Decided to branch out my writing and after some online searching, I came upon BlogMutt. BlogMutt provides an interface for writers to locate customers in need of copy and then submit articles to meet the customer’s criteria. I figured I’d give it a try, so I applied and completed BlogMutt’s qualification stage.
Once in as a writer, I began looking at the options and discovered that these are definitely companies. My professional background is in education and counseling, and my hobby background is in shop type activities, woodworking, metalworking and automotive and motorcycle work. In typing automotive in the search window, a number of options came up. Nothing really automotive oriented, though, like working on engines, doing bodywork and such.
I decided, what the heck, and chose a company that manufactures automotive textiles. The nice thing about BlogMutt, each customer provides keywords for the copy. A quick search on the company’s website and with the topic chosen, I set out to write my piece. Since this was my first submission, it had to go through BlogMutt’s review.
Shortly after submitting my piece I received an email with suggestions for improving it. I made some edits and sent it back. Once again I received an email outlining some suggestions, made the new edits and sent it back in. With a couple of days, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the piece had been picked up. Wow! My first paid piece!
I’ve written another piece for the original company and it’s been picked up too. So far, two paid pieces in a month. At the time of this writing I’ve submitted 5 posts, with two purchased, and 3 in line for posting. We’ll see. So far, no rejections and no customer requested revisions.
In my first month as a professional writer, I’ve written two articles on automotive textiles, one about an automotive paint matching and supply company, one for an aircraft repair station, and I’m currently writing one for an Australian mortgage company. Years ago, even last year, I never imagined that I would be writing on such topics for companies such as these. I’ve got to admit, it’s interesting and entertaining; and I’m going to be looking into more avenues.
So, have you thought of freelance writing?