In August, two writers totally blew off handing in stories for the sept/oct issue of WHY magazine. One I just didn't hear from, after repeated emails and calls, and the other apparently forgot and then decided our fee was not sufficient – two weeks after her story deadline and after submitting a signed contract. Ugh.
On a far, far happier note, all the writers submitted their stories on time and in great shape for the next issue of WHY, which goes live on January 1, 2009. In other words, it's good to be an editor today.
Note to freelance writers: Editors don't necessarily mind if you're going to be late with a story. Lord knows we half-expect it and pad our deadlines. But communication is vital. If you're running late, tell us. We get it. We're people too, after all. But looking to change contract details late in the game or dropping out of sight entirely -- even if it's due to complete embarrassment because you forgot to write the story (hey, it happens!) -- is a surefire way never to get hired again.
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1 comment:
Gotta tell ya, it makes job easier when so many of my peers are lousy hacks. I, on the other hand, am a professional hack who communicates with my eds, delivers spot-on copy, seeks out good resources and appropriate interviews, and - while I may occasionally be late - you know about it enough in advance so as not to have a coronary...
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