She advised those considering chucking corporate jobs to make a concerted effort to get out and meet new people. According to Parker, to make it on your own, assume an extended-family approach to your work. Moderator Richard Martin of Seattle Weekly asked panelists for additional tactics for free agents. Know your worth in the marketplace before disaster strikes. One of the liveliest SXSW career-track panels this year focused on a completely different topic.
Countless freelancers are already familiar with the Web as a way of publishing independently.
Michael Nolan, a consultant who works with New Riders on Web strategy and design, outlined the publishing structure and described the editorial process. The only speaker who secured his book via a traditional literary agent, Veen believes that agents aren't as necessary today, since the Internet is becoming the agent. Zeldman cautioned hopefuls to heed the advice of developmental editors. Consider offering your services as a technical editor first. Austin Chronicle Corp. All rights reserved.