Entries from September 2008 ↓

If you are trying to make money writing one thing you should be paying attention to is grammatical errors. I am not talking about comma placement or things like that. Instead I am talking about things like using the wrong word - its versus it’s and the like. For some great examples of what I talking about, head on over to Copyblogger. Give their article on Five Grammatical Errors That Make You Look Dumb a read.

Part of the appeal of getting paid to write is that you can do it from the comfort of your own home. And these days you can make money writing on the web. Of course, there are plenty of scams out there promise to pay you and never do. Or even places that ask you for money up front. (Never do that!) While there are some sketchy places on the web, there are also some legit places online that you can get paying writing gigs. For some ideas on places to look have a look at 3 Legitimate Ways To Get Paid Online over at Dumb Little Man.

If you are sending out resumes you should also be sending out cover letters with those resumes. The cover letter is essentially where you sell yourself to the employer. So it is essential that you have a successful cover letter. And you can ensure that you do with only five simple steps.

1. No fluff. In your cover letter you need to get right to the point. You can begin it with “I am writing you today because…” And then include all of the facts: job title and location, where you found out about the position and so on.

2. Show that you know the company. Next demonstrate your knowledge of the company with a little flattery. Tell them what about the company makes you want to work there.

3. List your qualifications. Let the employer know what you have to offer them. You can list relevant experience in bullet points.

4. Make it personal. Sum up yourself including things like your strengths and skills and what things you are passionate about professionally.

5. Close the sale. Let them know you are excited about the opportunity and interview. Then list what action you will be taking next - whether you will be following up or waiting to hear from them.