Freelance Writer and Social Worker

10 Creative and Cheap Ways to Market Your Freelance Writing Business

You've heard the old marketing slogan, "You've got to spend money to make money." There's even some truth to that. At the bare minimum, you should have a website and a stack of business cards, and yeah, you'll have to pay for those.

When it comes to calling people's attention to your wonderful freelance writing business, however, you don't have to have a marketing budget like a Fortune 500 company. All you need is a little creativity and a lot of nerve.

Here are some ideas that have helped me.

1. Leave Business Cards Everywhere

Since business cards are pretty cheap, I've gotten into the habit of leaving a few wherever I go. I even stick one into the envelope when I pay a bill.

My best business card strategy, however, was diabolically simple. I went to the business section of the library and slipped one of my cards into every book. I especially focused on topics like "how to write a resume" or "how to write a business letter." Believe it or not, I've netted some business this way.

2. Take Advantage of Social Media

No, I'm not your mom. I'm not going to lecture you on why you should cozy up with Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, etc. My only two comments are that 1) They're free; and 2) Thousands of people use them. 'Nuff said.

Where to Find Debra Stang, Freelance Writer, Online

Sometimes when you're online a lot, you can become so well camouflaged that the people who want to find you can't do so. In case any of you have been looking for me and would like to connect on other sites, here are some of the places where I enjoy hanging out.

1. Twitter

(@DebraLStang) - I don't always get to Tweet as frequently as I want to, but Twitter is a great place to browse to see trending topics. Whether or not you choose to follow me, I highly recommend it.

2. Facebook

Personal Page - This one gets updated occasionally, as I remember it.

Business Page - My business page is updated almost daily. Lots of links and recommendations from me and my readers--give it a try.

3. LinkedIn

Profile - I'm here on and off, but I'm always glad to connect with new people and networks!

4. My Professional Website

Debra L. Stang, Kansas City Freelance Writer - This is the best place to reach me if you have a question for me or if you'd like me to take on a writing or editing job for you.

5. My Amazon Associates Bookstore

Debra Stang, Writer and Editor - I sell some of my own books here, but most of the titles listed are books that have helped me grow as a businesswoman and a writer. I've also added some of my favorite novels and movies, just for fun.

6. Alliance of Hope for Suicide Survivors

Blog - Alliance of Hope is a wonderful organization for people who have lost a loved one to suicide. I've been the editor of their blog for more than a year and a half.  

7. Web Answers

Answered questions - This is a quirky site, mostly just for fun.

Coming Soon...I'm going to revamp and relaunch my Amazon Author Page. Stay tuned for details.  

What Do People Say When You Come Out as a Writer?

Parties just aren't my thing. If you looked up the word "introvert" in a dictionary, you'd probably find it illustrated with my picture. I've discovered that going to parties and networking events is even harder when you're a writer.

When I was a social worker, I could get through the "So, what do you do?" exchange with a minimum of fuss. Most people aren't that interested in social workers.

Now, however, I have to tell people I'm a writer, and that elicits all kinds of comments--some of them rude, some funny, and some so far off base I have to bite my tongue to keep from laughing. Here are a few of my favorite examples.

1. HAVE YOU WRITTEN ANYTHING I'VE READ?

What I'd like to say: If you have to ask, probably not.

What I say instead: I do quite a bit of producing blogs and other web copy, and I ghostwrite a lot. You've probably come across my work somewhere without even realizing it.

2. HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU MAKE?

What I'd like to say: None of your damn business.

What I say instead: Oh it varies so much from month to month I couldn't even give you a ballpark figure.

3. YOU'RE SO LUCKY. I'VE ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A WRITER.

What I'd like to say: Then sit your butt down in a chair and start writing.

What I say instead: Actually, luck doesn't have a whole lot to do with it. I've worked and practiced really hard to get where I am.