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Topic: Tell an editor about other clients?
| Author | Message |
| HisGirlFriday | Posted – 9/28/2007 10:40:48 AM | show profile Here's a scenario: Editor A and I are working to set a deadline for a (non breaking news related) story I pitched. Normally, I could turn this around in a few days but I'm swamped with other work and would really rather have another week to do it. Do I say to Editor A that the reason why I can't do it is other deadlines? (For other clients, obviously.) I don't want Editor A to think I'm a slacker or an idiot who can't get the job done - and obviously I could kill myself to do it in 2 days if necessary. |
| dribbledrive1 | Posted – 9/28/2007 11:50:44 AM | show profile Just tell the editor you are finishing other projects and need a week. Unless the editor is giving you $100K a year in business, he realizes he isn't your only client. |
| Rick1 | Posted – 9/28/2007 2:36:56 PM | show profile Other clients It's actually a good idea to advertise the fact that you've got other clients; it sends the message that you are widely desired. They key is to strike a balance: yes, I am busy because I am widely needed; but I also will bust my butt to produce at top speed for YOU, dear client. |
| HisGirlFriday | Posted – 9/28/2007 9:15:15 PM | show profile Thanks - solid ideas - I guess I just worried that Editor A would be thinking: "What the F do I care about your other deadlines??" - but you're both right - do they think I'm living on their checks alone .... |
| Righter | Posted – 9/28/2007 9:55:40 PM | show profile I agree with all of the above, and also that it's good you make it clear that you have other clients because that way you're setting boundaries. |
| dribbledrive1 | Posted – 9/28/2007 11:22:45 PM | show profile On the other hand, if an editor's attitude is, "I don't care about your other clients and deadlines, I don't care if you are able to make a decent living, I don't care if what I am asking is unreasonable -- prioritize me first always," chances are you'll dump him fast. Ironically, clients who pay well tend to respect writers most and don't make unreasonable requests. --Thanks - solid ideas - I guess I just worried that Editor A would be thinking: "What the F do I care about your other deadlines??"-- |
