Making money writing is a challenge; earning a living as a full time writer is tough; bringing in a great, regular salary as a full time writer can sometimes seem a nigh on impossible feat.

One way that many, if not most writers boost their income is to offer complimentary services.  Adding a second (and third, and fourth) way to earn money can be the key to having a steady stream of work, being considered a valuable resource and building a strong portfolio.  There are many options for adding extra services to your writing from web design, to newsletters, SEO services to speaking at conferences. 

Each writer will have their own set of strengths and skills which they can use to leverage extra income.

Regardless of the type of extras or upgrades you offer,  here are my top three commandments to take into consideration when adding a second income stream to your portfolio of services:

1. Know Thy Clients
   What do they want and need?  Can you give it to them?  Think about who you have worked with over the past few months, and what other needs they have that you might be able to fill.  Once you have some ideas, contact a few with proposals to test the water.  Based on their reaction you can put together some packages and service products to offer in general.  I have seen writers offer everything from e-books to online coaching, but at the end of the day it comes down to what you can do as well as the types of people that you work with.
2. Know Thy stuff
   Don't just charge blindly into a new area.  Treat your second income with the same integrity and pride as you would your writing.  If, for example you want to start offering promotional blog tours to your clients then take the time to thoroughly research the niche.  Read up online,  take e-courses,  buy books and work through tutorials.  Don't take it for granted that your existing knowledge is enough for you to demand being paid.  Keep in mind that you should stay on top of new developments in whichever niche you choose to work in.  You will need to make a commitment to keep up to date on any area that you choose to work in.
3. Know Thy Focus
   Be clear from the outset what your primary function is. Don't get carried away by listing all of the things that you can do, therefor diluting the perceived strength of your original skill. Adding extra services can lead to your focus being split in different directions, and while it is OK to change priorities based on what you are enjoying most or what area is becoming more profitable you should always have a clear idea of your primary purpose.   Without this, your message is going to sound confusing and your website will likely become cluttered.  People are far less likely to hire 'Jack.  All trades done at a reasonable rate.'  than 'John.  I specialise in what you really need, but can also offer you some other great services.'