tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-234665642012-03-05T04:32:31.245-05:00Daily (or thereabouts) diatribes of a frenzied freelancerIrreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.comBlogger6501100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-35877487344555010462011-06-02T10:09:00.005-04:002011-06-02T10:39:16.916-04:00

I should be back shortly with a new batch of Screw You!s. In the meantime, enjoy this (rather hysterical) guest post.“Lateness Excuses from Freelance Writers: as Funny as It Can Get”Imagination is one of the defining qualities of a professional and successful freelance writer. However, a successful freelancer should also incorporate other professional qualities: education, articulateness,

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-37126965782330099782011-05-11T09:55:00.003-04:002011-05-11T10:01:20.149-04:00

While I'm on a short break from blogging, I encourage you to stop by Lori Widmer's blog for Writers' Worth Week. Lori's a year-round advocate for demanding one's worth in this profession, but her efforts this week are particularly tireless. You'll find not only daily posts from her, but also links to guests posts on external sites and to other writers who are participating in this very worthy

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-26446718351952847622011-05-04T09:12:00.001-04:002011-05-04T09:12:00.168-04:00

I recently got an email from a freelancer copywriter (who shall remain anonymous) I look up to for advice, insight and how to play the professional payment game. This individual easily commands top rates, so I was rather surprised to discover s/he even has to contend with this type of situation. Sadly, it seems, we all do. THE INCITING SCENARIOThe aforementioned copywriter receives a message from

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-14459821851849514032011-05-02T08:17:00.001-04:002011-05-02T08:17:00.411-04:00

This week's Middle Finger Award comes from a high school pal of mine and fellow freelance writer/editor, Melissa.Project Description: News Writer Needed Specific Project Request: Hello, I run several news websites and I am in need of a writer. This work can be done from home. I need a writer that can provide 5-10 news articles per day that are about 200 words each. ** Most of these news articles

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-84538276982753709162011-04-27T08:52:00.000-04:002011-04-27T08:52:00.096-04:00

AOL to Movie Writers: You’re Fired, But We’d Love It If You Write for Free. Seriously? According to CNET News, AOL had revenue of $596 million in the fourth quarter of 2010. Granted, that figure was "down 26 percent year over year," but you make over half a million dollars and you ask your writers to work for free? Is it just me, or, the grand scheme of things, is such a request worse than those

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-17823981766902082082011-04-25T09:09:00.001-04:002011-04-25T09:09:01.039-04:00

Peter Bowerman recently brought this week's Middle Finger Award winner to my attention. In particularly, he pointed out how many people were jumping at the chance to bid on it: "...puts a human face on all this willingness to work for nada..."Indeed, seventeen people placed bids before the project was cancelled. I'd say said cancellation was the best thing that could have happened to them.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-8178112875545871832011-04-20T09:10:00.000-04:002011-04-20T09:10:00.535-04:00

Maybe it's the math geek in me, but I find Chart Porn almost as addicting as Clients from Hell. I dare you to click through to either and not get sucked in.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-71398704178337213192011-04-18T08:19:00.000-04:002011-04-18T08:19:00.440-04:00

One of my favorite fellow freelancers, Katharine Swan, had her B.S. detector on high alert when she forwarded this week's Middle Finger Award winner to me. She presciently copied the project in its entirety, suspecting it would be flagged, which in due course it was.Project Description: Volunteer Article Writer (Denver)Specific Project Request: Are you a passionate about writing? Have you been

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-25142054188767886992011-04-13T08:42:00.001-04:002011-04-14T09:30:18.121-04:00

It's been a while since I've blogged about the content mills, and since then my least favorite offender, DS, went public. You did all know that, right? If not, I can post the article about it for you all to groan over. Mostly I like to observe the heated debates from afar, but I still have my feelers up for rumblings within this vile writing segment that gives professional writing a bad name.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-26967159444198966462011-04-11T08:35:00.001-04:002011-04-11T08:35:00.079-04:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner comes from a reader, Angie. She wrote that she found it on one of the more notorious freelance-bidding sites and she forwarded it to me on the basis of its "highly offensive" rate--an assessment with which I whole-heartedly agree. She also sent me a copy of the posting "in case they find a qualified candidate and take the ad down"--loved the snarkiness.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-53277444679646454302011-04-06T08:29:00.001-04:002011-04-08T10:47:46.826-04:00

If you've ever done editing on hard copy, I think you'll particularly enjoy this cartoon: Lesser-Known Editing and Proofreading Marks.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-1680584186783371582011-04-04T08:51:00.001-04:002011-04-04T08:51:00.164-04:00

Project Description: Need writer today! Beginners welcomeSpecific Project Request: I need a writer who enjoys the creative writing process. Today I need 3 press releases $20 ea. AND 3 450 word articles $5 each. If they don't have grammar and spelling errors. You can write for me daily. Great for college students who are English majors to add spending money. Pass this along to good writers you

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-65120940184309179682011-03-30T08:34:00.001-04:002011-03-30T08:34:00.197-04:00

Contrary to what one might conclude from the glut of freelance job postings out there, the "free" in freelancer equates to freedom, not price. Unfortuately, it appears as though "the seemingly simple process of getting paid has emerged as the No. 1 problem facing self-employed workers" according to this Crain's New York Business article: Ugh: the 'free' in freelance.Let's discuss. If you're a

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-77278495116797122512011-03-28T08:18:00.003-04:002011-03-28T08:18:00.800-04:00

Project Description: ficitonal book: its a wonderful life type themeSpecific Project Request: I would appreciate assistance in writing a fictional book about a neurotic woman in her mid 20s who desires to relieve her childhood and adolescent years in order to undue the wrong turns she has made since becoming an adult. She believes that her life would have been better had she had proper rearing.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-18521944982208595292011-03-23T23:30:00.003-04:002011-03-23T23:34:55.529-04:00

Two of my favorite bloggers, Lori Widmer and Devon Ellington, have joined forces to bring you the Confident Freelancer Webinar this weekend. Check it out and see what they have to offer. With decades of experience between them, they're sure to deliver what they promise and build *your* freelancing confidence.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-81778977358190541442011-03-23T08:56:00.001-04:002011-03-23T08:56:00.641-04:00

I can no longer sit down and read most of my local newspapers without cringing. They're riddled with errors. And I'm not just talking the occasional typo. I'm seeing more and more instances of word choices being outright wrong to the point where the sentence is nonsensical. Newspapers aren't the only publications suffering either. When was the last time you sat down with a book and made it all

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-2811355923360839852011-03-21T08:25:00.002-04:002011-03-21T08:25:00.490-04:00

Regular reader and commenter Star Lawrence recently sent me this week's Middle Finger Award.Project Description: Accepting Article Submissions (Anywhere)Specific Project Request: Do you keep up on the trends of plastic surgery? Our magazine is currently accepting submissions for an article on the newest trends in plastic surgery. This article needs to appeal to readers ages 18-30ish, have some

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-71105172186086872602011-03-16T09:08:00.002-04:002011-03-16T09:08:00.109-04:00

Admission time: I'm reluctant to change. And that reluctance extends into all areas of life, but in particular anything literary related. Except for a few rare exceptions, I don't (yet--never say never) do audio- or e-books, and beyond LOL, I abhor textspeak. I cringed last fall when I saw a huge sign in Burger King that read "Have It UR Way," or something like that. It was almost as bad as the

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-18115602253374449622011-03-14T09:02:00.001-04:002011-03-14T09:02:00.698-04:00

With a title like this week's Middle Finger Award winner, you know you know it's going to be a real doozy...Project Description: Favor Specific Project Request: looking for someone to assist me in the writing of my book it is a memoir i would like to make payment in july if the author agrees since the book will take some time to fish i will assist in dictation as far as what the story is about i

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-21989448555242344532011-03-09T08:54:00.001-05:002011-03-09T08:54:00.378-05:00

Several moons ago, blogger Lori Widmer addressed the topic of Little Irksome Things, which dealt with her disdain for business professionals using high-falutin jargon instead of clear and straightforward wording. Sometimes these vocabulary-happy individuals get so carried away, in fact, that their message is totally lost on their audience. The next time you find yourself wading through such

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-68796176838137459862011-03-07T08:57:00.000-05:002011-03-07T08:57:00.206-05:00

This week's project gets my Middle Finger Award because just what everyone wants is to be taken advantage of over and over again. Project Description: need great writersSpecific Project Request: These films are narrative based documentaries like vh1 behind the music and e true Hollywood story's . We are looking for a writer who can research the lives of the muscians and write a detailed narrative

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-2741418520242669692011-03-02T08:58:00.001-05:002011-03-02T08:58:00.736-05:00

A while back, I got into a pretty heated debate with an online publisher whose guidelines demanded articles on spec. Guess which side of the fence I was on? Unless you know you can sell the article elsewhere, why would you write something that caters to a specific publication knowing there's a good chance it will be rejected? In fact, my abhorrence of spec work has, of late, extended to

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-15760336824295728802011-02-28T08:37:00.001-05:002011-02-28T08:37:00.433-05:00

A little highly specialized knowledge goes a REALLY short way with this week's Middle Finger Award...Project Description: Write Multiple Choice Biology QuestionsSpecific Project Request: I am trying to populate a quiz software program with multiple-choice questions relating to introductory biology. I am looking for a reliable person who has knowledge of biology and enjoys writing multiple choice

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-63320434564510534932011-02-23T09:13:00.000-05:002011-02-23T09:13:00.385-05:00

I don't get the comic strip Barney and Clyde in my local newspaper, but a member of one of mailing lists recently shared this freelance writing-related goodie. If you've ever wished you had a red Sharpie on you, you'll certainly relate.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-86059215768213707992011-02-21T08:52:00.001-05:002011-02-21T08:52:00.209-05:00

Beware! This week's Middle Finger Award winner could leave bruises...Project Description: Tecnical writing for constructionSpecific Project Request: Help with writing ,I have one proposal for a biting job need someone to help me out writing a concert job proposal English is not my first languageGood thing you clarified that English wasn't your first language, because for a few seconds, I was

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-72669708534701934572011-02-16T08:40:00.002-05:002011-02-16T08:40:00.195-05:00

I discovered What You Oughta Know through a link on a friend's Facebook page a while back and have enjoyed the site's videos ever since. Having received the email it addresses many a time in my inbox, I found this one, Spelling Matters, particularly deserving of a nod here at Screw You!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-57309897391877961322011-02-14T09:18:00.001-05:002011-02-14T09:18:00.942-05:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner get a big Screw You! not only for its whipping boy mentality but also its screwy math. Project Description: description writiner Specific Project Request: I am looking for someone to write book descritions and titles for some of our books. We have wrters who can write very well but are not the best at writing titles. I need someone is writes good english,

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-55045772693940742792011-02-09T09:17:00.000-05:002011-02-09T09:17:00.303-05:00

A while back, reader Grant Dobbins asked me if I'd share his article, Taxes for Freelancers: 20 Deductions You Should Be Taking And How, with my readers. With the 2010 tax-filing date right around the corner, I thought now would be a good time to make good on my promise to do so. Make sure you're not getting screwed and paying more taxes than you need to.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-33307079331247591832011-02-07T08:51:00.000-05:002011-02-07T08:51:00.322-05:00

If you've been reading my Middle Finger Award posts lately, you may have noticed that quite a few of them have had me puzzled. Are they real or a joke? This week's is so bizarre that it falls into that same category. Given the new trend in article spinning, I'm leaning toward it being a genuine request. Plus, it's got that "should take about an hour" phrasing to it indicates it probably is. You

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-15958775981881367692011-02-02T08:42:00.001-05:002011-02-02T08:42:00.412-05:00

In honor of Super Bowl week, I present to you this Headline Blooper of the Week.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-89176242765601226992011-01-31T08:55:00.002-05:002011-01-31T09:57:50.414-05:00

Here's another one of those job postings I'm not sure how to take. Could be legitimate but it also sounds pretty creepy. That's why it's getting my Middle Finger Award. You may disagree. Project Description: Looking for an Editor (Queens)--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Specific Project Request: Looking for an editor or a college student majoring in

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-88211999723280282632011-01-27T17:46:00.002-05:002011-01-27T17:50:05.971-05:00

Because I'm attending a writers' retreat this weekend, I won't be able to select a winner for my New Year's $100 Gift Card Giveaway until late Sunday evening. So I've decided to extend the entry time period until then. If you haven't entered yet, please visit the original post for details.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-7895683393397983922011-01-26T09:17:00.002-05:002011-01-26T09:17:00.194-05:00

Have you read and/or signed the Freelancer Bill of Rights? Its aim is "to empower themselves (freelancers) to demand fair treatment from clients." (Not that any of MY readers need empowering!) What are your thoughts on its proposed inclusions?

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-22109028799663903602011-01-24T08:45:00.002-05:002011-01-24T08:45:00.753-05:00

For any of you who've ever wondered how far school cheating extends into real life, here's your answer. It gets my Middle Finger Award for obvious reasons. Project Description: Review of a book required by employer Specific Project Request: I just got an intership at a real estate company, and my employer wants me to read a book about the housing-related market crash and write a report/review

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-49047296808140317572011-01-19T08:34:00.001-05:002011-01-19T08:34:00.490-05:00

I discovered the link to this article, Begging for Your Pay, on the Facebook Fan page of one of my favorite bloggers, Susan Johnston of The Urban Muse. Click on through and read it before moving on to my commentary. Otherwise, it won't make a whole lot of sense... Plus, there's plenty more to get you (and me) all riled up about. Emails peppered with "assurances from the exasperated, resentful

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-14940772350635095402011-01-17T09:14:00.002-05:002011-01-17T09:43:50.851-05:00

Reader Emily sent me this week's Middle Finger Award winner. Although it doesn't fall in the writing field it was way too fun not to share. Emily dubbed it "Lost in Translation."Here are three scenarii for you, superkrin...First: How about this great idea: Before you post another job ad, find freelance editor on your client website?Second: Consider laying off taking the coffee all day and

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-58248648959672356982011-01-12T08:53:00.004-05:002011-01-12T10:54:42.090-05:00

Since being named a Top Freelance Writing Blog, I've been getting quite a few emails from individuals/businesses wanting to partner up with me in some way. Most of them just want free link exchanges, but a few are willing to extend something of value for the publicity. I'm still making next to nothing off this blog, mind you, but my loyal readers who have helped earn me that distinction are

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-62172942249796364632011-01-10T08:53:00.001-05:002011-01-10T11:01:06.507-05:00

Oh, the drama in this week's Middle Finger Award-winning post. Although I wouldn't touch this project with a thirty-nine-and-a-half-foot pole, I have to admit the manuscript would probably make for an entertaining read. Project Description: Editor Needed for Manuscript (Eagle Rock)Specific Project Request: I finished my first manuscript and I need an editor to correct grammar and punctuation

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-48449650098547629092011-01-05T09:15:00.000-05:002011-01-05T09:15:00.982-05:00

I spend a lot of time here on this blog focusing on the negative job postings. After all, it's hard not to when there are so many of them. Occasionally, however, I'll run across a positive job ad. Okay, so it's still not the greatest hourly rate, but it sure is a step in the right direction. And I'll bet working with this indvidual will be a lot more satisfying experience than the usual

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-22969908278870393042011-01-03T08:35:00.001-05:002011-01-03T10:00:52.799-05:00

It's the first Middle Finger Award winner of the New Year, and it's the usual want-it-all, pay-for-nothing mentality. Project Description: Long term ghostwriterSpecific Project Request: - Perfect English and Grammar- Very analytical- Very fast writer (24 hours)- Able to write research paper at Master Level extremely well.- Constant communication (emails, ym, msn & mobile)24 hours or less. Most of

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-82380442863634235652010-12-21T23:23:00.002-05:002010-12-21T23:26:57.138-05:00

Okay, I know I said my previous post would be my last one until after the holidays, but I couldn't resist sharing the 12 Days of Christmas — copy-editor style. Enjoy, and Merry Christmas to all and to all a Screw You!-less night.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-33761344204146333312010-12-20T08:44:00.004-05:002010-12-20T08:44:00.782-05:00

This will be my last post until after the holiday season. If you celebrate, may yours be a blessed one. See you all in 2011 for a new year of Screw You! fun.Maybe I was just feeling ultra Middle Fingery when I spotted this ad, but I'm sorry. Anyone who posts a job ad that is this poorly spelled should not be writing a series (or serrier even) of books.Teenage christian childeren fantacyi have

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-67413092018639826332010-12-14T22:37:00.000-05:002010-12-14T22:37:00.349-05:00

I recently won a copy of Peter Bowerman's The Well-Fed Writer as part of a prize package. However, I already have a copy autographed to me personally. Because I think every freelance writer should read this book, I'd like to give the second copy away. First person (U.S. only please) to post a comment AND send me your snail-mail addy gets it. (My email address is in my profile. Click through to

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-79191959214523142752010-12-13T08:39:00.001-05:002010-12-13T08:39:00.416-05:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner earns the dubious distinction on the basis of making a freelance job request sound like a very bad telephone or spam scam. Project Description: Need Parody of Rap song! (Union Square)Specific Project Request: Hi all, I am looking to produce a 3-5 minute music video - "Parody of Rap Song", which pokes fun at rap music videos. I'd like the song to be catchy,

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-82698596443047655882010-12-08T08:53:00.000-05:002010-12-08T08:53:00.945-05:00

Oh, and I thought I had it bad that I can't stand to read my local newspapers thanks to a lack of copyediting. Imagine getting something like this from your kid's principal: Principal's bad grammar angers parents.Look, a lot of people aren't the best spellers or grammarians, but for pity's sake, if you happen to be one of them and you're a professional, hire someone to do the editing for you.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-14279833681965228252010-12-06T08:36:00.002-05:002010-12-06T08:36:00.311-05:00

I've left the location in for this week's Middle Finger Award winner because I thinks it's key to its Screw You! worthiness. Project Description: Freelance Copywriter (New York)Specific Project Request: Looking for a freelance copywriter to write website content for SEO / Web Development company based in New York. paying $10 per page. please email resume or sample Ten bucks per page is crap no

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-2520957881266339352010-12-01T08:53:00.003-05:002010-12-01T08:53:00.266-05:00

I once heavily edited a 100,000+-word manuscript for an author, and if I do say so myself, the finished product was near flawless. However, the author came running back to me insisting I'd overlooked a few things. Why? Because MS Word, in its far-from-perfect spell- and grammar-checking ways, was underscoring them in (GASP!) its accusatory scarlet lettering. One of the matters I was taken to task

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-77371274065115052442010-11-29T09:00:00.001-05:002010-11-29T09:00:10.480-05:00

How was your Thanksgiving? Today I'm thankful that I'm not in the position of this week's Middle Finger Award. Big thanks to Lori Widmer from Words on the Page for passing this one along. We got a big kick out of it, and I thought you all should too.Project Description: Resume Writer (really good resume writer)Specific Project Request: I'm a small business owner that had to close my business and

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-82390397447418846372010-11-22T08:58:00.000-05:002010-11-22T08:58:01.024-05:00

I had a reader write to me to share this week's Middle Finger Award winner with me, and although it was listed under Administrative Support, I couldn't resist sharing it with you.Project Description: Vaccination for Bubonic Plague in Istanbul.Specific Project Request: Tomorrow (12-Oct-2010) I will travel to Istanbul, Turkey and will need to take a bubonic plague. I need help finding a place to

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-84779363459394804782010-11-18T08:49:00.000-05:002010-11-18T08:49:00.565-05:00

Right after I published Bird's-Eye View of the Freelance Content Mills, a boatload of other exposes on DS and its ilk came to my attention. An anonymous reader shared this one with me: In Demand--A week inside the future of journalism. You can read my take on this one in the comments of the aformentioned blog post. Shortly thereafter, these two showed up in my various news feeds:My Summer on the

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-3386902574435004742010-11-15T08:48:00.001-05:002010-11-15T08:48:00.216-05:00

Project Description: 50 Page weight loss book,english writerBudget: Less than $250Specific Project Request: I have 57 page book that needs proof read an edit and i need someone to add another 50 pages to the book.I need help on coming up with a title of this book. In this book i talk about 90 days transforamtion and how to defeat pleatus and ect.i need someone who knows about the human body and

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-66315909374470022122010-11-10T08:30:00.001-05:002010-11-10T08:30:01.252-05:00

I know a lot of you are fans of I Can Haz Cheez Burger, so you may have seen this one already. It's worth seeing again. If you don't like my changes...Now that's my kind of Screw You! cat!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-84678916764026419922010-11-08T08:26:00.001-05:002010-11-08T08:26:00.333-05:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner answers the mind-boggling question: If a picture is worth a thousand words, what are one thousand articles worth? The answer is, apparently, $300. And that's just the tip of the Screw You! iceberg on this one. Read it and weep.Project Description: 1,000 ArticlesSpecific Project Request: I need 1,000 articles about online degree programs. Each article must be

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-90395523587291447372010-11-03T08:10:00.000-04:002010-11-03T08:10:00.388-04:00

Ten months since it was first published, my expose on Demand Studios is still drawing controversial comments. Those who disagree with my take seem to think I'm just a content mill hater, but plenty of others who've tried out such models in much less limited ways than I did are speaking out about their experience ... usually not in the most savory way.A few months back, PBS even picked up on the

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-29666983430395160982010-11-01T08:39:00.001-04:002010-11-01T08:39:00.545-04:00

This Middle Finger Award winner sounded like a great opportunity until I got to the "potential" part. It was all downhill from there. Project Description: Press Release Writer (Marketing Agency) (Remote)Specific Project Request: Marketing director for a digital marketing agency needs help writing a press release this week! Basic copy will be provided. Need help editing and adjusting tone and

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-69194937453239067212010-10-27T08:56:00.002-04:002010-10-27T13:37:22.378-04:00

Editors are worth something after all. Well, imagine that. I'm very fortunate in that most of the clients for whom I edit rain praise upon me for the value I add to their work. But let's face it, editing is usually a thankless job. After all, most people see only the finished product. They never even catch a glimpse of the original not-fit-for-viewing version of the copy. And woe is the editor

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-62402062025182973082010-10-25T09:01:00.001-04:002010-10-25T09:01:00.896-04:00

Project Description: Content/Blog WritersSpecific Project Request: I need an SEO content, or blog writer for education articles. All articles will be 500 words, and right now, I can only afford to pay $2 per article, but that will increase in the next 3 months, or even the next month. I really need people to help me out, and I understand if the low pay puts some people off, but I really need the

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-55917202873710470372010-10-22T11:34:00.003-04:002010-10-22T11:37:47.788-04:00

After turning him into Writer's Weekly's Whispers and Warnings for investigation, I received a partial payment from my non-paying client. (See The Non-Paying Freelance Client I Wish I Didn't Have to Out . This is why I count Angela Hoy among my heroes--she achieved in the matter of hours something I'd been trying to accomplish for six months. Now I just have to keep my fingers crossed that the

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-39711407391327279272010-10-11T08:39:00.002-04:002010-10-11T08:39:00.662-04:00

Oh boy, does my math degree ever come in handy for this week's Middle Finger Award winner.Project Description: ESL Proofreaders of legal texts Specific Project Request: Confidential, Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya Required urgently experienced, English mother-tongue, proofreader(s) for light proofreading of about 500+ A4 pages (300 words per page) of legal texts, translated from Arabic into English.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-32587916070193606392010-10-08T08:39:00.003-04:002010-10-22T11:33:55.082-04:00

Normally, I take a certain amount of pleasure in outing my nonpaying clients (which thankfully are few in number). This time, however, is an exception. I worked with this company for three years, during which time the individuals involved were very good to me. Payment was often slow but it always eventually came, sometimes with bonuses. But all that changed the latter half of last year when I had

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-53377594680058458392010-10-06T09:08:00.001-04:002010-10-06T09:08:00.270-04:00

Anyone who watches reality TV will totally relate to this New Yorker cartoon. In the same vein, but an even worse offender in my not so humble opinion, is "XXX and I's relationship ..." Makes me want to hurl something very heavy at the TV every single time it's uttered.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-6342112244695162502010-10-04T08:47:00.001-04:002010-10-04T08:47:00.354-04:00

Project Description: Do You Love Celebrity Gossip? Writers Wanted (LA)Specific Project Request: Do you love Celebrity Gossip? Can you write 250 word celebrity gossip blurbs that bite? Do you have an amazing sense of humor? Can you write 5 amazing, funny, edgy, hilarious, and hard-hitting posts on what is going on in the celebrity gossip world as it happens? If yes, we want you. Work from home and

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-40077387847460236972010-10-01T08:43:00.001-04:002010-10-01T08:43:00.529-04:00

So not a single one of my business card winners has contacted me with their mailing information more than two weeks after the announcement. (So much for contests drawing in readership. Once they stick their hand in the honeypot, they apparently never return again.) That being the case, the first three readers to email me with their contact information gets 'em. On your mark, get set, go!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-10859529753126129082010-09-29T08:52:00.000-04:002010-09-29T08:52:00.226-04:00

As an editor, over the years I've had all kinds of queries tossed at me that hinted at mistrust of my capabilities. For instance, one client insisted ahold wasn't a word because Microsoft Word spell check instisted it be two. Another asked me why I put commas before names in all her dialogue (e.g., "What's freaking up with this, Kathy?"). When I explained that it was because it was the correct

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-88143288574586586262010-09-27T08:19:00.001-04:002010-09-27T08:19:00.633-04:00

This week's Middle Finger Award is one of biblical proportions... Project Description: Music/poetry book proof readerSpecific Project Request: ASCAP musician/writer has fascinating new spiritual book that we seek proofing on. Prefer proof reader to be knowledgeable about William Blake/Bible, and also be familiar with music lyrics etc. Since this is interesting/preview read, paying $50.(payment

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-29896261405011834342010-09-23T08:20:00.001-04:002010-09-23T08:20:00.580-04:00

For those of you who are unaware, tomorrow is International Freelancers Day. I wish I had the time to participate in the free online conference. It looks like a stellar lineup. If anyone else takes part, please do drop by the comments section and let us know what you thought.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-57615595547001105712010-09-20T11:12:00.002-04:002010-09-20T11:15:58.773-04:00

My winners for the free business cards contest were:1. Tex2. Don Shepard3. Rachel V. OliverAs of today, I haven't heard from any of you, and most of your don't have contact info in your Blogger profile. Please email me at the email address in my Blogger profile by 11:59 p.m. EDT Wednesday, September 22 with your mailing addy or I'll be forced to pick alternate winners. Thanks!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-27422036079514694302010-09-15T08:04:00.000-04:002010-09-15T08:04:00.791-04:00

While I'm on vacation, I bring you a guest post by Alexis Bonari...As a freelancer, I've done shameless things for money. Most recently I wrote seven hundred hot sauce descriptions (there are only so many words that rhyme with "heat" by the way.) At a buck forty a description and a couple of jalapenos away from pulling my hair out, I decided that the freelancer is probably one of the most

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-74340411906421091782010-09-13T08:29:00.000-04:002010-09-13T08:29:00.471-04:00

Project Description: TRUTH AND HONESTY WRITERS AND EDITORS (East Denver)Specific Project Request: TRUTH AND HONESTY WRITERS AND EDITORS Wanted – Editors/Writers To Sift Through 10 Years Of Our Truth And Honesty Writings Into Approximately 500 Different Primary Subject Matters Of Life, After Which We Will Publish “The Truth About ________” Booklets On Each, And Make A Fortune. Many Positions Open.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-4319756324258908292010-09-11T11:52:00.000-04:002010-09-11T11:52:00.523-04:00

Drumroll, please .....And the random winners of the business cards are:1. Tex2. Don Shepard3. Rachel V. OliverWill each of you email your contact information to me privately so I can pass it along to the event sponsor? (My email address can be found in my Blogger profile.) I will be away for a few days, so if you don't hear back from me immediately, don't worry. I'll give you all a week to

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-27832262738194410562010-09-08T08:21:00.000-04:002010-09-08T08:21:00.087-04:00

It's a rare occasion when I ask favors of my blog readers, but I recently entered a travel writing contest that I'd love to win. Although the quality of my writing has the potential to earn me a spot in the winner's circle, secondary prizes will be handed out to top vote getters. So, if you're so inclined, I'd be greatly appreciative if you'd follow these voting steps ... Now your friends, family

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-38228681729101556462010-09-06T08:23:00.001-04:002010-09-06T08:23:00.264-04:00

Lori Widmer sent me this job posting a while back, knowing how much I and my readers would love it. She briefly featured it on her blog (which if you're not reading, you should be), so you may have already seen it. Regardless, it definitely warrants a Middle Finger Award.Project Description: I write short sex stories and looking for them to be published (philly)Specific Project Request: Hello I'm

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-16701510417485194882010-09-03T13:54:00.002-04:002010-09-03T13:57:47.704-04:00

I will be closing entries to the business card contest at 11:59 p.m. Monday (Labor Day here in the U.S.). So if you haven't entered yet, please hurry. Contest rules can be found here.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-71017487333145849702010-09-01T09:07:00.000-04:002010-09-01T09:07:00.166-04:00

This may be the most Screw You! appropriate quote I've found to date!"The bitterness of poor quality remains long after low pricing is forgotten!" ~Leon M. Cautillo

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-66904446408691211322010-08-30T08:29:00.001-04:002010-08-30T09:46:57.150-04:00

Project Description: Writer Needed. Odd Job.Specific Project Request: I need about 35 pages of freshman-undergraduate-level bullshit on Anerican Literature. I'm almost 30. I don't need this shit. I'll pay you, say $350. Or make your offer. I need this in like 2-3 weeks. Unemployed writers, help me out! Thank you. Location: Chicago Compensation: $350 O.B.O. Oh lordy, where do I start with why

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-51263758331388822912010-08-23T09:58:00.002-04:002010-08-23T10:01:38.373-04:00

Because I haven't received many entries (C'mon, people, doesn't every freelancer have a need for additional business cards?), I'm going to extend the contest until Labor Day. I'll pick the winners the morning of September 7, 2010. Contest rules can be found here.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-51041659264444443032010-08-20T08:24:00.000-04:002010-11-17T14:31:51.981-05:00

Recently, I've been encountering a LOT of capitalization misuse. It's seems everywhere I turn these days, everyone and her mother thinks it's trendy to put a capital letter at the beginning of a word for Emphasis or to give it more Importance. Pshaw. In that vein, and piggybacking off the popularity of the "blog" of "unnecessary" quotation marks, I present to you a fairly new blog for your

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-17709792874151107942010-08-16T08:38:00.001-04:002010-08-16T08:38:00.217-04:00

Having recently taken a commenter to task for expecting me to tell her exactly where to go and who to call to secure freelance jobs that pay better than Demand Studios, I'm fit to be tied right now about any insinuations regarding what I should do, when and how I should do it, and how much I should be paid (or in this case not paid). Therefore, this project easily earns my Middle Finger Award.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-32917203812379791022010-08-06T08:55:00.001-04:002010-08-06T08:55:00.721-04:00

Emma Lee of Online PhD programs recently wrote to let me know this blog had been chosen as a 2010 Top Freelance Writing Blog. The winner's circle is a very solid list of 40 very worthy awardees. Screw You! landed in the middle of the pack at 25 and I'm very honored to be in such company. I'm even more tickled by the personal note Emma included in her email to inform me of my placement: "And I

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-88727894405222518062010-08-04T08:11:00.001-04:002010-08-04T08:11:00.081-04:00

The folks over at PrintRunner, LLC have generously offered to provide a set of 250 business cards to three lucky Screw You! readers. I've checked out the site and they've got some really unique and elegant designs. I'm kind of bummed that I can't enter myself, but you can. More information about the company and how to win follows.Win 250 FREE Business Cards from PrintRunner.com!If you're a

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-37856450072749584602010-07-28T08:12:00.000-04:002010-07-28T08:12:00.694-04:00

Ever since I discovered the blog Clients from Hell, I've come to realize it doesn't matter whether you're a writer, an editor, a graphic designer, a Web developer, a virtual assistant or what have you. If you're a freelancer, the chances are pretty high that every other freelancer can relate to most, if not all, of your horror stories. Case in point this post. It's been making the rounds, so you

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-39442426881256045942010-07-26T08:24:00.001-04:002010-07-26T08:24:00.928-04:00

This week I've got a fun Middle Finger Award winner. I know, they're all fun, but this one's fun in a different sort of way. Project Description: Ghost Writer wtd.Specific Project Request: I am looking for an individule to Ghost Write/or co-write a book about the Legalization of Weed. Send me your resume and why you are best suited for this book.Granted, this could be a legitimate assignment,

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-69775279171467744042010-07-20T09:49:00.003-04:002010-07-20T09:59:21.374-04:00

Today's post is a shameless promotion, but it's not a self-promotion. One of my favorite bloggers and long-time readers, Debbi Mack is attempting to reach #1 in the Kindle store with the launch of her collection of short stories, Five Uneasy Pieces. If she achieves that goal, she'll be giving away a $100 Best Buy gift certificate, a $25 Cookie Lee gift certificate and free music downloads. I've

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-33180033274388868572010-07-19T08:23:00.001-04:002010-07-19T08:23:00.285-04:00

Project Description: SEO content writing for my Website (minnesota)Specific Project Request: I have a hand sanitizer website and i need some great writing done that will be good for seo and also a joy for people to read. If you can write well by golly send me an email. pay is negotiable i dont have a big budget. but im always up for ideas and helping each other out ya know! SPEAK WITH U SOON. Yo!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-20905779711114936112010-07-14T08:37:00.000-04:002010-07-14T08:37:00.270-04:00

I got an email a few weeks ago from the promoter of this contest: Insurance Related Essay Contest. He asked if I'd be interested in sharing it with my readers. After checking it out, I believe it to be legit. There's no entry fee as far as I can tell, and since most freelancers have to contend with way more insurance issues than most individuals, I also feel it's relevant to my readers. The

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-67691310346852197682010-07-12T09:16:00.002-04:002010-07-12T22:47:55.015-04:00

Reader Stacy Ranta sent along this week's Middle Finger Award winner.It's not the lack of pay that earns this posting the Screw You! bird. Projects guilty of that no-no are a dime a dozen. Rather, it's as Stacy pointed out, "They don't even send you a complimentary copy of the magazine. You get a digital copy that you have to ASK for. How lame is that?"Pretty darn lame, Stacy!Stacy also did her

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-72277625269914262452010-07-07T08:49:00.001-04:002010-07-07T08:49:00.367-04:00

Another professional writer has taken a sarcastic stab at exposing the not-so-subtle insults found in a great many Craigslist job ads. I'm jealous. Here's the direct link, but I've pasted the commentary below in case it gets taken down: Writing Rock Stars Wanted (Virtual). Whoever you are, Craigslist poster, I applaud you. Writing Rock Stars Wanted (Virtual)---------------------------------------

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-14741959797846233722010-07-05T08:57:00.001-04:002010-07-05T08:57:00.098-04:00

Project Description: Writing Document for Internet Publishing (Anywhere)Specific Project Request: I am a bankruptcy attorney. In an attempt to optimize my websites, my webguru has advised that I need to publish articles that discuss the topic and site my websites in one or more places. The articles can be of any length and only need to make sense somewhat. No expertise in the subject matter is

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-87334431324582246822010-06-30T08:43:00.000-04:002010-06-30T08:43:00.325-04:00

Reader Sam sent me a link to What Are the Best Practices for Web Writing?, which is so cleverly written, I couldn't resist sharing it with my readers. It just oozes with the sarcasm I adore here at Screw You!

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-70262585869563557892010-06-28T08:18:00.000-04:002010-06-28T08:18:00.207-04:00

Project Description: writers/researchers for web company wanted (web-based/NY area)Specific Project Request: TO ALL THE BRILLIANT UNDER-APPRECIATED CREATIVES AND SCRIBBLERS: We are a web-based business looking to build out our website We need 1-3 writers/researchers to help us: 1) interview a select number (5-10) of successful professionals (you will NOT need to cold call; only to conduct

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-15621001257033124852010-06-23T08:32:00.000-04:002010-06-23T08:32:00.530-04:00

So I ran across a site called Fiverr the other day and instinctively wanted to gag. The premise: Fiverr is a place for people to share things they're willing to do for $5. And against my better judgment, I clicked through to the writing category, where I literally couldn't believe my eyes. Seriously, there's not a whole lot $5 would get me out of bed to do, but this is Screw You! ridiculous.1. I

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-87545326660621775262010-06-21T08:30:00.001-04:002010-06-21T08:30:00.319-04:00

I've got a unique Middle Finger Award winner for you this week. Project Description: Copyeditor with technical skillsSpecific Project Request: I need a copy-editor to review web content. This job requires a person who can edit the content for a reasonable price, and who can also get the job done before June 25th. As the copyeditor, your job includes: • Making sure the content is correct in terms

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-20296463696383197622010-06-16T08:51:00.001-04:002010-06-16T08:51:00.346-04:00

I bet some of you think I get a lot of hate mail, but to be honest I don't. Sure, I engage in a good amount of spitfire with the very limited number of clients I have to out here, but I don't think I've ever had a Middle Finger Award winner contact me over the years ... until now. And interestingly enough, he approached me in a very amenable way. Therefore, I have agreed to extend him a bit more

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-25117414573322986192010-06-14T08:53:00.001-04:002010-06-14T08:53:00.484-04:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner comes courtesy of Katherine Swan.Project Description: History buff?Specific Project Request: I have developed a website that focuses on history. I need writers to help me write e-books (i.e. a 3-4 detailed essay) about various people and events in history. If interested, please contact me through Craigslist.org and I will get back to you who or what I need

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-72438642367898745122010-06-09T08:38:00.001-04:002010-06-09T08:38:00.334-04:00

As a freelancer, I deal with low-ball job offers on at least a weekly basis. I've come to believe this widespread problem is just part and parcel of being self-employed. Come to find out, I've got some unexpected company in the form of full-blown employees. This week, MarketWatch published the article Low-Ball Salary Offers: Should You Take it or Leave it? wherein the trend of employers making

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-54025729577973416552010-06-07T08:51:00.001-04:002010-06-07T08:51:00.156-04:00

This week's Middle Finger Award winner was forwarded to me by an acquaintance of someone who did not know how to get in touch with me. That person referred to me as the "Screw You! Chick." I'm not sure whether to be flattered or offended by that moniker, but it does have an interesting ring to it. And interestingly enough, I spotted this project as an award contender almost simultaneously with

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-82745646630835139602010-06-03T09:41:00.000-04:002010-06-03T09:41:00.077-04:00

Inc. magazine recently posed this question: Why Is Business Writing So Awful? The article opens with a collection of overused phrases and contends that all business writing has started to sound like. The author, Jason Fried, then goes on to offer businesses this very sound advice: "If you care about your product, you should care just as much about how you describe it." And he adds this gem: "...

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-37726598979216575942010-05-31T08:54:00.001-04:002010-05-31T08:54:00.141-04:00

Happy Memorial Day! In honor of the holiday, I'd like to institute a memorial to projects like this week's Middle Finger Award winner. Again, I'm leaving in the the poster's full name/contact. If he's proud enough to associate himself with this crap, I'm more than happy to send discontent freelancers his way. You know, when the sh%! hits the fan and all...Project Description: Skilled

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-32183559718652303702010-05-26T08:52:00.001-04:002010-05-26T08:52:00.079-04:00

I particularly love the irony of "your writings gettin' sloppy."Yeah, if you're going to put a video about copyediting up on YouTube, you should probably copyedit it first. And this guy's a journalism teacher? Still, a nice attempt at trying to stress the importance of perfect copy.

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23466564.post-39687286389508712342010-05-24T08:28:00.001-04:002010-05-24T08:28:00.778-04:00

Project Description: Copy Editor - General Topics - Telecommute (any)Specific Project Request: Copy editor to edit and review documents on wide range of topics and styles (college papers, website content, sales letters, etc). Work from home, pay is per $1.65 per 300 words (not a full time position). Qualifications: Excellent English grammar and writing, wide vocabulary, experience copy editing

Irreverent Freelancerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06853229641428041727noreply@blogger.com4