Meryl's Notes Blog

Occasionally, I receive an e-mail from someone who wants advice on becoming a professional writer. There’s too much information out there, so the best thing to do is learn a little at a time. The following is what I tell those interested in a writing career.

Take advantage of AbsoluteWrite.com: The best thing you can do is join a writer’s community as not many writers like to give advice because they worked hard to get where they are with little or no help. Absolute Write has a wonderful writing community and forums.

If you want just one place for articles and community, this is my first choice as it’s a well-rounded site and resource. You can subscribe to the newsletter that lets you know when new articles appear on the site. Chances are the questions you have in mind have been answered in the forums. So search first before asking.

Book recommendations: Writer’s Market 2007, Make a Real Living as a Freelance Writer: How to Win Top Writing Assignments and The Well-Fed Writer and The Well-Fed Writer: Back For Seconds

This list is short to avoid to avoid overwhelming you. When someone gives me too much info — I feel overwhelmed that I don’t know where to begin. If you’re ready for more resources, here’s a growing list of writer’s and writing resources.

Abstract version of my story: I didn’t quit my day job and dive into freelance writing. Instead, I wrote on the side while working a day job. I continuously received assignments and it took five years before leaving my day job for full-time freelancing.