Dear writers,
How are you doing this fine July?
Let me jump straight into it: June was a bad month for me. I didn’t write a single story — the first time this has happened since I started out as a journalist 13 years back, and as a freelancer four years back. I lacked the motivation to write, struggled with one story, which is incomplete. I sent out a few pitches but got no response. Not surprisingly, it was a low-earning month, too. Of course, this had much to do my mental state, which wasn’t in the best place. This may seem like TMI, but I wanted to share it because I know others have found themselves in similar situations too, especially since the onset of the pandemic. I also want to say, things will get better. These aren’t just hollow words. I still haven’t got back on track but I have hope. And I want you to have hope, too.
I have ambitious plans for the newsletter in the coming months. I will share them as they unfold. Before that, a request:
I am looking for testimonials: if IAW has helped you in any way and you would be willing to share it, get in touch? I would like to update these on my website.
This week’s paid newsletter has an interview with a science writer who talks about tricks of the trade. A subscriber shares a successful pitch that got her published in Al Jazeera. There are 17+ pitch calls, job opportunities, and writing resources.
As I’ve mentioned earlier, I have closed yearly subscriptions to IAW (I am unable to change that on Substack). If interested, I can offer one month, three months or six months only.
Want to subscribe? Email itsallwrite@outlook.in or reply here.
The free version of the newsletter is below. I’ve spoken a little about payments, there are some job opportunities, and a reading guide.
Ready, let’s begin.
STRAIGHT TALK
This being the free version of the newsletter, I wanted to share some advice I hand out for free! I have done it before but, it bears repetition.
Do not write for free. Ever.
No, even if it’s a friend and needs a small written sample that you can churn out in half an hour.
This is one rule for freelancing I vociferously endorse. Tattoo it on your arm, if you wish. Print it on a tee. Write it on a banner and paste it above your laptop. Do anything that helps you remember it.
If you don’t value your work, chances are no one else will. Exposure hasn’t yet paid a bill. Some think that writing for free is better than doing it for a few paise or rupees. To them I say, it’s easier to negotiate from Rs 1 than from 0.
And if you want to write for free, keep a blog or open a Medium account or start a newsletter.
Do not start work without discussing a rate. Hindsight won’t pay bills.
Your pitch got accepted — well done! But, don’t start working just yet. It’s now time to talk money: the rate, when will it be paid, is an invoice involved, is there a contract to sign (read this thoroughly), and is there a stipend for travel/ photographs? Once the terms are clear, and agreeable to you, then start work on that story/ project.
There’s no reason to feel shy about asking about money — most editors will be expecting this question. This will ensure there’s no heartbreak later when you realise that 1,500 work piece you turned in will be paid for in exposure.
Decide on a rate. Because you’re worth it.
I cannot tell you what your time, experience, expertise is worth. You have to decide your ‘rate’ on the basis of the hours of work you put in, the amount of research/ reportage involved, the interviews required, and your own experience.
It’s always good to keep a rate in mind. It can be slightly flexible (see next point). Determine if you want to be paid per word/ per hour of work/ per project. There will be people willing to write 1,000 words for Rs 200. Only you can decide if that is really worth your time and effort. (Rate shaming is a thing. Don’t get bullied.)
Most publications/ clients will have fixed rates — in this case, your choice is whether to accept their rate or not. Indian pubs (most of them) do not pay well. Expect a range from Rs 3 to Rs 10 per word or flat rates starting from Rs 2000.
Negotiate. Negotiate. Negotiate.
You have a rate and want to stand by it? Good. But sometimes you should be open to negotiations. It could be a company/ brand you want to work with, a newer company doing good work but on a smaller budget, an easy to do gig. Keep your rate fair and also think about what other perks you could get out of this opportunity. Don’t settle or give in too quickly while negotiating.
Always follow up. Don’t let publications ghost you!
It’s good practice to send across invoices as soon as the story is filed. Every company has a different payment timeline — you could receive your money in two weeks or three months. It’s best to get the paperwork cleared at the earliest.
Companies are notorious for not paying freelancers or ghosting them after getting the copy. You have to follow up, via email or phone calls or in rare cases, calling them out on social media. Remember, it is your money and even if a small amount, you deserve it. You worked hard for it. If you’re afraid of ruining a relationship with an editor with constant questions about payments, you can either be extremely polite in your queries, or throw caution to the winds and call them out. I’ve burned bridges with some publications doing the latter. I realised that I am better off working for people who value my time and skills.
READING CORNER
As you know, I love bragging about subscribers’ bylines.
Subscriber Suchitra recently got published in Al Jazeera, “a dream I had when I started freelancing last year”. Link
Hitesha Phukan (one of the oldest supporters of IAW) got her first byline in CNT India — “all thanks to you and your fabulous newsletter!!!”. I am thrilled for her!
JOB BOARD
Scroll is hiring an Explanatory Journalist; 2-5 years of experience; published work that reflects an interest in one of the subjects (Indian politics, legal affairs or the economy). Location: Delhi, but flexible. Email jobs@scroll.in
Deccan Herald is looking for editors for its digital team. It’s a desk role based in Bengaluru. Experience: 5-7 years. Deadline for application: 7th July, 2021. Email pulkit.g@deccanherald.co.in with Subject line: DH EDITORIAL ROLE
BBC World Service seeks a Digital Journalist for BBC Tamil. Based in our Delhi or Chennai. More details, and how to apply, here.
Climate Reality seeks three freelancers to write about climate issues. Details, here
Mongabay India is hiring for three positions: Staff Writer, Clean Energy; Content Coordinator; Video Production Coordinator. They prefer bilingual candidates — English & Hindi. Details, here.
Pursuant to what I shared in the beginning of the newsletter, if any of you feel like you need to reach out and share/ talk about your situation, email me. My Ask Jo sessions are also open for those who want more in-depth and focussed help.
I end with a sad but funny tweet.
Until next time, be good and stay safe. Keep on writin’.
Regards,
Joanna