If you make just one resolution for 2012, resolve to value yourself and to not allow anyone to undervalue what you have to offer. 

There are many people and companies out there who offer downright, flat out insulting rates and think there is nothing wrong with them. I’m talking about wanting 500 word articles for $1.50 each, or offering you editing work for 30 cents a page (yes, these are real rates offered by real companies).  Talented writers are worth much much more than that. Why do companies and individuals think otherwise? Part of the problem is the glut of writers from India and other foreign countries who think they can write great English articles, and offer to do so for rates that in their countries are perfectly reasonable because the cost of living is so low there. Problem is the vast majority of them can’t write decent English at all (they do say English is the hardest language to learn) and produce really crappy articles. Clients then think that all writers would be happy with the same pitiful rates. Not true.

The other part of the problem is the good writers that accept said pitiful rates. Why do they do this? The excuses vary from being desperate to break in to being desperate for money. When they accept work for pennies, they undercut all use freelance writers. As long as clients can get decent writing for pennies, that’s all they’ll offer. Stand proud and refuse to accept less than what you’re worth!