Freelancer Traits
Reading the book How To Write What You Love and Make a Living at It by Dennis E. Hensley, PH. D.
I found this on my bookshelf while I was cleaning out my closet. it never surprises what books i buy from thrift stores. While I was sitting on the floor I wondered if I should read it since I have so many books I have open for research.
I'm glad I did, because there was a section on Freelancer Traits with questions to ask yourself to know if you have that trait.
Endurance
Do you have the tenacity to see an assignment through to the end?
Versatility
Can you cover hard news, write features, conduct interviews, report on meetings, do legwork research, and take photographs, too?
Initiative
Are you a self-starter who needs a minimum amount of direct supervision?
Sensitivity
Do you have tact and patience in order to deal with people effectively?
Integrity
Can you present all sides?
Efficiency
Have you learned to get the complete story?
Experience
Do you have a good balance between formal education and school of hard knocks training?
Creativity
Are you innovative? Do you take a unique approach to your work?
Timeliness
Can you meet or beat a deadline?
Zest
Do you have the enthusiasm it takes?
As you review this list of traits, test yourself against them. Do you lack some of these qualities? Perhaps you have some, but not to the degree of professionalism you would like.
The solution is to concentrate on one trait at a time and to enhance your ability in that area.
Hope this exercise helps. I need to do some work building my freelancer traits.
All the best,
Louisa
Recent Comments
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Thanks for the compliment.
I'm finding the book helpful in setting my priorities to freelance as a blogger. I have my website setup as an online magazine.
"If you want to be a writer, write." Greek philosopher, Epictetus
Thanks for reaching out to a newcomer.
All the Best,
Louisa
Good, well thought out post, I enjoyed reading it, because I can relate to many of the points as I am sure most others will
Dave,
I'm glad you enjoyed it. I found the title of the book interesting. It caught my eye on my bookshelf. Of course, it's been there for awhile but now that I'm writing blogs it gave me a perspective of what I need to ask of myself to improve.
Yes, Dave.
One marketer posted about "Who Moved My Cheese" and I had listed 3 copies on eBay right before her post. I bought the books to start a reading group but my friends couldn't make a commitment even though talked about the fear of change all the time.
It takes effort to be enlightened. Can't spoon feed that to anyone.
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Thank you for sharing Louisa, Best Alan