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Juggling a job and freelance work

serialcomma — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 06:18:13 -0800

Do my job and freelance clients all need to know about each other? I work for a magazine, and I recently accepted an offer to be a regular monthly contributor to a website that's launching soon. I also have an offer (which I'm still considering) from a different website to write a weekly column. Neither site has anything to do with my full-time job in terms of subject matter, but the sites potentially overlap slightly in subject and audience. I'd be writing about the same topic for both sites.

What is considered proper freelance etiquette in this situation? If I accept the weekly column, do I need to let each site know that I plan to write for the other? Also, I've heard that some editorial staffers are required by their employers to disclose any freelance work. Though that isn't the case with my company, is it good form to notify them about these gigs anyway?

Experiences and advice appreciated.

Should I quit my job tomorrow?

quarked — Thu, 09 Nov 2006 18:26:35 -0800

I'm planning to quit my job tomorrow... and I'm nervous. Is it the right decision? Or too rash? Yes, there are lots of similar threads, but I need specific (and quick) advice. I'm 23 and have worked in publishing for one year. It's time to move on -- but everyone says don't quit until you've got another job locked down.

The good news: I just got a great freelance writing gig that will start after Thanksgiving. It has the potential to turn into an assignment every month, and pays more than my current 9-5 does. It will be exciting and satisfying work. Still, it's freelance, and I'm mindful of the pitfalls.

So yesterday I applied for a job in a bookshop. It pays very little but would be a steady check to support my writing. I'd be happy there. BUT there are no guarantees I'll get the job.

As for finances: I've got a few K in the bank and live pretty frugally (and could live frugally-er if necessary). So I have a cushion.

Reasons for quitting TOMORROW:

* My yearly review will probably be next week. That would be awkward--I'd be forced to tell my boss right then that I'm leaving. I'd rather do it on my own terms, before the review.
* If I give notice tomorrow, my last day will be right before Thanksgiving. That's a logical end date. Also: if I don't leave before Thanksgiving, I don't think I'll be able to take the writing gig.
* Daily work has become miserable. I am frustrated and stressed and not sleeping well. I've got to get OUT.

What do you think? Should I quit tomorrow? Or keep applying to bookshops (and other places) until I get something locked down, and THEN quit? Your advice, anecdotes, etc are appreciated.

Making Money at Music

kuperman — Thu, 03 Feb 2005 16:06:43 -0800

MusicianFilter: The other day, a buddy of mine and I were having a bizarre conversation about musicians and perceived success. We started joking around, supposing that, say, En Esch from KMFDM/Slick Idiot really works at Kinko's in Joliet, using the assumed name "Benny." But that got us thinking - at what point are (established/presumably successful) recording artists able to move from their day jobs into full-time musician mode? Or what happens when they move back? And, additionally, if they are still pulling down day jobs, what are some good examples (apart from session musician, studio tech, etc)?