A publication accepts your story idea, you write the piece, they decide not to use it; you get nothing or a small percentage of your fee.
You are asked to rewrite your piece to meet a new editorial agenda — for no additional fee.
You meet your deadline, and then you wait for payment — for months, and months, and months.
A tech publisher insists you commit yourself full time, but refuses to pay you benefits.
Your publisher sell the electronic rights to your work without your knowledge or permission.
You are offered a contract that (unless you have a law degree) leaves you completely confused about your rights, your royalties, and other important provisions.
Do You Want to Know More About…
Story and book proposals
Finding, evaluating, and dealing with publishers and agents
Contracting with publishers, editors, and agents
Copyright, fair use, and infringement
Doing research on the Internet
Writing for the World Wide Web
Alternatives to mainstream publishing
Writers resources
Then check out these benefits of joining NWU’s Western New England Chapter
Journalism and book contract advisors who can advise you in negotiations with editors, publishers, and agents, and review your contracts before you sign
Grievance services from a specialist who will represent you in conflicts with publishers and agents
Free access, by phone or Internet, to a job hotline that lists writing jobs throughout the country
A database that locates and evaluates literary agents nationwide
Press credentials for working journalists
Discounts on computers, software, car rentals, and delivery services, and a special low-rate long distance telephone service through our affiliation with the UAW
And, most important of all, the knowledge that you are part of an organization working to improve the working lives and economic well-being of freelance writers like you
Also…
A chance to meet other writers and share information and support
A volunteer mentoring program that can help you find answers to your writing questions, and even advance your career
Authoritative information and advice on subjects as copyright, how to negotiate a writing contract, and more
Free contract reviews by trained advisors
An extensive database of literary agents, including members’ ratings of their performance
Skilled assistance in ironing out disagreements with editors and pubilshers
Workshops and conferences to help you sharpen your creative and business skills
The certain knowledge that no one in the chapter will ever ask when you’re going to get a real job
