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Asking some Advice.
Barrie Rogers
Messages count : 1
Likes count : 0
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26 December 2006
Hello all,
I am new to the forums but I have been reading for a little while. This seems like the right place to ask a question, so I will go ahead. Before I do, let me give you a little background info.
My name is Barrie Rogers and I have been a keen writer for many years. I have done the usual poetry, short/long stories as well as a few mocked up screen plays. My real passion is computer but being told that it only rots the mind makes it difficult to see myself working in that environment. Over a year ago I started writing for a Xbox 360 website called 360Monster and have slowed picked up tips to improve my writing. I would like to do something to improve these skills but to also make this a paying job since it is currently just for fun and the experience.
I know my writing still needs much work and it does tend to have its ups and Downs depending on the mood I am in. Any advice and criticisms are most welcome as this is the only way I will improve. You will find me on the main page under the Staff listings that will show some of my previous writings.
So the question is as follows, based upon my current knowledge and also my desire to vastly improve my writing, what do you think is the next best step for me to take now?
I am new to the forums but I have been reading for a little while. This seems like the right place to ask a question, so I will go ahead. Before I do, let me give you a little background info.
My name is Barrie Rogers and I have been a keen writer for many years. I have done the usual poetry, short/long stories as well as a few mocked up screen plays. My real passion is computer but being told that it only rots the mind makes it difficult to see myself working in that environment. Over a year ago I started writing for a Xbox 360 website called 360Monster and have slowed picked up tips to improve my writing. I would like to do something to improve these skills but to also make this a paying job since it is currently just for fun and the experience.
I know my writing still needs much work and it does tend to have its ups and Downs depending on the mood I am in. Any advice and criticisms are most welcome as this is the only way I will improve. You will find me on the main page under the Staff listings that will show some of my previous writings.
So the question is as follows, based upon my current knowledge and also my desire to vastly improve my writing, what do you think is the next best step for me to take now?
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MickeyFinn
Messages count : 120Likes count : 0Registration : 30 October 2006To improve the appearance of your writing I would suggest using a spell checker đ
I have a feeling this is a good bit of link bait for your 360 site - seeing as you obviously took so long to write it I have not deleted your link...
Using computers does not rot your brain, I am sure the journo's on The Register and VNU Net would beg to differ too. There are lots of technology and computer sites out there so write some articles that are in the scope of the material they publish and send them to the editor or news desk. Call them up a week or so later and see if they have any feedback, might be that don't use freelancers, or they might not have got the article or whatever but at least you would be trying!
Good luck and Happy New Year! - Contact in PM
Lupita
Messages count : 207Likes count : 6Registration : 2 November 2006Hi Barrie,
A heartfelt and honest post - a great start to the New Year!:)
Firstly, as an aspiring writer/journo I would refrain from ever sayin' 'I've done the normal'[anything].
Your writing history is personal to you - it's unique - don't undersell it, your involvement in writing is different to anyone else's! Don't undermine that by sayin' 'I am the norm.'
At the risk of doing myself out of the next writing contract, I'll refer you here
How to start-up as a freelance journalist :: Freelance UK
Note the reference to Cedric Pulford - this is isn't the first time I've read good things after this chap's name, in terms of the writing courses he provides.
Secondly, and also to help, it's worth remembering as a journo or writer that 'contacts are your stock in trade.' The more people that know what you do, the greater your chances of being hired/raking it in! Sounds obvious but even sites like MySpace are a good source of exposure. The FUK directory looks worthwhile too!
Thirdly, I'd say keep doin' what your doin.' Write speculatively to those you wish to write for or might like to write for in the future. Try and aim any proposal for an article as specifically as possible: in other words the section's commissioning editor's inbox is preferable to the general editor's in-tray!
Lastly, as you're freelance, remember to be entrepreneurial! By this, I mean you might spot a website that you think deserves a news section or the odd article (nicely tell them it's needed to keep them abreast of their rivals etc) and explain how you could help. Good luck Barrie!:)
Oh and HTH!
L - Contact in PM
dillen
Messages count : 1Likes count : 0Registration : 4 January 2007I have no working experience and have just made up my mind for working with freelance journalism. I want to be a journalist who reports from dangerous areas like in wars for example. I have no education either, but is an education nescerary if you shall be able to write acceptable articles?
Where and how do I begin? Can I just go to country and start to talk to people and gain contacts?