I've gotten a couple of emails (thanks, you guys) regarding my radio silence lo these past few weeks. Truth is, I've been somewhat bummed-slash-nervous. Truth is, I didn't really want to talk about it. Truth is, I got laid off, at least mostly.
But the good news is, apparently my resume and portfolio are remarkable enough to stand out in a crowd (and my god, you can't believe how crowded that crowd currently is unless you too are looking for paying gigs these days, as many of you undoubtedly are) in the worst month of the worst year in modern economic history.
Which is to say, it looks pretty okay for the near future, and I remain cautiously optimistic.
The advantages to working as an independent contractor (or freelancer) are numerous to be sure. For example, I'm composing this particular missive from the comforts of my cozy kitchen, on my new laptop, in my pajamas.
I often write in my pajamas, and I can sound astonishingly professional while in my pajamas, because it's become close to my natural state at this point. I like that I can--at least in theory--choose my projects and reject those that don't appeal to me. (I say this in theory, because the truth is I never, ever reject a project for a variety of reasons. One is because you never know when your next project is going to come along, and the other is because I truly believe that all work is admirable. If someone is willing to pay me to write for them, I'll write the hell out of whatever they ask me to write, and I'll be grateful for the opportunity.)
But the down side is the only cushion you have is the one you sew and stuff yourself. I don't qualify for unemployment as I am self employed. The only health insurance I have is the thin and paltry policy I purchased for myself. And if I get too sick to work, we're done for in a quick hurry.
So that's what's up in my corner of the world. Needless to say, if you need an expert technical marketing writer, or corporate communications writer, or features writer, or brochure writer or just a writer writer, look no further.
References and clips upon request. You know where to find me.
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Skip Williamson
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Best wishes,
barry
Oh, and by the way, if you get more work than you can handle, please let me know right away.
bbd, as much as I love Salon and the vast majority of writing that appears on the site, the pay wouldn't keep me in paper towels. (Sad, isn't it, that the writing people actually want and need to read--like print journalism and book writing--pays so little?)
Ric, that truly sucks. I heard they've extended unemployment benefits out considerably, so that's got to be at least a little lukewarm comfort, no?
Tom, send me your actual contact information!
peace for us all and a truly new year
Suzy
I'll ask my dad (the one in CA) if he knows anyone who might be in the market. Do you have a link I can send him that's not from OS?
I am looking for help though in creating a website that I can host my portfolio on. If there's anyone here with expertise in that area, I'd be most grateful.
We may need to start an OS commune soon just so we can all afford to live.
I used to work for the Smithsonian - you might try sniffing around there. It's a HUGE institution. The pay scale is fairly decent (federal gov't) and they do a huge amount of publications. Many writing projects are handled by individual museums and their own staff, but some are centralized. I'm sure part of those projects must be outsourced.
I'm glad you're feeling hopeful. My husband expects to lose his job this month (He's a VP at the bank Cleveland just lost to Pittsburgh via bailout money that allowed the one bank to buy the other), and I make about 50 cents an hour at this point with the substitute teaching I'm doing (given all the time I'm putting into it), so we're all in that food line with you one way or another, girlfriend.
1) well geez, the layoff sucks...
2) I'm glad things are looking optimistic...
3) you are me (freelancer, natural state is pj's)... and
4) I can help with the website if you haven't found someone.
Will send you a pm. :)
Very sorry to hear you added to the plight. The good news you're obviously tremendously talented. The better news is you have several hundred pro-bono headhunters working for you now. Myself included. I work in print media and I will see what I can find out in terms of free-lance/sub-contracted work that pays. I'm sure others will have heavier hitting contact in there areas. I will contact you with any news.
All the best and hang in there.
Have a happy holidays and just be thankful for what you do have. :-)
Holiday Cheer sent your way at a tough time.
Greg
I, too, wondered about your sudden disappearance. I understand your predicament - I've been there as an independent contractor, too, and it sucks. In the meantime, check the following: www.mediabistro.com, www.sologigs.com and www.aquent.com.
I'll forward future emails should other Web sites pop into recall. It sounds cliche, I know, but keep your head up - surely someone will recognize your superlative writing strengths.
You guys? Peaches. Every one. ;-)
I've popping by your blog occasionally, on the chance I had missed a post. So, even though I'm delighted to see you back---I'm very sad to see this post.
I am glad to hear you have some options on the table right now, and I hope they build a bridge to something more permanent.
I will keep a good thought for you. Fingers crossed as I type.
I second (third?ninth?) the wonderment that the MotherShip hasn't already snagged you.
I will ruminate.
Until I get The Master Plan©, please take my good wishes for a speedy return to voluminous cash flow.
(Thumbified with crossed fingers (!))
Keep us posted - I'm sure that, like a cat, you're going to land on your feet.
I hope things are looking up. I love your line about the only cushion being the one you sew for yourself. So true, especially in these hard times. I wish you much joy and prosperity (material and emotional) in the new year! Barbara