by Leo Wiles
22 April 2015
Hi Rach and Leo. I’ve been freelancing for years but mainly for mags and need to branch out into other markets. I know you’ve written about this before but can you please revisit it – what are the different markets writers can tap into? Pete
Take heart, Pete – traditional publishers are only one outlet in which to flex your penmanship. Other less visible areas include B2B, technical writing, advertorials, annual reports, tangible marketing material, content marketing and trade publications.
Before you think I’m advocating for Plumbers Crack Weekly or another 20c/word title I want you to take a moment. When you’re in your bank, at the gym or at your GP, do they have an in-house custom magazine and or newsletter? If you’re interested in writing about finance, working out and or health you may have just found a new lead. The same goes for insurance companies and hospitals who need case studies written for their stakeholders periodicals, websites and of course their annual reports.
Every ASIC listed company has a website and a communications department that may want help with their internal and external communications. And don’t forget your local bistro, dry cleaner and cafe. Chances are they have a menu or brochure or want a hand with their marketing material. If you’re a foodie, why not think about targeting restaurants, local growers markets, Coles or Woolworths magazines – or perhaps even approach an agent or PR who looks after chefs and suggest you refresh their bios? Other bio opps could be found by approaching SMEs about overhauling their press room with a company history, board member profiles and of course their badly-written FAQ sections!
It’s really a case of leaving your comfort zone and your couch to take a walk and start to see the new possibilities around you. Do the listings from the local real estate agent or car yard look hackneyed? Go introduce yourself and leave your card. If you’re a real people person and want to stick to interviews, approach accredited photographers in your area. Are they offering wedding albums? Would they like to offer your services to interview the happy couple about their unique love story to be included in their cherished memento? The same could be said with vanity publishing. Place an ad offering your writing services to deliver their very own eBook autobiography or perhaps visit a chain of funeral homes who are looking for someone to come on-board and write meaningful and moving obituaries for the grieving families.
The world is full of text – which means there will always be a need for writers. Which is great news for us.
If you know other hidden areas that have been lucrative we’d love to hear from you.
