Do NOT mistake these for the giveaway ebooks
being passed all over the web... These are TOP NOTCH
products!

Each package includes:

1. A Top Quality, Hot Selling Information Product!
2. A Professional Sales Letter PROVEN to generate sales!
3. KILLER, professional graphics!  (Best quality I've seen!)
4. A ready-made direct response style web-site (ready
    to put your name and order link on, and start selling!)

This a no brainer - even if you sign up and decide
to cancel/refund your IGR membership for whatever
reason...

"I'll let you KEEP these platinum quality packages
(and even let you continue to sell them)!"

Why am I doing this?  The answer is simple.  I am
willing to practically give away the farm just to
get you INSIDE the IGR members area, because I *know*
once you're there you'll be AMAZED by all that is
offered, and you'll want to stay!

Here's the list of product titles and descriptions
that you'll be able to begin selling immediately:

---------------------------------------------------
"Affiliate Success Road Map"
---------------------------------------------------

A simple, no bull straight to the point guide (or "road
map") to becoming a successful affiliate for the long
run. The "Affiliate Success Road Map" teaches its
readers how to achieve long term affiliate success,
by planning from the start and designing an affiliate
system that brings in long term affiliate profits
month after month.

---------------------------------------------------
"Party Travel"
---------------------------------------------------

A No BS, straight to the point guide on fun and
affordable singles travel for young people between the
ages of 18 and 35. The "Party Travel" eBook includes
everything one would need to have the time of their
life, have fun, party with young sexy single and see
the world starting at Under $300!

---------------------------------------------------
"PPC Profits"
---------------------------------------------------

A simple, straight to the point beginners guide to
making money on the Internet with your very own Pay
Per Click search engine. The "PPC Profits" guide
teaches its readers exactly how they can make money
with their very own PPC search engine, how to create
it, promote it and even sell it for a fortune once the
PPC search engine is completed.

---------------------------------------------------
"Newbie's Guide To Online Fortunes"
---------------------------------------------------

An easy to follow, simple step-by-step guide to
starting your very own online business and actually
mak'ing mo'ney with it.  The "Newbie's Guide To Online
Fortunes" is exactly what people interested in
starting their own online business need. This guide
teaches its readers the fundamentals and simple ways
to start their very own online business.

---------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------

Don't leave this offer on the table ...

What I'm offering you here is EASILY worth your
first 3-4 months of IGR membership!

And like I say, even if you choose to cancel and
refund your IGR membership fee for some (strange)
reason, you can KEEP all these products, and continue
selling them online or off!

Click here to join IGR today:

http://angelabooth.com/recommends/IGR

We're here for your success.

See you at IGR. :-)

P.S. After joining, just e'mail a copy of your IGR
receipt to admin@... and say "Please
send me my $1,992 bonus package!"

http://angelabooth.com/recommends/IGR


###

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 112: December 8 , 2005


=================================================

*** BLOG ***

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* EDITORIAL: THE NEW WEB BOOM - IT'S 1999 AGAIN

* ARTICLE: PERSONAL VISIBILITY: HOW TO TAKE CHARGE AND CREATE
BUZZ FOR YOURSELF OR YOUR BUSINESS



=================================================


=> EDITORIAL: THE NEW WEB BOOM - IT'S 1999 AGAIN


The holiday season is on us! It's hard to believe that in a
few short weeks it will be 2006.

What have you accomplished in 2005? Possibly, like me, you're a
bit disappointed because you didn't achieve as much as you hoped
you would. Make an early New Year's resolution now to clear the
decks after the holidays and get down to work in your own
business.

Set some money goals, as well as some achievement goals. It's
easy to forget that you need to pay the bills: you can't just do
the work for love alone, although love always helps. :-)

This month's article "Personal Visibility: How To Take Charge And
Create Buzz For Yourself Or Your Business" will give you some
ideas to kickstart your business in 2006.

BTW, I've created a new ezine Write For Cash.


==> New (free) marketing ezine Write For Cash

Write For Cash is for writers, marketers, entrepreneurs and
anyone who wants to be a part of the new Internet boom. Yes, it
looks as if we're in for a replay of 1999, but this time I don't
think we'll see a bubble, I think the online world is maturing,
so that it's both possible and easy to build your own successful
Internet business.

Sign up for Write For Cash here:

http://angelabooth.com/Write%20Online%20Cash/WFC%20Ezine/page0
.html


(You may need to copy and paste the URL if your mail program
splits it.)


Although Write For Cash is an add-on to my ebook Writing For
Online Cash: Turn Your Words Into Instant Gold, you don't need to
buy or read the book to subscribe to the new ezine.

If you're a Pro Write subscriber, the ebook is called Writing to
Sell in the Internet Age; it's free for subscribers, download it
from the members area.


This is our final issue for 2005. Have a happy, safe and joyous
holiday season. See you in 2006!


Hugs from Angela and Birgitt and everyone at Digital-e and Pro
Write.


=================================================

=> ARTICLE: PERSONAL VISIBILITY: HOW TO TAKE CHARGE AND CREATE
BUZZ FOR YOURSELF OR YOUR BUSINESS By Regina Barr



Personal visibility is critical for success no matter what
business arena you work in. Many women make the mistake that if
they work hard and do good work, that they will be recognized for
their efforts. This is just not so.

Take a look around you at the people who seem to buzz with
success, no matter what they do or what they touch. These are the
people you read about in the paper and who seem to be at all of
the right networking events and know all of the right people.
They are also the people who are in demand to speak at events and
whose articles appear in your local paper.

What do these men or women know that you don't? They have
mastered the art of personal visibility. I spoke with a woman
that fits this description shortly after she had signed on to do
her own radio show with a local station. I asked her what her
secret of success was in terms of personal visibility. The main
thing she told me was that you can't sit back and wait for
visibility. Instead, you have to go out and find it.

Here are some practical tips you can use:

1. Send News Releases: Send out a news release for anything
noteworthy that you might do. Signed a new client? Appointed to a
new board position? Remember, local papers are often searching
for stories with a local angle. Be sure to include a photo.

2. Write Articles or Editorials: This is a great way to become
recognized as an expert in your field. Remember to develop
relationships with your local editors. Contact them with your
ideas and help them when they are looking for resources.

3. Speak at local events: Many chambers of commerce, professional
organizations and other non-profit organizations look for local
speakers knowledgeable on a range of topics. Find the
organizations that might be interested in your area of expertise
and get on a panel or facilitate a program for them.

4. Allow reporters to interview and quote you: Reporters are
always looking for third parties to corroborate or refute
information that they include in their stories. Many women do not
like to be quoted because they fear that their words will be
misconstrued or misrepresented. Women need to get over this fear
and make themselves more available to be quoted in public. This
serves to position you as an expert in your field and gets your
name into the public eye.

5. Volunteer for visible projects or committees: This can be
either internally at your organization or externally within your
community. Then use this opportunity to advantage by using tips
1-4 above.

6. Get nominated for an award or recognition list: Typically
women sit back and wait to be nominated by someone. However, if
there is an award or recognition that you think you are worthy
of, let someone know that you are deserving and ask if they would
be willing to nominate you. Even if you don't win, you will still
receive visibility.

7. Teach a college class or seminar: This allows you to get out
in front of your peers or a target audience that you are
interested in getting exposure from. This not only gives you
visibility but may also provide you with your next business
referral or job opportunity.

These are just a few ideas. If you have other ideas, we'd love to
hear about them. Email them to us at info@... and we
will share them in next month's newsletter.

In the meantime, remember, to get ahead in business you need to
take charge of your own visibility. For those that do, the
possibilities for success are endless.


Regina Barr is a business consultant with a passion for helping
companies develop their full potential by focusing on their most
valuable asset: their people. For more information on her
programs and services, check out her website,
http://www.RedLadder.com and sign up for her free email
newsletter, Developing People...Inspiring Success.




=================================================

Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on approximately the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 111: November 18, 2005

=================================================


NEW, DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


======================================
In this issue:

* Editorial: Online Writing for Cash

* Article: Read This Article if You are an Online Writer



=> Editorial: Writing For Online Cash

This will be a brief issue this month, but I hope that you enjoy it. :-)
Don't forget that you can contact me at any time via
angela.booth(AT)gmail.com if you have questions about any CSB issue, or
anything else.


==> Pro Write Members' update

Unfortunately Birgitt is in hospital and is quite ill. We're all thinking of
her, and I'm sure she'll be better soon and will be back with us.

Until she returns, please contact me at angela.booth(AT)gmail.com if you
have any questions about Pro Write, or post a message on one of the PW
forums at http://www.prowrite.biz/


=> New (updated) ebook: Writing for Online Cash

http://angelabooth.com/Write%20Online%20Cash/online%20cash.html


Check out our writing manual which will help you to make the most of the
current boom in online writing. (If the above URL is truncated, copy and
paste it into your browser.)


From the site:

>>>

As a writer, you've never been more in demand
_
How much money do you want to make with your writing career? If you want to
make a six-figure income, YES, you can. __

Look at it this way. First came the typewriter, then the computer, and then
the Internet. The Internet is the biggie. GOOGLE and the other search
engines make your ability to craft words VALUABLE. Everyone online needs
someone to write their content. From the smallest one-page Web site, to
massive, heavily-trafficked corporate database sites, those sites are built
with WORDS. __Adapt your thinking to a new set of tools. Use your new tools
effectively, and watch your creativity, sales and income soar. __Writing For
Online Cash: Turn Your Words Into Money gives you the tools you need to
launch (or relaunch, if you've been writing for a while) your writing career
and make the income you've dreamed of.

>>>

Writing For Online Cash: Turn Your Words Into Money will help both writers
who are selling to traditional markets and new writers who want to get
started writing for online markets, and developing their own entrepreneurial
ventures.

At 100 pages, the book is a must-have investment in your writing future.

Visit the site:

http://angelabooth.com/Write%20Online%20Cash/online%20cash.html

You can download the book immediately. Enjoy. :-)


**** NOTE: If you're a Pro Write member you can download the previous
version of this writing manual, Writing to Sell in the Internet Age, for
FREE on the members' site. ****


Have a great month.

Best wishes

Angela


======================================


=> ARTICLE: READ THIS ARTICLE IF YOU ARE AN ONLINE WRITER


By Lance Winslow


Recently an experiment was done in writing catchy titles for an online
article submission website. One-hundred articles were written which started
out with the title; "Read This Article if..." The experiment was to see what
type of people read articles online and also to do a trial close on the
reader. Commanding them to read the article if they were this thing or the
other.

An expert author "Fred" asked if he should write articles with this title if
he specializes in background checks for employees and driving records. This
is a very good question indeed. Here are some of my thoughts on this great
question. In theory Fred might consider these facts:

The practice of titling informational articles starting with "Read This
Article if..." is not preferable for search engine ranking because the words
"Read" and "Article" are not key word rich. Most search engines do not count
"this" or "if" so actually for search engine use, this is not preferable and
chances are your current articles are fine the way they are and probably
better. Additionally if you wrote an article and titled it; Read This
Article if You Would Like to Lose Weight. You also have non-key rich words
such as "would," "like" and "You" before the words which you need to help in
search engine ranking; "Lose + Weight."

This experiment was performed due to a theory I had that when people were
searching, they might run across my article and it says to them; "Read Me"
and then they would click on it. It does seem to work a little, not
significantly, but it does work. These articles out perform other articles,
but do not out perform more strategic key word rich titles with main subject
coming in the first two or three words in the article.

The title in this experiment is selling something; "a click." But it is not
helping those who are looking to buy or searching a specific thing, because
it will get rapidly buried in the search engines you see? There has been
success in this experimental campaign with the articles, which are on
people's minds already when they run across the article. For instance the
articles, which have worked best are; Read this if...you want to be skinny,
you want to be wealthy? etc?

Fred with his specialty might try a few articles such as; "Read This Article
if You Want the Best Employees" or "Read this Article to Be Sure Your
Company Has Safe Drivers." But I would only do it if Fred is going to write
many articles. What could be better is to title his articles this way;
"Employee Background Check; read this article to learn how" or "Employee
Driving Records; read this article if you want to know the truth."

Try these types of titles first. If you are an online writer you may Email
me if you need more ideas. You will do fine, luckily you have chosen
EzineArticles to post your articles and this means you already have a head
start. Try to write one to two article a day until January 1, 2006 and see
how well you do. Work on "key word" rich titles that grab the reader,
writing titles is a skill, even newspapers are careful to have people who
can write those catchy titles so people buy the newspapers in the news paper
racks. Think on this.


"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative
thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance;
www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright (c) 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.




YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in good faith.
Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making the subscriber list
available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 110: October 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

NEW, DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

=> In this issue:

THIS MONTH'S NEWS AND VIEWS

* Editorial: Accessing the global freelance market place

* Article: The Freelancers Field Guide to Contract Work

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

=> EDITORIAL: ACCESSING THE GLOBAL FREELANCE MARKET PLACE

Welcome to CSB! Another month has passed, and we're in the final
quarter of 2005. It's hard to believe.

Before we know it, the holiday season will be upon us. I hope
that wherever you are in the world that 2005 has been good to
you. If not, take heart. You'll turn the situation around. :-)

There's never been a better time to be a creative freelancer. The
global outsourcing marketplace operates 24x7, right around the
world.

This month's excellent article "The Freelancers' Field Guide To
Contract Work" explains how to bid on outsourced jobs which suit
your abilities, and build your freelance career.

Remember too, that you can develop a portfolio Web site to
position your abilities, and a blog to showcase your expertise.
As a creative freelancer you're an entrepreneur, and you need to
market each and every day.

Don't know how to get started? All businesses need copy, and our
own e-course "Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"
shows you how to develop your own copywriting business.

More at: http://digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

Not sure if copywriting is for you? Check out our other courses.

Have a great, creative and busy month.

All best wishes from

Angela

P.S. Got questions about freelancing? Contact me via the feedback
forms on one of our Web sites, or at my Gmail address at
angela.booth(AT)gmail.com  (Don't forget to replace the (AT) with
an ampersand.)


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


=> Email Workshop For Writers <=

Writing To Sell In The Internet Age
by Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Explode your writing profits!

The Internet gives you an unbelievable opportunity to rocket your
writing career into orbit. If you're feeling that you're not
getting your share of the exploding opportunities, our new email
workshop, Writing To Sell In the Internet Age, is for you.

More info, with the course outline at ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses1.html


=================================================


=> Got a talent for words? Take a Digital-e email workshop!

If you've got a way with words and love writing, Digital-e can
help you to become a professional writer. We've got two email
workshops to help you develop your skills. For writer-
entrepreneurs, we have "Writing To Sell In the Internet Age", and
for those who want to develop a copywriting services business, we
have "Writing Words That Sell: Freelance Copywriting".

Here's what a recent graduate said: "I've gotten more focused
than I've ever been before in my life-- not only with my writing
but with my creative process. And you've helped me build
confidence in my skills and myself".

I'd love to help you to develop your talent. More info at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html



=================================================


=> ARTICLE: THE FREELANCERS FIELD GUIDE TO CONTRACT WORK

By Peter Ferrigan

****
What is Outsourcing?
****

Outsourcing is a great way to earn extra money or even a full
time living. When a company outsources its work this means they
are looking for people outside the company (you) to complete jobs
for them on a contract or short term basis. Most freelance work
can be found on freelance marketplaces across the internet. For a
list of freelance websites search Google, or some of the
freelance directories available.

****
Getting Started
****

The first thing that you should do is compile your past work
history into a portfolio. Many freelance websites allow you to
post your work online. The other option is to open a free hosting
account and place your work into an online demonstration of your
ability. Include references, past work, testimonials and anything
else that highlights your talents. One thing this should not be
is in resume format. The internet changes a lot rules for hiring
employees and freelancing is changes them even more. Here you
will find that experience and ability weigh more heavily in a
hiring decision then education or status.

*******
Getting Hired Today
*******

The easiest way to find contract or freelance work is to visit
one of the many freelance marketplaces available on the internet.
A majority of the websites are divided into two sections, one for
Freelancers (you) and the other for Project Managers (people
looking to hire you). The first thing you need to do is register
as a freelancer. Once registered be sure to upload a profile and
details of your most recent work.

It is important to remember that work on the internet (especially
when you are new) is built on trust. The best thing you can do to
increase your chances of getting your bid selected is to put
detailed information in your profile. The basic setup for a
freelance website is that the Project Manager will post the
project and you as the Freelancer have the opportunity to place
your bid for the work. A bid includes the time it will take you
to complete, the price for the job and a short description.

****
Placing the Bid
****

Your bid should be a complete summary of the required work. It
should be detailed, accurate and relevant to the project. This is
why the biggest mistake you can make is placing a bid which
contains: 'can be done' 'I can do it' or 'No Problem :)'. Even
these are better then the copy and paste bid description. This is
something like "COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE. WE GIVE U A 100%
ACCURATE WORK." These bids are not at all relevant to the
project. Each project manager would like to think that his/her
project is the only one that you want. They want to believe that
you are gearing your whole day into getting this job. Increase
your chances and move ahead of the competition by placing a
short, polite description that is relevant to the project. Here
is an example: "Hi _(Project Manger's name)_, I have placed the
details of my bid in the private message board. I look forward to
working with you and can get started immediately. Thank you for
your consideration, __(your name)__." That's it for the bid. If
your cost estimate and time to delivery are not completely off
then you can increase your odds by posting in the private message
board.

****
The Private Message Board
****

The Private Message Board is a feature on most websites that
allows Freelancers to communicate with the Project Manager about
the details of the job. Unless requested, this is the worst place
to put your resume. That's right; don't place your list of work
history in your private message board. From the eyes of the
Project Manager every one has the same resume unless you are
getting interviewed for a job. If you have a resume, place it in
your profile. The only mention of this material should be: "For
additional references please see my profile located here: ___"
The rest of your communication should be about the project. Even
if you already think you understand everything, ask the Project
Manager about of specific details. This extra step will place you
miles ahead of the competition. Asking questions shows that you
are genuinely interested in getting an accurate description of
the work involved. It communicates to the Project Manger that
your bid will be exact and that you are excited about working
with them. In addition to asking questions, place your time zone
and when you are available to work. Let the other person know
that you are available via email and instant messengers. While
you might be tempted, do not include your contact information.
This is against most Terms of Service and gives the other person
an impression of dishonesty. The next thing you should do is
repeat the same steps. It's necessary to spread your chances over
a few projects to ensure that you receive enough work. Unless you
are experienced it is crucial that you start out slow. If you
overload yourself with work, not only will you poorly perform on
the work you were hired to do, you will receive bad reviews from
everyone who hired you. The only thing worse then no feedback is
having bad feedback.

**********
How to Get All Star Feedback
**********

Most websites rate each freelancer with a history of work called
'Feedback'. This is a scoring system that allows Project Managers
you have worked with in the past to record their experience with
you. Starting out new you won't have any feedback which will
hinder your freelancing efforts. Start out slow by placing bids
and communicating with Project Managers who post small, quick
jobs. Go the extra mile with these people to ensure that they are
happy and satisfied with the work. Check in consistently to
report your progress, and make sure that everything is done to
their exact specifications. When your work is complete, ask them
if there is anything else you can do. Just one or two great
feedback scores can boost your freelance efforts tremendously. If
you are desperate, offer to do work for free in exchange for a
great review. Be extraordinary in your efforts to help and
anticipate your employer's needs. Not only will you receive great
feedback but you might also gain a repeat customer.

****
Advanced Field Tactics
****

Want to get more bids accepted, race ahead of your competition
and be able to pick only the best job opportunities? That is
exactly what this section is about. We have already discussed the
best and worst things to place in your bids and pmb. Now I will
show you how to move your freelancing efforts up a few notches.

Private Message Board Tactics: Once the Project Manager responds
with the answer to your question. Reply with "If I understand the
work correctly, you require:" then make a numbered list of the
work required as you understand it." At the bottom "If the above
is correct, I can begin work immediately and have everything
completed in under ______". This does two things, first it
conveys to the Project Manager that you fully understand the work
required. Second it shows the Project Manager just how much work
is really involved. Time: If your estimate of time to completion
is 5 days and under write in your description and messages the
time in hours, and always put "I can have this completed tested,
installed and ready in under ___ hours." That 'under' statement
really gives the impression of speed and excellence in your work.
If your project will run over 5 days, write out the dates that
you will have everything ready, not just the number of days.
"Today is the 15th; on the 17th I will complete the first
mockups. Then on the 20th I will complete the admin section". Of
course the hard part comes in keeping this timeline. If you can
deliver each stage on time, and to completion you will receive
great feedback, more repeat customers and great work
opportunities. Portfolio Tactics: If your portfolio is online,
create a completely different portfolio for each of your talents.
Not just a separate page, you will need to create a completely
separate website. For example if you are a website designer,
create a portfolio just for flash, one for straight HTML, and one
for 3D graphics work. You can even divide by style of design.
When you present your work to the future client, present the
portfolio that best matches his/her needs. Even if you are multi-
talented, presenting a list of relevant past work will give the
impression that you are a focused, dedicated professional.

Presentation Tactics: Compile the information that you have
received from the project description and the questions / answers
from the Project Manager into a detailed proposal for your work.
While the style of the proposal can change a simple effective
method is to write it out on a simple numbered HTML page. Include
the title of the project, your name and a bulleted list of the
work required. At the bottom place any questions you have about
the project in addition to your bid and the time to completion.
Upload this page to your online portfolio and then post the link
in the private message board. This one act will win your more
bids then anything else you can do. Follow Up Tactics: There are
two types of webmasters. Those who post a project and it closes
1-2 days later because they know exactly what they want. Then
there are those who post a project and wait 10-15 days before
selecting a freelancer for the job.

For these Project Managers the best thing you can do is follow
up. After placing your bid and inquiring via the Private Message
Board the next step is to send the Project Manager a quick note
after about 2 days. Something along the lines of "Hi, I just
wanted to follow up with my bid and see if you had any questions
or concerns. If you do please let me know and I will get back to
you promptly. Thank you, _(your name)_." This action shows each
Project Manager that you are thorough in your work and care about
getting their contract.

****
Additional Help
****

You now have all of the tools that you need to get started. Each
step has been covered from signing up to getting great feedback.
We have also gone over some advanced topics that will help ensure
your bid is accepted over the competition. You are ready to start
freelancing today. I look forward to hearing from you and I hope
that you have found this guide helpful and informative. Please
let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you,
Peter Ferrigan http://www.ContractList.com Admin@...

***********
Peter Ferrigan is outsourcing expert and Administrator of
http://www.Contractlist.com He can be reached at
Admin@....
***********

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

=================================================
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

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=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.




YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 109: September 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================


DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:
* EDITORIAL: Free phone chats/ consults for Pro
Write members via Skype


* ARTICLE: Why Every Artist Needs a Blog & How to Create an
Artist Blog By Kristin Royce

=================================================

=> EDITORIAL: Free phone chats/ consults for Pro Write members
via Skype

Want to talk? Now you can!

Reading ezines, Web sites and blogs is all very well, but talking
to someone about your creative work is even better, so now we're
now offering free phone chats/ consults to Pro Write members -
via Skype.

If you're not acquainted with Skype, the free Internet telephony
application, you soon will be. Today (September 13) Skype was
bought by eBay for a fabulous sum. Within a few months, Skype
will be everywhere and everyone will be using it. It's a great
way to get free unlimited long distance (or local) calls.

To learn more about Skype visit: http://www.skype.com

==> Skype is easy, even for non-nerds

You don't have to be a computer nerd to use Skype.

To make Skype calls all you need is a computer, an online
connection, preferably broadband, and a microphone. Phoning other
Skype users is easy, and the sound quality is brilliant, better
than a landline. If you sign up for Skype's other services, you
can call landline phones too.

You can use your Pro Write/ Skype consults to discuss your
writing, or writing as a business. You'll find instructions on
how to claim your free consults on the Pro Write site. If you're
not a member, join us. :-)

Sign up for Pro Write membership here: http://www.prowrite.biz/

Have a great month - and I look forward to talking to you on
Skype.

Angela Booth

P.S. I know many of you are still considering whether or not to
blog, and aren't sure of the concept, so this month's article
gives you basic info. (And yes, you should blog.)

=================================================


=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================

=> ARTICLE: Why Every Artist Needs a Blog & How to Create an
Artist Blog_


By Kristin Royce



As an artist, the key to selling more artwork is maximizing its
exposure. The internet is an increasingly popular tool for
promoting original art, and if done properly, can be quite
profitable.

One of the most effective (and free!) online marketing tools for
artists is the blog. Artist blogs provide an easy way to display
your art, discuss your creative process, post exhibition
announcements and more. Best of all, blogs require no working
knowledge of HTML and the search engines love their dynamic
content.

==> What is a blog and how will it sell my art?

A "blog" is a web-based diary or journal. The author of a blog,
also known as a "Blogger", publishes content on a regular basis
about a focused topic. These regular postings typically provide a
"community" feel by allowing site visitors to post feedback to
your journal entries. This mode of communication can deepen
relationships with potential art buyers, leading to increased
sales.

Blogs also have the ability to archive all of your previous
posts, dynamically creating an individual page for each journal
entry. The feature is great for art buyers using search engines
to find original art. For example, if you have a blog post
describing a painting that you just completed of the Golden Gate
Bridge at sunset and an art buyer in Florida goes to Google and
searches for "painting of Golden Gate Bridge at sunset", there is
a very good chance that your blog entry will appear pretty high
in the rankings. Cha Ching!!

Many artists have felt the pain of email marketing losing its
effect due to spam filters, junk email overloads and virus
paranoia. Blogs provide a new way to communicate with clients,
fans and industry professionals. This trend can support your
email marketing efforts by allowing blog subscription options for
site visitors so that they are notified whenever your blog is
updated along with providing a permanent place on the web for all
of your postings as opposed to newsletter emails that are
typically deleted.

==> How to start a blog

* Blog Publishing Tools

To begin, visit some of these free blogging sites, all offering
unique template options that even an artist can appreciate, image
uploads and syndication ability.

Blogger.com (blogger.com) - Simple to set up and multiple
authoring ability MSN Spaces (spaces.msn.com) - Create your own
mini site, with an exceptional blogging feature Live Journal
(livejournal.com) - Requires a bit of 'blogging knowledge' to get
it set up Blog Drive (blogdrive.com) If you're interesting in
reviewing additional blog features, these sites require a small
monthly fee to maintain.

Typepad (typepad.com) - starts at $4.95/month Tripod Blogs
(tripod.lycos.com) - starts at $4.95/month

Note to artists with MySpace accounts: MySpace provides members
personal blogs, but it is important to know that MySpace blogs
are not currently listed in search engines, which as noted above,
is one of the main reasons to get a blog. While MySpace works to
remedy this issue, it is recommended that you blog using a tool
that is accessible to search engine spiders.

* Decide on a title for your blog

The title of your blog should be brief and to the point. You can
get creative with your language in the blog description / tag
line. A focused title will help with higher search engine
rankings and make it clear to visitors what the blog is about.

For example, the title for ThePauper.com blog is "Diary of a
Pauper". The blog description is "Rants and raves about the
careers and lives of starving artists." The title is concise,
stating exactly what it is, while the description is a bit more
creative.

* Blog theme

It's important to establish yourself as a professional working
artist if you want to use your blog as a vehicle to sell your
art. Blog theme involves the layout and color of the page,
quality of the artwork images displayed and verbiage used for
blog postings.

Select your blog template carefully and make a habit to review
your blog from the perspective of a potential client. Is the page
visually appealing? Do the images of your artwork provide a link
to an extra large version to see detail? Does your content have a
consistent theme?

Here's a good example of a working blog by mix engineer, Ken
Lewis: http://protoolsmixing.com/blog.html

The content theme is exceptionally consistent, plus the colors
and page layout match his website.

*What to write

What's beautiful about blogs is that there are no rules on what
to write, but if you want to attract and keep an audience, you
might consider some of these suggestions.

Keep your posts creative and interesting. Move and inspire your
readers by being completely honest about your creative process.

Use keywords in your blog title and post. Using the example
mentioned earlier - if your post is about a Golden Gate Bridge
painting, be sure to use that exact phrase in the title and body
of your blog. Think about what people might type into search
engines to find your content and then use those keywords in your
blog. This technique will help increase the ranking of your web
page on search engines.

Post daily, or at least twice a week. If you publish blog entries
frequently, you will see more return visitors, subscriptions to
your blog and comments from site visitors. Proofread and preview
your blog entries before posting. Some blog HTML editors have a
way of creating weird symbols out of certain characters and a
quick spell-check never hurts. (Note: be sure to create your blog
entries using Word or some other text editor. Many blogging tools
tend to "time out" after a certain amount of time and you could
potentially lose hours of work.)

==> Publish your blog

Finally! Your blog looks great and has unique content. Now,
depending on the blogging tool that you selected, follow the
steps to publish it to the World Wide Web. Test the live URL that
now houses your blog. If all of your graphics appear correctly
and the copy is flawless, then you want to make sure that you
promote your blog on your personal website, in your email
signature and by word of mouth.

Using the tools you already have to spread the word while testing
your dedication to frequent posting is the best way to get
started.


Kristin Royce is a search engine optimization and online
marketing professional contributing online marketing and
promotional content for artists to The Artrepreneur E-Zine and
newsletter.

The Artrepreneur offers articles helping artists focus on proven
techniques to accomplish any goal. Read More:
http://www.theartrepreneur.com

Copyright (c) 2005 Arctic Mouse, Inc. All rights reserved.

=================================================

Make great money writing for business!
Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:
"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"
http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

My promise to you: in just eight weeks, you'll have the
experience, the confidence and the know-how to operate your own
successful freelance copywriting business.


=================================================

Is your writing stuck in a rut? Get enthused, get excited, get
motivated with:

=> Writing to Sell in the Internet Age<=
(The ebook from our successful email workshop.) You're a
freelance writer and publisher now --- your audience numbers in
the millions. Everything you need to know to write and SELL,
right now!
http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_internet_age.html



=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@




=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright (c) 2005 by Angela Booth. All
rights reserved.




YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 108: August 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

*** BLOG ***

WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

THIS MONTH'S NEWS AND VIEWS

* Editorial: Start Your New Business TODAY

* Article: Top 7 Tips for New Businesses

=================================================

=> Editorial: Start Your New Business TODAY

You can start your business TODAY.

How? Get a customer.

Yep, that's all there is to starting a business.

I know that you're tempted to rush out and buy business cards and
want to take a course to be able to write a business plan so you
can borrow start-up funds, but that's not what business is.
Business is simple. It's buying and selling.

Your business can't start until you sell something, and the
easiest way to do that is just to do it.

Listen to Greg Gianforte on this SmallBizPod podcast, and get
inspired (you many need to copy and paste this long URL):

http://www.smallbizpod.co.uk/2005/07/smallbizpod-10-show-
notes.html


I'm sure that if you make up your mind, you can start your new
business within the next couple of hours. Call everyone you know,
and sell someone something.

Yes, this applies to writers too.


==> If you're starting a writing business

If you're setting up in business as a writer, the above applies
to you too. You're not a writer until you sell what you write.

This seems fundamental, but you'd be shocked at the number of
people who contact me because they want to start a career as a
writer and don't write. You can't sell what you don't write.

I laid out everything you need to write and sell in the Internet
age in this ebook:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_copywriting_success.html

This month's article below gives you "Top 7 Tips for New
Businesses", but remember, if you haven't started/ sold, start
your business today, and then just keep going. :-)

Have a great month.

Best wishes from Angela

=================================================


=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================


=> New coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================

=> Article: Top 7 Tips for New Businesses

By Mary Ellen Martelli

The marketing decisions you make for your new business are the
most important part of making your business a success. Marketing
is about building a strong presence, name recognition and
credibility through various methods. Here are 7 things you can do
to get a new business off the ground.

All of the time and money you invest in getting your business off
the ground is wasted if you don't make the additional efforts and
expenditures to market effectively. Marketing is the process and
procedures that get your name out to the public. Your advertising
is only a part of marketing. You should have a plan for at least
the first year of operations on a monthly basis. With a new
business, your marketing is about building a presence, name
recognition, status and reputation through a variety methods.

1. Have a Written Business Plan:

Having your business plan in order allows you to see a very clear
path to where you want your business to go. There are many
resources available on the internet to guide you in this process,
but basically, your business plan should include: Business
Description, Key Initiatives and Objectives, Marketing Strategy
and Budget, Business Overview, Location and Facilities,
Description of Products and Services, Industry Overview &
Outlook, Regulatory Issues Related to Your Industry,
Implementation Plan and a Financial Plan.

2. Begin Your Business Branding Immediately:

Have business cards, a logo, letterhead, brochure, signage and
collateral materials professionally designed and printed. It will
be worth the investment as your first steps towards building your
business's image. Steer clear of "do it yourself" products that
can be found in most office supply stores. Although it may seem
cost effective for a new business, the real cost comes in the
toll it will take on your company's image. For more advice on
Business Branding go to:
http://maremaxconsulting.com/brandingtips.html

3. Get a Business Website.

In today's marketplace, a business without a website is like a
house without a front door. If you don't have one, you're missing
out on a very big opportunity to drive business directly to you.
Have your website professionally written and designed. Make sure
it is an extension of your advertising and print materials. Your
branding has to extend and flourish on your home page.
Prospective clients should be able to utilize your site for more
information than what is already available to them through your
brochure, print ads, and other collateral materials. Update your
website often and give people a reason to return again and again.

4. Advertise with Consistency.

One of the most powerful keys to successful advertising is
frequency. A smaller ad that you run 10 times will generate much
more presence that an ad 10 times the size you can only afford to
run once. Start with local or regional newspapers or magazines,
and set up an ongoing plan that will allow you to build your
presence. Your advertising message has to speak to the consumer's
needs and most importantly give them a solid reason to call you.
But, more importantly, the message needs to in front of them on a
regular, consistent basis. Always be sure to use your web address
in all of your advertising.

5. Get Your Business Publicized:

. Send a press release to all local newspapers and magazines in
your area announcing the opening of your new business, plans for
Grand Opening, and services offered. Keep your press releases
short, double-spaced, and error free. . Write letters to the
editor and/or send out press releases on a consistent basis that
include a professional photo that is captioned (readers are much
more likely to view a photo if there is a caption to read). If
you, as a business owner, do something new, such as receive an
award, appoint someone in your business to a new position, join a
board or professional organization or offer your services to a
non-profit organization, be sure to get all the mileage you can
out of it by using it as a tool to communicate with the press. If
you can plan your marketing budget to include a few
professionally written and placed press releases, especially in
the beginning, all the better. . Also consider writing and
submitting articles to editors of related business journals and
local publications. They are often looking for articles from
local businesses. You'll get your name print, as a credible
source, which has a lot more standing than any ad you can
purchase in the same publication.


6. Network - Network - Network!

Face-to-face networking is one of your best sources of
advertising. Be sure to take advantage of every connection
opportunity you can. Getting involved will get your business name
out there. Become a member of the Chamber of Commerce and be an
active participant. Joining a committee, going to meetings,
networking breakfasts, and special events extends the
opportunities to interact with prospective clients. Volunteer to
join a local arts council, charity board, or school board. You're
not only servicing your community, you're putting yourself and
your business out in front of the public.

7. Assess and Redirect Along the Way.

Just because you have a written business plan doesn't mean you
should shut your eyes to anything but what you have written.
After several months of being fully operational, if you find your
business is taking off in one area more then another, you may
have stumbled onto a genuine need that wasn't being filled. Go
with it! Assess and redirect. If you find your newspaper
advertising is pulling more than your direct mail campaign it may
be time to adjust the advertising budget. First, be very sure
you're not being too quick to judge. Some areas of business take
longer to cultivate than others. Just as some advertising will
adjust according to season, campaign, and frequency.

Mary Ellen Martelli is President of MareMax Consulting, a full
service Advertising, Marketing & Website Consulting firm, located
in Southern New Jersey. You can reach her at her website:
http://maremaxconsulting.com/Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/

=================================================

=> HOLIDAY WRITING PROFITS START NOW

Looking forward to Christmas? If you're a writer, you're readying
your Christmas lists --- NOW.

No, not your lists of cards and gifts. :-)

You're making lists of all the material you'll be publishing over
the holidays. You're sending out magazine article proposals, and
shorties and essays for holiday/ New Year publication.

Most monthly magazines have a six to eight-month lead time, so
you're actually a bit late. You need get started NOW, to have the
checks rolling in in the coming months.

It's your choice of how you'll spend the holiday season. Just
think, you could be taking a holiday in the sun or in the snow,
plus buying your children and spouse (and yourself) the gifts you
want and need. A new big-screen TV. A stack of 50 DVDs. A new
notebook computer.

If you want to get started NOW writing and selling, I recommend
Pro Write's "Write and Sell Shorties --- mini essays and
articles, product reviews and more".

Here's an excerpt:

>>>>

=> Ten minutes equals $100

What would you think if someone approached you, and whispered:
"Psst! Got ten minutes? Want to make a hundred bucks?"

No, it's not what you think. :-) Let's add "writing" to the last
sentence. Yes, you can easily make a hundred dollars in ten
minutes.

Lest you think I've completely lost it, Reader's Digest pays MORE
than a hundred dollars for a hundred words, which will take you
much less than ten minutes to type. Reader's Digest at
http://www.rd.com/ pays $300 for a short snippet of around a
hundred words. That's three dollars a word for around ten minutes
of work. Not bad.

Reader's Digest is admittedly at the top of the Shorties tree.
Most markets which accept shorties (also known as news items,
briefs, and fillers) pay around what Yoga Journal at
http://www.yogajournal.com/ pays. For its brief yoga and healthy
living news items, events write-ups, and fillers, consisting of
150 to 600 words, YJ pays $50-150.

Yes, it's possible to make large sums of money tapping the
keyboard for short periods of time, and you don't need to be a
talented wordsmith, you just need to be aware and well-organized.
Many freelance writers make a career of writing short material
for publications. They make as much money and more as writers in
other fields. If you'd like to join this group of productive and
well-paid writers, read on.

You'll find publications which buy Shorties everywhere.

>>>

Start writing today for your best holiday season ever in
2004/2005. Join Pro Write for the " Write and Sell Shorties" and
other writing workshops.  You CAN write, and sell.

Enjoy. See you on Pro Write.

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 107: July 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================


WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)

=================================================

In this issue:


* EDITORIAL: PODCASTING -- FAD OR TREND?

* ARTICLE: PODCASTING: WHAT YOU DON'T KNOW COULD HURT YOUR
BUSINESS

=================================================

=> Enter the world of professional writing <=

PRO WRITE: PROFESSIONAL WRITING SECRETS

For novelists, nonfiction writers, copywriters. Join our
community of professional writers today.

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================


=> EDITORIAL: PODCASTING -- FAD OR TREND?

It's hard to believe, but we're more than halfway through 2005.
How's your year been so far? I hope you're working successfully
at your creative small business and getting lots of clients, both
online and off.

The latest Internet trend - I think it's more than a fad at this
stage - is podcasting. Podcasts are Internet audio programs,
which you can download and play on your computer, your MP3
player, or burn to CD. If you've yet to discover podcasts,
download the iTunes player at http://www.apple.com/itunes/ .
Apple has included the ability to search for, and download
podcasts right into its player. You can find podcasts for any
topic or interest.

If you've got a Web site or blog, consider offering podcasts to
your site visitors to build your online audience.

We'll be offering podcasts for Pro Write members later in the
year. I've been looking for multimedia options for the site, and
podcasts offer a way to make the tutorials on Pro Write more
accessible, and more fun too. The big benefits of podcasts is
that you don't need to listen to them at your computer, you can
take them with you.

This month's article will get you up to speed on podcasts.

Have a great month. Don't forget that you can get in touch at any
time, using the feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write. Please
let me know what you'd like to see in CSB, and if you have any
questions, please ask.

Angela

P.S. Don't forget to visit our blog at:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================

=> Article: Podcasting - What You Don't Know Could Hurt Your
Business

By Steve Humphrey

If you've been online recently, I'm sure you've heard about
podcasting. You might be wondering "What's in it for me?" Or
perhaps "Why should I care about that?" There are many valid
reasons for you to get informed about this hot new technology.

Think of a podcast as a way to deliver audio content to a very
large worldwide audience. The easiest analogy is to think of this
technology as giving you the power to create your own online
radio program.

First, the name is a little misleading. It comes from 'iPod' and
"broadcasting". It doesn't mean you need an iPod to get involved.
You can listen right on your computer. Podcasting is made
possible by RSS (a type of XML computer code). But have no fear!
You don't need to know programming at all. RSS is simply a
delivery system that allows people to subscribe and stay up to
date any time you add a new podcast show.

Having an iPod or similar digital MP3 Audio player is not
required. You can download audio files to your device and take
the audio shows with you. Or you can simply stream the audio and
listen to the podcast show on your computer. There is a lot of
free podcast audio for you to listen to online. Do a search for
"podcast" or "MP3" and you'll see what I mean.

What's out there? Music, interviews, seminars, educational shows,
technology shows, news, sports...the list of topics is amazing.
Some people say that podcasting it's going to replace radio and
TV.

Not True. However, podcasting is changing the face of online
audio and traditional radio. Podcasters already number in the
thousands. The number of businesses and individuals making
podcasts is growing at a rapid pace. So where can you find these
podcasts? Check out any of these sites:

http://www.podblaze.com

http://www.podcastalley.com

http://www.podcastbunker.com

Or search for more of these directories with Google, Yahoo, and
other search engines and directories.

What about making your own podcast for your own business or
website? That's not exactly rocket science. Get some sound
recording software (Audacity or WavePad, for example) and a
microphone. Then record some MP3 files yourself. All that's left
is to get them up on the web somewhere and have them formatted
into RSS. Some blogging software and services allow you to attach
audio to a blog post. There's even free programs you can use.

For example, you could open a Producer account at:

http://www.podblaze.com

You can start with the free account, which lets you store up to
40MB of MP3 files on their server. It's enough for about four
half-hour shows. That's an easy and risk-free way to try out
podcasting. They also have paid accounts for people who want to
do more than experiment with this new media. Now why would you
want to podcast? I can think of many good reasons. Here's a few:
Put some recordings of your band up and maybe you'll get a
recording contract. Sweet!

If you did a teleseminar, make it available to the world.
Position yourself as an expert and people will take you more
seriously. Maybe you know about news items that the local and
national media won't pick up. Podcasting gives your story a
chance to be heard. Maybe you just want to share something
personal with the world.

Whatever your reason for wanting to put your music or voice on
the web, podcasting is an easy and inexpensive way to do it. So
pick up that microphone and record your thoughts. I'm waiting to
hear it.

Steve Humphrey is an author, programmer & Certified Guerilla
Marketer. His new web site makes podcasting technology easy
enough for anyone to use.

Find, create & listen to podcasts: http://www.podblaze.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

=================================================

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

=================================================


Holiday writing profits start now

Looking forward to Christmas? If you're a writer, you're readying
your Christmas lists --- NOW.

No, not your lists of cards and gifts. :-)

You're making lists of all the material you'll be publishing over
the holidays. You're sending out magazine article proposals, and
shorties and essays for holiday/ New Year publication.

Most monthly magazines have a six to eight-month lead time, so
you're actually a bit late. You need get started NOW, to have the
checks rolling in in the coming months.

It's your choice of how you'll spend the holiday season. Just
think, you could be taking a holiday in the sun or in the snow,
plus buying your children and spouse (and yourself) the gifts you
want and need. A new big-screen TV. A stack of 50 DVDs. A new
notebook computer.

If you want to get started NOW writing and selling, I recommend
Pro Write's "Write and Sell Shorties --- mini essays and
articles, product reviews and more".

Here's an excerpt:

>>>>

=> Ten minutes equals $100

What would you think if someone approached you, and whispered:
"Psst! Got ten minutes? Want to make a hundred bucks?"

No, it's not what you think. :-) Let's add "writing" to the last
sentence. Yes, you can easily make a hundred dollars in ten
minutes.

Lest you think I've completely lost it, Reader's Digest pays MORE
than a hundred dollars for a hundred words, which will take you
much less than ten minutes to type. Reader's Digest at
http://www.rd.com/ pays $300 for a short snippet of around a
hundred words. That's three dollars a word for around ten minutes
of work. Not bad.

Reader's Digest is admittedly at the top of the Shorties tree.
Most markets which accept shorties (also known as news items,
briefs, and fillers) pay around what Yoga Journal at
http://www.yogajournal.com/ pays. For its brief yoga and healthy
living news items, events write-ups, and fillers, consisting of
150 to 600 words, YJ pays $50-150.

Yes, it's possible to make large sums of money tapping the
keyboard for short periods of time, and you don't need to be a
talented wordsmith, you just need to be aware and well-organized.
Many freelance writers make a career of writing short material
for publications. They make as much money and more as writers in
other fields. If you'd like to join this group of productive and
well-paid writers, read on.

You'll find publications which buy Shorties everywhere.

>>>

Start writing today for your best holiday season ever in
2004/2005. Join Pro Write for the " Write and Sell Shorties" and
other writing workshops.  You CAN write, and sell.

Enjoy. See you on Pro Write.

http://www.prowrite.biz/


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**
=================================================

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 106: June 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================
************* BLOG **************

WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

=> In this issue:


* Editorial: The prices you charge, and the global economy

* Article: Embarrassed To Discuss Your Prices? Seven Common
Reasons We Can't Talk About Them; By Karyn Greenstreet

=================================================

=> Editorial: The prices you charge, and the global economy

Are you comfortable setting fees for your services? Many
creatives are not, even those who are highly experienced. In this
week's article, Karyn Greenstreet shows you how to feel
comfortable setting your fees.

It's worth remembering that in 2005 you're dealing with a global
economy. This means that even if you live in a small town in a
rural area, you can and should feel comfortable taking on clients
from all over the world.

This means of course, that you need a Web site, or failing a
site, a blog. Jason Miller's written an excellent article "You
Had Me At Hello; Using Your Blog As Your Job Agent" – (copy and
paste the URL into your browser)

http://www.webpronews.com/insiderreports/marketinginsider/wpn-50-
20050607YouHadMeAtHelloUsingYourBlogAsYourJobAgent.html

He's a advocate for blogs (I am too), and he says that a blog is
"Better than a web portfolio: A web portfolio is, essentially, an
online résumé, professionally laid out with accomplishments and
work history. But what makes blogs more powerful is that they are
more likely to pop up on SERP's. That is because of detailed and
regularly updated content. A web portfolio seldom changes and is
limited to a stagnant list of brownie points. Blogging takes its
edge from the content available that can always link back to you
portfolio. Blogging also sets you up as an expert in your field
much better than a CV (curriculum vitae)."

Read the complete article.

And of course, follow through by creating a blog. We've got an
entire workshop on Pro Write (http://www.prowrite.biz/ ) devoted
to blogging your writing.

Have a great month. Don't forget that you can contact us at any
time via feedback forms on our sites, or just leave a comment on
one of the blogs.

Have fun, and stay well and happy, until next month.

All best wishes

Angela


=================================================

=> Don't forget to buy your favorite writing manual – special
ends TODAY

The special price on our Digital ebook writing manuals FINISHES
on June 15. So if you've been putting off your purchase, the time
to act is now.

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebooks.html


=================================================

*** Copywriting eight-week email course ***

Sick of your day job? Make great money writing for business!

Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:

"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"

With Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Dear Fellow Writer

If you love to write, you may be overlooking a fantastic way to
make your writing pay --- by copywriting (writing for business).


Starting pay? $60 an hour, with UNLIMITED POTENTIAL EARNINGS!

Not only is freelance copywriting creative, fun, and easy (if you
can write an interesting email message you can write copy), it's
also well paid. Novice copywriters start out earning $60 an hour,
and once you're experienced, the sky's the limit on what you can
earn.

You may be interested to know that established copywriters with a
stable of clients estimate that they'll earn at least $100,000 a
year. And that's without working particularly hard. In fact,
copywriters who specialize in company reports may only work a few
weeks in the year, and still make a comfortable six-figure
income.


Write from home, and write when it suits you

Most freelance copywriters write from home, either moonlighting
from their regular job, or as full-timers. As you can imagine, if
it's your full-time job, it's a great life. You can write an ad
or three pages of a manual in the morning, and then take the rest
of the day off. Why not?

There's no age barrier on freelance copywriting. No one cares if
you're just out of college, or if you're retired from an active
working life. If you can write, you can write copy.

There's also no education barrier. You can have an MA or a PhD or
you can be totally self-taught.

More information at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

(Earn as you learn --- weekly payment option available.)

Want a sample? Sign up for a free 3-day course
based on the course:

http://www.digital-e.biz/freecourses.html

=================================================

=> Article: Embarrassed To Discuss Your Prices? Seven Common
Reasons We Can't Talk About Them

By Karyn Greenstreet

It can be uncomfortable to take risks, to name your price and
tell a prospective customer that you want to work with them. How
do you overcome the fear of discussing fees? Last week, a
wonderfully-skilled electrician installed a new light fixture for
us. He was competent, courteous and efficient. He answered all
our questions simply, with skill and eloquence. I was amazed, as
you might imagine, when I asked him, “How much do we owe you?”
and his embarrassed reply was, “Gee, is $50 okay?” With the
quality of work he’d done and the amount of time he put into it,
I would have expected to pay double that amount. His resistance
to naming his price reminded me of my small business clients who
have the same problem. All entrepreneurs feel fear at some point,
including attorneys, consultants, coaches, and writers. It’s a
natural part of starting or growing your business. It can be
uncomfortable to take risks, to name your price and tell a
prospective customer that you want to work with them.

Roberto Goizueta, the late chairman of Coca-Cola, said, "If you
take risks, you may still fail; but if you do not take risks, you
will surely fail. The greatest risk of all is to do nothing." Put
this mantra into your head: Risk equals reward. So, what’s the
problem?

I’ve discovered seven common reasons why we’re afraid to discuss
our fees:

1. Do you feel your fees are too high?

2. Do you think you’re not qualified or experienced enough to
charge that rate?

3. Are you afraid of rejection? (Or, possibly, afraid of
acceptance, which will mean you’ll have to perform?)

4. Are you afraid the prospect will raise an objection to the
fee, and you won’t know how to reply?

5. Are you shy and uncomfortable talking with strangers?

6. Are you afraid to take risks?

7. Are you generally uncomfortable talking about money?

Where does this come from? Is it part of your personality or is
this a behavior you learned from your past experience or culture?
In many families and cultures, it’s taboo to talk about money or
to ask to be paid. While it might be personally beneficial to
look inside yourself for the reasons why you act this way, it’s
also important to get unstuck by using techniques which help you
move forward, such as:

* Have a good pricing strategy. Research the average fees for
your type of business so that you know your prices are in line
with expectation. If you can’t get competitor pricing
information, try Brenner Books (http://www.brennerbooks.com). If
your experience warrants it, increase your pricing to reflect
your higher skills, knowledge and experience. If you’re not sure
how to create a pricing strategy, research it online or talk with
a small business consultant or mentor.

* Establish that the prospective customer needs your services
before discussing price. You’ll feel more comfortable discussing
your fees if you know the prospective customer really want to
hire you. Ask a lot of questions to see if their problem and your
solution are a good match.

* Put your fees on your website and brochure. In this way,
prospects will know your fees before the sales conversation
begins.

* Be honest. Tell the prospect what the options are for your
services or products, any quantity discounts you offer, and how
payment is delivered. Practice saying this over and over again
until the words and phrases slip comfortably from your mouth.

* Act confidently when delivering your fees. Don’t downplay your
fees. State your fees, then shut up. Don’t make excuses for your
fees, or ramble on about them. Look directly at the prospect
while delivering your fees.

* Don’t automatically offer discounts. This tells the prospect
that your fees are soft and that they’re negotiable. Instead,
state your fees and options and ask them to tell you which
package is right for them.

* Act “as if.” How would an experienced person in your industry
act, when discussing her fees? Act as if you are that person and
you’ll find your confidence increasing with each conversation.
Practice, practice, practice.

* Get training. If you’re uncomfortable with the whole sales
process, get sales training. By attending a class, you’ll learn
different ways of saying the same thing, and you’re bound to find
a way that’s right for you.

* Refer out. If the prospect really can’t afford your fees and
you can’t afford to offer a discount, refer that prospect to
someplace where they can find an alternative. Say, “If you can’t
afford my fees, you can try these online referral services where
you might find someone in your price range.”

Talking about your prices can be uncomfortable. But with practice
and persistence, and a willingness to overcome your fears, you
can begin to have comfortable conversations with your prospective
customers.

Karyn Greenstreet is a self-employment expert and small business
coach. She shares tips, techniques and strategies with self-
employed people to maintain motivation, stay focused, prioritize
tasks, and increase revenue and profits.

Visit her website at http://www.PassionForBusiness.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

=================================================

=> Email Workshop For Writers <=

Writing To Sell In The Internet Age
by Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Explode your writing profits!

The Internet gives you an unbelievable opportunity to rocket your
writing career into orbit. If you're feeling that you're not
getting your share of the exploding opportunities, our new email
workshop, Writing To Sell In the Internet Age, is for you.

More info, with the course outline at ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses1.html

Want a sample? Sign up for a free 3-day course
based on the workshop:

http://www.digital-e.biz/freecourses.html


=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=================================================

=> New coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright © 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

=> Our fabulous SPECIAL on ALL our ebook writing manuals ends on
June 15

Just a brief note to remind you that our ebook writing manual
special ends this coming week.

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebooks.html

All our ebooks have been 75 per cent reduced for a couple of
months, so if you haven't made your purchase yet don't put it
off. :-)

Take this opportunity to put your writing career into high gear,
because the books are fantastic value at this incredible price.
:-)

Have a great weekend.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: angela.booth@...
-------------------------------------------------
Angela Booth's Writing Blog
http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 105: May 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

*** BLOG ***

WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* Editorial: Follow up with your clients and prospects

* Article: Turning a Prospect into a Client

=================================================

=> Free ebooks on Pro Write

http://www.prowrite.biz/

For the Pro Write past couple of months, Pro Write members have
been getting a free ebook writing manual as part of their Pro
Write membership.

Members can download "Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing Skills for
Writers" and "Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the ebook".

Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing Skills for Writers shows you how
to market your writing like a pro.

Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the ebook helps you to
discover how to develop an UNLIMITED writing income in the new
global marketplace.

Each book is yours, completely free to download and keep, exactly
as sold on our Digital-e site.

If you're not a member, join to kick your writing into high gear.
We've got lots of new material coming soon on Pro Write,
including video tutorials. (And of course, all the workshops stay
online, so that you can take them as often as you wish, and get
feedback on your exercises on the forums.)

Enjoy. :-)
=================================================

=> Editorial: Following up with your clients and prospects

This month we're revisiting a topic that's vitally important.
We're all busy, and we all let marketing activities slide. A
vital part of your marketing process is following up after an
initial contact.

How often should you contact clients and prospects? Our article
outlines the process for turning a prospect into a client, but
following up with current clients is just as important. Don't let
the relationship slide as soon as you've completed the work and
sent in your invoice.

No, your clients won't think you're a pest. :-) You'll find that
they're grateful that you took the time to get in touch.

Have a great month.

All best wishes

Angela

P.S. More Marketing articles on the revamped Web site at

http://www.digital-e.biz/articles.html#marketing


=================================================

*** writing coaching ***

Dear fellow writer

These days, everyone from tennis players to business people has a
coach. I've decided to offer writing coaching at Digital-e --- I
wish coaching had been available to me at various times in my
career when I was struggling and didn't know why. :-)

Here's some info from the Web page:

From writing dreams to reality --- in a few short weeks!

You want to write. You know you can write. You want to make
writing a career.

BUT --- how do you get started? How do you do all the million and
one things it takes to make your dreams a reality?

You need a writing coach. Someone who's been there, where you are
right now, and knows how you feel. Someone's who's got the
experience to guide you to take the next step and the next.

Personalized, one-on-one coaching, tailored to YOU and your needs
My Writing Coaching programs are personal. They're based on YOUR
needs, RIGHT NOW.

Maybe you're just starting out. Maybe you've been published but
you're stuck.

Whatever your needs, our coaching sessions will help you to
define your goals, and to achieve them.


How does writing coaching work? I'll work one-on-one with you via
email, and/ or the phone. You can contact me as often as you
wish.

We'll work out some goals for you, based on the kind of work
you're doing at the moment, and the kind of work you want to do.

Then we'll set to work helping you to achieve your goals.

The first step: I'll send you some questions, you answer them,
and we're off. :-)


=> Why Angela Booth? <=

I've been a successful working writer for over 25 years. I've
written and published both novels and nonfiction books. Not to
mention thousands of articles. I'm also a working copywriter with
a stable of clients.

I continue to write. I know what's happening in the publishing
world. And I know how to help you to achieve your dreams. :-)

My personal guarantee to you:

Wherever you are at the beginning of our work together, at the
end of it you will be on your way to achieving your goals.

Programs available:

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html

(Scroll down the page.)


=================================================

=> Article: Turning A Prospect Into A Client

Copyright C 2002 by Angela Booth



How long does it take to get a client? First, the client has to
become aware not only that we exist, but also that we can solve
his copywriting problems. That growth of awareness is a slow
process. It takes time

I did some shopping earlier this week and bought myself an early
Christmas present, the book Sacred Contracts by Caroline Myss.
I'm a Myss fan. I have all her books, and an audio tape of one of
her workshops as well.

However, when I first read a review of one of her books, I wasn't
impressed. Nor did I buy one her of books when a bookstore
assistant assured me: "You'll like Caroline Myss."

It took at least a couple of years from the time I first heard
Caroline Myss's name, to the time I became a fan. By the time a
naturopath recommended Myss, I already owned everything Myss had
published.

Becoming familiar enough with a person or a business to spend
money with them takes time.

Let's say you've just sent out a batch of 200 letters,
introducing yourself to businesses in your state.

You wait, happily anticipating at least a few phone calls.

Nothing.

Ho hum. A week later, you begin your round of follow-up calls.
You stated in the P.S. to your letters that you'd be following up
in a week.

You make 30 calls. You can't reach 20 of your prospects. Five ask
you to send information, and five aren't interested.

You send the information to the five who requested it. You wait a
month. Nothing. The silence is deafening.


==> What's wrong with this picture?

Your first mistake was in not following up on ALL 200 letters you
sent out. Then you didn't attempt to contact the people you
couldn't reach. And then you didn't follow up with the people to
whom you sent information.

If someone tells me they sent out 200 letters, I know they should
have managed to collect from two to five new clients from the
exercise. No excuses. Marketing is a numbers game, and worst case
scenario, if you send out 200 letters, and follow up diligently,
you will get at least two new clients.

Where most businesses let themselves down is in the following up
process. They either don't follow up at all, or they follow up in
a hit or miss fashion. They fail to even attempt to build a
relationship with prospective clients. It's amazing that some of
these businesses survive at all.

I'm as guilty of this as everyone else. I get busy too, and let
follow-up activities slip. However, if I send out a new mailing,
I make a real effort to follow the process through, because I
know if I don't, I've just wasted the time and the postage it
took to make that mailing.


===> How to follow up

Here's how to follow up:

1. Have a marketing goal for each month. For example, my
marketing goal this month is to get five new clients, and follow
up with clients I haven't heard from for a year. It's important
to have this kind of over-arching marketing goal each month,
because it helps you to gain perspective. Each mailing, each
phone call and each e-mail message isn't as important as the
overall picture, the amount of persistent marketing you do each
day, week, and month.


2. The process begins. You send out your mailing of 200 letters.


3. A week later, follow up with phone calls. Making all the
calls, including getting back to the people who didn't answer the
phone because they were in a meeting, on vacation, or whatever
will take you another week.


4. Send out material to those who requested it.


5. A week later, follow up with the people you sent material to.


6. A month after the initial mailing, send another mailing to
everyone from the original 200 who expressed any interest at all,
no matter how slight that interest was.


7. A month after that, send out another mailing, or make phone
calls to ALL the prospects who were interested from the first
mailing. This means that you've contacted the responsives from
the 200 you sent the original mailing to at least THREE times.


8. Six months after the first mailing (it's now three months
since they heard from you) follow up with another mailing.


9. Three months later, follow up again.


How many clients will you get from that original mailing of 200?
My guess, over 12 months, you'll get at least TEN. Twenty would
be excellent. (Remember that from two to five is the very least
you'll get.)

Now, let's imagine that over the next two years, each of those
ten clients spends $500 with you. Conservatively. That's $5000
from one mailing to 200 prospects.

It's also $5000 you won't earn unless you work on building
relationships by following up with your prospects. So when you
send a mailing, remember that you need to follow-up. That's where
the money is.

=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=================================================

=> Got a talent for words? Take a Digital-e email workshop!

If you've got a way with words and love writing, Digital-e can
help you to become a professional writer. We've got two email
workshops to help you develop your skills. For writer-
entrepreneurs, we have "Writing To Sell In the Internet Age", and
for those who want to develop a copywriting services business, we
have "Writing Words That Sell: Freelance Copywriting".

Here's what a recent graduate said: "I've gotten more focused
than I've ever been before in my life-- not only with my writing
but with my creative process. And you've helped me build
confidence in my skills and myself".

I'd love to help you to develop your talent. More info at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================


Make great money writing for business!
Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:
"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"
http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

My promise to you: in just eight weeks, you'll have the
experience, the confidence and the know-how to operate your own
successful freelance copywriting business.


=================================================
Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


=>New free ebook on Pro Write

http://www.prowrite.biz/

Hi everyone

Just a brief note to tell you that Writing to Sell in the
Internet Age: the ebook, has been posted on Pro Write. It's the
second free ebook for subscribers.

Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the ebook helps you to
discover how to develop an UNLIMITED writing income in the new
global marketplace.

Read the complete Table of Contents here:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_internet_age.html

The book is yours, completely free to download and keep, exactly
as sold on our Digital-e site. Enjoy. :-)

Yes, you can still download last month's free ebook, Tell, Yell
and Sell:
Marketing Skills for Writers, which shows you how to market your
writing like a pro.

Table of Contents here:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_marketing_skills.html

Access both books from the Members' Home page.

Both books will stay online, so if you haven't joined Pro Write
yet, join TODAY to download your free books, and of course, much,
much more.

=> Remember, coming soon: video tutorials!

Watch for our NEW video tutorials which will be starting next
month. We hope our tutorials will help you to boost your writing
skills, and inspire you.

Have a great weekend!

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: angela.booth@...
-------------------------------------------------
Angela Booth's Writing Blog
http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 104: April 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

Visit: WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

=> In this issue:

* EDITORIAL: GET RICH QUICK... SLOWLY

* ARTICLE: KEEP THE CASH FLOWING

* FREE EBOOKS ON PRO WRITE

=================================================

=> Editorial: GET RICH QUICK... SLOWLY

Sorry this issue is a couple of days late. I've had several weeks
where everyone wants everything --- yesterday.  Please forgive
any typos! :-)

Our theme this month is "get rich slowly." I've been thinking
about instant riches because of the proliferation of easy-money
sites online.

If you want to make money from your creativity, you CAN do it. Of
course you can. However, you need to be prepared to do what it
takes. If you do what it takes, you will make it. You have to
hold out until success comes to you.

As you might expect, I get lots of messages from beginning
writers. I hope that I help some of them, even if I do hint
gently that reaching the top of the bestseller list might take a
little longer than a year. :-)

I wrote on the blog recently:

>>>

Want to be an overnight success as a writer? Pay your dues.

The Music Business blog has an excellent item that applies to ALL
artists, including writers: "Overnight = 7-10 Years."

http://www.indiemusician.com/2005/02/overnight_710_y.html

What a kick in the head. Seven YEARS?

The item notes:

>>> We, the music industry, make things look really easy.  That's
our job.  We want the public to think that somebody was just
plucked out of their job at the local fried chicken place when a
record executive heard her singing and two weeks later, she's on
MTV, getting ready to headline an arena tour, and making millions
of dollars with record sales and endorsements. >>>

I'm convinced that the same time frame works for a writing – or
any – creative career. You've got to put in the time. You've got
to write and sell and promote a lot, so that people start to
recognise your name.

Yep, seven years and over sounds about right to me.

This is a good thing. If you're whimpering because you've been
writing for six weeks and sent out two short stories and a poem
which have had zero effect on the literary world, keep writing
and sending.

Are you willing to pay your dues?

>>>


This month we're rerunning an article "Keep the Cash Flowing"
that I wrote back in 2003, because it fits with our editorial.

Until next month keep focused on your creative work, stay safe,
and have fun. :-)

All best wishes

Angela

P.S. Scroll down to see what's happening on Pro Write: free ebook
writing manuals, and video tutorials coming soon.


=================================================

Love to write? Join Pro Write: Professional Writing Secrets

Build a successful professional writing career. For both novices
and experienced, selling writers. A new interactive writing
workshop every month, for fiction, nonfiction and copywriting,
plus writing coaching and writing forums.

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================

=> New coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================


=> Article: Keep The Cash Flowing

Copyright © 2003 by Angela Booth


Without a steady cash flow, your business dies. This means that
you need to be focused on your cash flow situation at all times:
you need to know how much cash you have and how much is coming
in. If you can see that you're likely to have problems, the time
to take action is --- NOW.

This constant awareness of your finances is especially vital for
creatives. Writers, artists and designers are in a unique
situation. Not only are we creators, we're also marketers and
salespeople. Combining these two functions is so difficult that
at times it feels as if it’s impossible. However, it can be done.

Whether you're starting your own business, or have been in
business for a while, here are some ways to keep the cash flowing
when business is slow ---

=> Start your business with six months' worth of expenses

If you're going fulltime in your own business, you need a
cushion. It's best to have at least six months' worth of expense
money to keep you going. Then, when you've been in business for a
year, always keep at least three months' worth of expense money
in your account. Do whatever it takes to get that three months'
cushion.


=> No cash? Moonlight until things improve

Business works in cycles. It's always either feast or famine. You
either have more work than you can handle, or not enough. If
you're going through a famine cycle --- and these can last for
several months --- moonlight. There's a reason actors and
actresses work as bartenders and taxi drivers. :-)


=> Consider working part-time for someone else

Just because business is slow at the moment, it doesn’t mean that
your business idea is terrible. To ease the situation, take a
part-time job. Although you'll be busier than you'd like to be,
the fact that you have money coming in regularly lets you relax,
so that you can enjoy working in your business again.


=> Get an anchor client or product

You need an anchor client. This is a client who brings in a
quarter of your earnings --- you may need three or four clients
to achieve this. These are regular clients, the bedrock on which
your business is based. They pay your expenses, and keep you in
business.

If you’re a writer or designer, you may also have an anchor
product. This may be a book which brings in royalties every six
months, or artwork you've sold under license for which you
receive royalties.

It's worth working sixteen-hour days for a few months to create
an anchor product. Once you've created it, the anchor product
works for you.


=> Follow up on slow/ no payers

You can't afford to let people owe you money indefinitely. This
means that you’re providing interest-free loans. Worse, if
someone owes you substantial money, you're an unsecured creditor.
If they go down, they'll take you with them.

Chase up slow payers. Send a friendly reminder email or fax once
a week --- every week, until they pay.


=> Don't pile up debt

Try not to go into debt. It's not worth it. It's better to work
part-time for someone else, or to cut back on expenses, rather
than go into debt. You don’t know how long the slow period will
last, and saddling yourself with debt is a dead-end solution.


It IS possible to run your own business, and be relaxed about it,
knowing that you can survive the bad times. If you need to go and
work part-time, don’t look on this as failure --- it's a win.
You're doing what you need to do, to keep your business viable
until the sun shines and the good times roll. You can do it.

=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=================================================

=> Free ebooks on Pro Write

http://www.prowrite.biz/

This month and next month, Pro Write is giving you a free ebook
writing manual as part of your Pro Write membership.

Download Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing Skills for Writers today,
and next month, enjoy Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the
ebook.

Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing Skills for Writers shows you how
to market your writing like a pro.

Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the ebook helps you to
discover how to develop an UNLIMITED writing income in the new
global marketplace.

Each book is yours, completely free to download and keep, exactly
as sold on our Digital-e site.

We've got lots of new material coming soon on Pro Write,
including video tutorials.

Enjoy. :-)


=================================================

Make great money writing for business!
Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:
"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

=================================================

Creative Small Biz: Copyright © 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


=>Free ebooks, video tutorials and much more on Pro Write!

http://www.prowrite.biz/

Hi everyone

Hope you're keeping busy writing, writing, writing -- and
building your creative small business. :-)

Read on to learn about:

=> Fr*e writing manuals on Pro Write

=> Our video writing tutorials

=> Our Digital-e site makeover; a DE's new FAQ



Exciting times on Pro Write. This month and next month, Pro Write
is giving members a free ebook writing manual as part of their
Pro Write membership.

This month, members can download Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing
Skills for Writers, and next month, enjoy Writing to Sell in the
Internet Age: the ebook; both manuals are completely free for
members.

Tell, Yell and Sell: Marketing Skills for Writers shows you how
to market your writing like a pro.

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_marketing_skills.html

Writing to Sell in the Internet Age: the ebook helps you to
discover how to develop an UNLIMITED writing income in the new
global marketplace.

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_internet_age.html

Each book is yours, completely free to download and keep, exactly
as sold on our Digital-e site. Enjoy. :-)

Birgitt and I have wonderful things planned for you this year,
like video writing tutorials, and much more.


=> Coming soon: video tutorials!

We hope that the ebooks keep you busy writing while we develop
our video writing tutorials. :-)

The tutorials will be free, exciting how-to videos which show you
exactly how to put the writing skills we discuss on Pro Write to
work.

I've long been aware that we have writers at different stages
signing up for PW. We've got beginning writers, intermediate
writers who are publishing and selling and want to sell more, and
professional writers who are looking for new writing venues in
which to spread their wings.

I know that when I write a tutorial, it has to appeal to
everyone, and a 5,000 word workshop is NOT enough to inspire,
motivate and guide a beginning or intermediate writer to success.

The videos will be a way in which I can explain exactly HOW you
approach an editor, HOW you interview someone, and HOW you work
through different drafts. We can also explore all the techniques
which professional writers use to make life easier -- on video.

With both audio and video to guide you, you'll make a roaring
success of your writing career. Why video? Because when you can
see something done, it becomes simple to do it yourself.

We know that you'll find the tutorials powerfully effective in
moving your writing career towards more success - and profit.

Watch for them.

Additionally, Birgitt and Paul are working hard on a complete
Digital-e revamp. We thought we should include the site's FAQ in
this mailing. We get a lot of enquiries on how things work on
DE.:-)


=> Digital-e Frequently Asked Questions by Birgitt Thursby

>>> General

Q: How do I order/receive my ebook?

A: All our ebooks are in PDF format and zipped to help reduce the
file size.
Once you have selected your ebook and clicked on the payment
button, you will be taken to a page where you fill in your
contact details. To finalise your purchase, click on the button
to be taken to the PayPal secure site to authorise payment. You
will then be taken to a download page where you can download your
ebook.

You will need WinZip to unzip your ebook and Acrobat Reader to
view/print it.



Q: I had a problem with downloading my ebook. What can I do?

A: Email Birgitt and she will help you.



Q: What if I don't have a PayPal account? How can I pay?

A: Simply contact Birgitt to organise an alternative payment
option.



Q: Are all prices in US dollars?

A: Yes.



Q: I didn't receive one of lessons in the free mini-course. Can I
still get a copy?

A: Yes. Email Birgitt and let her know which lesson you didn't
receive.
She'll resend it to you.



Q: I tried to sign up for a newsletter and my email address was
rejected.
What can I do?

A: Try going to
http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/Creative_Small_Biz/
which is the Yahoo! page for CSB and request that you be added to
the list.
If you're not already a Yahoo! member, you will need to sign up
first.




Q: I have tried to enrol to the 3-Day Email Copywriting Mini
Course and have yet to receive a reply. How long should it take
for the first lesson to arrive?

A: Your first lesson should arrive almost immediately. If it
doesn't arrive after a reasonable length of time, email Birgitt -
she'll resend it to you.



>>> Signing up for ecourses

Q: Why do a Digital-e course?

A: All course materials are written by Angela, based on her
experience as a
25+ year writing veteran - what works and what doesn't. She runs
her own
successful copywriting business, writes for magazines and is a
published author.

She helps her students with the view of getting them setup in
their own successful writing careers.


Q: The material says it will help build my portfolio. Can such a
portfolio be used to show potential clients if they ask "what
kind of work do you or did you produce...?"

A: Yes!


Q: Can you provide email addresses for students who have done
courses so I can ask them what they thought of the course?

A: No, we will not provide email address of students or
subscribers to anyone for any reason, as per our privacy policy.

You can read some testimonials on the Digital-e website. In those
testimonials with either email or web site addresses, the student
(or subscriber) has given their permission for these to be
included. Whether or not they would be willing to reply to your
emails would be entirely up to them.


Q: Where do I send my course exercises?

A: You send your course exercises to Angela, in the body of an
email (no attachments please :-). You get feedback with each
lesson, and can contact Angela at any time, right throughout the
course.


Q: When do courses start and how long do I have to complete the
course?

A: There's no set "schedule". The course starts when you signup
and finishes when you complete the last exercise. You can take as
long as you need to complete the course. Angela is always
available to you.


>>> Pro Write

Q: Can membership in Pro Write guide an unpublished "newbie" to
specific topics and publications to write for?

A: No, not "specific" topics or publications - every writer is
unique and will have their own areas of interest and/or
expertise. But, you will get the help you need to develop your
writing skills, how to find a market for your writing and how to
market it. Including how to best communicate with editors ;-)

There is a wealth of information on the site - if you can't find
answers to your questions there, Angela is more than happy answer
them personally - all you need to do is ask :-)

Information in these four workshops alone could help you develop
your writing business enormously:

Workshop One - Sell To Magazines TODAY
Workshop Four - Write and Sell Shorties - mini essays and
articles, product reviews and more Workshop Five - Selling What
You Write: Marketing and Promotion for Writers Workshop Nine -
Become a Better, Higher-selling Writer

All the workshops stay online and forums are set up to post your
questions and Angela will reply.

Pro Write membership is definitely interactive - you're not
alone! As a published author and a working copywriter with over
25 years experience, Angela wants to share her experience :-)


Have a brilliant week, keep writing and working creatively -- and
most of all, HAVE FUN.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: angela.booth@...
-------------------------------------------------
Angela Booth's Writing Blog
http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================

CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 103: March 15 , 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

BLOG: DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* Editorial: Should you blog?

* Excerpt from Pro Write Workshop #12, "Blog Your Writing":
Benefits and advantages of public blogging for writers and other
creatives

=================================================

=> Editorial: Should you blog?

Blogging, which is essentially instant publishing by anyone,
anywhere, is gaining momentum on the Web. Creatives, as you might
imagine, are taking to the new medium in droves.

Should YOU blog? I get several email messages every week asking
me about the pros and cons of blogging, and I hope that this
month's excerpt from our Pro Write workshop "Blog Your Writing"
will help you to make a decision.

"How much time do you spending blogging each day?" is the most
popular question. It takes me around 15 minutes to write and post
an item of 100 to 200 words. Therefore, depending on how many
items I post on a particular day, it might take around half an
hour to an hour.

Your blog is what you choose to make it. You don't need to spend
hours on it every day. Many bloggers only post a couple of times
a week.

Hope you enjoy the excerpt. :-)

Best wishes from

Angela
=================================================

=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================



=> Excerpt: The benefits and advantages of public blogging for
writers


Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.





All writers who are serious about writing and selling need a
blog. Or blogs. Let's look at the advantages of blogging for both
new and established writers.


==> Blogging advantages for new and aspiring writers ---

*  If you're a new writer, a blog gives you the confidence and
ability to write for an audience. Please notice that I put
confidence ahead of ability. As a new writer, you need the
confidence to START. Some writers are born with the confidence to
send their work off to editors, but they're in the minority.

I've even heard of professional writers admitting to collapsing
into tears when they send off work that means a lot to them, so
it's not surprising that aspiring writers feel that the process
of writing for public consumption is overwhelming.

*  Your blog helps you to get comfortable with words.
Inexperienced writers "write". Experienced writers just say what
they're got to say --- you can hear the writer's "voice" behind
the words. Developing this voice takes a lot of writing. A blog
lets you do that writing in a low-risk, comfortable arena.

*  Your blog enhances your creativity. Writing begets writing.
The more you write, the more you'll have to write about. If you
commit to blogging, the knowledge that you need to collect
material for your blog stimulates your creativity. You'll come up
with ideas for your blog, and for other writing too.

*  You can use your blog as a writing sample. When you're a new
writer, you don't have any credits. This means that editors are
hesitant to assign commissions to you. Your blog proves that you
can write, and gives a commissioning editor an idea of what your
style is like. Add your blog's URL to query letters and proposals
that you send to editors, and invite editors to visit your blog.
The fact that you have a blog lets editors know that you're
serious about writing.


==> Blogging advantages for established writers ---

*  Your blog helps you to build a platform for your writing
career. Your platform is a base of readers, people who know you
and your work. Your platform is a ready-made audience. Yes,
publishing a book will build your platform, BUT publishers want
you to have a platform first. If you have a built-in audience,
then publishing your books is less risky.

*  Your blog gives you the courage to find your voice and be
yourself. I mentioned voice above. Your writer's voice can only
develop with practice. It's as distinctive as a fingerprint.
Forensic word-use document analysis proved that Newsweek
columnist Joe Klein was Anonymous, the author of the roman a clef
novel, Primary Colors. His voice was just as distinctive as
yours.

*  Your blog gives you contacts. The writing world is now global.
You have a global audience. This means global competition. This
is a good thing. It means increased markets for your work. The
blogosphere is a huge collection of bloggers, people who blog for
fun, or who blog for marketing and promotion for their business,
or some other work-related reason, and bloggers talk to other
bloggers.

Your blog, with its RSS feed, permalinks, and comments (see the
Glossary) features makes you part of the blogosphere, the social
network of bloggers.

*  People can find you online. Blogs get indexed by search
engines FAST. It only took a couple of days for my initial Angela
Booth's Writing Blog items to start appearing in Google. With a
Web site, you'd expect to get indexed in a couple of months. This
means that your blog will get you more readers, faster, than a
Web site.

Note: I'm not suggesting that you don't need a Web site. However,
if you don't have the time/ money/ knowledge to create a site,
get a blog.

=================================================

=>Love to write? Join Pro Write: Professional Writing Secrets

Build a successful professional writing career. For both novices
and experienced, selling writers. A new interactive writing
workshop every month, for fiction, nonfiction and copywriting,
plus writing coaching and writing forums.

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================

*** Copywriting eight-week email course ***

Sick of your day job? Make great money writing for business!

Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:

"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"

With Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Dear Fellow Writer

If you love to write, you may be overlooking a fantastic way to
make your writing pay --- by copywriting (writing for business).


Starting pay? $60 an hour, with UNLIMITED POTENTIAL EARNINGS!

Not only is freelance copywriting creative, fun, and easy (if you
can write an interesting email message you can write copy), it's
also well paid. Novice copywriters start out earning $60 an hour,
and once you're experienced, the sky's the limit on what you can
earn.

You may be interested to know that established copywriters with a
stable of clients estimate that they'll earn at least $100,000 a
year. And that's without working particularly hard. In fact,
copywriters who specialize in company reports may only work a few
weeks in the year, and still make a comfortable six-figure
income.


Write from home, and write when it suits you

Most freelance copywriters write from home, either moonlighting
from their regular job, or as full-timers. As you can imagine, if
it's your full-time job, it's a great life. You can write an ad
or three pages of a manual in the morning, and then take the rest
of the day off. Why not?

There's no age barrier on freelance copywriting. No one cares if
you're just out of college, or if you're retired from an active
working life. If you can write, you can write copy.

There's also no education barrier. You can have an MA or a PhD or
you can be totally self-taught.

More information at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

(Earn as you learn --- weekly payment option available.)

Want a sample? Sign up for a free 3-day course based on the
course:

http://www.digital-e.biz/freecourses.html


=================================================

=> Market your writing (and writing skills) like an expert!

Comprehensive ebook marketing manual:

**Tell, Yell And Sell: Marketing Skills For Writers**

Sell more, earn more: get the marketing skills to make writing a
lucrative career; get confidence in your writing; and eliminate
writer's block permanently.

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebook_marketing_skills.html

=================================================

=> Writing Coaching: Plot Your Novel

This five-week coaching program helps you to create a compelling
plot, fascinating characters, a synopsis, and more. We'll work
with your current novel, or if you don't have a novel in
progress, we'll plot and develop one.

If you've always wanted to write a novel, this coaching program
is for you:

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html#plot

=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

=================================================


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 102: February 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

THIS MONTH:

* Editorial: Get out of your comfort zone

* Article: Five Ways To Fail Your Way To Success

* Coming up on Pro Write: The Art of the Writing Pitch workshop

=================================================

=> Editorial: Get out of your comfort zone

It's February already. :-) Are you working on achieving your
goals for this year? If you haven't created MEASURABLE goals for
2005, do it today.

This month's article is about failing your way to success. You
must tell yourself that success is a learning process, and that
you'll stumble (fail) may times, until you learn how to succeed.

Thought for the day: are you afraid of failure, or could it be
that you're afraid of success?

When you achieve your goals your life will change. Most of the
time, we aren't that enthused about change. Yes, we'd like
success, but it means change. We don't know how we'll cope.

The answer is: get uncomfortable now. Today. Get out of your
comfort zone NOW. Your comfort zone is death.

Apropos success, the first of Bob Parsons' excellent 16 rules for
survival is:

<<<Get and stay out of your comfort zone. I believe that not much
happens of any significance when we're in our comfort zone. I
hear people say, "But I'm concerned about security." My response
to that is simple: "Security is for cadavers.">>

Read Bob's rules here:

http://www.bobparsons.com/RoberttheycanteatyouMyrulesforsurvival.
html

So this month, make this your mantra: "if I'm comfortable, I'm
dead. Anxiety, stress and even failure mean that I'm  learning
and growing and on the road to success."

Have a great uncomfortable month!

Don't forget to visit Angela Booth's Writing Blog for a daily
dose of inspiration and fun:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/

All best wishes from

Angela

=================================================

=> ARTICLE: Five Ways To Fail Your Way To Success



Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.


Start today to fail your way to success. Start by defining what
success means to you.

Write a page. Begin with these words: "To me, success means
____________"


=> Way One: See success clearly

Remember the old saying: "Everyone wants to get to heaven, but no
one wants to die"?

We all want success, but we don't necessarily want all the
accoutrements. Success means:

* more responsibility;

* more hard work;

* more demands from others; and

* a  LOT OF CHANGE.

It is worth it? Only you know. If you haven't written your page
of what success means to you, do it now. Unless you know what
success means, you're stalled - you don't know where you're
going, so it's impossible to chart a course.


=> Way Two: You're closest, when you think you're furthest away

Countless writers have said something like: "the day I got my
first offer of publication, I'd already quit. I emptied my filing
cabinets into garbage bags, and deleted all my writing-related
files from my computer. I was done. Then the envelope/ phone call
arrived."

Yes. It's true. You're closer than you think. Keep failing. The
very indication that you're ready to quit means that you've given
it everything you have. When you're ready to quit: pause. You're
almost there.


=> Way Three: Desire success

You've got to stay hungry. How much do you want to succeed? Be
honest with yourself. Many people want to write, but they really
mean that they would like to live a writer's life. The glamorous
version, that is. The version where you sit in a book-lined
study, musing, sipping the occasional cocktail. Literary
luncheons with your editor.

A writer's life is nothing like that. A writer's life is writing.
That's all.

Is that what you want? If you desire success in your chosen field
beyond anything else, you will succeed.


=> Way Four: Keep your own counsel

Shush! Don't talk about your work. Just do it.

No one can help you learn your way to success except you. If you
want advice, ask someone who is doing what you want to do. Don't
ask people who can't help you.

Remember that as much as your friends and relatives love you,
they may not be thrilled at your success. It means change, and we
all distrust change. They know the you that you are right now.
They worry that they may not like the you that you want to be. Is
it surprising that they try, often unconsciously, to sabotage
you?


=> Way Five: Expect chaos

The learning process is messy. It's two steps forward and one
step back. Expect chaos. Whenever you feel confused, realise that
this is great: confusion means that you're out of your comfort
zone. It feels uncomfortable, yes, but it's supposed to feel that
way. Remember "Way One: See success clearly". Write about what
success means to you, and then just take the next step.

You have two brains in one: a left, and right brain. Your right
(intuitive) brain, sees patterns and wholes. It will nudge you in
the directions in which you need to go to reach your view of
success. Trust it. Just take the next step.

You CAN fail your way to success. It's the only way to get there.



=================================================

=> NEW on Pro Write: The Art of the Writing Pitch workshop

Our next Pro Write workshop (first lesson on the site on February
20), is "The Art of the Writing Pitch".

http://www.prowrite.biz/

Writers pitch their projects. Whether you're aiming for a
commission to write a magazine article, or an agreement to write
a Web site, or a contract to write a book, you need to recognise
and begin to develop the art of pitching your writing.

Recognising the need to pitch is paramount. You have to know what
the people who buy your work are looking for. Clue: they want
(profitable) solutions to their problems.

I've written about pitching in "How to write a proposal to get
freelance work".

http://www.digital-e.biz/articles/art_writing8.html

In The Art of the Writing Pitch, we'll cover everything you  need
to know in order to pitch ALL your writing projects and build
your selling average.

Join us. The workshop will be a lot of fun. :-)


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


==============================

=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================

=> Coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================

=> Email Workshop For Writers <=

Writing To Sell In The Internet Age
by Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Explode your writing profits!

The Internet gives you an unbelievable opportunity to rocket your
writing career into orbit. If you're feeling that you're not
getting your share of the exploding opportunities, our new email
workshop, Writing To Sell In the Internet Age, is for you.

More info, with the course outline at ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses1.html


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 101: January 15, 2005

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

**** NEW ***

NEW, DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* Editorial: Happy 2005!

* Article: In 2005, Commit to Daily Marketing

=================================================

=> Editorial: Happy 2005!

Here we are in 2005. We've got lots of plans for all our sites
this year. If you have a specific want or need, speak up. You can
contact us at any time and make your wishes known. If you have a
question, we’ll answer it, or point you to someone else who can.
If you'd like to see something discussed in CSB, we're happy to
do that too.

As you've noticed, if you're a longterm subscriber, we're
trimming down the ezines. Chiefly this is because of the amount
of sp#m around. The ezines get caught in traps, and don’t get
through to you.

The other primary reason is blogs and RSS --- Really Simply
Syndication. RSS and blogs help you to be an instant-publisher.
They get your information to the people who want it, when they
want it. Blogs emerged into the mainstream with the US election.
A blog is the fastest, easiest and cheapest way for you to
interact with your customers, because a blog is a conversation.

The material that I used to publish in Creative Small Biz and
Your EveryDay Write now appears in our primary blog, so for
ongoing DAILY writing and business tips, inspiration, motivation,
and information, I encourage you to visit Angela Booth's Writing
Blog daily, at:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


What's RSS?

RSS powers blogs. Or collates blogs. :-) To get up to speed on
RSS and instant-publishing, visit:

http://www.faganfinder.com/search/rss.shtml


My favourite newsfeed (RSS) aggregator is Bloglines ---

http://www.bloglines.com


Once you've signed up at Bloglines (it's free), you can add your
newsfeeds very easily. Just read the Help file.

WANT TO KNOW HOW TO GET STARTED BLOGGING?

Our latest Pro Write workshop, "Blog Your Writing", helps you to
get started blogging. The first lesson will be available on
January 15.

http://www.prowrite.biz/


The Internet is changing fast. Are you making the most of the
opportunities the brave new electronic world is bringing you? In
2005, I encourage you to THINK GLOBAL, no matter what kind of
small creative business you own. RSS and blogs will help you to
reach a global marketplace, as fast as you can type. What's not
to like? :-)

Wishing every success with your creative biz!

Angela Booth

=================================================

=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================


=> PRO WRITE: January 2005 1st Birthday Special

CHARTER MEMBER OFFER REPEAT

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Wow, the Pro Write: Professional Writing Secrets site is a year
old. If you've been wondering whether membership is for you, you
can now take advantage of our birthday to find out. We're
repeating the Charter Membership offer with which we launched the
site --- a full year of Pro Write, at a very special price.

Your new career starts NOW. If you've always wanted to turn your
love of writing into a full-time career, YOU CAN.

Our 1st Birthday Repeat Charter Membership Special Offer gives
you a full year of Pro Write membership.

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html


=================================================

Article: In 2005, Commit to Daily Marketing


Copyright © 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.




Your creative small business success is built on marketing. Look
at any successful enterprise, from Pizza Hut to the solo home
business operator. They all market consistently. There's no way
they can survive without marketing.

If you've recently made the transition from paid employment to
your own business, you may find the marketing concept difficult
to get your head around. When you're working for someone else,
they handle all the marketing.

An employer's marketing efforts may be invisible to the staff.
The marketing may consist of: a yearly Yellow Pages ad, local
advertising, attendance at trade shows, private networking, and
outsourced telemarketing.

If you're a solo operator, at least 40 per cent of your working
time each week needs to be spent on marketing. You need to have
processes in place so that you can simply get it done without
thinking too much about it. If marketing is difficult for you,
it's because you don’t have the processes in place which make it
easy.

You can choose to spend half your daily working time marketing,
or you can devote a couple of days each week to marketing. Your
choice. But you must get it done.


==> What's best? Online or offline marketing?

That depends on your client base, and your own comfort level.
Where do your clients come from? If you've just started your own
small business, you may feel more comfortable dealing with local
businesses, by which I mean businesses within easy driving
distance. On the other hand, you may feel comfortable dealing
with national and international businesses from the start.

I'm happy dealing with international businesses, because I
started my professional writing career working with a British
publisher over 20 years ago. (I'm in Australia.) In those days,
international phone calls were an event, and if my editor and I
wanted to get in touch quickly, we sent telegrams.

Nowadays working with someone on the other side of the world is
just as easy as working with someone locally. Easier, in some
ways, because of the time difference. A US or UK client can email
me a brief, and I can usually have the work done for them by the
time they hit their office the next morning.

For most small creative businesses, I suggest a mix of both
online and offline marketing.

Here's a good starting place: combine intensive local
telemarketing (cold calls), with creating a quick blog (Web log).

Our latest Pro Write workshop is "Blog Your Writing", and will
get you up to speed on blogging.

http://www.prowrite.biz/


==> Remember the name-recognition factor

Nothing will derail your marketing efforts more quickly than
misunderstanding the marketing cycle. As  a rule of thumb,
consider that it will take around three months for your initial
marketing efforts to parlay into a viable small business.
Therefore, if you're just starting out, make sure that you have
sufficient funds to keep you going for at least three months.

Your prospects need to see your name over and over again before
they buy your services. Make sure that when they want your
services, they recognize your name! Build the relationship.

You can get bored when you're doing the same thing over and over
and you get no result. You may have inserted a paid ad into your
local paper for eight weeks, with zero reaction. Place the ad for
another four weeks, please. It takes at least three months of
placing your ad for you to start getting business from it.

Making time to market every day builds your business. Your first
resolution for 2005 should be that you will market your business
every day  ---- no matter what!

=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


=================================================
 
Fr*ee resources, information and inspiration for writers--
You'll find them all at WriteSuccess, the site and ezine
dedicated to helping writers turn dreams into reality.
Sign up today and get motivated! http://writesuccess.com
 

=================================================

=> Coaching program: Market Your Writing

If you love writing, and wish that you could turn your hobby into
a well-paid career, you can. TODAY. Thousands of markets are
looking for YOUR work, right now.

When you sell your writing, you get more than money. You get
confidence, prestige, and validation. You're climbing the ladder
of a new career where the sky is the limit.

To be a selling writer, you need marketing skills. My brand-new
marketing coaching program gives you those skills.

My personal guarantee to you: if you begin this program, you WILL
SELL your work.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright © 2005 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.


YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 100: December 15, 2004

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


=================================================

*** NEW BLOG: DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS ***

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* Editorial: Issue 100 of Creative Small Biz

* Article: Ten Top Tips From Our First Ten Issues


=================================================

=> Editorial: Issue 100 of Creative Small Biz

Wow, we're 100! It's hard to believe that we're now at three
figures. I've been rereading our first few issues, and have
compiled Ten Top Tips from issues One to Ten. We've published
some fantastic material to help you to build and run your
creative small business over the years.

If you're looking for reading material over the holiday break, go
through the newsletter archives on Digital-e:

http://www.digital-e.biz/archive.html


In another ten short days, Christmas will be here. Birgitt and I
wish you and yours everything that you wish for yourselves this
joyous season, and for 2005.


==> Your yearly review, and plans for 2005

At this time of the year, you'll be looking back over your
accomplishments, and are looking ahead to the new year.

Did you achieve everything you set out to achieve in 2004?
Whether you did or not, 2005 is a new opportunity. Consider:


* making ONE change in your working habits which will help you to
achieve the results you want in 2005. Change is always difficult,
and you'll be tempted to make a whole raft of New Year's
Resolutions, so just aim for one change.

* setting measurable goals. "I want to sell more" isn't a goal.
It's a wish. "I will sell one article per week in January" is a
goal.

* keeping a work log.


Relax and enjoy, and stay safe over the holiday break.

See you in 2005!

All best wishes from

Angela Booth

=================================================

=> Our Holiday Special --- Kickstart Your Writing Career

Seasons Greetings from Birgitt and Angela. Let us help you to
kick your writing career into overdrive in 2005 with our
fantastic holiday season ebook special:

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Until January 6, 2005 all four of our ebooks are reduced as our
holiday gift to you.

Buy one, or buy them all. Make 2005 your best writing year EVER.
Remember, each ebook is a complete writing manual, with
information you can use, right now, to help your writing career.

You'll find information about the books on Digital-e Specials'
page. Click "more info" to get complete details on each book.

However, YOU MUST ORDER FROM THE SPECIALS PAGE to get the books
at the Holiday Season price, so please make sure that you click
back to the Specials page to order.. :-)

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Happy Holidays! Seasons Greetings to you and yours, and all best
wishes from

Birgitt and Angela

=================================================

=> Ten Top Tips From Our First Ten Issues


By Angela Booth


Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.


Tip One: Public Relations is about image and branding, not
publicity (from Issue #1)

Many entrepreneurs feel that if their mention in a newspaper or
magazine doesn't immediately lead to new business, their PR
activities have failed. Not so. It's important that you look for
opportunities which, while they may bring you no instant monetary
return, do nevertheless enhance your profile and improve your
image. As an equivalent example in the corporate world, think of
sponsorships: big business knows that sponsoring is about their
image and branding, not about instant returns.


Tip Two: Actively look for Multiple Income Streams (from Issue
#2)

The world is changing fast. Most of the jobs around today weren't
in existence a decade ago. Actively looking for your own Multiple
Income Streams means that you won't be blindsided if your current
work dries up for whatever reason.

Here's how to recognize a new Income Stream that's right for you:

* it gets you enthusiastic;

* you feel you can do it right now, or with some practise or
training;

* it has a market.


Tip Three: Produce! create anywhere (from Issue #3)

Take a notebook, or a tape recorder and camera with you
everywhere. Snatch five minutes (even if it's in a restroom) and
write, or sketch.


Tip Four: Charge what you're worth (from Issue #4)

How much are you worth? You can't stay in business if you don't
know. However, there's more to pricing than setting your basic
prices. If you have years of experience, offer fast turnaround,
and are prepared to handle jobs on weekends, and overnight, you
can charge more.


Tip Five: Watch your mental images (from Issue #5)

Who's in your head? Two of you. Your brain has two halves, so
you're two people. Truly. There's the left brain analytical you,
and the right brain creative you.

Your right brain has charge of your subconscious mind. And if you
sabotage yourself, your subconscious is what's doing it.

I found writing exhausting for years. Even thinking about writing
made me tired. I dieted, started new exercise programs, gulped
vitamin pills, got more sleep. Didn't work. I'd finish a few
hours of writing completely worn out.

Then an image formed in my mind. The image of a mountain climber,
toiling up the rocky slope of a steep, ice-covered mountain.

Numb fingers. Aching legs. Deep crevasses on either side of me.

That explained the exhaustion. My subconscious equated writing
with mountain climbing.

So I changed my image of my writer-self. My new image is of a
seed-sower, walking along the rows of a tilled field. The field
has black, rich soil. I scatter handfuls of seeds from a bag as I
stroll along in the warm sun.

This new image makes me feel pleasantly relaxed.

It works. Writing no longer makes me tired. I'm just ambling
along, scattering seeds.

If you find marketing difficult, ask yourself  what image you're
holding of marketing.


Tip Six: Get it in writing --- make sure you have an agreement
(from Issue #6)

If you provide a service, you need a basic agreement that you
automatically give to all new clients. Always insist on something
in writing, whether you fax them your own agreement, or they fax
you a purchase order. Without the details of the project in
writing,  you'll forget what you said, or they'll forget what
they said. It's worth taking the extra trouble to spell it all
out in writing --- however briefly --- so that everyone's on the
same page.


Tip Seven: Negative thoughts are just thoughts --- replace them
with positive feelings (from Issue #7)

Developing the ability to feel positive about yourself starts
with recognizing when your thinking is negative.

Thoughts are like waves on the ocean. The ocean produces waves,
your mind produces thoughts. Thoughts lead to emotions. You can't
stop your thoughts, but you can refuse to buy into them.

Noticing your thoughts, especially recognizing negative thoughts,
is a major achievement. It takes a while to realize when you're
thinking negatively, because for many of us, negative thinking
comes more easily than feeling positive.

When negative thoughts discourage you, replace them with a
positive feeling. Think of something you love: going to the
movies, pizza, puppies.


Tip Eight: Write to sell, by combining entertainment and
information (from Issue #8)

The best way to sell either fiction or non-fiction is to combine
both in your writing.

Mix a dash of entertainment with your information. That is, when
you're writing an information product, an article or a book, even
though it's non-fiction, don't be dull. Check out the wildly
popular For Dummies series of books: good information, delivered
with an entertaining style.


Tip Nine: Write proposals to get freelance work (from Issue #9)

If you're a freelancer looking for work, drop that CV! Your
primary tool for generating work is a proposal, not a CV.

Some of your proposals will be written in response to Requests
for Proposals (RFPs), where businesses put out a call for
proposals to provide solutions to problems.

The proposals you generate on your own, after you've identified a
need the client has, are called Unsolicited Proposals. By
creating lots of proposals, you get lots of work.


Tip Ten: Write an article a day (from Issue #10)

Want to become a better writer? Easy. Just write an article a
day.

When you write each and every day, you develop skill. Writing is
a skill that demands the easy interaction of various parts of
your brain. This interaction isn't developed without practice,
nor does the interaction seem to remain viable unless you
consistently practice --- unless you write every day.

I imagine writing skills as being like developing communication
pathways between different areas in the brain. If you don't
practice your writing daily, those pathways disappear, just like
untraversed paths through a forest.


=================================================


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=================================================

*** Copywriting eight-week email course ***

Sick of your day job? Make great money writing for business!

Interactive Eight Week Freelance Copywriting Email Course:

"Writing Words that Sell: Freelance Copywriting"

With Angela Booth

(A professional writer for 25 years, published by mainstream
publishers.)

Dear Fellow Writer

If you love to write, you may be overlooking a fantastic way to
make your writing pay --- by copywriting (writing for business).


Starting pay? $60 an hour, with UNLIMITED POTENTIAL EARNINGS!

Not only is freelance copywriting creative, fun, and easy (if you
can write an interesting email message you can write copy), it's
also well paid. Novice copywriters start out earning $60 an hour,
and once you're experienced, the sky's the limit on what you can
earn.

You may be interested to know that established copywriters with a
stable of clients estimate that they'll earn at least $100,000 a
year. And that's without working particularly hard. In fact,
copywriters who specialize in company reports may only work a few
weeks in the year, and still make a comfortable six-figure
income.


Write from home, and write when it suits you

Most freelance copywriters write from home, either moonlighting
from their regular job, or as full-timers. As you can imagine, if
it's your full-time job, it's a great life. You can write an ad
or three pages of a manual in the morning, and then take the rest
of the day off. Why not?

There's no age barrier on freelance copywriting. No one cares if
you're just out of college, or if you're retired from an active
working life. If you can write, you can write copy.

There's also no education barrier. You can have an MA or a PhD or
you can be totally self-taught.

More information at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses2.html

(Earn as you learn --- weekly payment option available.)

Want a sample? Sign up for a free 3-day course based on the
course:

http://www.digital-e.biz/freecourses.html


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**
=================================================

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 99: November 15, 2004

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


Published and edited by Angela Booth


=================================================

*** OUR BLOGS ***

NEW, DAILY WRITING NEWS, VIEWS AND TIPS:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


Digital-e News (small business):

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html


Pro Write Blog (news about the Pro Write site):

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

=> In this issue:

1. News! :-) (EDITORIAL)

2. Cold, hard fact: market regularly, or close your business
(ARTICLE)

3. Holiday Season Gift: our Digital-e ebook special


=================================================

1. Editorial: News!

The holiday season is almost upon us. This means sending cards
and gifts to your favourite clients, starting now. :-)

We're all busy at this time of the year. In Australia, the
December/ January period is the summer holiday season, so
magazines shove their deadlines forward so that issues can get to
the printers before the printers close for the break.

When everything's running on fast-forward, it's hard to remember
marketing. However, you MUST remember marketing every day. I
hope that our article this month helps to explain why this is
important.

=> Our new blog

If you haven't visited our latest blog, it's at:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


Drop by and leave a comment on one of the posts. :-)

Enjoy this issue. Please let me know if you have a topic you'd
like addressed in CSB in 2005.

All best wishes

Angela

=================================================

2. Article: Cold, hard fact: Market regularly, or close your
business

By Angela Booth


Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights reserved.



Marketing is the lifeblood of your business. This can be hard to
remember when you're working steadily. When you've got a stream
of incoming work, doing the work seems to be of utmost
importance. Why bother to tout for more business, when you've
already got more than you can handle?

You have to keep in mind however, that everything changes, all
the time. No matter how busy you are, you must make time each day
for marketing.

How much time?

If you're moonlighting in your own business, make sure that you
spend a couple of hours each week marketing. If you're working in
your own business full-time, spend an hour a day marketing. Every
day.

Almost everything you do counts towards marketing, so this is
easy. Here's what I call marketing:

* Research on the Web: create a GOAL for work first, don't browse
aimlessly, and stay out of chat rooms;

* Mini-proposals: these are ideas I sent to current clients, and
to clients I'd like to attract;

* blogging;

* phone calls: catch-up calls to clients I haven't heard from in
three months, and cold calls.


I like to vary my marketing efforts, because I get bored easily
:-)

Remember that all marketing takes around 90 days to start to pay
off, so if you're sending out 500 mailers today, you won't see
the results for a while.

Remember to follow up on activities like mailing out news
releases and brochures. Here's an article that will help ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/articles/art_marketing10.html


=> Keep a positive mental attitude --- enthusiasm is vital

Even more important than doing at least one marketing task each
day is your attitude. I know it's hard to stay positive when
you're just starting your creative business. Please remember that
it takes at least three months for your consistent marketing
efforts to start paying off.

Realise: your efforts will pay off. And the more effort you put
into marketing, the more they will pay off. You just need to stay
excited and positive while it seems as if nothing is happening.

Remember that marketing is a numbers game. If you've ever done
anything like door to door sales, or telemarketing, you know that
this is a simple fact. The more people you contact, no matter
what your offer is, the more business you will get.

So please, at those times when you think that all your phone
calls, faxes and letters and are dropping into a deep dark hole,
don't despair. You will get a response. Then you'll be worried
that you don't have the time to do all the work.

Make a note in your diary or Personal Information Manager: MARKET
DAILY.

Do it. :-)
=================================================

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=================================================

3. Our Gift to you this holiday season :-)

The holiday season starts early at Digital-e and Pro Write. :-)

Seasons Greetings from Birgitt and Angela. Let us help you to
kick your writing career into overdrive in 2005 with our
fantastic holiday season ebook special:

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Until January 6, 2005 all four of our ebooks are reduced as our
holiday gift to you.

Buy one, or buy them all. Make 2005 your best writing year EVER.
Remember, each ebook is a complete writing manual, with
information you can use, right now, to help your writing career.

You'll find information about the books on Digital-e Specials'
page. Click "more info" to get complete details on each book.

However, YOU MUST ORDER FROM THE SPECIALS PAGE to get the books
at the Holiday Season price, so please make sure that you click
back to the Specials page to order.. :-)

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Happy Holidays! Seasons Greetings to you and yours, and all best
wishes from

Birgitt and Angela


=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.



YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The holiday season starts early at Digital-e and Pro Write. :-)

Seasons Greetings from Birgitt and Angela. Let us help you to
kick your writing career into overdrive in 2005 with our
fantastic holiday season ebook special:

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Until January 6, 2005 all four of our ebooks are reduced as our
holiday gift to you.

Buy one, or buy them all. Make 2005 your best writing year EVER.
Remember, each ebook is a complete writing manual, with
information you can use, right now, to help your writing career.

You'll find information about the books on Digital-e Specials'
page. Click "more info" to get complete details on each book.

However, YOU MUST ORDER FROM THE SPECIALS PAGE to get the books
at the Holiday Season price, so please make sure that you click
back to the Specials page to order.. :-)

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Happy Holidays! Seasons Greetings to you and yours, and all best
wishes from

Birgitt and Angela


Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Read our new blog daily:

Angela Booth's Writing Blog
http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/
-------------------------------------------------

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Good morning; hope you're having a great day. :-)

As you know, we've been having problems with the delivery of the
Creative Small Biz and Your EveryDay write ezines over the past
six months. This is as frustrating for you, as it is for Birgitt
and me. We'll continue to send out the ezines on a monthly
schedule. CSB will be sent out on the 15th day of each month; YEW
will go out on the 30th day.

In the meantime, I've been tinkering with ideas and have hit on a
blog solution. As you may know, we've had the Digital-e and Pro
Write blogs for a while.


* Digital-e's blog (Web log):

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html

* Pro Write's blog:

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/

While the two blogs were getting established, and because CSB and
YEW were going out to subscribers anyway, I haven't bothered to
differentiate between the two blogs.

It's time to do that, so that you get what you want, when you
want it. :-)


Ergo, from now on:

* To read small business news and news about the Digital-e site,
go to:

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html



* To read Pro Write news, for Pro Write members and for anyone
who's considering subscribing, go to:

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/



* For general WRITING news, go to our new blog, Angela Booth's
Writing Blog, at:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


Why the new blog?

Over time, the new blog at TypePad will become a family of
several blogs. We're working on new ideas, and the new blogs will
be set up on TypePad. TypePad is a great blogging tool, which has
features which aren't available through the Blogger and
LiveJournal blogging clients. The Digital-e and Pro Write blogs
will deal with anything that's relevant to those sites. They will
become SITE SPECIFIC. This will make it easier for you to find
material which is useful to you, and for us to manage. :-)

The blogs will eliminate the constant worry and hassle with sp#m,
and you'll find what YOU want easily, just by going to the blog
you want.

I'll be posting to Angela Booth's Writing Blog daily, so you'll
see any information about any new projects there first.


In a nutshell:

=> If you're interested in running a creative small business,
visit the Digital-e blog regularly, at:
http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html


=> If you're a Pro Write subscriber, and/ or are interested in
what's happening at Pro Write, visit the public blog for Pro
Write at: http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/


**** I'll be posting to the above two blogs weekly, or more often
if there's something happening on the blog's site. ****


=> For DAILY writing and other news, visit the new blog, Angela
Booth's Writing Blog:

http://copywriter.typepad.com/copywriter/


I'll be posting writing exercises, writing news, and other
writing information at Angela Booth's Writing Blog DAILY. You can
use the Comments section at the end of each post to leave
comments or to get in touch.

Enjoy.:-)

Please contact us directly if you have questions, using the
feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.

Published monthly, on the 15th of each month.

=================================================

Issue 98: October 15, 2004

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


Published and edited by Angela Booth

Contact me at: ab@...

Or visit: http://www.digital-e.biz/

Or:

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================
Digital-e Daily ---

More tips and guidance at Digital-e's blog (Web log):

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html

And at Pro Write's blog:

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

* We're back! :-)

* Toxic Criticism (Eric Maisel)

* Extract from tenth Pro Write Workshop, "Write and Sell an
eBook".


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing our
digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact with
us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write
until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@


=> WE'RE BACK! :-)

It's good to be back.

You'll notice some changes in the new issues. They'll be shorter,
and will be published monthly, rather than weekly. This is
because of the amount of junk mail floating around. Large issues
trigger sp#m traps. Small issues do too, of course.
Unfortunately, there's nothing that we can do to ensure that you
get your issues regularly. We'll all have to be patient and hope
that in the next year or two the sp#m situation will be brought
under some control. CSB will now be published on the 15th day of
each month, so visit either Digital-e or Pro Write to read issues
if you don’t get them.

If you need a more regular fix, then read either the DE or PW
blogs --- the URLs are at the top of this issue.


=> TOXIC CRITICISM

In his latest Creativity newsletter, Eric Maisel says:

>>>

Criticism falls into three broad categories: actual criticism,
anticipated criticism, and self-criticism.  Examples of the first
are getting a poor job performance review, having your painting
attacked in painting class, being held up to ridicule by a
sibling, or hearing from a friend that your latest poem is your
worst so far.  Examples of the second are worrying what people
will say should you dare to sing in public, fearing an attack by
the critics if your novel is published, or imagining the critical
things that your parents will say if you let it slip that you are
thinking of switching careers.  Examples of the third are
demeaning your own efforts, feeling that nothing you do is ever
good enough, and presuming that you will never realize your
goals.

>>>

Read the entire article (you'll need to join):

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/creativitynewsletter/


=> TENTH PRO WRITE WORKSHOP, "WRITE AND SELL AN EBOOK".

Here's an extract from Lesson One of our tenth workshop. If
you're  not a member of Pro Write, join at
http://www.prowrite.biz/

Pro Write gives you ---

* a new workshop every month, giving you an opportunity to BUILD
your professional writing career by learning new skills and
techniques; and

* free writing help whenever you need it --- all you need to do
is post a question on one of Pro Write's forums.

If you're serious about your writing career, we are too. Join us
on the high road to success today.


*** Extract from Lesson One of "Write and Sell an eBook".


==> Why write an ebook?

The primary reason is money. You don’t have to sell many copies
of an ebook to make a profit.

How many copies do you need to sell? Let's work it out.

Let's say that you've written an ebook of 20,000 to 30,000 words.
(This is a good length for an ebook. Reading on a computer screen
is uncomfortable. Say what you've got to say in a minimum of
words and your readers will thank you.)

Your ebook took 60 hours to write. If you were being paid at a
rate of $60 an hour, you'd make $3600 in 60 hours. At $30 each,
you'll need to sell 120 copies of your ebook to pay yourself for
the time you spent writing the ebook.

Almost any book you write will easily sell 120 copies. Compare
this number with a traditional publishing house which won't
consider a book unless it's a sure thing to sell at least 5000
copies.

The second reason for writing an ebook is time. You can get your
ebook to readers quickly, because you don’t have to put up with
the hassles of the traditional publishing process.

If you go the traditional publishing route, it will take you 60
hours to put the book proposal together. After you've completed
the proposal and sent it out, count on at least six months before
the proposal is accepted by a publisher.

Add another six months to write the book, and another year before
it hits the bookstores. Two years from idea to publication day is
standard for a traditional book.

Here are a few more reasons to write an ebook:

* an ebook builds your name online;

* it's a good entrée for a traditional book. Don’t be surprised
if a traditional publisher knocks on your door to offer you a
book contract when your ebook is online;

* writing an ebook builds your skill and confidence. Writing a
book is a major undertaking. The size of the project deters many
otherwise competent writers. Although you may think that you can
complete a long project, you won’t be sure that you can do it
until you've done it. Do it once however, and you know that you
can do it again.

You'll find the complete lesson on Pro Write.


@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

=> JOIN OUR CREATIVES CLUB!<=

Get your own low-cost, zero maintenance, highly effective Web
presence AND ONLINE STORE. Your Creatives Club Web page is a
combination of a calling card, brochure, portfolio and sales
page. Not only make will it make communication with your
prospective clients and current clients super-quick, it will also
get you listed on Google.com so that you gain credibility online.

http://www.digital-e.biz/creat_club_join.html


=> Digital-e: THREE FREE writing courses <= One for copywriters
(writers for business), one to help you make the most of the
unlimited opportunities and markets the Internet offers to
freelance writers, and one to help you GET PAID to write a book.
http://www.digital-e.biz/freecourses.html

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@



=================================================


Creative Small Biz: Copyright © 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.




YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

No, we haven't dropped off the face of the earth. :-) Birgitt and
I have been heads down, tails up, working hard.

Just a brief note to let you know that new issues of the two
ezines --- both have gone to MONTHLY publication --- are coming
soon.

Watch for the next CSB on October 15. Your next YEW will arrive
near the end of this month.

Why the hiatus?

The primary reason is UCE (Unsolicited Commercial Email). It's a
case of the bad driving out the good. Sp#m traps and filters mean
that many of the ezines' issues were caught in the cyber mists,
and never arrived.

In the meantime, you can catch up with what's new on the two
blogs ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html


http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/


Stay well, and watch for the new issues. :-)

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Creative Small Biz and Your EveryDay Write ezines are moving
to a MONTHLY publication schedule.

Both ezines will be completely revamped, so I hope you'll enjoy
the new format and the extra treats we have planned for you.

Watch for the NEW issues in around a month to six weeks.

See you then. :-)

In the meantime, if you're a writer and want to turn
professional, join us on Pro Write. If you take advantage of our
August special, you can enjoy a full year of Pro Write workshops
at bargain rates. Our next Pro Write workshop is "Write for the
Web". The first lesson will be posted on August 15.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

You're receiving this special mailing because you're subscribed
to Creative Small Biz or Your EveryDay Write. Unsubscribe
instructions are at the bottom of this message. :-)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pro Write August 2004 Special

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html


Your new career starts NOW. If you've always wanted to turn your
love of writing into a full-time career, YOU CAN.

Our August 2004 Special gives  you a full year of Pro Write
membership. That's TWELVE writing workshops to help you to write
fiction, nonfiction, and also to write for business. Each
workshop has three lessons, with exercises, and takes you around
a month to complete. You can post your exercises in Pro Write's
forums for feedback, and ask whatever questions you wish.

Visit Pro Write at:

http://www.prowrite.biz/

Although there are hundreds of workshops available online, Pro
Write's workshops are special. Why? Because:

==> You get a new FREE workshop each month as part of your
membership (with similar online workshops costing upwards of $100
each, that's at least a $1200 value over 12 months);

==> You take only those workshops you need at this stage in your
career. Take a workshop whenever you please. All workshops stay
online;

==> You're part of the Pro Write community, which means that you
can get feedback and coaching anytime. Got a challenge or
question? Ask and get the answer within 24 hours or less.

==> All workshops are written by Angela Booth, a full-time
professional copywriter, writer and author. I (Angela) have been
writing successfully for over 25 years. I'm looking forward to
helping you build your writing career.

As a professional writer, you can write as much as you want, or
as little as you want. You can also write where and when you
want. You're never at the mercy of an employer. You can develop
your own lucrative career.

Want to write fulltime? Pro Write will help.

Want to moonlight? Pro Write will help you to build your writing
career while you work at  your primary job.

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

See you on Pro Write. :-)

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

This week's issue of Creative Small Biz is online at--

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html

You're receiving this advisory in case you haven't received the
complete issue. Remember that you can always read CSB online if
you don't receive an issue.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

=================================================
CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.
=================================================

Issue 97: August 6, 2004

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


Published and edited by Angela Booth

Contact me at: ab@...

Or visit: http://www.digital-e.biz/

Or:

http://www.prowrite.biz/

=================================================
Digital-e Daily ---

More tips and guidance at Digital-e's blog (Web log):

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html

And at Pro Write's blog:

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/

=================================================
(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
=================================================

In this issue:

1. Editorial: Plan It And Make It Happen [From the publisher]

2. Create A Marketing Plan  [Article - A. Booth]

3. Sponsor Ads

4. Classifieds


=================================================
1. Editorial: From the publisher

=> Plan It And Make It Happen

We're in the final run to the end of 2004. What are you doing
with the year? Are you achieving the goals you set for yourself?

Our article this week, Create A Marketing Plan, reminds you that
planning is vital. This doesn't mean that everything will go to
plan. It won't. However, your plan is the spine of your hours,
days and weeks. Whatever happens, you can always hark back to
your plan. Without a plan, you're like a ship without a rudder.
You're drifting with the tide. Having a plan won't protect you
from disasters, but it will ensure that you will get where you
want to go.


=> Pro Write Workshop #7: Write Your Life --- Personal Essays and
More

This week, we're posting the last lesson in the current workshop,
"Write Your Memoirs". As I was writing the lesson, I thought
about the way all the workshops work together. The complete set
of workshops is a primer in developing a writing career.

For example, if you're writing for business (copywriting) you
might think that a workshop on personal writing has nothing to
offer you. You'd be wrong. You use your life in ALL forms of
writing, and especially in copywriting, where you can spend hours
wondering about, and researching, the benefits of a product or
service, so that you can bring them to life in your copy.

Whether you're a beginning writer or an experienced pro, Pro
Write is a brilliant investment in your writing career.

Join us on Pro Write ---

http://www.prowrite.biz/

Don't forget our August special---

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html


The next Pro Write workshop is: Write For The Web. We'll start
that workshop on August 15.

Until next week, be well and make $$$ from your talent---


Cheers from

Angela

P.S. Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing
our digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact
with us is to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro
Write until the situation resolves itself.

Please contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

=================================================

=> Holiday writing profits start now

Looking forward to Christmas? If you're a writer, you're readying
your Christmas lists --- NOW.

No, not your lists of cards and gifts. :-)

You're making lists of all the material you'll be publishing over
the holidays. You're sending out magazine article proposals, and
shorties and essays for holiday/ New Year publication.

It's your choice of how you'll spend the holiday season. Just
think, you could be taking a holiday in the sun or in the snow,
plus buying your children and spouse (and yourself) the gifts you
want and need. A new big-screen TV. A stack of 50 DVDs. A new
notebook computer.

If you want to get started NOW writing and selling, Pro Write's
"Write and Sell Shorties --- mini essays and articles, product
reviews and more" will show you how.

http://www.prowrite.biz/


=================================================

2. Article: Create A Marketing Plan (For Your Writing)


Copyright C 2003 by Angela Booth



What marketing works best? All marketing works. But you need to
keep at it, even when you seem to be getting zero results.

Let's imagine a couple of scenarios. Writer A wants to be a
fulltime writer. She knows that in order to do this, she needs to
sell X number of articles, and sell a book proposal a year.
Writer A knows that in addition to writing the works, she will
need to market them. Writer A creates a marketing plan. It takes
her 30 minutes on her computer. She decides that she will send
out five article proposals a week, and she will research and
write a book proposal.

She slots the time to do those things into her daily schedule.
She knows that these tasks are non-negotiable. No matter what
happens, she will perform those tasks every day. Even on her
worst day, when her car breaks down, her child needs to go to the
hospital, and she has a killer migraine.

Writer B wants to be a fulltime writer too. Like Writer A, she
knows that she will have to sell X articles, and sell a book
proposal. Writer B doesn't make a plan. She gets started writing
an article proposal. She realizes that she needs to gather
research resources, and sends out five emails.

Next morning, she downloads her emails and is instantly
depressed. No one has answered. She decides she'll give her
prospective sources a few more days to reply. She goes on with
her life. She'll get around to the writing when her sources
reply.

A week later, one of the sources gets back to Writer B, who
suddenly remembers that she was researching an article proposal.
She rereads her notes. The idea has gone flat. She's no longer
interested in writing it.

The point of these two scenarios is that real life is messy. It's
easy to lose track of what you're doing if you don't have the
process written down somewhere. This means, create a plan, and
then create checklists and check them off every day to make sure
that you keep working the plan.


QUESTIONS TO ANSWER IN YOUR MARKETING PLAN

Q: What kind of writing do you want to do and sell?

Q: What's the market for each type of writing?

Q: What makes your writing unique?

Q: How much can you produce?

Q: Have you created a list of target markets?

Q: How will you reach my target markets?

There you have it. A basic marketing plan that will work for you.
Good luck. :-)

=================================================

3. SPONSOR ADS

**** Web site design and maintenance ****

Do you run a small business? Do you need a web site to help
expand your business? Don't want to spend the equivalent of your
mortgage to set it up? Contact B & P Thursby Digital Services for
a no-obligation quote http://www.bpthursby.com.au


=> Got a talent for words? Take a Digital-e email workshop!

If you've got a way with words and love writing, Digital-e can
help you to become a professional writer. We've got two email
workshops to help you develop your skills. For writer-
entrepreneurs, we have "Writing To Sell In the Internet Age", and
for those who want to develop a copywriting services business, we
have "Writing Words That Sell: Freelance Copywriting".

Here's what a recent graduate said: "I've gotten more focused
than I've ever been before in my life-- not only with my writing
but with my creative process. And you've helped me build
confidence in my skills and myself".

I'd love to help you to develop your talent. More info at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html

=================================================

4. CLASSIFIEDS

***Advertise in Creative Small Biz***
CSB readers are  hard-working creative professionals. Got a
product or service they should know about?

Visit: http://www.digital-e.biz/advertise.html

Or contact Birgitt at birgitt@...


=> New coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html


=================================================

FEEDBACK

Send questions, ideas, and feedback to:
mailto:ab@...?subject=feedback

=================================================

Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

=================================================

YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**

This week's issue of Creative Small Biz is online at--

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html

You're receiving this advisory in case you haven't received the
complete issue. Remember that you can always read CSB online if
you don't receive an issue.

All best wishes

Angela

Angela Booth: ab@...
-------------------------------------------------
Digital-e: Info To Go
http://www.digital-e.biz/
http://www.prowrite.biz/
The information you need to build your business.
For professional writers and other creatives.

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CREATIVE SMALL BIZ

Turn your talent into a flourishing business.

For freelance writers and other creative professionals.
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Issue 96:  July 30, 2004

Read this issue online at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/newsletter.html


Published and edited by Angela Booth

Contact me at: ab@...

Or visit: http://www.digital-e.biz/

Or:

http://www.prowrite.biz/

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Digital-e Daily ---

More tips and guidance at Digital-e's blog (Web log):

http://www.digital-e.biz/blogger/index.html

And at Pro Write's blog:

http://www.livejournal.com/users/prowrite/

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(For instructions to join or leave the ezine's mailing list,
scroll to the end.)
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In this issue:

1. Editorial: August 2004 Pro Write Special [From the publisher]

2. The Copywriter's Marketing Two-Step  [Article - A. Booth]

3. Sponsor Ads

4. Classifieds

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1. Editorial: From the publisher

=> August 2004 Pro Write Special: Your Key To Writing Success ---
A Full Year Of Pro Write

Want to make 2005 the year you achieve success as professional
writer? If you love to write, Pro Write will give you all the
tools you need to succeed, so take advantage of our special which
runs until the end of August.

Our August 2004 Special gives  you a full year of Pro Write
membership. That's TWELVE writing workshops to help you to write
fiction, nonfiction, and also to write for business. Each
workshop has three lessons, with exercises, and takes you around
a month to complete. You can post your exercises in Pro Write's
forums for feedback, and ask whatever questions you wish.

More info at ---

http://www.digital-e.biz/specials.html

Enjoy. :-)


=> This Week's Article: The Copywriter's Marketing Two-Step

This week's article first ran in our copywriter's ezine. "Get the
word out", and "up-sell current clients", are classic marketing
methods you should use every day, no matter what you're trying to
sell. Scroll down to read.


Until next week, be well and make $$$ from your talent---


Cheers from

Angela

P.S. Please note, we're having problems with sp#mmers spoofing
our Digital-e email addresses. The easiest way to make contact is
to use the online feedback forms on Digital-e and Pro Write until
the situation resolves itself.

Contact us at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/feedback.html

http://www.prowrite.biz/contact.htm

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=> Earn as you learn with Digital-e! <=

Sick of your day job? If you'd rather stay home and write,
Digital-e's email writing courses will help you to become a
professional writer. Write when and where you want. The weekly
payment plans on our e-courses and coaching programs make it an
affordable option to earn as you learn. (You'll have Angela at
your side to cheer you on. :-)) You'll find the part-payment
buttons on the appropriate course pages. Not sure how it works,
or if it's right for you?

Info on Digital-e's courses:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ecourses.html


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2. Article: The Copywriter's Marketing Two-Step


Copyright C 2003 by Angela Booth




"Will you have fries with that?" It's the classic up-sell, and
we've all heard it. You can apply it to your business, too. Up-
selling is part of a process I call the marketing two-step.

Every working day, no matter what else I'm doing, I think about
where I am with the marketing two-step. This simple and
straightforward method will build your business fast. The two
steps are:

* Get the word out; and

* Up-sell current clients.

Let's see how they work.


=> Get the word out

Getting the word out is classic marketing. I tend to pick a
marketing method and work at it for three months at a time. You
can choose any time-frame that suits you, from one month to three
months. During this period, you'll work the marketing method that
you've chosen. You'll work steadily, without considering whether
or not this process is working. This is because ALL the marketing
you do is cumulative. There's no way you can gauge the success or
otherwise of a method in a week. You've got to keep at it for at
least a month, and three months is better.

The marketing methods you choose will depend on the time you
have, and your budget. Some methods, like Yellow Pages
advertising, are set and forget. You only need to worry about the
Yellow Pages once a year when you place your ad.

Other methods, like cold calling (telemarketing) are intensive
for a month. You might decide that you'll call 200 businesses
and/ or agencies a week for four weeks. This means that you'll be
calling 40 businesses a day, and it's going to take a chunk of
time. However, once you've done it, the follow ups and the work
that result from calling 800 businesses during a single month
will keep you busy.

You could decide that your "get the word out" process for the
next three months will involve getting your own Web site up and
operational. Each day, you work on some small task related to
this effort.

Or perhaps you decide that you'll focus on advertising for a
month. You pick a mix of advertising venues: the local paper,
marketing industry magazines, and Web advertising. The first
week, you write and place a series of classifieds for your
copywriting business. The second week, you create a magazine ad,
and place it. The third week, you write five news releases, and
send them out to newspapers, magazines, and Web sites. During the
fourth week, you place several Web ads. If you're looking for
sites on which to place a Web ad, consider sites similar to
Publisher's Marketplace ---

http://www.publishersmarketplace.com

This site lets you create an entire page, and it makes an
effective ad.

(I've got no connection to this site, but I use it and have found
that it's effective.)


Whatever marketing method you choose, pick it, and decide on
whether you'll work it for a month or three, and then work the
method each and every day.


=> Up-sell current clients

This part of the marketing two-step requires research, study and
creativity. Look on this as a way of building your business and
ensuring that your business continues to grow.

Let's see how this works. You have a client, we'll call Swain and
Company. This company builds greenhouses, and ships them all over
the world. (Please note: this is a fictitious company.) You've
written some advertising for Swain and Company. You spend a
couple of mornings researching their competition. What Swain
need, you decide, is a PR campaign, and a revamped Web site.

How are you going to present this to the business?

That depends on your relationship. If you don't know the
principals well, the best way is with a proposal which you
present via a multimedia presentation. If you know the company
CEO well --- that is, you've had the occasional lunch and are on
comfortable terms, you could present it as a simple report
accompanied by a  short proposal.

It's important to present this material in writing. You're
tossing new information at the company, and they'll need to mull
it over and cost it. However, don't make your presentation so
complete that they no longer need you --- present just enough
information, as a teaser. Focus on the benefits to the company.

After you've made your presentation, follow up with the company
every couple of weeks. Answer any questions they have, and do
further research. Follow up until they decide to go ahead with
some or all of your suggestions, or until you realize that for
whatever reason, they've decided not to pursue it.

You'll need to invest time and energy in up-selling your current
clients. Don't begrudge this, because the benefit to you is
greater than the income you derive from this. You're building
your own knowledge and expertise. Once you've made a
presentation, you can create your own presentation template, and
create proposals and presentations for other clients.

The first time you attempt to up-sell a client is the most
difficult. You will be nervous. This is a good thing. It means
that you're moving out of your comfort zone. You'll feel nervous
any time you try something new. Press ahead anyway. By the time
you make your third presentation, you'll be comfortable with the
process.

There you have it. That's the marketing two-step. It's a step by
step way to keep marketing in focus, and to build your business.
Try it.

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3. SPONSOR ADS

**** Web site design and maintenance ****

Do you run a small business? Do you need a web site to help
expand your business? Don't want to spend the equivalent of your
mortgage to set it up? Contact B & P Thursby Digital Services for
a no-obligation quote http://www.bpthursby.com.au

** Ebook:  7 Days To Easy-Money--- Copywriting Success **

By Angela Booth

(A professional author and copywriter for 25 years, published by
mainstream publishers.)

This ebook shows you how to set up your own copywriting services
business in seven short days. The book gives you a complete step-
by-step, easy to follow process, so that you know exactly what to
do. In seven days, you're ready to take on clients.

What will you write as a copywriter?

You'll write the words that sell --- everyday words. The words on
ads, leaflets, brochures, press releases, product instructions
and labels, newsletters, direct mail, and on Web sites.

How much can you earn?

Copywriters can make excellent money, with the most experienced,
enterprising, and productive copywriters scooping in a
comfortable six figures annually.

How hard is it to write for business?

If you can write an e-mail message or a letter, you can write for
business.

More info at:

http://www.digital-e.biz/ebooks.html

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4. CLASSIFIEDS

***Advertise in Creative Small Biz***
CSB readers are  hard-working creative professionals. Got a
product or service they should know about?

Visit: http://www.digital-e.biz/advertise.html

Or contact Birgitt at birgitt@...


=> Writing Coaching: Plot Your Novel

This five-week coaching program helps you to create a compelling
plot, fascinating characters, a synopsis, and more. We'll work
with your current novel, or if you don't have a novel in
progress, we'll plot and develop one.

If you've always wanted to write a novel, this coaching program
is for you:

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html#plot


=> New coaching program: Write for the Web

With the long-awaited worldwide economic recovery underway, and
companies increasing their Web presence, Web copywriters will be
in huge demand. Get started writing for the Web today.

You can do it. Work from home, work for yourself, and make a
great income. This program offers personalized, fun one-on-one
coaching.

http://www.digital-e.biz/coaching.html

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FEEDBACK

Send questions, ideas, and feedback to:
mailto:ab@...?subject=feedback

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Creative Small Biz: Copyright C 2004 by Angela Booth. All rights
reserved.

YOUR PRIVACY

Your privacy is important. You've signed on for this ezine in
good faith. Thank you. I will never betray your trust by making
the subscriber list available to others.


Creative Small Biz

PO Box 181

Para Hills SA 5096

Australia

ab@...


**END**