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Why does <$1 per 100 words seem to be the industry standard?

by Robert M Gouge
10 replies
I've been doing research on adding some additional income through offering some writing services. With what I've been able to research so far, it seems that the industry standard is $1 or less per 100 words. Obviously this doesn't apply to established, commercial writers who can make $100+ per article, but, for the rest of us, is this really the best we can look forward to?

Are writers really busting there butts out there for less than a dollar per one hundred words? :confused:
#&lt$1 #<$1 #100 #industry #standard #words
  • Profile picture of the author bluedevil
    If you're selling on IM forums then yes, $1 is all people value content at. However, there are a million freelance writer markets online. You might try elance, textbroker... even craigslist has some gigs from time to time. Run as fast as you can from the webmaster forums! There are much greener pastures out there.
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  • Profile picture of the author laurencewins
    There are lots of reasons but the 2 main ones are these.

    1. There are lots of "tight arses" who are only willing to pay peanuts for what they believe is high quality work and they also have tons of demands as well.

    2. There are lots of writers, many of who are new to the industry, who will work for whatever they can get and then the quality produced is often poor.

    There are exceptions to both rules but it makes it hard for experienced writers such as myself and other good folk in here to earn a decent living.

    You also have to bear in mind that the value of a dollar varies from 1st world to third world countries.
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    Cheers, Laurence.
    Writer/Editor/Proofreader.

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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    The industry standard? What industry? Where are you looking? The true industry standard is much more than most here could even imagine.
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    • Profile picture of the author Robert M Gouge
      Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

      The industry standard? What industry? Where are you looking? The true industry standard is much more than most here could even imagine.
      Countless content provider sites and their rates, classified ads here and elsewhere. It would be helpful if you could post these valuable resources you seem to have.

      EDIT: Or, if you don't wish to give out your sources, then a nudge in the right direction would also be helpful, too.
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      • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
        Originally Posted by Robert M Gouge View Post

        Countless content provider sites and their rates, classified ads here and elsewhere. It would be helpful if you could post these valuable resources you seem to have.

        EDIT: Or, if you don't wish to give out your sources, then a nudge in the right direction would also be helpful, too.
        Okay Robert M Gouge. Here's a little tip for you and everyone else that thinks they have to accept Snickers Bars for pay. Offline clients. Many of them have no clue what the "industry standard" is. Some of them actually believe that writers are valuable to their business.

        You'd also do well to contact high end Web designers and offer your services to them. That way they can offer their clients both Web design and content. Those gigs usually pay more than what you're calling the industry standard.

        You might also consider investing in Writers Market. Here's a link to it.

        Amazon.com: writers market 2013: Books

        Of course, you have to be able to actually write to get the good pay. I'm sure your aware of that. If you're just getting started, build a portfolio. Put up a Website or blog. Take it seriously and you'll be treated seriously. And by all means, don't sell your work for substandard rates. Good luck.
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        • Profile picture of the author MissTerraK
          What he said!

          You have to know who your targeted clients are. Then how to find and attract them on top of knowing your own worth.

          If you know that your writing skills are much better than those writing for a pittance, you've got the first part down. You have filled your tank with high octane fuel and you've started your engine.

          Now, put your pedal to the medal and put it in fifth gear, baby! Get noticed, get some sponsors and race toward the winner's circle.

          If you do a search on article writing and article syndication here on the forum, you'll find some excellent tips and resources.

          Good luck and success to you.

          Terra
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  • Profile picture of the author laurencewins
    I agree with you travlingguy. I know I am stuck somewhere in the middle.
    I think the OP is referring to the bottom levels where most people start and never get out from.
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    Cheers, Laurence.
    Writer/Editor/Proofreader.

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  • Profile picture of the author jamesrich1
    Your right about that rate being the industry standard. All of the writing websites attract dirt poor writers rate because people accept it. It is going to take you seeking out projects that pay a lot more and proving that you are worthy for the pay. Unfortunately the most common places to look for writing gigs have the most horrible rates. Start thinking out side of the box. There is no exact place to search for these projects. You have to change your mindset and only accept what you feel your worth. Take massive action along with this mindset and find the projects that can afford you.
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  • Profile picture of the author laurencewins
    That is one reason I put together my WSO report. It has tons of options. Some are low and some are higher. But you are right. As writers, we need to stay strong if we are to earn what we are worth and also prove we can do good work. MY regular clients are all happy with me. I just need more of them, as I am sure we all do.
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    Cheers, Laurence.
    Writer/Editor/Proofreader.

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