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Now a days a lot of writers are in an “in-between state” or what Shelley DeLuca of Freelancing:Bizia calls the state of “meanwhile.” DeLuca writes that Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary gives two meanings for the word as an adverb: 1) during the intervening time, and 2) at the same time.
For some, this is a waiting period caused by circumstances. We may be waiting for something specific like a new client or job caused by a layoff or downturn in a certain business sector. Or waiting to make a decision because our profession is changing. For example, now some technical communicators must decide do they want to learn new skills to stay in the profession or do something else.
For a freelance writer running a business, it may be a time to rethink his or her business strategy in the current economy. In an article written by Michelle Rafter, Grant Plowman, owner of Interactive Media Publishing, a Medford, Oregon, e-learning tools company, suggests that freelancers review their strengths and weaknesses using an assessment technique called SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.
If you are in this state, what should you do? Sit around and worry or do something useful? I vote for being proactive. Here are my five recommendations:
1) Spend more time networking – Plan a lunch with someone you haven’t seen in a while or attend meetings with a professional or business club. The time you spend networking will make you feel productive and will boost your mood. In addition keeping in contact with others is a powerful marketing tool.
2) Update your skill sets – Take a local class on something you have an interest in learning. You can enroll in a writing, web, or business course. Not only will you be learning something that you can add to your resume but you will also be networking with others.
3) Pump up your sales and marketing – This type of economy means you will have to work harder to get new business. The clients are out their but you will have to search to find them. I like to think of it as a Where’s Waldo game. The client is Waldo hidden in a sea of people and distractions.
4) Think creatively – Your old way of finding clients may not work anymore. You may have to look in new industries or use new marketing tactics.
5) Start an exercise plan - Exercise helps you both physically and psychologically. You can join a gym or take pilates or yoga classes. If you don’t want to spend money, start a walking routine. I try to walk every day for about 40 minutes. My 40-minute jaunt helps clear my head, gets me out of the office, and keeps me fit.
What are you doing if you are in this state? Please tell me what has worked or not worked for you.
Photo by: SmilingStrong
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