Telecommute Jobs for Writers

From LoveToKnow Freelance-Writing

If you have a passion for the English language, you may find yourself looking for telecommute jobs for writers.

Is telecommuting the right choice for you?

Telecommuting vs. Freelancing

For novice writers, it can be difficult to distinguish between telecommute jobs for writers and freelance writing assignments. However, it's important to realize that these terms do refer to two different types of working arrangements.

A telecommute job is usually a defined position that includes all the responsibilities you'd have working in an office. The only difference is that you are based from home and use tools such as instant messaging and video conferencing to check in with your supervisor. In most cases, telecommuting writers work in advertising, marketing, and/or public relations. While some companies allow workers to telecommute full-time, others only allow telecommuting on a part-time basis. This means you might work from home two or three days per week, then work in the company office for the rest of the time.

A freelancer is an independent contractor who builds his or her writing business by working for several different clients from a home office. Some freelancers only work on short projects, while others have clients they assist on a monthly basis. Generally, freelancers write for magazines, newspapers, and/or Web sites preparing informational articles. Regardless of what type of work they do, however, freelancers generally have a great deal of control over their work schedule. As long as they complete their projects on time, they are allowed to set their hours accordingly.

Pros and Cons of Telecommuting

Telecommuting, like freelancing, has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Understanding all aspects of the telecommuting work arrangement will help you be better able to decide if this approach is the best one for your writing career.

Some of the benefits of telecommute jobs for writers include:

Telecommute jobs provide a fairly steady and consistent source of income, while traditional freelancing can be erratic.
If you are classified as a telecommuting employee, you won't have to worry about paying self-employment tax on your earnings.
Depending upon the nature of your job, you may be offered benefits, such as health insurance.

Disadvantages of telecommuting include:

You'll have less freedom than a freelancer, since you'll be expected to report to a boss regularly.
While freelancers get to work on a variety of projects, telecommuters generally have very defined job responsibilities.
It can be hard to move up the corporate ladder when you are not physically near your boss. If you telecommute for more than half the work week, some of your accomplishments may be easily overlooked by management.

Finding Telecommute Jobs for Writers

To find telecommuting jobs for writers, you'll use many of the same tactics people use to search for freelancing work. Here are some Web sites that often have postings for telecommuting positions:

General job search Web sites, such as Monster and Career Builder may also be useful resources for those in search of telecommuting opportunities. If you see an advertisement for a full-time writing-related job you believe matches your skills and qualifications, you may want to submit your resume and cover letter along with an inquiry as to whether or not they would consider a telecommuting candidate. While an increasing number of employers are allowing telecommuting, many positions are not labeled as specifically for telecommuters until someone makes the initial request. If you're highly qualified and persuasive, you might just be able to snag your dream job with this approach!