(Image by star-dust)

In writing as much as any profession, time is valuable. This means that as professional writers, we need to be selective of the projects we take on. If we’re working on several projects that aren’t moving us toward our ultimate goals, when will we have time to work on the ones that will? This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take on challenges, and it doesn’t mean that we’ll always enjoy the work we do take on, but we should get something positive out of every job we do.

Every time you are approached about a project, always consider the pros and cons of taking on the work. When deciding whether or not to take on a project, there are several factors you should take into account. These are a few that I consider:

• Does the subject interest me?
• Do I enjoy working with the client?
• Do I (honestly) have the time to produce good work and still complete the project by deadline?
• Do I have the skills (or do I believe I can learn them quickly enough) to complete the project well and on time?
• Will the project teach me something (e.g., about a new topic, new writing style, etc.)?
• Will the project allow me to build a relationship with a new company or client?

As you can see, I haven’t even mentioned payment here. That’s because, for me, money isn’t the most important factor in my decision to take a job or let it go. Instead, the answers to the questions above allow me to answer the final question:

• Is the compensation for the job acceptable?

Compensation doesn’t necessarily equal money, either. It may come in the form of a big check, but compensation may also come in the form of new clients, additional experience, or a byline in a high-profile publication. For example, if I’m not really interested in a topic, but the piece will be published in a major newspaper with my own byline, the answer to this question may be “Yes” even if the payment is minimal. On the other hand, if the project will allow me to learn about a new topic or writing style but I know the client is very high-maintenance, the answer may be “Yes” only if the payment is high enough to compensate for the headaches I’ll incur. Either way, if the compensation doesn’t meet my expectations, if the pros of the job don’t outweigh the cons, I try to have the good sense to pass on it.

This is how I generally choose my writing projects. You may have (or develop) a different strategy. Certain project characteristics may weigh more heavily for you or you may find other factors need to be considered. No matter what, you’ll need to learn how to choose your projects wisely. Learn to say “No” to those projects that don’t compensate you well, in some form or another, and you’ll be able to make a living doing what you love–without the headaches of problem clients and unrealistic expectations.

What factors do you consider before taking on a writing project?