Insights from the SES Trade Show

Some assignments are written as a group, as if one person were going to write the entire set. The individual directions don't make a lot of sense when earlier assignments are already taken. As a writer, it's sometimes difficult to divine what the client has in mind.

added by: author sharkbytes on 08/23/2010 - 08.36

I've returned articles to the pool if a revision request contained instructions that weren't in the original write-up.

added by: author A-003903 on 08/23/2010 - 09.00

The number of articles I write here probably does not qualify me to make any judgement comments, but... I do not write articles where the client insists on the order of keywords. I know a bit about SEO myself, and I know some search engines blacklist keyword stuffing. When the requested order of keywords does not make good grammatical sense, I leave the article. For example, and this is a made up example, so as not to offend anyone: Cleaning supplies jacuzzi
Now, a search engine does not care in which order these words are injected into the article. Yet, if I rearrange them, they do not count or the client wants them revised. Do you have any other tips on this topic?
Just my 2 cents!

added by: author A-009433 on 08/23/2010 - 09.17

I don't have much in the way of tips since I'm fairly new to Textbroker, but I've often thought it would be nice if orders came with an origin label so we know whether they're expecting UK or American grammar. I think most clients don't realize that's an issue and may just think the spelling and grammar are wrong! I am excited to see the new improvements though. More specific instructions are always welcome!

added by: author A-010206 on 08/23/2010 - 09.30

Looks like we are doing well so far! Yea!!

For handling client instructions, I work offline and copy the instructions into my document. Then I copy and paste the different parts of the instruction where they need to go in the document. For example, if they say to use a certain keyword in the title, and once each in the first, middle, and last paragraphs, I will type out the keyword 4 times. Next to the first occurrence I will put (title) next to it, next to the next occurrence I will put (1st) next to it, etc. As I meet each requirement, I delete those little notes from my document.

I also reread the client instructions when the document is finished to make sure I've met all the conditions. I haven't done this, but you could copy the entire set of instructions again and paste it at the end of your document before you start writing. Once you finish writing, the instructions at the end serve as a reminder to review.

Lori

added by: author Lori Tisot on 08/23/2010 - 10.20

It would seem, then, that the clients are more interested in articles which are well-written, rather than in grammatical perfection. That has almost always been my experience, but I know that not everyone values quality work. It is nice to hear that our clients do.

added by: author EloahJames on 08/23/2010 - 10.43

This is wonderful news! I have a feelings that Textbroker is going to be one of the best freelance writing sites. They are eager to go out of their way, even on their day off, to meet with other clients and tell them what we can do to write the article to their satisfaction and find out what they want us to do to write it for them.i

Only by asking questions and listening to what other have to say, can anyone, a writer or the editors who pay us, improve the system and/or our grammar.

I just want to add an update to my Blog and How I Learned Grammar.

I have learned a great deal of grammar usage, and where to put the comma, that I find myself finding comma mistakes in another persons articles when I write for another site.

It is amazing to think that not so long ago, someone was doing the same to my use of commas in my articles.

I do not deliberately go all out to read their article. The wrong placement of a comma seems to just jump out at me.

Once you learn where and how to place a comma it will be a part of your writing. Keep learning, and take time editing your article and make sure that you have not placed the comma in the wrong place.

It is late now and I am tired so I might have made a few grammar errors so please do not jump at me and tell me about a mistake I made. I am much to weary to edit. However, I did want to make a post and update my story of How I Learned Grammar and to give kudos to all of our great and friendly editors.

added by: author SondraC on 08/23/2010 - 11.41

I have a comment that I would like addressed. Some clients have begun saying in the article description that we have to post our article as a review of a specific product on an Amazon product, or on a Youtube video.

Can a client force us to do that before we get paid? I was under the assumption this was just for article writing.

added by: author A-032291 on 08/24/2010 - 01.10

I also copy the client instructions into my off-line document. If there are key words required, I highlight them as I work. I also use the search/find tool in the edit tool bar to find and count key words. This was a hint from a client who found double the number of key words requested in the first article I wrote for her. I asked how I could improve my articles for this client before selecting another job. The client was kind enough to explain what she was looking for and how to count key words. If there is enough time, I like to let an article sit overnight and re-read it fresh in the morning. Grammatical errors are easier to spot and minor edits help to improve the final document.

added by: author Susan A on 08/24/2010 - 01.59

"One client went so far as to blacklist authors who he felt were getting in a rut, closing those authors off from lucrative assignments. He felt bad about it, but he was going to poke his eyes out if he had to see another article that started the same way."

I've asked previously in an email, but this portion never got a response. Clients are notified when authors blacklist them, but how does an author know when he or she know when blacklisted by a client?

Also, how or when does a client know if a blacklisted author improves the staleness of his or her writing?

--

RE: 'Hints on Avoiding Staleness' or 'Tempering the Template Tinge'

The only things that come to mind are: 1. Avoid those articles for another project or three, 2. Take a break away from the computer, and 3. Start drafts with the summary or concluding section first then build backwards, restructuring the article in the final draft.

I write a lot of technical pieces for one particular Direct Order client. (Hi, Steve!) Sometimes, I feel like I'll explode if I use the words "maximize," "optimize," and "footprint" just one ... more ... time! As a challenge to break myself out of the "ho, hum... another one" mindset, I sometimes set aside the actual order and choose an old one, rewrite it with the prohibition of using the "same old word set," above. That normally shakes the cobwebs, and I can continue the tech writing with "fresher stuff." Sometimes, I use introductory clauses to start an article; sometimes, I use the "summary first" technique. [snicker] Sometimes, I use all three.

--

RE: Keyword Density

An easy way to check "proper" keyword density is to use the Find or Find All function of most word doc programs. Count them, total them, then use the Word Count function to get the total words so far. Divide the total keywords into the total words to get an average keyword placement.

To fine tune the "keyword every 100 word" type of instruction, repeat the above technique, but use a segment of the writing, highlighting only a paragraph or a section. The ensuing results will encompass only that section of the piece.

As far as keyword density and higher-level orders go, overall, it's a good idea, simply because level 4 and level 5 writers are *supposed* to be better at tailoring content, and keyword density is an important issue. One technique I use is to copy the suggested or searched-for keywords into the Header section of my working document. I don't have to keep them there, but it's a handy place that's easy to check. I just use the highlight function to check the project's word count.

But sometimes the client's keyword density is a little over the top, even for level 5 writers. A 300-word piece requiring 100 keywords is one boring article, save the comedy factor in reading (and that's being kind): "A [keyword] and the [keyword] shows all [keyword] that [keyword]...." I'd love to read a level 5 article with that density; I, for one, would have a very hard time meeting that requirement, and I'm good. ;)

--

Lastly, hearty thanks to both TB's clients and TB's staff! Without either, I'd not as easily be able to channel a love of writing into a known-to-be-profitable avenue, even on a part-time basis.

added by: author A-035348 on 08/24/2010 - 02.16

Wow...lol. I started my first response with no responses showing. A few moments later, there are lots of them! Good job, authors!

EloahJames, articles that are well-written include grammatical perfection, but excellent content must exist, as well. I don't know of any client who would accept a content-rich article that has, commas; or ... dashes! or .question m/arks where they don't belong or perhaps no grammar noted whatsoever dont u thnk :

SondraC, TB is the best freelance site on the 'Net. ;)

Author A-035348, in short, "Yes, they can." If that's what the client ordered, and you accept that order, it's your obligation to present a review. It's merely another instruction set, that's all. If the client pays for it, so much the better, eh? ;)

added by: author A-035348 on 08/24/2010 - 02.26

I am currently associated with several online publishing companies and I wanted to let Textbroker know that they're the first company which has helped me to feel like I'm accomplishing something, both financially as well as artistically! Since I'm in the beginning stages of my writing career, I appreciate the fact that I'm exposed to valuable instruction from Textbroker and its clients which gives me the opportunity understand what's needed and produce it. When I pick a request that has instructions I don't think I can fulfill (either because the instructions don't make complete sense to me or I just don't have a feel for the subject), then I simply return the request back to the pool. The wonderful thing is there's an endless supply of requests to choose from so if one doesn't work for me, it's no loss!

Thanks again, Textbroker, for giving new writers hope for our futures!

Alma Grady

added by: author A-043709 on 08/24/2010 - 03.20

I've really enjoyed my time here. I seem to get pretty good ratings by the clients (better than TB). My mind can work a little strange so I get a lot of "odd usage" remarks from the TB folks. I don't write all that often but on occasion I get an urge and I'll do a few orders.

One of these days I'll even fill out that tax form so I can get my monies.

As far as the Amazon reviews go - I'm certainly not a TB person but IMHO-

No Way!!!! If they want to publish your article as a review that's their business but you shouldn't be doing anything but writing and submitting ON THIS SITE. I believe that text broker is here to protect the writers and ensure that we're paid for our work. If people start putting stuff places prior to being paid you could very well not get paid.

Thank folks

Author A-048705 (Fay for short)

added by: author A-048705 on 08/24/2010 - 03.43

First of all, I love you guys. As someone else said, I've not only grown technically as a writer, after writing for TB, but also financially. This is saying something for a 50 year old writer.

There are a couple of things I'd like to suggest that might be helpful. I think a forum for TB writers could be a useful thing. It might help us figure out the whole writer/client experience. Beyond that, if you could create a client mind-reading app for some of these folk, that would be REALLY useful! (Ooops, sorry for the caps.)

added by: author MClark on 08/24/2010 - 05.35

I've been both a writer and a client on Textbroker, so I see both sides of the coin. I'm in agreement with A-048705. Not only should clients just ask for the writing itself, paying for an Amazon review is sleazy.

But this is not something for Textbroker to regulate. Writers don't have to take those assignments. There is plenty of work to go around. I order about 20 articles or so a week alone. Can't imagine what big players are ordering.

Going over these comments, it's nice to see all the good vibes around here. I do care about style more than grammar. It is about good writing, no churning out junk.

I think the best think for writers to do is contact clients. There was one writer who I had blacklisted, just as a way to filter out writers that don't fit the style I need. After a few messages back and forth, I gave her another chance. I look forward to seeing what she produces for me.

The reason I gave her another shot? She asked how she could improve...a positive attitude like that will take any writer the way they want to go. Follow her example and politely follow up with clients to find out what went wrong and make attempts to fix it.

Thinking about style, I will try linking to articles that show the style I am trying to get in the instructions. That might make it easier for authors to understand what I want in style and voice... it might be a good idea for Textbroker to blog about instruction tips related to style and voice?

added by: client 2104138 on 08/24/2010 - 05.51

Some of the instructions are written in such poor grammar that I have to laugh at them. Then then say, "proper grammar and spelling required"....shouldn't the instructions contain proper grammar and spelling also!! Many of the instructions are not clear and are truly copied from one to another and make no sense.

added by: author A-025040 on 08/24/2010 - 06.09

I agree, TB is a great site to work on! I have looked at others where clients are willing to pay as low a 70 cents for a 500 word article!

Off topic a little but I am somewhat new to TB and was wondering how many articles do most of you write in a day. Just curious as to what the average volume is for other authors.

Thanks
baprice

added by: author A-046885 on 08/24/2010 - 07.29

hi,
This article is really helpful..there are some suggestions in it that will really aid in improving my writing. I am new here but enjoying this job and am also very happy with the writing stuffs and the feedbacks received.
Thanks

Suryatapa

added by: author Suryatapa on 08/24/2010 - 08.06

This is so great! In reading this, I have learned a few things today; especially from the author's comments. I am new to Textbroker and received my first pay a couple of days ago.

I am learning about SEO and re-learning my grammer while writing for Textbroker. One of the things I notice about orders is that the instructions aren't always clear. I usually send a message to the client to double-check and clarify the instructions if I'm not sure. Most clients respond and will clarify the instructions, which is very helpful. Some do not respond at all.

I did not know that some search engines blacklist keyword stuffing. I'm curious if the clients are aware of this. I notice that clients want many keywords but ask for it not to look as if the article has been stuffed. Also, I notice that most clients will instruct not to include any url's. But some don't let you know that, and then the article will come back for revision. I would like to suggest that the clients instruct with more clarity as to what they want and do not want in the article. This would be very helpful and avoid revisions.

Otherwise, I find Textbroker a great site. The editors are very helpful and have responded quickly and professionally to any questions I have had.

added by: author Lily on 08/24/2010 - 08.13

I had just a few random thoughts as I read the post and other comments. I have been writing here for 2 years and enjoy it.

I read the instructions before I begin and check my article again before I turn it in so that I always meet the instructions.

Most of the instructions are clear. If I feel I cannot follow them for any reason, I won't take the assignment. Some clients are given a list of instructions to follow from the publishing sites. If we don't follow the client's instructions, our articles cannot be published.

009343-When clients asks for something in a specific order, they might be trying to put a web page link to that specific word grouping. It's called anchor text. Try to think in terms of what Joe at home is typing into his search engine box: cleaning supplies jaccuzzi. Your client is probably trying to build links to that specific keyword group so Joe will find that site and buy things. When the keyword requirement list is not on, you can put punctuation or two-letter words in the middle. I send the client a message when I do that. When the keyword checker is on, you have to be creative. (There are many types of cleaning supplies jaccuzzi owners use to keep their spas healthy.)

added by: author Scrivener1 on 08/24/2010 - 08.15

Thoughts -

1) Yes, as mentioned, TextBroker is awesome.

2) Clients shouldn't be allowed to make us post stuff anywhere else - there's no way to pay for that, and so that just leaves us with extra work, and makes getting paid slower and less certain. One of the great things about TextBroker is how sure I am of consistently getting paid, and allowing clients to request random arbitrary assignments that jeopardize our getting paid for our work seem like a step in the direction of other websites (read: Mechanical Turk).

3) Way up on the second comment, A-003903 mentioned that (s)he would return an article if the client added instructions. I've felt the same way, but I would rather fix an article - and by fix, I mean do unnecessarily added work - then completely start form scratch. However I think there should be a way to appeal revision requests, so we don't have to do the unreasonable ones I don't adding one word or feature that I missed, but when a client wants me to rewrite a whole 700 word article because they weren't specific enough in the instructions, I get a bit angry.

4) Just after that, A-009433 mentioned that some of the keywords were impossible to use, and I gotta agree that I've definitely seen a few like that where I basically had to use bad grammar to fit in a keyword.

5) It would be awesome to see some clients comment on these blogs or to have some kind of forums where we could interact with them - no to place orders, but just to learn a bit more about what they want.

6) TextBroker is still awesome, and I think I'll end this rather lengthy comment now.

-Michael

added by: author MichaelC on 08/24/2010 - 08.31

TB is a great place to start for new writers. I'm currently taking another writing class on-line through my local college. I am hoping to improve my writing skills. I look at the descriptions to see what the client wants before accepting an assignment. If the instructions are too difficult then I don't accept it. I have ran accross instructions the client asked for it to written in UK english. So some clients do specify what language they want the article written in.

added by: author A-040819 on 08/24/2010 - 08.54

I just wanted to jump in and address the author who commented on keywords with strange ordering. Doing almost exclusively level 4 and 5, I haven't ran into this too much lately. However, if I were writing a level 2 or level 3 order, or if the keyword was included in the requirements in a way that required an exact placement to get that check, I would write it AS IF it was in the right order. It causes a slight hiccup in the reading, but you do what you have to get the article to submit properly. If they question it, just point back to the requirements. It will never sound exactly right, but there is an art to building a sentence around it to make it sound as smooth as possible.

If there are no limits with the keyword check, then PUNCTUATION IS YOUR BEST FRIEND. In the example you gave, for instance, you could build it in using something like this:

"When it comes to cleaning supplies, jacuzzi tubs need special products."

And, on a side note, I have no idea whether an author can get the check for keyword density with punctuation breaking up the keyword phrase. I haven't ran into that yet since they added that feature for the clients.

added by: author Rosa Lyn on 08/24/2010 - 09.09

I have been here for nearly a year and have learned which articles I am best suited for and which ones I am not. Client requests that contain what I consider to be convoluted instructions, I tend to stay away from.

As far as following instructions is concerned, I had a template I would print off that had areas for the directions, KWs, date and deadline, client number and ratings given. I have moved this to a folder in Word but am now finding that having the tangible paper beside me as I work acts as a nice reminder.

If I have written something that I am comfortable with, such as writing about animals or baking, things that speak to my personal experiences, I always send a note to the client afterwards. In the note I inform them that their article has been written and sent and that, after they receive it, they should feel free to request any revisions if necessary. I also add in that if they are happy with my work, to please consider me for future DOs later on. I have gotten three regular clients doing this and have found it very useful.

As far as getting into "writer's rut"? Yes! I have a regular client for whom I had to write about one object over and over again-for days! Same topic. Very stressful.

However, I took the object and simply pulled it apart. How to find them in certain colors, where to find them, what to do with them, how to wear them, how to sell them, how to make them yourself...etc. This works very well and my client is always very happy with my work.

My insurance policy, although I have dropped the ball on this and paid the price with a "nasty-gram" once or twice to prove it, is to read and read again. I read and re-read every article I write. I do them in Word first, finish it and then read it there. After that, I move it to TB, read it again there and then send it to the next TB window where I read it again before finally, if all is well-done, it is sent to the client. I also read the articles out loud. I think we tend to catch things better when we hear it.

Poynter's News U is a site that writers can use to hone their skills. Some classes are free and some cost but they're very good and I have found them very useful.

Those are my tricks o' the TB trade!

Maggie

added by: author Maggie on 08/24/2010 - 09.20

I'm not sure if this is just me. I used to write a lot for different clients here, and always had to redo at least 2 out of 5 articles because I didn't understand what the client wanted. For example, I did an article about couch rolls. When I looked up online what these things were, I found out they were used in papermaking presses. I didn't know that in the UK, couch rolls are the things that the docs put on the exam table. Two articles for the price of one, as I had to redo the whole thing.
Lately I haven't been taking any assignments because the instructions are just too vague. "I need an article about e-commerce. 350 - 450 words. Keyword: e-commerce." Well, what exactly about it do they want? I've only been able to find maybe one or two articles a week that even give close to the amount of detail that the client requests, and those are usually for Australia. Why are there clients from overseas, when the authors here have to be North American?
I've found other sites to be much more useful and lucrative. The lack of detail in requests of what the client wants frustrates me, and I don't see myself trying to figure out what exactly they want an article on, in the future.
- Katya

added by: author wyrmpro on 08/24/2010 - 09.41

As I was reading this blog, and the comments, I noticed some very nice writing and some pretty obvious grammatical mistakes by both the author of the blog, and the writers of the comments.

For instance, this sentence starts paragraph three of the blog: There were a things that came up in our conversations that authors could improve on.

It would seem that perhaps the word "few" should be inserted between "a" and "things." And, ending the sentence with "on" seems to be an example of the dreaded dangling participle against which our ninth grade English teachers crusaded so furiously.

I frequently am guilty of these, and other transgressions, when I compose on the computer screen, even if I have done a longhand draft. Spell and grammar check usually will not find these kinds of things, and extended periods of looking at a monitor seems to make the eyes numb.

I find printing my completed article, then proofreading, helps me to catch SOME of this stuff. I'm aware of the cost and inefficiency of this technique, but it helps me.

added by: author A-048997 on 08/24/2010 - 09.43

Lori's suggestion was fantastic. I do the same with every single assignment I do.

I use a few techniques to stay on task and follow directions. I use Microsoft Word to write up all of my assignments, and the first thing that I always do is write a title in the center and below it, I'll put the required word count in parentheses. Then I'll paste the client directions. Usually I'll dwindle the instructions down to the important points because sometimes the client can fluff the instructions up a bit without realizing it.

If the client wants a specific number of keywords, I'll list all of the required keywords at the top of the document as well with a number in parentheses that represents how many times they'd like it used.

Once I'm finished with the article, I'll use the Find feature of Word and type in the keyword and then change the "Find In:" field to "Main Document." Then I can simply see all of the highlighted places at once that I used the keyword and simply count.

Just wanted to give some helpful pointers to people out there who are struggling with fitting all of the requirements. Following instructions can be stressful, but if you devise a working plan, they're a cinch.

added by: author A-040835 on 08/24/2010 - 09.56

I have seen assignments where the client asks for a description in addition to the article word count and makes it clear that the article must meet the word count on its own. Writing an extra 25 words for a description is not a lot, but it is unfair for the customer to require us to do it for free. If they are requiring an extra 25 words, they should pay for them. We are, after all, paid by the word.

added by: author bethparker on 08/24/2010 - 10.04

So far I have really enjoyed working with TB, but I have had issues on occasion with instructions. Generally, I just don't accept orders that don't make sense, but there have been days where the majority of orders are unintelligible. Specifically, I've seen a great deal of orders that have no descriptions and an ambiguous title and articles with keyword requirements that are grammatically incorrect and/or make no sense, such as "best drills UK". How does a writer construct an article that uses "best drills UK" 3-4 times without adding any connective words?

My biggest complaint with TB, although I understand that there are time restraints on the editing/managing end, is that revisions are not reviewed before they are requested. I think TB should look at client's review requests and either approve or deny them. Today I received a revision request to change an article from catering to a U.S. audience to catering to a U.K. audience. Since it's about financial information, I have to rewrite the entire article, which is like losing an hour's worth of pay, just because the client forgot to specify.

I don't think the current revision system is fair. I refused a revision on an article a few months ago and TB allowed the client to refuse payment even though the client was clearly asking for something that was not in the original description. I don't think this is fair and I think if revisions are made available by TB, they should be reviewed before the request is approved. This would also deter clients from asking for arbitrary changes.

added by: author A-034573 on 08/24/2010 - 10.05

I have one other comment as well. I think that jobs should be moderated or reviewed in some form before the client can post them. For example, I was perusing the content pool the other day and came across a job that had a required word count of 350-400 words, and in the client instructions, the client was requesting a minimum of 450 words. I don't know if this was by accident, but I'd like to think it was.

I also think that there should be a specific category set aside for clients that are looking for specific types of languages. Sometimes the clients will want UK English, and I have no idea how to write in that way. I think that all of these articles should get their own folder..that way I can avoid it. :)

added by: author A-040835 on 08/24/2010 - 10.06

(Natalie) I am a new writer to Textbroker. So far, in my experience, I have found that the instructions provided by many clients are vague or without a point of view and clearly defined purpose/objective. I have sent several back to the queue because the effort it was taking to try and determine WHAT they wanted was not worth it to me.

In my opinion, a skilled writer, with clear direction, audience, and point of view, should be able to hammer out 500 words that are in grammatically correct sentances in under an hour. That includes any needed research.

added by: author A-049680 on 08/24/2010 - 10.44

I research the client's instructions carefully before accepting an assignment.

Those articles for 200 words or less seem to have amazing requirements. One client asked for 5 different keywords, 4 times each. This would have led to an article that made no sense grammatically or intelligently. Yet, those were the requirements. I passed.

If the client writes a book of very narrow instructions, so be it. Many writers do well with this. I personally can't afford to spend 4 hours sorting out exactly what the client wants, then try to write it and hope I fit into their little box.

Most revisions I have had come from clients who want a single sentance rewritten or added. No problem. The only re-write I have had came from a client who asked for an article that gave the writer free reign. He disagreed with what I wrote, which was that stopping a travel trailer on the side of the highway to have lunch was dangerous and illegal. I wrote a completely new article which was accepted. Instead of throwing away the rejected article, I expanded it and sold it on another site.

It's good to hear the clients like the authors here.

Can a standard form for client instructions be made? Many times clients' requests are grammatically incorrect, spelling errors abound and sometimes make no sense whatsoever. Is someone checking requests before sending them to the authors? That would help the articles to be accepted and written expediently. I also believe it would cut down on revisions, as well.

Thank you.

added by: author TGallagher on 08/24/2010 - 10.54

I really am thankful to be a part of TB. I find this site interesting and above all TB paid faster than other sites. It is worth the time we spent.

There is one thing I wish, that the clients would make their instructions clear. There are some job orders where the instructions are very vague and the clients returned the article for revision in which you don't know what they want because it's not specifically stated what? But anyway, thanks to TB for helping and protecting their authors.

Thanks guys!!!!

added by: author A-044489 on 08/24/2010 - 11.19

Hello!
I'd like to be able to rate my experience with clients. I think this would help us in the long run because it would give clients an incentive to provide authors an even better working enviornment.

If you like this idea, what would you rate clients on? I'd rate clients on their ablity to provide clear instructions and on their ablity to accept or reject articles in a timely manner. I'd also rate clients on their ablity to work with authors during the revision process. It seems as though some clients make 1,000,001 demands that have nothing to do with the original order.

Let me know what you think about this.
Gabe.

added by: author abqwriter on 08/24/2010 - 11.47

QUOTE:

I have a comment that I would like addressed. Some clients have begun saying in the article description that we have to post our article as a review of a specific product on an Amazon product, or on a Youtube video.

Can a client force us to do that before we get paid? I was under the assumption this was just for article writing.

added by: author A-032291 on 08/24/2010 - 01.10

QUOTE:

Author A-035348, in short, "Yes, they can." If that's what the client ordered, and you accept that order, it's your obligation to present a review. It's merely another instruction set, that's all. If the client pays for it, so much the better, eh? ;)

added by: author A-035348 on 08/24/2010 - 02.26

END QUOTE

My Response:

TextBroker Legal Department might have something to say about this one.

It's one thing for the *client* to take the material for which he's paid the authors and publish it as a "review" of some product or other in *his* name, and it's quite another for the authors to publish *their* work as a review of any product in *their* name, particularly if they've never seen it or used it or have any legitimate basis in fact for commenting on it.

It is my understanding that doing so would put the author — and TextBroker — squarely in fake-testimonial territory, which comes under the jurisdiction of the FTC as "misleading" the reader and "misrepresenting" the product.

My recommendation is: Get legal advice on this one.

:)

added by: author A-040516 on 08/24/2010 - 12.00

About templetes and frameworks...
If you look online, most content that has been writen already use a framework to structure an article. For example, SEO advertising pieces seem to follow a framework that uses the five W's and lots of keywords to deliver their message.

In addition, online travel guides also seem to follow a framework that allows readers to choose and click on the sites that seem interesting.

Authors also use templates (called outlines) for every article they write. If they didn't, they might have a hard time writing an aritcle that is coherent and legible.


I guess what I'm trying to get at is if a client does not want "frameworked" articles, he should try to come up with unique instructions for each order he wants filled. I say this because many clients put a bunch of orders that are duplicates of each other using a template that lets them replicate instructions quickly. I could be wrong about this, but that tells me they want the same type of article for each order they want filled. (I'm a simpleton, so please forgive me if this logic is wrong.)

You could solve this problem by limiting the number of articles an author writes for the client in a given batch. However, that might be unfair to authors who have are knowledgable about a subject.

You might also solve the problem by asking clients to provide UNIQUE instructions for each UNIQUE order. This cuts down on the incentive for authors to use cookie cutter methods.

I write articles that are based on the instructions the client gives me. If those instructions are written cookie-cutter style, I might end up doing 2-3 of the same types of articles because the client gave me the same instructions.. (Does that make sense?)

Let me know if you agree or disagree with these comments. I'd be interested in reading your comments.

added by: author abqwriter on 08/24/2010 - 12.00

Honestly, I've hardly had a problem with grammar issues. In the beginning, my articles received plenty of TB notifications and low reviews. However, I simply incorporated it as a learning experience- since then, I've earned a higher level in my overall author rating (now a 4) and I've gotten better client and TB feedback. Now, I hardly receive an article with a class 3 rating, and I find that most of my clients like my work, and even come back for more.

What's the key to all this? Personally for me, it's simply that I enjoy doing it. I got into the world of freelance not just as a way to earn cash- though it's certainly a help!- but more as a way to do what I enjoy. Maybe it's just talent, or know-how, but I can whip up an article about a completely boring subject and make it exciting to the reader. A favorite example is one I did one the history of the sport of football- since I am not a sports fan, my interest level is very low in that area. But by the time I was done with the research and writing that article, I was ready to go out there with all the other die-hard fans and cheer the home team.

I think that's the key right there- is just to have a passion for your work, not just the writing, but the subject itself. It definitely shows in your writing style, and clients can tell the difference. I remember I was gratified a few days ago to realize that one of my clients who had liked a previous article I'd written and followed it up with a Direct Order in actuality had a relatively high rejection rate. It showed me that I was doing a good job and needed to keep up the good work.

It's been a good year for me here at TB, and I'm enjoying the work, and I look forward to continuing this working experience. Thanks all! :)

NatMikey

added by: author NatMikey on 08/24/2010 - 12.24

I work the same as Lori with the exception that I put the order and client instructions at the end of my draft.

I also use a free service called PaperRater at http://www.paperrater.com/.

It checks for plagiarism, spelling, grammar, style and vocabulary, and as I said it is free!

Alan

added by: author Alan1018 on 08/24/2010 - 01.24

Were they talking about me!?!?!?!?

added by: author C.Sander on 08/24/2010 - 04.05

I enjoy writing for textbroker but I choose the articles I want to do very carefully so I have not written that many. I write for textbroker when I don't have other work. I am a professional, published writer and an editor and English tutor but I like the challenge of textbroker assignments. Clients' instructions are often a bit fuzzy, sometimes contradictory, and occasionally insulting (and I don't usually choose those that tell me to "use good grammar" and don't do this/that as I am an experienced writer).

It would be a bit helpful to know a little more about the audience of an intended assignment. Is the article for an Internet health site, to promote a product/service, a review, etc.? I often feel that I am writing in the dark as I usually write for a particular audience. If clients could even briefly identify the intended audience, I think authors would do a little better.

Just my two cents worth...
LH

added by: author A-022035 on 08/24/2010 - 04.18

@A-00943 - When doing keyword "stuffing" where the keyword order doesn't make sense, you have to get creative. To use your example: Cleaning supplies, jacuzzi and pool included, are really important for keeping away SEO germs.

I'm not 100% sure on this and someone can correct me, but I don't think that the SEO counter on the article will count the comma. It shouldn't, because Google doesn't.

@SondraC - And girlfriend, since it's after two, we're much too weary to edit, you, too. ;) *hugs*

@A-032291 - I would think that you just go through the standard submission process and once you've been paid, you can submit the review. I would clarify this with the client and the editors simply because if you post the review prior to getting paid, the client could, theoretically, reject your article and copy and paste your review for their own purposes from the site you placed it on.

@TB Editors - One of the only ways that I know how to keep from falling into the repetition rut is to take on different articles. My take on tinfoil hats, for instance, is probably getting to be quite old here in the blogs. I'm leaning toward changing to gold foil, though, but even that may not be enough.

But seriously, I just try not to take too many articles that focus on the same product. If I don't do that, I do end up repeating myself. My take on tinfoil hats, for instance, is probably getting to be quite old here in the blogs. I'm leaning toward changing to gold foil, though, but even that may not be enough.

See what I mean?

:)

Looking forward to trolling more of the blog responses on this one.

-Neal

added by: author Neal on 08/24/2010 - 04.44

I really enjoy clients who say that they give free reign to writers for creativity. If they ask for something odd, I just try to think of it from an advertising standpoint. It's really helpful when they actually have a link to where the article is going to be posted to so I can get a feel for it.

Also, I've shied away from articles that want .amazon links in them or work through another media or a multitude of URL's needed. If they want me to post on another site, I bypass it.

Clients who give more information of what they want as opposed to a 300 word article on a one word description, I have to ask myself exactly what are they looking for? Sometimes, it's not easy.

added by: author A-049115 on 08/24/2010 - 05.44

Hi all! I'm a four star-er and pleased as punch with Textbroker, but I have to echo many of the sentiments I see here, namely:

*Clearer instructions from clients, and ones that take into account that a sweeping edict that covers a multi-article posting in the beginning may make little to no sense with only a few left to snag.

*Separate sections/sub-sections for "UK" or "Australian" English orders.

*Realistic restrictions on the amount of things a client can demand for super-low two or three star orders...nine times out of ten I find "laundry lists" of labor-intensive considerations for a damn buck and a half, while a $9+ order often basically says "Spell correctly, if you can get around to it". Why are the higher-paying folks so much more polite and reasonable?

Yep...that's about it, haha! :)

Happy writing, all.

-TWC

added by: author WordChick on 08/24/2010 - 05.57

Interesting discussion. Like many commenters, I will not take on work where the instructions are confusing or unclear, or where the client has simply pasted the same instructions into 100 articles about different products. I'm looking for clients who are as serious about their work as I am.

My oddest revision request was for a client who asked for a tearjerker story but didn't give any other specifications. Contrary to my usual practice I took that one on, because it sounded like fun. The revision request was along the lines of: "My friends and I are sitting around reading your story and we don't think it's a tearjerker." Needless to say, that one went straight back into the pool and I hope someone else was successful with it.

My advice to all writers is to read the assignment carefully before accepting, and check out any phrases that seem unfamiliar first in case, like wyrmpro, you end up writing about the wrong product.

A final thought - I would never, ever post an assignment on another site for a client. That's dishonest on all sorts of levels. How do I know the client hasn't been banned from a review site and is using Textbroker to get round the ban? If I post a review from my computer, I am bound by the review site's terms and conditions and could unwittingly infringe them. No job is worth that kind of trouble.

added by: author A-040249 on 08/24/2010 - 06.32

I have written over 2700 articles for Textbroker over the past two years, and I happily give them the highest ratings on everything possible! I have had almost no problems with clients or orders, but then I am particular about what I select.

I would love to see an annual meeting for Textbroker authors in Las Vegas where the company is headquartered. It would be a ball to meet authors like Neal and editors like Christina Zila in person. How about a convention?

added by: author A-002484 on 08/24/2010 - 06.55

I am glad to know other people get in a rut too! I had been doing a series of articles for a client on a specific item, and I love the client and love the product, but after a while it's very difficult to come up with something fresh.

Just out of curiosity: Do most authors keep copies of the articles they write? I wasn't saving any in an effort to prevent myself from looking back over old ones and not coming up with something fresh each time; now I wonder if not saving my work is hurting me in some way.

I have very little time to write, so I select articles that I feel I can do a good job on without investing an extreme amount of time. I wish I had more time to write, though! I am very happy with everything at Textbroker. The clients I've chosen have been nice, reading other authors' insights is helpful, and I like the tips from the editors and in the blogs. Do I remember all of them all the time? Probably not. But I do feel they have helped me improve.

added by: author A-034493 on 08/24/2010 - 09.05

I had to reread the other-site posting of reviews original comment, and I'll admit I misread it. I didn't read the original complaint on this thread as posting prior to payment. ...My sincerest apologies. I'll offer only that it was very late, and I'd had very little sleep the night before. And thank you for noting the counterpoint comment that drew my mistake to my attention.
---
"Off topic a little but I am somewhat new to TB and was wondering how many articles do most of you write in a day. Just curious as to what the average volume is for other authors." ... Depends on the day. Sometimes, I write none, one, or a few. Other days, I have no other screaming demands, and I can write for hours, article after article. I think my personal best was 28 in one day, but that was a longgggg day, considering research time, too.
---
re: Clients adding or changing instructions in revision requests. Folks, they can't. If you believe a revision request pertains to items or requirements not included in the original instructions, you have the right to appeal that request.

First, send a message--a polite message--to the client, asking for details. If you don't agree with the revision, explain why, and allow them a reasonable portion of your 24-hour deadline in which to respond. If they don't within that time, resubmit the same article back through TB's submission window and email Support; include a copy/paste of the IM to the client, complete with the date/time stamp on it, and submit your stance to them. Remember: The client must request three revisions before an outright refusal is allowed. Also, the client must accept an article "as is" if revision requests encompass "out of instructions" requirements. Returning an article simply because of a revision request might seem a little drastic, but there are circumstances when that might be the wiser course of action, especially if the order instructions were misread. In those cases, a quick IM to the client is just good customer service.
--
"5) It would be awesome to see some clients comment on these blogs or to have some kind of forums where we could interact with them - no to place orders, but just to learn a bit more about what they want."

Client #2104138 did.
---
And now for the newbies... Language-/Country-Specific Writing.

Every major word document program has language settings available. Look in the upper bar area for "Tools." Click and scroll down to "Language tools" or "...options."

Scroll down the listed languages and dialects until you find the required one for the article. The SpellCheck and GrammarCheck functions will edit to that language or dialect's standards. While it may not catch every single variation, it will catch a great many of them!

And here are some URLs that I've found extremely helpful at one time or another for non-American-English writing:

http://web.uvic.ca/wguide/
http://www.catholic-forum.com/churches/cathteach/eng_spelling.htm
http://www.davidappleyard.com/english/spelling.htm
http://www.hps.com/~tpg/ukdict/

...to post only a few.

added by: author A-035348 on 08/24/2010 - 09.55

@A-025040 - I think many of our clients are using TB specifically because they don't have perfect grammar or writing skills.

@abqwriter - I think limiting the number of articles an author writes for a given client in a "batch" wouldn't be such a great idea. One for instance that I could give is Art Deco. I love Art Deco, have done a fair amount of research on the subject and art history in general. I was presented with the opportunity to do a bunch of articles on the subject and I jumped at it because I already had a background in it. I think a lot of authors here could say the same thing on many different subjects.

@Alan - Thank you for that link to paperrater.com. I've been looking for a free site like that.

@C.Sander - Probably not.

@A-002484 - It would be a ball to meet you, too. I think we should have a masked ball, myself. That might be fun. Of course, I'm sure I'd be required to wear the proverbial... well, you know.

Anyway, wow, authors and clients responding to this post. Really great insight on some things. Honestly, this blog keeps me coming back. There are times I've been so frustrated with writing. I just don't want to do it. I come back, take a look at the blog and think, "You know, this is kind of worth it."

I'm seeing people posting here who I just really enjoy needling a bit (SondraC, but only 'cause I loves ya'. :). And yes, there are those who just need to stfu. But for the most part, all of you guy/gals are a great lot and I really enjoy reading responses to these blogs.

I was thinking, though... wouldn't it be funny if there were some famous authors writing for TB and we didn't know who they were in real life? Then, we have some kind of Vegas (or Kansas City, *hint hint*) convention and we find out that Neil Gaiman has been writing at level 3 and can't figure out why in the hell the TB editors won't give him a level 4 rating. Or, better, Dan Brown is writing for TB and can't figure out how in the hell he got a level 5 rating, when he knows good and well he should be at level 2 because he has no clue about how to do proper research. (Sorry level 2 authors, I know there are those of you who are really really good at research!)

Dang... this convention thing could catch on. Christina Z, you listening? :)

Anyway, to everyone that I've harassed, complimented or otherwise ignored, keep up the work (good, bad or indifferent) and thanks for helping me stay focused on the thing that God seems to have intended me to do.

-Neal

added by: author Neal on 08/24/2010 - 11.25

Some clients give us keywords that are incredibly awkward and hard to place in sentences. Please urge them to give us a break and pick keywords that you can actually fit into coherent syntax!

That's a minor criticism. In general, I like Textbroker very much. I've written for a couple of other content companies, and Textbroker is the best one yet. You really seem to be on the authors' side, and we appreciate it.

added by: author A-042257 on 08/25/2010 - 02.46

I love Textbroker. Of all the online writing sites I've tried, even private clients, this is the most empowering and reliable. I haven't written as much as I should have but I plan to do more, as I think this site provides a very good ROI for writers who "gotta eat". Especially when you factor in how quickly you can get down to work, as opposed to client time with commute, preparation, phone calls, accounting, etc - a client hour is more like 3-4 hours of your time! When you look at it that way, an hour spent on TB does measure up toe to toe with "pro services". Took me a while to figure that out, now that I have, I'll concentrate here more!

On the whole I've found the people here very nice, clients, writers and staff. I have an article on client instructions I'll publish one of these days but for now I would suggest that clients respect the time of their writers, and resist giving instructions longer than the article. Samples are useful. I find some useful information is:

Keywords/length
Tone/purpose of article (blog, professional, technical, bright, sales etc)
Specific requirements, bugbears


But getting into the realm of heavier research - if the article requires it then it should be priced accordingly. Research is a real time-eater. Do you want native speaker quality at developing nation rates? I think these are not very equitable, and we all get what we pay for. I'd rather write a solid article than hastily beat something out with the same 3 facts you find on the first 2 pages of Google. A writer has their rating and security to consider too.

I know I could bang out quicker articles, but I really care about their quality as I'm sure many here do.

If I had one wish it would be for weekly payouts. I'd probably procrastinate less. : ) C'est la vie!

Thanks!

added by: author A-022660 on 08/25/2010 - 04.23

I have been with TB just a couple of months and for the most part it has been ok. However, last month I wrote a 550 word article for a client. He provided the keywords and I wrote the article. He then returned the article for corrections but in his instructions he changed the keywords which gave the artilce a whole new meaning. It also meant that if I was to correct the article to the new meaning I would have had to rewrite the whole article.

I sent in two messages to the staff to ask for suggestions but received no reply. I wanted to please the client, but did not want to write an article and give them two articles and only get paid for one. Eventualy I rewrote as much of the article with his new instructions as an attempt to please the client, and to save the investment I had already put into the article.

Still not hearing from the staff for any suggestions I resubmitted the article. Then the article was refused by the client. The new keywords that he added made the article sound odd. When the staff looked at the article, they saw the article was odd and gave it a 2 star. When in fact I was giving the client what they wanted.

What I learned out of the situation is, if I come up on that situation again, to just toss it back. I did make an honest attempt to give client what they wanted and in return received low rating and no money for my work. Needless to say this has left me discouraged.

I welcome comments on my writing to improve, however in this situation I received no feedback and at the end had to pay for it (with no pay for my efforts). I do believe that if the staff would have read the messages, and communicated with me, I would have known what to do in the situation to better serve the client, and at the same time not be put in a situation where I would have had to have written another whole new article.

I want to become a better writer. I also want to give the client what they need. I would like to see better communication between the staff and writers when they come across a situation like this. In this case I should have just tossed it back.

May I also suggest that maybe someone also look at what the client is asking us to do before they are thrown in the pool for the writers to pick up? They can then contact the client and let them know that what they are asking needs to be more clear?

Thank you for your patience during this long post.

A frustrated writer

added by: author A-045186 on 08/25/2010 - 05.44

Hello all!

This event with meeting the clients sounds exciting! It is very neat that the clients say they are happy with the authors too. It is even neater that textbroker is getting new clients! Awesome, textbroker!

Thank you, editors, for all the hours you spend on editing all articles submitted from authors. I cannot even imagine how tiring it must get. I know I could not do it for long. I would burn out. lol

I have read over all the comments. I cannot gather my thoughts enough to comment on each one that struck me in a certain way. I will simply write and see what comes out. How does that sound? ;-) (It could end up being a book.) lol

I am very grateful to textbroker for the opportunity to write, learn how to write better and to earn money online.

I have been with textbroker for a little over a year now. I greatly appreciate the feedback I receive when my writing needs improvement, and the multiple jobs I see for the rating I am in; 4 stars (which I am satisfied with and do not wish to move to a 5-star level). :-) I believe I work very hard now. I do not believe I could meet the commitment for the next level.

Thanks be to God, I have submitted around 800 articles and have not received a rejection yet. I would love to try writing for a client with a higher rejection rate, just to see how it goes, but I stop myself from proceeding if I see a client's profile reflecting any ratings for rejecting articles. The only ones, actually, that I will continue to write for (ones that have rejection rates) are the clients I "know" like my writing and will accept the submitted articles.

I have had two clients out of all of the ones throughout the year block me, so I look at the big and bright red B on my contacts page, but it does not bug me as much as it did when it first occurred. I could not understand why they blocked me, as I followed all the rules they stated, and textbroker rated the articles as 4 stars, so I assumed the articles were written properly. By the way, I am SOO glad textbroker does not rate our articles according to client’s feedback (or blocking us). If that was the case, some have said my articles were poor, average or acceptable, so if the ratings went by that, I would be a -1 writer. lol Most of the articles I have sent through get "excellent", so that makes it easier to let it go when others seem to be a bit pickier. Oh, I have met some pickier. Wow! I will not go there, as it would take way too much time. ;-)

I have built some great relationships with clients on here and get direct orders quite often now. I am very grateful for that. I like to send a note to each new or well-known client when I write for him or her, saying hi and letting the client know that if it needs revisions, please do not hesitate to send it back to me, and I believe that by communicating to a client and letting him or her know that what matters to me is that the clients get quality articles, they like that. I enjoy getting paid, but the main goal I have on textbroker is to write quality articles and try to follow instructions to the "t", and communicate with them. If I take an article that gives me 2 days to write it and it takes me longer (I cancel it and retrieve it again to give me more time), I write to the client and apologize for the delay. Some answer me and some do not.

Most clients leave ratings but some do not. It is all good either way. I would rather they do not leave any rating if the score is going to be acceptable, average or poor. Also, if a client is not happy with an article, but he or she accepts it and says it is poor, why does a client do that? The client should send it back to the author for revisions. Luckily, I have not dealt with that too often. Thank God!

I have enjoyed being here at textbroker, the writing, the interaction with the editors and the blogs now! I believe I have grown as a writer and as a person because of this experience. I hope to be here for many years more!! :-)

Have a great day and evening everybody!! Thank you textbroker, clients and fellow authors!

Maryanne

added by: author Maryanne on 08/25/2010 - 12.00

I'm a Level-5 writer and I adore TB. I write and edit for several other sites, but TB leaves them all in the dust. I just wish there were more 5-Star orders.

I would love it if TB could implement an automatic email notification system. Such a system would give writers the option to select criteria for personalized alerts. For example, "Notify me if new Level X articles are posted in category A, B, or C."

There are peaks and valleys in the order pool, and this would help writers jump on newly posted articles right away.

added by: author Verbal=800 on 08/25/2010 - 06.17

A-002484, I love the idea of having a way for TextBroker workers, clients, and editors to be able to get together and communicate more freely. However I don't think a Vegas meetup would work for those of us who are located quite far away and don't way to dish out the several hundred bucks to fly there.

It had occurred to me before, but reading these comments made me think that it would be really great if there were a way for us all to interact online.

added by: author MichaelC on 08/25/2010 - 09.17

MichaelC - I totally understand the money thing...just was thinking of that town because that is where Textbroker is located. Chat room would be interesting, but I already spend a lot of time on non-work items; chatting could be addictive! And that would cost problems.

Right now I am trying to figure out if I can listen to youtube's peppy music like Abba "Gimme Gimme Gimme - a man after midnight" and still focus on work! Not working too well, but love the music and the beat! (For an oldie like me!)

added by: author A-002484 on 08/27/2010 - 05.44

Author A-045186, the client cannot change original order instructions and use them as the basis for a rejection. Revisions can ONLY pertain to original instructions and guidelines--not additional keywords or frequency, not changes to keywords or keyword order, if different than the original order. And the client cannot reject an article before three revisions have been requested and denied.

As far as two articles for the price of one, only the version accepted and paid for can be used; the first version is yours--you weren't paid for it; therefore, you still own full rights to it. Because the 2d version based on changed standards was rejected, you still own full rights to that article, too.

If the scenario you outlined is accurate, both the client and TB were wrong; the client had no basis to reject the article or even requiring a revision based on new standards, and TB should have 1. responded to your emails; 2. taken both revisions and order instructions into account when they rated your article.

Should that happen again, send that appeal email to TB with a copy to yourself. If they don't respond within the 24-hours you're given to rewrite and resubmit, send it back through again, email TB Support one more time, then if you still don't hear anything well before that second 24-hour period (providing the client still rejects it), CALL SUPPORT on the phone! Explain the original order, the revisions and their instructions, and ask that they scan the first and second versions you've written. They may be able to go over them with you on the phone. Follow their advice on a 3rd revision. Oftentimes, Support will contact the client and explain procedures.

---
Author Verbal=800, "...automated email notification system." I know that TB has sent level 5 authors bulk emails when large level-5 orders are placed or will be placed soon, but I like your idea if there's a way for TB to implement it. In vernacular of the slang variety, "wtg, homes!"

added by: author A-035348 on 08/27/2010 - 05.44

Oops...Forgot one item. The forum might be a good idea if it weren't for legal issues.

Disclaimers aside, research liability issues with TB sponsoring or even being involved in what could well morph into training environments. They can post "hints" here, because ... Well, do the research, and you'll find out why. ;)

added by: author A-035348 on 08/27/2010 - 05.46

Good morning, everybody!

I am seeing some comments about the ratings we are given for each article we submit. I am wondering, "How are the ratings done?" I was thinking that the ratings went according to our spelling and grammar. Is this guess correct, or are the articles being rated according to whether or not we followed directions a client gives in an order? This answer may help to clarify why some get specific ratings for certain articles. :-)

I read in one of the comments on this blog about an article being rated a 2, and the author was not happy with that rating, because he or she gave the client what he or she wanted. I always assumed that we got rated on our grammar and spelling, as well as style and clarity with our writing. :-)

Also, I have had a client change the directions "and the order title" and requested a revision, but I did the revision and never said a word. I could have written to textbroker about it, but I chose not to. I had put a lot of time into that article already and if I did not do the revision, I did not get paid for my work. Also, I like to keep clients happy. I suppose there is a limit. One day I will figure it all out. :-) I have decided that if I feel like a client is being unreasonable, I will speak up in the future, because I do put a lot of time into writing and doing research for articles, as we all do. I just like to be easy going and if I hand out honey, I may attract more bees? lol

Thanks for listening. Have a great day and week!

Maryanne

added by: author Maryanne on 08/29/2010 - 09.10

author A-035348 - No, I'm sure they wouldn't. Then again, I didn't say "clients completely disregard grammar". Of course they wouldn't accept an article like your example. However, I think they are far more likely to accept a well-written, informative, and interesting tutorial which says "attach doors" instead of "attach the doors" (and therefore meets word count, even though it has a parenthetical statement) than they are an article that has no similar errors, but reads:

"Buy a greenhouse building kit. Open the greenhouse building package. Take out the greenhouse building instructions. Read the instructions for greenhouse building. Pick up your greenhouse building hammer."

added by: author EloahJames on 09/01/2010 - 04.33

I've written nearly 600 articles and have had to deal with a difficult client only twice. One gave me a laundry list of instructions that was longer than the actual article about if botox was safe. In the list he gave me several questions that he wanted answered, and then returned my article saying that he didn't really want those questions answered and just threw them in for guidance? Huh? So I changed it, he accepted, and then went on to give my article poor ratings across the board. TB rated it as a 4 anyway. I really didn't care since I got my money anyway but that guy was downright rude and condescending. If he was so displeased with it, he did not have to accept it. I feel that if you accept an article, you should at least give it a good rating. Why would you accept it if you were not pleased? It makes no sense.

I tend to avoid articles where the instructions are overly demanding. By the time I have gone through and made sure that all the instructions were followed to the letter and all the key words were included (no matter how convoluted and awkward the usage is) I could have done two or three easier articles. As far as I am concerned, it is about maximizing profitability. It's easier and quicker to do shorter assignments that pay less than to do one that pays more but could take hours.

One other thing that I have a complaint about is clients who do not give you good ratings for responsiveness and dependability. How can you be rated poorly for such a thing if you have an article done within an hour of it being posted? Either some of these people are out of touch with reality or are just randomly clicking.

added by: author A-038960 on 09/22/2010 - 10.10

Oh I have another question about revisions. A couple of times, a client has asked me to change one word or add a punctuation mark. Is it really that had for them to change it themselves? I mean I am happy to do it but I know it took longer to write the instruction for the revision than to change the one word.

added by: author A-038960 on 09/22/2010 - 10.12

So far I have only written five submissions, but in every case the instructions given did not give enough information on the client who gave the order. A name is not enough. In all but one case, I've had to research the client to make an educated guess on what they wanted. In the one remaining case, I was familier with the client before writing the article. One way to aid this along would be to provide the website address of the client. As for the instructions on the assignments I've taken, the ambiguity of the instructions has actually helped, freeing me for more creativity.

added by: author Listen on 10/09/2011 - 12.09

For those of you who need a plagiarism checker, there are a couple online checkers I use. www.articlechecker.com is the best and I use that for nearly every article I write.

added by: author Kathy on 10/12/2011 - 12.37