How to get writing gigs during a recession

Getting writing jobs are difficult enough under normal circumstances, but getting published during a recession requires a fresh yet well planned approach.

Take a multi-tiered approach:

Because the internet is part of our professional, social and personal lives, we can use it in a number of different facets. And when looking for a writing job, it’s typically one of the firsts places (if not the only place) we look. But during an economic downturn, the internet is simply not going to be enough.

You’ll have to go the passé route of combing through the newspaper (not just the want ads as there are often local news pieces that provide information about a community business expanding or being opened, et cetera).

Likewise, in an age of digital communication, phone and face-to-face communications are seen as not only professional but portray those who are willing to actually take the time to take the time to get noticed.

This doesn’t mean that email and internet aren’t necessary, they are necessary for information but they won’t help a jobseeker nearly as much as personal communication.

Network:

As during normal economic circumstances, you’ll want to use your social circles and previous coworkers to network. Also, you can network among your alumni groups, at your church, your children's school, your fellow hobbyists. I continually network for my business, Retail Consulting Solutions in these circles. (But you must do so in a polite and respectful manner, you don’t have to stress how much you need a job when unemployment is nearly 10%.)

Don’t forget to keep notes on who’ve you spoke to and about what. You can use those notes to schedule a time for following up. Not only that, but it will help you to focus your job seeking efforts instead of chasing your tail.

Present yourself professionally:

Make your resume, query letter and thank you notes professional. Don’t just dig out your old publication lists and add the latest in your last gig. While previous publication show you are marketable and responsible and just listing publications don’t show enthusiasm. Where you’ve wowed the publisher or gotten great reader feedback are entries any publication is looking for, particularly during challenging economic times.

No matter how good your resume, you can blow it by not living up to it. You don’t want to go beyond what you’ve said in writing you can or have been. In order to be convincing (and appear professional) everything should “line-up”. That is, your resume and query letter, your thank you note and interview – consistency is key.

Be prepared:

Your communication skills will have to be a cut-above as so many applicants are seeking the same position. It won’t be enough to be dressed professionally and speak well; you’ll have to sell yourself.

Treat “no” as one step closer to finding the next gig:

It may be counterintuitive, but getting a “no” or “we’ve found someone who’s a better fit” can be a positive thing. Take it as a chance you had to sharpen your interview skills. And remember, it isn’t impolite to inquire as to why you didn’t get the job.