Six Ways to support your writing financially without the need of a boss

For many writers the chance to stay at home and write is a dream that is just out of reach. However I have always felt that this dream must be achieved no matter what. I don’t like office work, that is partly because I have worked in some terrible offices and I used to advice others on how to run their offices and so have seen the worst around. The idea of working in the modern day sweat shop is nothing more than a nightmare for me. Now I know there are some people who live out there who love their jobs and love their bosses. But I am not one of them which is why I am always on the lookout for a way to earn more money through my writing. I’ve seen some fantastic ideas and some really terrible ideas. Here are six ways to supplement your writing without needing a boss.

1.       Add advertising to your blogs.

Advertising online is fast becoming the most popular choice for companies, authors and writing services. We all have blogs and websites – some of which don’t have any of these advertisements on them at all. If you have a high traffic blog, why not offer authors an advertisement for a set amount? It doesn’t have to be a huge amount, may $5. If you did that three times a week that would be $780 you’ve earned without doing much work.

2.       Create an author service

Author services are always in hot demand and some service providers can charge a fortune. Are you good at something? Can you format a book for kindle, smashwords or createspace? Are you a qualified editor or can you design covers? These options can be big money earners and so you should consider that an option for income. This may take some time out of your writing, but at least you will be earning a guaranteed income.

3.       Become an affiliate reviewer

Do you have a hobby that you sometimes share on your website / blog? Why don’t you link your review to the place where readers can buy the products and become an affiliate member? Although the returns may not be as high as some other options, it takes little time out of your writing and guarantees of payment on what you earn are more secure. There is little chance of Amazon or Play not paying up.

4.       Do talks with local groups

Believe it or not as a writer you have a specialism. So why not put that to good use and go to groups and offer to do a talk. The rates can be pretty lucrative if you get good and it can be great fun. Just make sure you practice, practice, practice – otherwise you may not get second chances.

5.       Write more books

An obvious one really, however if you have five books out there, where is the sixth? Research shows that the more books you release the better you do. There is no certainty where the golden number is, but there is a tipping point for every writer where their books get the exposure they need to make a regular contribution to the family pot.

6.       Become a freelancer

This is an option which some people don’t think of. As a writer you are use to sitting at your desk and typing. So why not get some instant pay and join one of the many websites that list companies and individuals that want to have quality content and are willing to pay for it. One of the biggest is Elance and if you want to dip your toes in the water this is a good place to start. But remember you are going there for the money, not pleasure – so if you do decide to sign up – don’t bid below what you would like to earn per hour. There are some clients who will ask for 20 cents for 500 words. That isn’t worth it when you get other jobs that pay 3 or 4 cents per word.

These were just some of the ways in which you can earn money to increase your career earnings and get one step closer to a goal of writing from home. I am sure there are more. Have you got any suggestions – let everyone know and comment here.

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