How do you handle having work returned to you? If you’re anything like me, you don’t like it at all. Yet it’s something that happens even to the most experienced writer, especially when not dealing with the client directly.
You’ve heard the phrase ‘cut out the middleman’ – well, this often applies when taking writing jobs. Sometimes the people explaining a job to you give their understanding of what the client wants, and they don’t always get it right. Here are a few lessons I have learned about working through rejection:
1. Even experienced writers sometimes have work rejected (get used to it and have a thick skin).
2. Rewrites and revisions are part of the job, so there’s no point in complaining; that just makes you look unprofessional.
3. Speak to the client directly wherever possible.
4. Ask questions and keep asking them till you find out exactly what the client wants. This will cut down on misunderstandings and wasted time.
How have you handled rejection? Any tips to add?
This article originally appeared in Writing Lab News.
Article by Sharon Hurley Hall
Sharon Hurley Hall has been mentoring writers here at Get Paid To Write Online since 2005 to help them improve and build sustainable and successful writing careers. Check me out on sharonhh.com. Feel free to connect with me online on Google+.
Sharon has written 653 awesome articles for us at Get Paid to Write Online
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{ 8 comments }
Thanks Sharon for this article. Ironically, this just year I’ve experienced some rejections. At first it was difficult to deal with. I said to myself, I’ve been writing for over twenty years so what’s wrong? Nothing is wrong, you are totally correct. Even the most seasoned writers go through this. Great piece, nice advise!
Twitter: shurleyhall
March 25, 2010 at 15:11
Even if you’re experienced they still hurt, Mike. You just have to learn to move through it, right?
The only thing I would add is to be very clear about what the parameters of the assignment are from the beginning. Otherwise, it’s all about the thick skin and checking pride at the door.
I love your blog!
Twitter: shurleyhall
March 25, 2010 at 15:12
Yes, Carrie. It helps to keep clarifying till you are sure you know what the client wants.
Many times when I have been asked to do revisions it was because I didn’t have a clear understanding of the client’s objectives for the project.
I developed a questionnaire for my clients. I email it or I’ll get the answers to the questionnaire by phone. I’ve learned the hard way that asking plenty of questions upfront can save a lot of time.
.-= Kimberly Ben´s last blog ..Blaze Your Own Trail =-.
Twitter: shurleyhall
March 25, 2010 at 15:12
Snap! I developed a questionnaire too, Kimberly and when I use it I get a much better idea of what the client wants.
Twitter: GeorgeAngus
April 5, 2010 at 11:27
Hi Sharon,
Thick skin is the best defense. Usually, these rejections are not personal in nature and it is best to keep that in mind. I try and remember that different is not necessarily wrong and if the client wants it to read a certain way then so be it.
George
.-= George Angus´s last blog ..What’s Your Writing Background? =-.
Twitter: shurleyhall
April 7, 2010 at 09:09
True, George. There’s a balance between fulfilling your duty to provide what the client wants and giving that client your best professional advice. Once you’ve done the latter, then you can do the former with a clear conscience.