Sunday, May 4, 2008

Beginnings: from Helium to Elance, and a brand-new writing career!

Wow! Here I am at last, with my very own corner of the web to call home...

And here is where I start my story.

On February 15, 2008, I somehow stumbled on a community called Helium - a group of writers from all walks of life. They welcomed me with open arms, and I rapidly came to think of them as family.Helium is an experiment of sorts; you write, you post and you rate. If your article's material and delivery is top quality, it rises like cream.

As I began to find success within the Helium walls, I began to think I might actually be able to make a living from my writing, and I decided to find out.I ventured out cautiously from the Helium nest where I was hatched, and was confronted immediately by an enormous monster known as Elance.

At first I was overwhelmed. This meeting place for buyers and providers is huge! After a few false starts, however, I tamed the beast and started my first project; re-writing some articles for an ESL based site.This was followed by the rapid capture of two more projects; more rewrites of organizational tips for a West Coast professional, and fresh keyword oriented articles for a brand new website in the health field. All three buyers asked me to do repeat projects.

Emboldened, I bid for more, and raised my rates substantially. My feedback was very positive, and I began to receive invitations to bid on projects from interested buyers. I expanded into news story managing and blog posting.

So far, I have landed what looks like two one-year contracts, one two-year contract, and several buyers who also hope to have steady work for me. Pretty soon I will be able to fully support myself by doing something I love! And it all started with one click.

So take hope, all ye who enter here; there are prospects for those willing to spread their wings and fly afield! I only hope I can point the way for other would-be freelancers. Keep an eye on this blog for updates and helpful tips as I continue to blaze my trail!

Note: I still write, rate and post at Helium...check out my page there!

Slainte (and yes, that’s an Irish toast - the equivilant of ‘cheers’ - but ever so classy!)

~Grace

3 comments:

Jim Bessey said...

Grace, this is an inspiring story.

The work you've done at Helium as part of the Home & Garden team is first rate. You're a fine writer, and an insightful editor. I wish you all the success you can handle -- you deserve it!

--Jim (channel steward, Home & Garden, Helium.com)

Peaches said...

Grace! I find the map to your success thus far very inspirational. It's clear, you're an outstanding writer. I hope others see through your journey, that there is light at the end of their journalistic tunnel as well.
Keep up the great work and I'll be back for even more inspiration. Hugs ~ Tonya

MW said...

This blog is both motivating and inspiration, great job Grace!

I hope others as well are encouraged and pushed by your posts to further chase their dreams. Dreams really do come true!

BTW, love the play on words Quick Grace Notes. As a pianist, I completely get that one. ;-)

Love, Meg