Copywriting in Boise? (Fruitland: 2009, rent, income)

[gcflyfish]

A few of you may know me from my few posts on CD, but for those who don't: I'm the ex-fly fishing guide/writer who moved to Boise at the beginning of 2009. Fate was not on my side unfortunately, and some personal setbacks and family health issues have forced me to retreat to Chicago for regrouping.

Anyway, I have found work as a copywriter, and although the pay is low, I can write keyword content expediently so there is a chance to earn a steady income through hard, thank-less work. Producing copy fast is the only way to make money at this professional venue, and the chance to use my speed-writing skills will provide a quick path back to Boise. I need to be in the city I cherish. Chicago has always been depressing to me.

I was wondering who I would talk to about copywriter positions, standing or freelance, in the Treasure Valley. My primary field of knowledge would be characterized as: sports, travel/tourism, fishing, outdoor recreation, internet, search engine content, but I can write effectively about most topics with some research - unless it's something like car repair or microbiology. It would be nice to hear some ideas as I am basically starting a copy/content business that I will base in Boise and I need all the help I can get establishing a local network.

I'm interested to hear what you guys think, and I can't wait to be back in time for spring's emergence. It could possibly be even sooner as it should not be too lofty a goal to want to live in Boise. The price is right and as a freelancer, I will not be dependent on a shriveling economy for all my income. I do feel terrible for my friends in Idaho who are struggling without much acknowledgment from the national media and general population. But I know the great people of southwest Idaho are innovative, clever, and resourceful. These attributes alone will be critical to Boise's and Idaho's future.

See you all soon,

gcflyfish

[bf4587]

gcflyfish, I had previous experience as an editorial assistant for a major auto publication in Portland, OR, before moving to Boise in May, 2008. I was fortunate enough to pick up a consistent gig as a freelance marketing writing for a local publishing company in July, 08, but since then, nothing. Writing positions of any kind in the Treasure Valley are few and far between and competition is brutal. I’m very much under the impression that this is a place where knowing the right people overrides ability. Of course a lot of this can be simply attributed to the poor economy. Boise is awesome place to live, but finding any sort of livable wage job is very difficult. I think your best bet is to find freelance jobs from around the country rather than relying on something in Boise. I’ve had a bit of success networking outside of the state. I hope this helps.Regards,B.F..

[gcflyfish]

Hi B.F.

I appreciate your candid advice, and I completely see how finding writing gigs in Boise is an "inside-proposition" - epecially when considering the low-grade copy I see put forth by the Statesmen and others. Finding a livable-wage job in Boise is almost impossible, especially without contacts. There are no "help wanted" signs to be seen, and even finding work in normally open fields like fast-food is becoming increasingly difficult, so I hear. This is why I will be working on a national level for quite awhile, and once I gain experience I will then investigate local options for marketing myself and my business.

The online copy writing is going well as I am able to average $7-$12/hour. Sure it's peanuts for a professional writer, but it's steady work that will lead to higher rates. Basically, I treat this work like the work it is, and at least I can sleep at night knowing I have a reasonable and working plan that will put me back in Boise by spring at the latest. If the poor job situation persists, it will just mean a lower rent for myself, but I truly do want to see the area thrive once again for the good of everyone.

Thank-you again for your comments, and I am always on the lookout for clients from Australia to Fruitland. It really doesn't matter where they are located as long as they know how to pay a man.

gcflyfish