Start a Writing Business - Basic Do’s and Don’ts

Have you been considering a writing business of your own? Starting and growing this type of business can be a simple and straightforward process. However, many aspiring writers struggle. The most common reason for their struggle is they may have made one or more of the following mistakes. Read these before you start a writing business.

Here are eight writing business dos and don’ts.

Do – ALWAYS DELIVER your writing projects on time or early. If you run into a complication, address it with the client right away. For example, your computer breaks and you lose everything on it. Let your client know immediately! Almost everyone can access email with their cell phone these days. Contact the client and ask for a brief extension and offer to refund their money if an extension is not possible. It pays to always make sure your work is done well ahead of time; that way if there is ever an issue, you have time available to make up for it.

Also consider backing up all of your files online so you can access them from any computer. One such place is Zen OK.

Do – STAY VISIBLE. One of the biggest mistakes a writer can make is to deliver a project, cash the check and never contact the client again. If you enjoyed working with them, stay in touch. It doesn’t have to be a big deal either. Send them a note from time to time. Use an autoresponder to send special promotion offers to past clients. Connect with them on social networking sites. Stay visible. If you forget about them, they’ll forget about you too.

Don’t – BE AFRAID to ask questions. Clients are notorious for expecting writers to be mind-readers too. Even if you’re 99% sure you know the answer, ask the question anyway. In fact, one excellent way to establish trust with a client is to ask questions. It shows them that you’re invested in working with them and delivering quality work.

Do – GET REFERRALS. If your client expresses pleasure with your work, don’t hesitate to ask for a referral. In fact, consider launching a referral program. For example, each client that refers a client to you gets 10% off their next order.

Don’t – PANIC when you’re going through a slow spell. Things slow down from time to time; think positively and use the time to plan your business. Brush up on your skills, create marketing materials and focus on growth. Work on creating affiliate sites and multiple streams of income for yourself.

Slow spells pass.

Do – COMMIT to lifelong learning. You can always improve your skills, offer more value and learn more about your industry. Become, if you’re not already, the kind of person who is always striving to improve.

Do – USE SYSTEMS. Systems help you move through your business efficiently and effectively. Create payment and invoicing systems. Create autoresponder messages, client communication systems and even editing and delivery systems.

Don’t – LET GO of your passion for writing. Your writing passion is contagious. Your clients and customers will recognize it and appreciate it. If you become apathetic about your business, your clients will too.

Starting and growing a writing business can be a lot of work but it’s also tremendously rewarding. You’re creating a business made just for you. You’re offering value and helping people achieve their goals all while making a living. However, you will be your own boss so you need to hold yourself to some high standards. No one will be standing over you making you do the work. Make sure you can handle that aspect before you start a writing business.