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