_by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

How long does it take you to write an article from start to finish? Remember that the longer you take, the less writing you can do, which can equal less money in the long run.

Quick ways to shave off time without compromising quality:

• Use an outline or template. Having all of your key thoughts organized can cut back on time in a big way. You are simply filling in the meat of each thought, rather than thinking out the entire article all at once.
  
  
• Write what you know. The less time you have to spend on research, the more time you have to write.
  
  
• Have a good “Writing Buddy” system. Having a second pair of eyes for proofreading helps catch mistakes you may have missed. It also can cut down some proofreading time. Even though you may be also proofreading for that friend, if you're like me, you can proofread and edit your own articles to death and still miss things – but at the same time, you may be very good at proofing work for others.
  

More on saving time to increase writing income:

Free Article Templates by Lisa Mason

Maximize Productivity and Inspiration Through Timing by Lyn Lomasi

Succeed in Freelance Writing by Making Goals More Attainable by Lyn Lomasi

_Lyn is a freelance web journalist, the Community Advocate at Yahoo! Contributor Network, and a Y! Shine Parenting Guru. She's also the founder of Write W.A.V.E. Media, parent company to LifeSuccessfully.com and several others. She enjoys publishing freelance writers and supports advocacy through journalism. She has been published all over the web with major media companies, as well as smaller businesses and organizations. Contact Lyn for guidance in the world of freelance writing.

Lyn on Twitter: @LynLomasi
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posted by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer


What does it take to make money in web writing? What's the formula to success? Throughout my career as a web writer and peer mentor, this is one of the most common questions people ask. One key component that I see in every web writer who stands the test of time is leadership. If you want to make yourself well known in the world of web writing, be a leader, not a follower.

But Mr. So-and-so does it this way. It's perfectly fine (and recommended) to learn from your peers. But never try to replicate exactly what they do. But why not, if it works? It's simple. Each writer has their own unique style, voice, and topical expertise. What works for one person may not work for another because there are too many variables.

Readers trust authenticity. If you want to be a true voice in the world of web writing, you need to actually keep that voice true. Leaders use their own style and voice in their work, not someone else's. When you see a fellow writer who seems to be miles ahead of you, it's natural to want that for yourself. But if you want to succeed, you need to stand out and that means you should figure out what works for you. Be yourself and people will notice that more than if you follow after everyone else.

Continue reading this article for more tips>>>

Just discovered Yahoo! Contributor Network (YCN)? Perhaps you've been here a while and are ready to take it more seriously. The most common question I get as a peer mentor and Community Guide is "How much money can I make writing for Yahoo! Contributor Network?" The answer to that question depends on you and here's why.

Click to continue reading this article>>>

by Lyn Lomasi, Staff Writer

Tirelessly, you search Yahoo! for job postings and finally something promising comes up. But wait, why are they asking you for money or to write for free? Maybe they are offering to pay you instead, but the offer seems too good be true. If it sounds too promising, it might be a scam.

The world of freelancing can be a lucrative one. But it can also be wrought with scammers. Before you jump on 'the next big thing,' do your research to make sure the company and offer is legit.

There are thousands upon thousands of gigs out there for freelance writers. Always proceed with caution when choosing which gigs to go with and which contracts to sign. Only give the amount of info needed to receive payment. I recommend using PayPal for all transactions and invoices. This way, there is no need for you to give out bank information and certain other info that scammers can use. It also puts all transactions and agreements on record, especially if you send out the invoice outlining the agreement before the work is completed.

You cannot prevent every single instance of someone trying to con you. But when you proceed with caution, it does make being scammed less likely.

More from Lyn:

F is for Feeding the Wolves

The Newbie's Guide to Success at the Yahoo! Contributor Network

Freelance Writing Tips: Your Client is Not Obligated to Please You

Why Online Article Writers Need a Website