Suzanne Bowness’ journey from a layoff to a successful freelance writing and editing career is an inspiring tale that she shares in her book, “The Feisty Freelancer: A Friendly Guide to Visioning, Planning, and Growing Your Writing Business.” With over twenty years of experience in the field, Bowness offers valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring freelancers.
The book is written in a clear and approachable style, making it easy for readers to absorb the wealth of information provided. From setting up a freelance business to pitching articles, pricing services, and marketing oneself, Bowness covers all the essential aspects of freelancing. She also delves into topics like collaborating with editors and clients, staying motivated while working from home, and managing the financial aspects of freelancing.
One of the standout features of “The Feisty Freelancer” is the inclusion of exercises at the end of each chapter. These exercises help readers think more deeply about their strategies, generate article ideas, and plan their next steps. As someone who has taught writing courses for fifteen years, Bowness understands the importance of hands-on learning and provides practical tools for freelancers to enhance their skills.
The book also addresses the pros and cons of freelancing, highlighting the flexibility and control it offers, as well as the challenges of inconsistent work and the need for self-discipline. Bowness encourages readers to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of freelancing before embarking on this career path.
What sets “The Feisty Freelancer” apart from other books on freelance writing is its up-to-date perspective on the industry. Bowness discusses recent trends like blogs, social media, and artificial intelligence language models, ensuring that readers are equipped with the latest knowledge and strategies for success.
Moreover, the book caters to a diverse audience by covering various aspects of freelance work, including writing for different platforms, editing, working with corporate clients, and more. Bowness’ Canadian perspective adds a unique touch to the book, offering insights into the local market and industry practices.
Throughout the book, Bowness emphasizes the importance of networking and learning from fellow freelancers. The inclusion of a Q&A section with responses from different freelancers adds a personal touch and provides valuable insights from professionals in the field. Additionally, the book offers a comprehensive list of resources for writers, including books, guides, podcasts, job sites, and associations.
In conclusion, “The Feisty Freelancer” is a valuable resource for both aspiring and experienced freelancers. Packed with practical advice, exercises, and resources, the book offers a comprehensive guide to building a successful freelance writing business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your freelance career, Bowness’ book is a must-read for anyone in the industry.