Freelance Tips - Freelance Writing, Freelance Jobs

How to Write a Business Plan

December 30th 2008 03:01

Photo by Martin Boulanger

I did an intensive search of the World Wide Web, and I could not find a single sample business plan for the business of freelance writing. This is because most freelance writers don't take the time to write a business plan. Why? They are too busy trying to find paying gigs to support themselves. Well, if you are serious about making a living with freelance writing, you need to sit down and create a business plan. Trying to create a business without a plan is like trying to navigate the ocean without a compass. This is especially true of the Internet, which is very much like a vast ocean of opportunities.

So how do you go about tapping into those opportunities and getting serious about your career? Start with a plan. It doesn't have to be a 30-page document full of flow charts and extensive market analysis. You can just start with a clear mission statement and an outline of your financial goals. There are a number of great sites that offer some advice on how to write a mission statement such as the Center for Business Planning and MissionStatements.com. Some mission statements are only a couple of words long; others are complete paragraphs or more. There is no one right way. If you are looking to write a mission statement for your business, I suggest putting a great deal of thought into your mission statement. It will be the foundation upon which your business is built.

Here is a copy of my mission statement: To provide high-quality written blog content to online readers by creating and maintaining timely articles relevant to blog topics. The three blog topics are:
1. Parenting Issues
2. Freelance Writing Tips (this blog)
3. Mothers Who Work From Home Online

For more information about business plans, check out Business Plans Kit for Dummies or the Small Business Administration. Be sure to check my future posts as I oultine more business plan elements such as market analysis and business vision.

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Posted By: Momniscient - Category: making money

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Free Telecommuting Course

December 24th 2008 16:40

Illustration by Fian Arroyo

Have you ever thought about working from home? Whether you are looking to become a full-time, independent freelance writer or just thinking of approaching your boss about putting in some hours at home, there is a FREE course on telecommuting at Suite101.com.

The course will take you through the process of deciding to telecommute and whether it is right for you. It then talks about the pros and cons of telecommuting. Once the decision is made, the course outlines how to set up a home office and how to balance work and home life.

I highly recommend the course, especially since it's free. Check it out! It just might provide the answers you have been looking for.

By the way, if you like the illustration with this blog, check out www.fian.com for more information. Fian was kind enough to give me permission to use this cartoon. Thanks, Fian!

ONE MORE THING: Check out my new Google Group below for Freelance Writers. It's a great place to share ideas and advice with other freelance writers: