Writers Unbound

Getting into the niche article database (versus the big guys) and a few opportunities for magazine submissions.

Article databases are kind of a standby for freelance writers. It’s easy to join, free (or low-cost), and if you produce enough content and get enough page views, you can bring in money long after you’ve published the article. Actually, that little phrase “long after” is the key to understanding those big databases. It takes time to build up enough content, and get enough page views, to make any significant income. And there is plenty of competition.

Still, the lack - or long turn around time - on pay is often ignored because if you do get enough content and enough exposure, you can get payback in referrals from the sites that use your content. Your content there also gives something to potential clients: they can easily see your writing style, your ability to produce, your expertise. Maybe it’s not about the money.

I’ve not brought myself to do anything at the really big sites, like Associated Content or Ezine Articles. They’re just so big and so, well, not special.

The compromise I’ve found is in smaller, niche article databases. One I’ve found is Wahm-Articles.com. There is no monetary compensation, no ad revenue, no page view rates. It’s strictly for advertising, referrals, and building your expertise. That’s okay. I’m not expecting to make money from these article databases, just gain clients and experience. It makes sense to me to go with a smaller database that targets the same audience I’m after - in this case, work at home moms - and take advantage of 1) less competitive masses and 2) the expert appeal that comes from being part of a specialized site.

There are other niche article databases around… and of course, this opens up the whole “Should a freelance writer have a niche or just generalize” debate. I won’t get into that here. (You might think you know my answer because I have a wahm niche… but don’t make too many assumptions.)

Below you’ll find a list of a few niche article directories to get you started. I haven’t read through much on these sites, so make sure the guidelines and the content fit what you’re after.

• Education Articles for k-12.
• Online Education Articles
• My Family Living: Family Articles Seems to cover more than family living.
• Recipes and Cooking Articles
• Work at Home Articles Topics include Affiliate, Financial Issues, Marketing Online, and WAH Tips.
• Travel Articles

Make it a good day.

Image Credits: rochelle et. al. at Flickr.