This week I’m digging into the archives and analytics to see which posts were viewed most often on the Web Writing Advice blog.
This is part of my annual business audit to help guide my direction in the new year ahead. After all, I write this blog for you. I want to dig into topics that you care about.
And with that, here are the posts that were viewed most often this past year. Enjoy!
The Top 10 Posts of 2018
10. A Day in the Life of a Freelance Writer
A week doesn’t go by that I don’t field questions about how to be successful and grow a freelance business. The short answer: consistency. I work at sustaining and growing my freelance writing client list and income each and every single day.
So, how do I do that?
Here’s a breakdown of a typical day for me. Continue reading HERE.
9. 4 Tips for Conducting Your Next Interview
We talk to people. That’s a big part of working in the communications field as a freelance writer, marketer or strategist. If you haven’t already, you will at some point conduct an interview and use the information gathered to write a blog post, feature article, notes for a ghostwriter, bio statement, ebook or even a newsletter story.
I started working in the newspaper industry in 1998 and have held down a full-time, part-time or freelance communications job since. I’ve done hundreds, maybe thousands, of interviews.
Today I thought it’d be fun to share some quick and simple tips for making the interviewing process less anxiety-inducing for both you and your interviewee because really, nobody chats well under pressure. Continue reading HERE.
8. How My Personal Blog Bolsters My Writing Business
I had no idea random recipes and musing on wellness would turn into paid writing work. But, it did.
Just about eight years ago I launched a lifestyle blog focused on enjoying whole foods. It was my motivator to stay on track with a dietary overhaul to accommodate some personal health issues. I posted pictures of uncommon produce. I shared my transition to a gluten-free diet. I created recipes to share. Continue reading HERE.
7. Editorial Calendars: 8 Must-Have Categories for Writers
I’ve received many half-baked writing assignments. No keywords. No mention of content goals. No brief.
Some writers see this lack of direction as an open road to creative freedom. Others get stifled and don’t know where to start. And almost all of them end up receiving editing requests that could have been avoided if through assignment details had been shared up front.
When it comes to content marketing, there’s an agenda. The brand is creating awareness or making a sale in a specific way with each piece of content created. Whether you’re promoting your business, or working on a project for a brand client, the writer for your blog posts, static web pages, e-books and social media copy needs direction.
Hello, editorial calendar. Continue reading HERE.
6. What is Brand Journalism? (With Examples)
Buzzwords trickle off the tongues of writers and marketers at a steady pace. One trendy term is “brand journalism”. If you’ve heard the phrase, but don’t know what it really means, you’re not alone.
As a writer who tackles brand journalism assignments regularly, this type of content feels like a clever hybrid of traditional journalism and marketing writing. Continue reading HERE.
5. 18 Content Creation Tips for Content Marketing Writers
In a world of perpetual content and 24/7 platforms, our time and attention are shrinking. Concise writing online is critical.
Over the past year I’ve gleaned a writing tip or two from the content strategists, marketers, content creators and editors in my circle. Here are my top 18 content marketing writing takeaways. Continue reading HERE.
4. Who the Heck are Microinfluencers?
Being influential sways consumers. Just turn on the TV or scroll through your Instagram feed and you’re sure to see a celebrity endorsement. That red-carpet star was selected to partner with the brand because they have influence over a large segment of society. They come with a built-in audience of loyal followers who watch their every move. They’re popular.
And, they’re questioned. Continue reading HERE.
3. Celebrating Achievements on Social Media For Personal and Professional Gain
Every single day I’m learning, creating and refining. That’s how I grow my business.
It’s some pretty tough work highlighted by long hours, inspired writing at odd hours of the day and lots of solo, nose-to-the-grindstone moments. Many entrepreneurs are in the same situation, and should be commended for their dedication.
I honestly feel none of us take enough time to give ourselves a pat on the back.
Initially it may seem a little egotistical to tell others about our achievements, insights or awards, but these little moments of positivity may inspire others.
Really, it’s not all about you. Let me explain. Continue reading HERE.
2. Should You Use #Hashtags in #Headlines? (Quick List)
In the last month I’ve had two separate content marketing clients request that I incorporate hashtags into the headlines of my blog posts.
So, I started wondering, does the pound symbol, or hashtag, play well with Google? Does it make the article more searchable?
So, I decided to do a little digging. Continue reading HERE.
1. 6 Places to Find Freelance Writing Gigs
You’re looking for freelance writing gigs. You need online writing jobs now to pay the bills and keep your sanity.
I get it.
The first few years after leaving my last newspaper job, I was perpetually on the hunt for my next writing jobs too.
Now, I have a reliable flow of work from repeat clients and a steady writing career.
But, how did I find the best freelance jobs? Easy. They’re all online, and you can find them too. Continue reading HERE.
It’s been a whirlwind year with inspiring writing opportunities, incredible personal growth and steady business development.
I look forward to more of the same in 2019. Here’s to a year of happiness ahead for us both.
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