On Rejection
By LMReviews on Feb 7, 2009 in Multicultural Writing, Writing/Freelancing
Sometimes “No, Thank You” is the best response you’ll get all day. As a freelancer expanding my client list, I often feel compelled to submit a proposal for any writing opportunity that may enhance my talents and keep the funds rolling in. Especially in this market, my judgment may get clouded and I may just apply to any writing opportunity that will help keep the bill collectors at bay.
A few months back, I applied to a couple of gigs that I wasn’t too sure about. The requestors finally got back to me and the first opportunity was to write a non-fiction book and rewrite another. The second was a full-time work-from-home web article writing position. The first offer sounded good from the standpoint of keeping my name in the marketplace, but the terms weren’t the best an author could hope for. The requestor did put what they generally pay freelancers to do this type of work and while it was enough to make me solicit consideration a few months ago, I was now having second thoughts.
For the second opportunity, I had to submit a writing sample, which is generally customary, but I had to feel comfortable with writing sexually explicit material for the first nine months. I felt uncomfortable instantly, but wanted some elaboration. Was this content in a fun, light maybe even educational tone? Or was it strictly, a literary-cyber version of “exotic dancing”. (No offense to exotic dancers, I personally just wouldn’t be able to make that choice.) When I asked for more information, the requestor decided, my writing wouldn’t be a good fit after all. His rejection did me a favor.
Since the first requestor did consider my initial inquiry, I did submit a proposal on one of the projects they had available. I placed my bid keeping in mind the less than desirable terms they had stipulated. I received a quick answer back and it was, “Thanks but your bid is too high.”
Twelve hours later, not only had another client sent me an assignment that was a better monetary exchange for my time and expertise not to mention my conscience, I also started receiving subscribers to my new Sable Lit Reviews newsletter. So, I will definitely be a busy lady.
We get so hung up on rejection, but sometimes “No”, is the best thing that can happen to us. It’s difficult to remember, but when we realize the rejection left us available for better opportunities, you’ll see that the universe did you a favor in the form of rejection.
