Freelance writing job ad – does it pay enough?
This help wanted ad appeared in a newsletter for writers. Do you think the job offer is balanced and fair for both parties? Read the employment qualifications – all of the emphasis is mine – and see how you react. The writer would be required to do multiple articles per week – the job looks like a fairly full-time commitment. Please comment – let us know how writers are feeling about this economy.
Qualified candidates will need to meet all of the following requirements…
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics and/or journalism (or related field)
- At least two years of previous experience at another financial publishing firm or other investment-related firm
- Intimate knowledge of how to research investment ideas and use fundamental analysis to find investment opportunities
- At least two years of experience in financial writing (Note: they seek specialized experience only)
- Strong writing skills, with an ability to convey your personality through written word
- Ability to write articles quickly and self-edit for grammar, punctuation and typos
PAY: $75 per 500-700 word article. Increased after initial training.
APPLY: To express your interest in this position, please send the following:
- A copy of your current resume.
- Three recent writing samples. They should display your writing skills and showcase the depth and quality of your stock market analysis.
- A cover letter that provides a brief explanation of why you’re interested in the position, and why you feel it will be a good fit for both you and for Street Authority
Contact info removed, otherwise, I set this up just the way it appeared in the newsletter.
Remember, we’re interested in developing a consensus of how writers react to these help wanted ads that appear all over the Internet. Please comment your opinion.
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by mkpelland, Shayne Packer. Shayne Packer said: RT @mkpelland: Looking for writer,freelancer input. Does this advertised job pay enough? Your opinion? http://bit.ly/6xGgg7 [...]
IMO, this job is paying less than half of what it should be. Also, how can you determine whether you would be a good fit with no info about Street Authority? Increased after what training (they are asking for experienced person who doesn’t need training) to what…$85?
The person who has this writing resume should write their own stuff for their own blog, etc., and make money for themselves on their reputation, vs. sell it to another entity (except perhaps the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, etc.) A writer who knows this much about investment opportunities should milk his or her own cow…
Thanks for a well-considered answer! I tend to agree with you.
-mkp
A connection on LinkedIn saw our post this morning and replied like this:
***M. E. G. has just left a comment:
“Absolutely not! The assignment described should pay at least $1000 – $1400.”***
This job posting is outrageous! The fee for a professional writer should be a minimum of $2 per word, PLUS they want someone who understands analysis of stock charts – get a life, this pay rate is an insult. Don’t lower your standards or rates because of the “economy” excuse. There are plenty of well-paying writing projects available for qualified writers.
Don’t hold back, Laura – speak your mind!
There is a disconnect between what customers wish to pay and what they want in return. It seems there are people willing to work for small amounts, but I am wondering if they fill the job requirements. Does all this mean unqualified writers should feel free to apply? Or are we in such dire straits and jobs are so tough to find that we should write for pennies and sell our expertise cheaply? What say you all?