4 Simple Ways for Small Businesses to Protect Themselves Online

Small-Business-security-image

Today’s guest is going to do something similar to what Cassie Phillips did a while ago: help you protect yourself online.

I know we can always use more security tips, right? Sophie Lizard outlines 5 tips for freelancers in this post, and here are 4 more for you.

Now please welcome Arthur Baxter to center stage.

4 Ways to Protect Yourself Online

Small businesses don’t have it easy. Cybersecurity is something every business should be aware of, but it’s even more important when it comes to small businesses. According to the Small Business Subcommittee, nearly 20% of all cyber attacks occur in businesses with 250 or fewer employees. Unfortunately, most of the time these attacks could have been prevented if the business had enacted a few simple security measures. If you own a small business, it’s important you follow these 4 security steps to protect it from online threats. Read More

What to Do When Your Writing Business Grows Too Big for its Britches

 

What to Do When Your Freelance Writing Business Grows Too BIg for its Britches image by David Leonhardt

Today’s guest, David Leonhardt, is an entrepreneur who runs a writing agency, and he is going to share with you what you can do when YOUR freelance writing business grows too big for its britches! Pay careful attention to the many tips he provides, as they could take your business to the next level!

Now please welcome David to center stage!

What to Do When Your Writing Business Grows Too Big for its Britches

What happens when your workload grows bigger than you? You clone yourself, of course.

Due to the lack of reputable cloning facilities in this nameless hamlet where I live, many years ago I developed a different option. I opened a freelance ghostwriter agency, where I coordinate the efforts of a dozen writers.

Moving from freelancer to agency isn’t for everybody, and it doesn’t just happen without growing pains. I am happy to share my experience, and describe some of the key aspects. Read More

10 Editing Tools No Freelancer Should Be Without + 10 Editing Tips To Push Your Talents To The Next Level

 Pixabay image for post on Best Editing Tips and Tools for Writers

I want to give you access to the 10 best editing tips and 10 best editing tools for writers, and that’s why I accepted Kenneth Waldman’s proposal for an article on this topic.

Here it is!

Do You Need an Editor?

Yes. Every writer needs an editor; it’s essential for success.

Technology is providing an endless amount of resources and there is no shame in receiving support. Everyone has their own unique practices, but even for the best it can become overwhelming.

Mistakes are human, as is writer’s block. The web is basically making the entire ordeal more manageable. There are several user-friendly choices that can save you time and increase productivity.

But since no writer is created equal, neither are the tools and tips presented. Start with determining your weaknesses to achieve your objectives.

The following list has narrowed down some of the most recommended options and beneficial advice. There is likely an advantageous source for everyone.

We all know the editing struggle is real. Find some solace and expand your skill with these suggestions. Continue reading to check out the 10 best editing tools for writers and the 10 awesome editing tips!

You can also download my bonus checklist of 17 Editing Tips for Writers!

Read More

Start Freelancing to Change Your LIFE! (Featuring a TRUE STORY)

Start Freelancing to Change Your LIFE!

I had no idea when I started freelance writing on the side almost two years ago where it would take both my business and personal life. It’s true, I was looking to it as a way out.

My Way Out

I didn’t have it bad per say at work, I just wasn’t really passionate about what I did all day/week/month/year long as a financial adviser and support person to a large financial planning practice in my area. In fact, I had it pretty good.

I had:

  • A 10-minute drive to work
  • A decent salary (that supported our family of four)
  • Nice co-workers (that were family and treated me as the same)
  • And a whole lotta potential to grow

But it wasn’t what I wanted to be when I grew up.

Even if there was a lot of opportunity for advancement and pay. I had already spent the previous decade figuring that out.

And since I had another 30 working years or so ahead of me, I didn’t want to succumb to something I wasn’t passionate about so early.

So after I became honest with myself, I decided to buck the trend of Corporate America by starting a freelance writing side hustle instead.

And then I added virtual assistant services. And it grew – so much so that I was grossing $4,000 per month WHILE working full-time and having two toddlers at home.

Less than six months after I looked into it in the first place. And I’ve since more than quadrupled that since going full-time. In fact, in November 2015 I grossed over $18,500 from my little freelance business.

How’d I Do It?

It’s simple.

  1. I got started. And I learned a heck of a lot on the fly.
  2. I put myself out there. A lot.
  3. I asked to be hired, rather than waiting for clients to find me. (Because trust me, they won’t!)
  4. Then I started teaching what I learned. (‘Cuz, that’s the best way to start building an audience.)

Gina Horkey E-course cover

I launched 30 Days or Less to Freelance Writing Success. Read More

6 Ways for How to Think and Act like an Entrepreneur

How to think and act like an entrepreneur

So ya wanna be an entrepreneur, huh???

Entrepreneurship is becoming more and more popular, especially with the advent of the digital age.

Nearly anyone can now become an entrepreneur… or an author (a type of entrepreneur). I became one.

I also became an author. I help others become entrepreneurs, too, by coaching or mentoring them, and also by helping them become authors.

Depending upon which type of field you go into, are qualified for, or simply are passionate about, you will need to have basic skills (and be able to hire others for those you don’t have!).

In addition to being passionate, hard-working, and dedidacated (as well as perhaps have some accounting or book-keeping skills), you will also need to change your mindset, and understand a few other things about entrepreneurship.

My guest today is Katherine Brunt from Assignment Box, and she is going to go into detail about 6 things you need to consider when it comes to entrepreneurship. Be sure to respond to the question at the end!

Take it away, Katherine!

The Importance of an Entrepreneurial Mindset

In order to become an agile and influential entrepreneur, every day should be perceived as an opportunity, one in which any new or innovative thing could be done or planned. This is one of the most desirable aspects of an entrepreneurship, and through which mission statements and strategic visions could be formulated. Read More