I kicked off the day with a bang - The Secrets of Six-Figure Freelancing panel. Writers Jennifer Pirtle, Kelly James-Enger, pictured above, and Brian O'Connell talked about what they have learned about making money as freelancers.

First note - they all hate the term "freelancer". Why? Because it has the word "free" in it! Don't call them ink-stained wretches, either - think of them (and yourselves) as independent writers and small-business owners.

Read their best tips after the jump.

Success tip number 1: Think of yourself as the CEO of a small business. write a business plan before sending any queries. And always act like you already are a success.

Success tip number 2: Think big and pitch accordingly. "Why start small when you want your career to be huge," says Jennifer Pirtle. Her first sale was to Self; Kelly James-Enger's first sale was to Cosmopolitan.

Success tip number 3: Value your time. Think of ways to work efficiently, ask for more money, and take time off. Kelly turns off her email and does not answer her phone when she is writing. Brian has worked out a barter agreement with a PR firm in his town to get annual access to Bacon's in exchange for some press release writing, which saves him hours in tracking down editor contact information.

Success tip number 4: Treat editors like clients. Ask them how you can help them. Do a good job, and turn work in on time. "I swear to God, people don't know this," Kelly said.

Success tip number 5: Have a Web site. Editors and clients like to see them.

Success tip number 6: Use the message line to send email that gets opened. Brian often uses the header "Two-Time Book of the Month Club Author/Book Idea" when approaching publishers. Obviously, tell the truth, but come up with something more exciting than "Freelance Query".