Blog ‘n’ Roll

Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs

You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned. 

blog content plan
Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

So how can a blog plan help you out? Well, the main benefits are:

  • It increases efficiency. According to the studies completed by Joe Pulizzi from the Content marketing institute, 60% of companies with written content strategy are more effective than those who have it just in words. And the same goes for individuals. Blog planning is crucial when it comes to efficiency. 
  • It helps to define your goals and objectives for a period. Blogging should never be aimless, especially if you want to monetize your blog and find a decent following. 
  • A plan helps to always know what to write. When you have it all drafted for at least six months in advance, you won’t get stuck with writing because of the lack of ideas. There will be no writer’s blocks and nerves about what topic to cover. 

A content plan for a blog is as important as a business plan for a company. After all, the competition is enormous, only in the years 2014-2020, the number of bloggers grew by 10 million!

How can one beat that? Well, with a smart strategy and planning beforehand, of course. 

How to make a plan for your blog? 

Now, let’s get into practical details of how to plan a blog and draft content for 6 months ahead. We’ll go through all the steps, starting from the goal and audience. 

Set the goals

Having clear goals is important because you’ll shape your content according to them. I divide the year into 4 parts 3 months each. And set goals for each period. Do not worry; you can change them in case something new arrives. The goals should be smart:

S – Specific

M – Measurable

A – Attainable

R – Relevant

T – Timeframe

The more specific you get, the easier it will be to achieve. For example, in the first 3 months, you want to boost your email list by 20% or increase conversion rates by 15%.

Another good example is increasing blog’s traffic by 10% in a particular period. 

Define the audience

How to plan a blog without paying attention to the readers? It is impossible! Whether you are a comedy writer, product reviewer, or lifestyle blogger, you need to know who you are writing for. 

target audience
Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Create a target audience persona – approximate demographics (age, location, employment) and their motivations. It will help to find topics to cover and choose the particular formats. 

Create calendar

Now it is time for a content calendar. I like to use Excel spreadsheets but there are many other ways to do it. What do you need to add? 

Posting schedule – consistency is the key.

Vasy Kafidoff

If you are only starting it is easy to think that you’ll write every day. But in reality, it is extremely hard. The average blog post is 1,236 words and if you add proofreading, finding visuals, and other tasks – it takes a decent amount of time.

A lot of bloggers choose to post once or twice a week, which is fine. Quality goes before quantity. 

Create sheets for each month. For example, in May you need to produce 5 posts. Create lines with deadlines. 

Also, add lines for topics and keywords for each post. We’ll fill them in later. 

Important! Add specific dates and events to the calendar. For example, holidays or industry-specific dates. You can craft the content according to them to attract more visitors.

If you have sponsorships, add them too and create pieces around the same subject. 

Outline the content

Now it is time to brainstorm ideas for the next period. First of all, decide what content forms you can do, such as:

  • How-to guides; 
  • Product reviews; 
  • Opinion pieces; 
  • Listicles; 
  • Case studies; 
  • Researches; 
  • Videos or podcasts; 
  • Interviews; 
  • Guest posts, etc;

Another great idea is to reuse your old content. For example, rewrite and update old blogs or social media posts.

To make the blog more entertaining, diversify them in the calendar. For example:

1 post – how-to guide; 

2 post – product review; 

3 post – old content updated; 

4 post – listicle; 

5 post – your podcast on the subject. 

Brainstorm ideas

There are many ways to find ideas to plan a blog. You can do market and keyword research, look at what is trending, find ideas in comments and questions, make an audience survey, or look at what is in the news. 

Any decrease or disruption in the amount of content you are producing and using can have a negative impact on your rankings. However with a full plan in place, you will have a steady flow of content to use throughout your campaigns.

John Waghorn

The fun part is to brainstorm all of them according to categories. If you need 5 pieces per month, it means that for 6 months you’ll need 30 pieces, 6 topics for each category. 

So draft 6 how-to guide ideas, then 6 product reviews, find 6 pieces of old content you can update, think of listicles, and podcast topics. It is a manageable amount of topics to think of and you’ll have your content strategy drafted for half a year! 

plan a content
Photo by Matt Ridley on Unsplash

After you are done, put them on the calendar month by month. And add keywords that you’ve found during the research. 

As an example, a travel blog schedule for May can look like this:

1 post – how-to travel this summer and stay responsible with COVID-19;

2 post – 10 hiking boots for your trip: choosing the best ones;

3 post –tips for traveling alone in 2021;

4 post – 20 things you’ll need to pack for a trip in Mexico;

5 post – podcast about finding the best international flight deals.

Here you go – the content plan is ready all you need to do is to bring it to reality!

Ready to plan your blog content? 

Blog content plan is a great organizational tool. It helps to be professional, stay on top of the industry, and be more successful in what you do. And it also perfect for managing your time better.

You’ll draft the strategy for a year or 6 months once and then you’ll get to do only fun things – actually create content. Do not forget to review it before the new period in case some updates are needed.

One of the most important aspects – you should always aim for quality and consistency in posting. Remember that and your blog will rock the world! 

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?

Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there.

Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer? 

Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever.

Photo by Moritz Mentges on Unsplash

Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, whether you create fiction, comedy texts, or blog posts. It is completely natural to be tired and feel like you can’t write anymore. It happens to the best of us. 

What to do if you stuck in a rut?

Here are some things that I find helpful. 

Do Not Panic

First of all, do not make a huge deal out of it. When it happens the first time with an author, one might think of it as the end of the world. OH NO, my friend. Believe me, it is not. 

The writer’s block is closely connected to anxiety, self-criticism, and perfectionism. So the more you’ll focus on what you cannot do, the harder it seems. Panic can lead to frustration and fixation. 

Do not be harsh on yourself; do not discredit any of your skills and accomplishments. Think of it as a learning moment. 

Find the Root

Why can’t I write anymore? I’ve been working on this novel/article for two weeks and everything was fine! Of course, there is no one reason behind all blocks, but there is a psychology of creative writing to help. Think of why you are stuck in a rut, for example: 

  • You do not know what happens next; 
  • You’ve lost interest in the story; 
  • You lack information and need additional research; 
  • Maybe you are simply tired; 
  • You are too critical of yourself. 

Finding the root of the problem can be the best way to overcome it. 

Write Something Else

What I like to do personally when I’m stuck and can’t write is to get busy with a side job. For example, you do not know what to do with your novel – ok, let it rest.

Go and write a blog post, an article, a poem, or just do some trash writing. 

Of course, you need to stay on schedule, whether you are working to monetize your blog or finish a story by the publisher’s deadline. But the secret is to keep your creativity running. Do not stop writing. 

Try Free Writing and Other Prompts

If there is no side gig or you simply cannot do it either, it is time to try some writing prompts. 

One of my favorite ones is a technique by Julia Cameron called Morning Pages. In this exercise, you need to free-write three pages each morning.

Source: https://sayingimages.com/good-morning-meme/

Do not edit, do not reread, do not care about what you are writing, and what is it for. Just scribble anything that comes to your mind for three pages. 

It helps to release all negative thoughts and boost one’s mood. And look, you’ve finished 3 pages! You definitely can write!

You can find lots of other prompts and exercises online. They help to get out of the comfort zone, try something new, and boost creativity. 

Try New Setting

Here’s an easy way to approach this problem – switch up your routine. Maybe it’ll help you to be more inspired to work. 

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

For example, choose a new place, go outside to a café or stay at home on the contrary. Try software that helps to write without distractions instead of the usual text editor, for example, Ommwriter. 

Set new music as it helps to reduce stress and be more productive. Change it up a bit and see how it goes. 

Start from the Middle

You may be stuck because you cannot deal with this particular part or scene at the moment. It is ok, some of them take much more effort and labor to complete. What is the solution? Just go to the next section. 

This one will not go anywhere, you can finish it later. 

And the same works for any type of text, whether it is an article, blog post, or a fiction story. Create a plan of what you’ll address or what happens with characters. And if you cannot do one part, start with the middle one or even with the last one.

No rule says you need to write in chronological order. 

You’ll feel better as you go along and be more confident to come back and do the complicated part. 

Do Something Different

There is another reason why you might be stuck – you are just tired. It is that easy. In such a case, try to do something else. 

I mean not watching Netflix for the whole day, no matter how tempting it sounds. I mean something active but different.

Go for a walk and pay attention to people and surroundings. Maybe there is something cool you can spot for inspiration. 

Try exercising. They endorse cognitive function and give us a better mood. You can do it at home, go to the gym, or try jogging – whatever works for you. 

Another great option is to read. There is nothing that inspires a writer more than other author’s excellence. 

Now you are ready to return writing, dear friend

Writer’s block happens to every author out there. It is a completely normal part of the process and there is no need to be extremely disappointed about it. 

Try to change your routine, use some writing prompts, and exercises. Preferably do not stop writing, just switch it up a bit. 

Wish you a good luck with your writings 😉

Share your thoughts and tips on how you are relieving the stress. I will be happy to find other ideas.

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs

Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing?

What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do not include performing. A lot of comedians chose humor writing for additional income or as an outlet for their talent. 

Photo by Marija Zaric on Unsplash

Of course, this type of job is not for everyone. It is not only about excellent writing or storytelling skills; it is about making someone laugh out loud even if they are just reading an article online. 

If you love jokes, puns, and sarcasm, this might be a great career path for you. Humor writing jobs are creative, exciting, and usually well-paid. Are you interested in freelance comedy writing jobs? Then I’ve got some useful information for you. 

Types of Comedy Writing Careers 

First of all, there are plenty of offers out there. Humor is incredibly valuable not only for screenwriting or articles but also for marketing.

Even if you are a complete beginner and want to find entry-level writing jobs, there are numerous options, from making T-shirt slogans up to YouTube scripts.

Here are some of the most popular types of jobs for freelance comedy writing:

  • Screenwriting for YouTube videos or podcasts. You’ll be surprised how many content creators need help from comedians. The prices may vary from $100 to $1000 for an episode, depending on your skills and creator. These can be all types of videos, from reviews up to web-series. 
  • Screenwriting for TV, for example, sitcom writing jobs. This is one of the more well-paid options if one manages to get in. You can look for screenwriting gigs on freelance sites, like Upwork or WritingJobz. But you can also apply directly to Comedy Central, for example, they are hiring comedy writers. You’ll need to learn the basics of telling a story and creating characters. And you’ll need to create a couple of specs – examples of scenarios that serve as a portfolio or your skills. 
  • Copywriting. Freelance humor writing is often used in marketing. So if you are not into screenwriting, you can look for the same type of job as any other freelance author but with a focus on humor. It can be anything, from Twitter posts (Take Wendy’s Twitter for example – it is worldly-known for witty replies because there are some great comedians behind the screen) for brands and up to advertising campaigns or slogans.
  • Create scripts for commercials or create social media posts. One can also find plenty of entry-level comedy writing jobs and small gigs, like creating funny texts for birthday cards. 
  • Blogging. Freelance joke writing can be a great advantage for those who create blog posts. You can work as a ghostwriter for other creators or guest posts. And a valid idea is to run your own blog. It can be a portfolio and resume as well as a source of income. There are several ways to monetize a blog and it would be a shame not to use them. 
  • Articles for online magazines and comedy digests. Online platforms provide lots of jobs for comedy writers because they are in constant need of fresh content. And they also pay decently. One can write satirical pieces on news, jokes or anecdotes for a column, or any other type of article. 

Basically, anything that can be better with a good joke can become a gig for a comedy author.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

It is important to start with small gigs and build-up your portfolio as well as experience to land some lucrative offers. Now, let’s talk about where to find these deals. 

Sites with Gigs for Freelance Comedy Writers 

It is important to mention that these are not all options available, there are so many of them that no article can hold everything. But these are good platforms to find joke writing jobs. 

1. Freelance websites

The easiest way to start and find some entry-level gigs is to check out many freelance websites. Some of them are dedicated exclusively to writing; others host all types of employment.

The most popular ones are Upwork, Fiverr, Craigslist, WritingJobz.com, iWriter, Guru, Freelancer.com, etc. One can start with registration and making a dashing profile. 

2. Directly applying to media productions

If you want to get into screenwriting, you can also go directly to Comedy Central or BBC. Such institutions always post recent employment options on their websites. Of course, there will be huge competition, but why not try it out. 

3. Cracked

This is an excellent satirical online magazine with a long history. One can find here articles, list-posts, hilarious photo captions, etc. They have a page dedicated to authors that want to submit their works or take an assignment. The payment is in the range of $100-250 per gig.

4. The Funny Times

It is another outstanding humor-based platform. They are open to submissions in form of comics or funny stories. It can be anything about politics, whether, everyday experience, religion, or news. The stories need to be about 500-700 words. The platform pays $75 for a published story. 

5. The New Yorker 

You’ve probably heard about this magazine. The great news is – they are open to submissions! And it doesn’t have to be a huge piece of a novel. There is a column called Shouts & Murmurs which is quite satirical and humorous. So you can try your skills at that. The payment depends on the assignment. 

6. Reader’s Digest

Yet another great magazine that is ready for submissions. They have pages dedicated to jokes and funny stories. They have both a printed magazine and a website. If the editors accept your submission, they’ll pay $100 for it, which is a great prize. 

Ready to become a comedy writer?

Comedy writing is a great opportunity to express your natural talent and earn some money. There are numerous gigs out there from all types of industries and employers, so choose what is more exciting for you.

You can look for gigs on freelance websites or directly submit your pieces to various media and magazines. All it takes is to be funny!

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)

Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone? 

Photo by Dayne Topkin on Unsplash

The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs out there for beginners.

You just need to know where to find them and what to start from. Of course, an entry level writer won’t be paid as much as industry experts, but one needs to begin with something. And the only way to become an expert is to work hard and gain experience. 

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

If you need a piece of advice on how to start earning as a writer, I’ve got you covered. 

Available Entry Level Writer Jobs 

As a beginner, you probably do not have a niche yet, but it can be a benefit too. You can try out many things and decide what gigs are more enjoyable and profitable for you. Here are just some entry level freelance writing jobs one can choose from: 

  • Product and services descriptions for eCommerce website and affiliate marketers, from Etsy and Amazon and to digital shops landing pages; 
  • News articles, journalism gigs, and reports; 
  • Blog posts. You can start your own blog and monetize it, or choose hosting platforms like Medium, for example. Another alternative is to write guest blog posts. 
  • Newsletters, emails, advertisements; 
  • Creative writing gigs; 
  • Books, movies, and product reviews. There are plenty of websites like BookBrowse that pay for book reviews. 
  • eBooks and case studies as a ghostwriter; 
  • Back-story writing; 
  • Copywriting; 
  • Lyrics writing;
  • Tutorials, user manuals, etc. 

The type of writing jobs entry level one can choose depends on their previous experience, knowledge, and interests. 

Basically, any type of text can become a gig if there is a client that needs it. So do not worry about the availability of tasks.

The next step is to find a reliable platform to look for entry level copy writing jobs. 

The Best Websites for Freelance Copywriting Jobs for Beginners

Before you start applying for jobs, you need to take several steps. First of all, decide on the prices you are going to go for. Of course, they are going to be approximate, but it is better to know the baseline. You might do some tasks for a resume or exposure, but it is important to start earning too. 

Secondly, prepare a couple of examples of your writing. Entry level remote writing jobs do not usually require them, but it can be a great benefit to land a job. And you’ll use them afterward to build your professional portfolio. If you are going for several types of writing, create different examples, like a blog post, product description, or a landing page, for example. 

Thirdly, evaluate how much time you can devote to writing. Probably it is not your full-time commitment yet, so it is essential to know what deadlines are suitable for you.

With experience, writers can do more quality texts in less time. However, beginners often tend to take longer to finish the task, which is quite normal. Make sure you do not overload yourself. 

Now you are ready to search for entry level jobs for writers!  Here are some excellent platforms to check:

Upwork

This is not exclusively a writing platform, but it is a valid entry point to freelancing in general.  The main benefit is that it is easy to register on and there are lots of offers. It is also quite secure in terms of payments, as the website makes sure to eliminate breaches of contracts. 

The main downside for beginners is that the website serves as an online resume. So the more orders you do excellently, the more reputation you get. It means that at the beginning it will be a bit harder to land the gig as you do not have a reputation yet. 

SolidGigs

Another great website that offers a decent variety of entry level jobs for creative writers. Like the previous one, it is not only for authors, there are offers for all types of freelancers. But you can find here different clients, from those who need blog posts up to social media writing. 

The benefit is that it is a safe platform that makes sure that the job offers a valid and reasonable. The platform also doesn’t take any percentage of your earnings. The downside is that it is not free to use.

If you want to get the best offers, you’ll have to register a subscription for a monthly fee.  Overall, it is a good website but if you are not sure yet that you can make money writing, there are other ones to try for free. 

ProBlogger Job Board 

Here one can find excellent freelance writing jobs entry level and orders designed for experts. It is designed specifically for writers and there are plenty of posts to apply. Maybe it’ll take you some time to land the first task, but it is sure to be good. 

The main advantage is that it is free to use for you but not for those, who are making job posts. It means that the majority of sketchy and scammy offers are eliminated by this simple step. After all, a posting costs them $75, so they are interested in fruitful cooperation.

So it is quite safe to use even if you do not have much experience in separating good gigs from sketchy ones. 

Freelance Writer’s Den

If you are looking not only for orders but for a community that will help you to grow professionally, this is a valid option. It is a platform for freelance writers with a great forum filled with tips and tricks. There are monthly online events, boot camps, etc. And, of course, there is a job board with legit and well-paid postings. 

The advantage is that you can learn from other experienced professionals and get a lot of educational resources as well as writing gigs. The downside is that it is not free, to be a member you need to pay a monthly fee. 

All Freelance Writing 

Beginner writers will find this quite suitable. There are plenty of gigs, solid payments, and additional learning materials. There are helping resources specifically for those who are just starting their career.

And you can also subscribe to the newsletter to get all updates. Mostly, there are content and blog writing jobs. 

iWriter

When it comes to entering point accessibility, this website is one of the best. One can register for free, take a small test and start earning. There is an internal rating system, so the better you perform, the better gigs you’ll land in the future. One can grow from a Standard writer to an Elite one. 

The main benefit is that it is easy, fast, and comfortable to join and use. 

Journalism Jobs

Do you prefer news articles and journalism? Well, there is a website just for you. It features only journalism gigs from news companies and sites. It is free to register and upload your resume.

Furthermore, you can choose specific categories to subscribe to, which show your interest in writing. But you do not need to be registered to look through job listings, actually. 

THEREFORE:

Of course, it is impossible to list all the websites online that offer jobs for entry level writers, there are too many of them. If you want to build your portfolio fast and get higher chances of earning more – register in several of them.

Also, consider working on your personal blog as it is a perfect opportunity to create a personal brand and ensure consistent income. 

Now it’s that exact time when you have to choose. Simply select the option that suits you best and start writing from now on.

I wish you a lovely day and awesome writing gigs in the nearest future 😉

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

How to choose a niche for your writing career

As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a reputation, you need to be an expert in a narrow field. 

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Why Is It Important to Have a Specific Writing Niche? 

Well, imagine that you are looking for a writer to create content from your IT outstaffing blog to boost your business. Which one would you choose – an author that is writing about anything, from lifestyle to gardening, or an expert that is qualified specifically in IT outsourcing blogging? The answer is obvious. 

Being a niche expert has several benefits: 

  • You’ll grow as a professional and build in-depth expertise; 
  • You’ll have more high-paid writing jobs; 
  • You can become a trendsetter and thought leader in your specific niche; 
  • You’ll get more direct offers from businesses and individuals from the same sphere. 

If a business knows what they need exactly, they will come to the best service provider. 

How to Find Your Writing Niche? 

Before I get into exact steps, let’s put some things straight.

First of all, you do not have to put all your efforts into one niche. Especially if you are a beginner and do not know how to sell your blog posts or articles on the web. You can try two or three and see what works best for you. 

Secondly, you do not have to stick to the same choice forever. Interests change as well as life circumstances. Maybe you enjoy fitness now, but in 5 years you’ll be more into yoga.

The writing niche can change and it is normal. 

Vasy Kafidoff

Thirdly, you can start with something broader, like real estate, and narrow it down with time. For example, become an expert at landing page author for New York real estate agencies. 

Now, let’s go through the process of finding your niche. 

Make a List of Things You Are Good At 

To start with a niche you do not have to be a Ph.D. in this subject. It is something you know better than an average person and you are willing to learn about it more as you work.

In general, if you’ve read two or three specialized books on the subject, you know more than the majority of people about it. 

Make a list of things you know about. It can be something like:

  • Your previous work experience; 
  • College degree or specialization; 
  • Something you constantly read about; 
  • Something your friends or relatives ask your advice about; 
  • A hobby or interest you had for a long period of time. 

Name at least 10 things. Or 9, it doesn’t matter. You just need to focus and choose where you good at 😉 

Make a List of Things You Like to Write About

If you are going to focus on one thing, you’d better like it.

It doesn’t have to be a life passion, but simply something you enjoy. If you absolutely loathe finances, do not go into that niche, no matter how profitable it seems. 

Make a list of 10 things you love to write about, whether it’s movies, healthcare, exercise, travel, or parenting. 

Now compare two lists and find some overlaps. For example, you have worked in a clothing shop and you enjoy styling or you have an education related to finance and you are interested in cryptocurrency. These overlaps are your potential niches. 

Research the Market 

As soon as you have a couple of options, it is time to see if there any demand for such services. Of course, passion is important, but if your niche has no clients, it is going to be hard to monetize a blog or sell articles. 

You can simply use Google to look for: 

  • Job postings on this subject; 
  • Publication on the topic; 
  • Advice on how to write on this topic; 
  • Companies and platforms that might be interested in this niche; 
  • Salary rates, hiring options; 

You can also check out LinkedIn professional writers that specialize in this or related subjects. If there is enough demand on your option – congratulations, you’ve found your niche! If not, try to check other options from your list. 

SO! Now you know how to choose a niche for your writing career

Choosing a niche might take a while and it is completely fine. You can try different things, look for lucrative opportunities, and work on the style.

The perfect recipe is something you know well + something you enjoy + market demand. And you can even narrow it down to a specific type of writing, like copywriting, blogging, creating white papers or press releases, ghostwriting, SEO, advertising, or writing technical pieces.

The narrower the niche is, the more one can earn as an expert. 

What to do next? Write, write, write 😉

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

7 ways to monetize a blog today, tomorrow & beyond!

There is no doubt nowadays that blogging can provide a decent income. And if done right, it can be a full-time sustainable job. So how to monetize a blog? Well, there are several ways one can do it. I’ve gathered 7 options that work for almost any blogger whatever niche they choose to take. 

Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash

Blogging can be one of the ways to make money as a writer or a full commitment. In any case, consider these tips on putting your talent to work. 

What are the best ways monetizing your blog?

This is the first and the most obvious way to monetizing your blog. Even if you are quite new to this, there are plenty of options to get that passive income.

Turning on the Ads

 

Start with Google Adsense. The main benefit is that it is free to join and pretty easy to register. All other worries are taken care of by Google.

Photo by Paweł Czerwiński on Unsplash

The more traffic your blog attracts, the more you earn. The advertisement will be placed on the website. 

It is not the only service out there. Some services work specifically with writers and allow monetizing a blog easily. For example, you can try AdThrive or Mediavine. 

The downside is that if you do not have much traffic on your page, the income won’t be huge at first. But combined with other ways of monetization, it all can add up to a decent sum. 

Sell Digital Products

The next sure way to monetize blog is to sell something of value. As a blogger, you have a niche you specialize in and an area of expertise.

how to monetize a blog

That’s why people come to you for knowledge. And it is a dashing idea to make it into a digital product of some sort. It can be almost anything the audience is interested in, for example: 

  • Visuals, pictures, graphs, templates; 
  • Audio or video recordings; 
  • E-books; 
  • Digital courses and learning programs;
  • Tutorials, etc; 

For example, selling e-books is one of the most popular ways of blog monetization today. And you can turn your knowledge into a book; it doesn’t have to be a novel. Maybe it is a collection of recipes, marketing strategies, or secrets of playing guitar like a pro.

WordPress has an Easy Digital Downloads plugin if you choose to do it via your website. Or you can do it via Amazon Kindle, but they do take 30% of the profits. 

Affiliate Marketing 

Affiliate marketing can bring a lot of blog revenue if done correctly.

Basically, it means that you review products and provide links to them. Every sale made via this link gives you a percent (depends on the company but it is usually 10-50%). So the more people trust your judgment, the better it is for you. 

The main factor is that you need to be honest with your reviews. And you need to disclose that you have an affiliate link. 

When people search for the answer to the question “how to monetize my blog?” they are usually recommended to become an Amazon Affiliate. But it is not the only platform that allows that. Here are some other options: 

Can I monetize my blog through direct affiliation to the manufacturer or producer? Sure thing. But you’ll have to research and reach out to them individually. 

Sell Ad Space 

It is not the same as using any platforms like Google Adsense. If you sell space on your webpage, you do it directly to the business that wants a promotion. And the great part of it is that you get all revenue, not just a percent.  Furthermore, you also decide on the prices. 

The downside is that you need to communicate directly with a business and attract them with statistics. They would like to know about the traffic, engagement, and conversion rates to make sure that they pay for a valuable thing. To start, create a media kit with all essential statistics and send them directly to potential advertisers. You can find them on LinkedIn, BuySellAds, or SellerCrowd. 

Freelance Blogging

If you are a passionate writer and have some time on your hand, you can find freelance writing jobs related to your blog’s niche. You already know your sphere and ability to create content. Why not monetize it? 

You can make a name for yourself, bring additional traffic with direct links to your blog, and earn good money.

One of the ways to monetize a blog is to offer freelance writing on your website. Or you can go directly to the platforms that offer writing gigs. 

Create Merchandise 

Yes, this might be not for everyone. It depends on your audience, their interests, and specific niche. But when a content creator gains some recognition, it is quite natural to make merch and sell it. 

And if you put your heart into it and create a quality product, your readers will love it. It can be anything with your logo, catchphrase, or something only a member of the community will understand. And with the WordPress WooCommerce plugin, you can sell it directly from your website. It is one of the best ways to monetize a blog when you have a vast following. 

Offer Unique Content for Paid Subscription 

Here is another idea on how to monetize your blog – create a paid membership community. It is not uncommon; there are tons of subscription services out there in all industries. What you need to care about is the provision of high-quality and unique content that people would love to pay for. 

For example, you can give basic tips on your area of expertise and offer an advanced course or program for a subscription fee. It also helps to create a sense of community. 

Technically, you can do it via WordPress plugins, like Memberpress or Ultimate Membership Pro. You can also choose third-party services if you o not use WordPress, like Podia or Wild Apricot. 

Also, other services to mention are OpenCollective and Patreon where you can make some specific offers to your “patrons” for monthly or yearly subscriptions. For example, it can be some posts that you share with your subscribers several days before the official upload.

If you wonder how to monetize blog without providing gated content, consider putting a donation button on your webpage. It might not be as efficient, but loyal readers will gladly support the creator. 

Ready to earn money monetizing your blog?

I hope these ideas on how to make money off your blog will help you. Of course, you can also create sponsored posts, start a YouTube channel, or make a podcast. Monetization options do not stop here. You can sell physical products or offer niche consulting.

Choose what works for you and, most importantly, combine all options you can to increase income. 

Share your ideas of how to monetize a blog in the comments section. Let’s find some awesome ideas shared 😉

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

Pros and Cons of Medium.com for beginner writers

When you only start your writing career, there are numerous options to choose from. One can start a blog, set a personal website, or choose to post on third-party platforms. Every option has its pros and cons. Medium is a website that tracks a lot of attention and is often recommended. But is Medium worth it? How to publish on Medium? Let’s discuss its pros and cons for beginner writers. 

What is Medium and how writers can use it? 

First of all, I want to give you a general idea of what is this platform like. It is an open website for all types of writers. One can voice out their opinions, publish fiction pieces, start a personal blog, etc. It is a website that started in 2012 and has gained quite a following by now. Nowadays it has about 170 million readers and more than 100,000 writers. The great advantage is that anyone can contribute to Medium – a newly starting blogger or Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. 

It is a user-friendly and easy to navigate website that offers stories (that’s how they call all texts) on any type of topic. And another great plus is that it is a community. Readers can follow authors, leave comments, or clap (an equivalent of like) the content. Overall, it is a decent place for people to learn something exciting and for writers to get more exposure. 

Pros of Medium for Writers

One might ask themselves “Should I write on Medium or is it better to start my own blog?” It is a valid question only you’ll answer. But to make your choice more educated, let’s start with the benefits of this platform: 

  • It is very easy to start with. You can focus on writing and not worry about any technical details or issues that hosting your website might bring. The website is extremely easy to use and there is no learning curve. All the technical details are taken care of by the platform. 
  • It might be more helpful to grow your blog. Medium for writers is a community. If you start your website, you are pretty much on your own when it comes to promotion and gaining an audience. But Medium has a curation option that can bring your text to the top and help to gain the audience. 
  • The website has a Partner Program that allows writers to earn some money. Publishing on Medium will probably not be your full-time writing job as payments are impossible to predict and can vary from almost zero to thousands per article. It all depends on the users’ claps and their behavior. It is a bit tricky. So a user pays $5 per month or $50 per year. So if a user claps your article it doesn’t mean that you get $1 for it. If this user clapped 5 articles, each of them will get $1, if he clapped 10 – each will get $0.50. You’ll get $5 only if the user clapped exclusively this text. 
  • You do not have to worry about SEO, as the platform even forms meta title and description for you. Although a writer can change them manually. But if you do not want to get into SEO details just now, you’ll still get exposure as there are millions of users. 

These benefits might be the answer to the question of why publish on Medium, but let’s look at the downsides now. 

Cons of Medium for Writers

Before you start worrying about how to get published on Medium, have a closer look at the cons of this platform for authors:

  • You do now own your content. It is a third-party host that can just shut down one day and all your content will be lost. You are not in charge of it and although it hasn’t happened before, it doesn’t mean their policies won’t change it in the future. Look at how platforms like YouTube or Twitter suspend accounts or delete posts and you’ll get an idea of what might happen. 
  • The simplicity of the design means that there are much fewer options. If you start a WordPress blog, you’ll have more creative space and options to design your blog and add extra spice to it. But not with Medium. Its simplicity might be good for some, but it also means that it is quite plain. 
  • The tracking that your content gains go to the website but not you personally. And it is much harder to get a high ranking on Google with this domain. The ranking includes the average quality of papers for a website. And Medium hosts thousands of pages done by other people. It means that even if your content is SEO-friendly and quite helpful, the ranking will still be downsized by other people’s work. 
  • Curation is a good feature in theory. It means that Medium editors decide to promote your content. If they are positive, it can gain a lot of readers and even be included in the email newsletter. But it is not easy to get curated. And not all of your content will get this attention. And if it is not curated then the text can be seen only by people that are subscribed directly to you on the website. Or it can be seen in the search results for a specific topic. It means that beginner writers have less chance of gaining the following or exposure. 
  • Other downsides for more advanced writers include no A/B testing option, no opportunity for tracking pixels, or any custom code. There is also no control over recommendations that pop up around your content. 

To Sum Up 

I’d say that Medium can be a good plan B option for starting writers. It allows reposting content from your blog or website, which will give you all benefits but still attract customers to your personal brand.

You can also publish there content that is not suitable for your main blog. It is not very sustainable money-wise to publish only on Medium, but it can be used for exposure and brand awareness. So it is a decent platform for authors, but do not make it your main one.

So it’s completely up to you to decide whether you want to use Medium.com as a writer or your personal blog to post your articles.

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

New ways to make money as a writer in 2021 (Business Writing)

There are lots of articles on how to make money as a freelance writer out there. Usually, all of them list the same tips – start a blog, monetize it, become a copywriter, create guest posts, apply as a writer on some world-known websites for writers. Yes, all of these are valid and useful tips. But they are not the only ways to earn some extra cash with your writing skills.

Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

So, how to make money by writing something you are good at?

If you are still wondering how to make money writing, this list might help you out. I’ll not include anything traditional, as you’re probably heard about it.

These are less known but still valid options to make money writing. Some of them can get an extra buck when others might be very profitable.

Just have a read and simply choose what suits you best 😉 

Write lists. 

Numerous listicle websites are ready for all types of articles that list the top 10, 15 texts. It can be quite a creative task. And it doesn’t always require niche knowledge. One can write about pop culture, movies, books, etc. For example, the Listverse site can pay writers $100 for 1,500 words. It is a pretty decent payment, so you might make money as a writer this way as well try it out. 

Fill Out Surveys.

Well, it is probably not the most creative way of making money as a writer, but if there is nothing else on the horizon, it can be a valid side-job. If you need some extra cash pretty fast, look into it. Basically, you’ll need to take online surveys and get paid for that. The best websites for this type of job are SurveyJunkie and Vindale Research. 

Take part in a contest.

How to make money by writing and getting exposure at the same time? Well, the most useful tip is to enter writing competitions. There are lots of all types of them, for prose, poetry, fiction, or non-fiction. Some offer pretty great cash prizes. It is not a constant source of income, but you’ll get your name out there and maybe add extra credit to your reputation.  

Apply for a Grant.

Another tip on how to make money as a writer is to consider writing grants. This might not be for everyone and every grant has specific requirements, but it is useful to know about such a possibility. Some a given on a good-will basis, others are to promote a particular cause or issue. Nevertheless, there are many of them, and getting one can help you live and write on your own. 

Book Reviews.

If you like reading, and as a writer, you probably do, you’ll enjoy this one. You can make money freelance writing book reviews. This way, one can make their hobby one of the income sources. Of course, the text should be well-written, helpful, and insightful. But it can also be an enjoyable process. Online Book Club offers such gigs, for example. Another exciting site is BookBrowse – they are paying about $50 per 600-words review. 

Become a Songwriter.

Do not worry; you won’t have to write music, only lyrics. If you are into poetry, this might be dashing writing for money side-gig. First of all, the music industry is always in need of good lyrics. Secondly, if you get good at that, it can be pretty fast to do. Here are some useful websites where one can sell their lyrics: SoundBetter and Musicbed. 

Resumes and Cover Letters.

More business-related freelance writing for money is helping others with their job applications. You can work as a freelancer and build your own business or partner with an agency that offers such services. You’ll probably earn more on your own, but it would be harder to get clients at first. You’ll need to know the formal style, research specific keywords, and know how to focus on the best qualities. 

Product Descriptions.

eCommerce is also in constant need of content. There are two ways to do product description writing – pitch directly to a business, whether it is a small one or a corporation. The second option is to find such gigs on websites like Crowd Content. Such gigs might include descriptions of Etsy or eBay products. And there are no particular requirements to author usually unless it is a very unusual and specific product. 

Ready to earn money doing something you enjoy?

I hope these tips on how to make money freelance writing will be helpful. Of course, there are some other options as well as the well-known classic ones, like blogging. It is quite a sustainable strategy to combine several of them to make sure that you are always earning.

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

Yay, Yeah, Yea, Yayayay! And their usage in content writing

In the age of social media, using jargons and short forms has really changed the way we communicate. Often a time, we even interchange slang words and sometimes, they may not even make any sense. But even when it comes to slang words, they need to make sense given how we casually use them in our day to day conversations now.

 

We use slang words in not just our social media conversations, but also when we are talking to someone in person. But even in that case, you need to be sure of what these words mean or how they are to be represented, so your communication makes sense. 

So, in this piece, I am going to talk about the difference between these four words: yay, yeah, yea and yayayay. By the end of this article, you would realize that these tiny things make a huge difference. Of course, they do. We always knew that. The trivial details DO matter. So let’s just focus on the details here. 

Let’s Start with ‘Yay’

YAY! I finally got my degree!

Now that makes sense, yes? That’s it. That is the way you use yay. ‘Yay’ is a word. I mean, even Microsoft Word accepts it and does not create a red line underneath. 

Anyway, moving on. People use the word yay to show their enthusiasm for something. Like I did in the first sentence of this heading. You not use the word yay or interchange it with yea or yeah. Yay has a different meaning of its own. Now what does yay mean in texting? 

Sometimes people use it in sarcasm – when they are not excited about something and have to show their excitement forcefully (which is just mean btw…) or when someone is genuinely happy for you or something. 

When do we Use ‘Yeah’ and how?

“Yeah ya. I get what you mean.” 

This is a common one. Sort of common knowledge, I would say. But let’s just talk about it for the sake of clarity. The ‘yeah’ is like the way we learn to acknowledge something when we are in our teen hours. It is not to be used in any celebratory manner or for an event. Basically, it is slang for the word ‘yes’. 

And what does yeah mean in texting? Simple. You agree with them. For instance, “Yeah, I agree with what you are saying,” and there’s that. Period. Nothing complicated.

Yea Vs Yeah – When to Use what?

So imagine you are in for a quick voting session. Your boss or coordinator says, “People in favor say yea and those against say nay”, so that’s when you differentiate between a yea and a yeah. Basically, a yea is an informal yeah. Proper slang word people use in informal, quick conversations. 

At the same time, yea CANNOT be confused with yay. Yay is an expression for excitement, whereas yea is a yes. On the other hand, while yea is mostly informal, Microsoft Word also recognizes it and does not indicate it as incorrect. 

So yea, you can use it when writing articles and content. Depends on the tone of the piece. 

Finally, Yayayay!

Now, this is the one which MS Word gladly labels as incorrect and offers a weird autocorrect. But let’s not get into it. 

So the Urban Dictionary believes that there are two ways to use yayaya and I agree. The first way is when people want to repeat something someone just said. For instance, “yayaya I get what you mean and what about it?” and in the same way can be used in sarcasm as well. 

The other use is when you are SUPER excited about something and cannot stop typing ‘yay’. For example, “I have finally saved up enough money to buy a car!! Yayayayaya!” and there’s that. 

SO!

The thing about slang words is that we love to use them and we have gotten quite used to using them in our regular conversations as well. But just like any form of communication, they need to make sense. Regardless of in what context you are using them, it just needs to make sense. 

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

So there you have it — some common slang words and how they can be used. 

Would love to write on more similar topics, so do share your suggestions. Yep, I do love doing that!

See you all soon.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Distance hugs,

Vasy Kafidoff

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]

How to sell your blog posts and articles on the web?

Selling articles online can be a good addition to your income or even become a full-time job. Whether you are a starting freelance writer or a more experienced blogger, you need to know about the options out there. Some prefer to sell articles to magazines, others create blog posts for influencers, and the market is quite diverse.

If you want to know more about the monetization of your writing, this guide is what you need. 

sell articles
Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Overall, there are two main ways to approach this issue.

The first one is to sell already written and ready-to-publish texts.

And the second one is custom writing. In such a case an author writes a custom order for a client.

Let’s look at each of them closely and highlight all the pros and cons. 

Selling Ready-to-Publish Articles Online

If you want to sell your writing after it is already finished, there is a marketplace for it. It might be more complicated, but it is still possible. 

This is the option good for those, who have pieces they don’t want to publish on their blogs or if they were rejected by other platforms. The main issue with pre-written content articles for sale is that they are not custom. So it might be harder to find a client, who is looking exactly for such a topic, volume, and style.

Of course, if the subject is quite popular, like traveling or lifestyle, it is going to be sold faster. But if the subject is very specific, like types of bioplastic, the process will take longer. 

There are generally four types of places where to sell articles that are ready-to-publish, namely: 

  1. Forums and message boards. These are sites where lots of clients and companies go to find texts for their blogs or digital marketing. The main benefit is that they are usually pretty easy to start with and there is a great turnout of customers. But sometimes you’ll still need to adjust your writing to the buyer’s needs. And they may negotiate on the price. You can sell blog posts and even make a name for yourself, but you need to be cautious and do not violate any forum’s guidelines. And often such marketplaces take fees for each deal you make. 
  2. Your website. If you have a personal blog or a website, it is quite convenient to sell articles directly there. The main advantage is that it is easy, you are in control of every step of the process, and you can write whatever you are interested in. The downside is that you need to manage the website correctly and make it optimized for Google. Because if people cannot find it online, how are they going to buy anything? 
  3. PLR articles. You can sell your articles as a bunch without any exclusive rights. It means that they can be sold as many times as you want. The downside is that such pieces cost a little, about $10 per 10 articles. You won’t get a lot of money with such deals. And in the long run, such repetitive content can play against your reputation. 
  4. Selling blog posts via a dedicated agency. Many online agencies sell texts to customers. You can submit your works directly to them and do not worry about any communication. There is no price negotiation and they take care of advertising too. But there are certain downsides – the agency will take a percentage of your earnings. And they will require pieces on specific topics, so there is less creative freedom. 

Although selling articles that are ready-to-publish is a valid option, I think that it requires much more hustle. It is harder to find a client; there are possible adjustments, fees, etc. And it all sounds a lot like trying to pitch something that a customer might not be in favor of. I think that writing custom texts is a much more beneficial way to earn money and give value to a customer. 

How to Sell Custom Writing

This method is all about providing a high-quality service to individual clients or companies. It helps to fulfill the demand for top-notch digital content. Some might think that there is less creativity in custom writing. But the point is that you can choose the customers and topics that are interesting for you. There is no need to do anything you don’t like. 

And the selling is much more honest in this case, as for me. You offer a service and describe its value and benefits for a client. And if it is what they are looking for, the deal is sealed. It is a great way to establish good long-term relationships. Because we always come back for an excellent service that made our lives easier in some way. 

But how can I sell my story to a magazine or online platform if it is not written yet? Well, there are several options to choose from. 

  1. Register on freelance writing websites. There are tons of them, some are specific like iWriter, and others host all types of freelancers, like Upwork. Choose the ones that are comfortable for you, create an account, and start applying to gigs. Some of them you’ll get, others not – it is like with any other job. It is an optimal way to access a wide variety of customers and build up a portfolio of your works. It is by far one of the most convenient ways to organize your freelancing. You are in control of everything, there is direct communication with the clients, and reliable platforms have ways of securing payments. 
  2. If you want to know how to sell an article to a magazine or newspaper, the answer is simple – communicate to them directly. Create a list of magazines you are interested in. Check out their guidelines – these are policies for freelance writers on what the publishing expects and what they are interested in. It has all information you need, from topics to volume, and requirements. After that, you can create an outline for a future piece and pitch to the magazine. If they like it, they’ll order one or several pieces from you. 
  3. The same goes for blogs and digital platforms. Lots of them have featured posts and are looking for great content pieces. You can subscribe to writer Gazette or a similar service that sends out updates on what platforms are looking for writers. You can also consider doing free featured posts for promotion. First of all, your name out there is a good way to build a reputation. Secondly, there is usually an opportunity to put a link in that directs people to your website. It might be a useful option to attract new clients and endorse brand awareness. 
  4. Work for a writing agency. Some authors choose to do that to earn money and do not worry about finding clients and negotiating. If you sign up for an agency, you just get orders from a manager and do them. It is a lot like a remote job. The main downside is that such agencies take part o your earnings for their services. But if you just a beginner and want to learn – it might be a good opportunity for you. 

Custom writing is a more profitable and convenient way to earn money as a writer. Simply because it offers more value to a client. They get what they want and you get a reasonable payment for your skill.

Write Hard, Play Hard

If you want to be more successful in this field, here are some general rules on how to sell your writing:

  • Create a portfolio or personal blog, something to showcase your skill. No one wants to pay for a cat in a bag, so make sure that future clients can have a look at your best works; 
  • Be honest and open. Sales are not like they are portrayed in the movies. You do not have to be a slick person that manipulates a customer. Be open about what you can do and at what cost. Put the emphasis not on the features like the lengths or number of words, but the value a client will get. They do not have to worry about writing their blog if your articles are SEO optimized and will gain a new audience. Show how your services can solve their problems. 
  • Aim for a long-term relationship. Be empathetic to your client, understand their needs, and try to build trustful relations. Some will order just one piece and it is fine. But if your writing is good and provides real value to a customer, they will come back. And it is always better to work with loyal clients as you know their expectations and requirements. 
  • Be original. It is not only about how to sell articles but more about how to create unique and high-quality content that will be in great demand. Grow as a professional, invest in additional education, and try new methods. If you are niche experts that can adopt several styles, there will always be people interested in your work. 

Ready to sell articles online?

how to sell articles online
Photo by Christian Dubovan on Unsplash

There are two main ways to sell your writing online. You can try to sell ready pieces or fulfill custom orders.

Both of them are possible, but I think that custom writing is a more promising and profitable option. It allows building your reputation, gaining loyal clients, and earning a good amount of money.

And what is your favorite way to sell articles online? Share your ideas in the comments section.

Vasy Kafidoff
Vasy Kafidoff

Vasyl Kafidoff is a founder and mastermind of KAFIDOFF.COM. He has a strong interest in education, modern technology, marketing, and business management.

If Vasy is not working, you can find him somewhere in the world attending a Rock Concert with his mates.

Personal website
  • Blog content plan and how it helps for your blogging needs
    You shouldn’t underestimate a blog content plan and its benefits! For beginners, it might sound boring, but it a necessary tool if you are serious about blogging. It is a must-have step to be more productive, consistent, and provide quality content. And it will make your life so much easier, as everything is already planned.  […]
  • I can’t write anymore! Stuck with your writing?
    Can’t write anymore! What should I do? Every writer fears this day but eventually, we all find ourselves there. Am I stuck forever? Am I even a good writer?  Stop. The answer is YES, you are a good writer. And NO, this block won’t last forever. Writer’s block is a common occurrence among all authors, […]
  • How to earn money being a comedy writer? Awesome comedy writing jobs
    Comedy is an art that can become a full source of income. And you do not have to be a standup comedian for that. After all, not everyone is comfortable in front of the crowd. But what about comedy writing? What if you love humor? There are still many career options on comedy that do […]
  • Entry level writing jobs (Where to write as a beginner?)
    Starting your freelance writing career is arguable the most challenging part. Before you get that desirable first order, it might seem like a hopeless case. Where do you find clients? How easy is it to fulfill the requirements? Are there enough gigs for everyone?  The truth is, there is plenty of entry level writing jobs […]
  • How to choose a niche for your writing career
    As a freelance writer, you can be either a generalist or specialist. Generalists do not have a niche and usually take any type of gig they find interesting. Of course, it can be a good starting point to gain some experience and develop skills. But if you want to make more money and build a […]