7 Traits of Successful Professional Writers

by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen @ Quips and Tips

These seven traits of successful professional writers – whether they’re freelance writers or novelists – almost guarantee publication and success!

First, let’s see what Elmore Leonard says about writing success…

“Success seems like kind of a fluke to me. It’s not based on merit, since not everyone has the same opportunities. For me, it was just something that happened. I was in the right place at the right time,” said Elmore Leonard in Writers Dreaming. “In 1985 I became an overnight success after 30 years…I didn’t think that I would ever have a best-seller. I never thought that my writing was either good enough or bad enough to make the list.”

Wow, 30 years of perseverance! For more info on how writers succeed, click on Writers Dreaming. And, read on for seven traits of successful professional writers…

7 Traits of Successful Professional Writers

1. Can set & stick to a schedule

Since many professional writers can’t be observed or managed (especially if they’re working from home), they need to be comfortable with setting – and sticking to – their work schedule. Successful writers have to meet their own self-imposed deadlines and writing goals, or they won’t earn a living as a freelancer or published novelist. Successful writers push themselves to be productive.

2. Do not need constant interaction

Freelance writers need to be happy (or at least content) without someone working next to them in the adjoining cubicle or meeting up with colleagues by the water cooler. Successful writers may be a little more introverted than most people; that is, they may get their energy from working alone.

3. Enjoy working independently

Successful writers can tackle tough writing assignments – or break into tight writing markets – without supervision from “the man.” Freelancers must be able to motivate themselves to achieve their writing goals, and ignore the distractions of surfing the internet, cleaning the house, watching tv “for research purposes” or blogging (that’s my main distraction!).

4. Demonstrate initiative

Professional writers don’t have the luxury of waiting to be told what needs to be done next. Freelancers have to generate ideas, tackle writing assignments, find experts to interview, and continue to generate their own business. To earn a living as a freelance writer, he/she must always be open to new markets or clients.

5. Can handle administrative tasks

Successful writers have to track queries and book proposals, follow up with editors, send professional invoices, keep track of their checks received and expenditures, and save all their receipts and write-offs. Professional writers may also do their own taxes, maintain lists of experts, and be adept at handling scanning/photocopying/software equipment.

6. Maintain a professional image

Freelance writers must submit their assignments on time, follow up when they say they’re going to, and treat editors, experts, readers, and fellow writers with respect. Writers may have once had the image of being disorganized or disheveled – the creative spirit at work! – but not anymore. Now, successful writers are businesspeople and entrepreneurs.

7. Do not procrastinate

Waiting until the night before may have got you through college, but it won’t get you far in the freelancing business. Production is the name of the game. Successful writers don’t need reminders, prompts to find great sources, or reminders to send in invoices. Successful writers know what their job is – even if it’s not a paid writing assignment, even if it’s “just” to send out four queries today – and they take care of their business today.

What traits do you need to work on, fellow scribes? Me, I need to work on building my relationships with editors. I’m not “schmoozy” enough – I need to find ways to stay in regular contact with them!