Dear #WritingCommunity, I've heard a few too many tales of woe from other #writers lately, so I thought maybe I'd write a thread.

I may not be famous, but I've been selling books and articles since 2005. I do some editing too.

Too many of you are selling yourselves short.

When you submit a piece, immediately upon acceptance ask about what you will be paid, when, & if they want to be invoiced or payroll needs you to send them a W-9/ other paperwork. Then put it on your calendar of choice to invoice them the moment you turn work in or on a set date.

Don't send in items that have been published elsewhere without telling people you are offering a reprint or the article is based on a blog or whatever. Don't send in items specifically mentioned as no-nos on the publication's website or which show you don't know what they print.

If you don't get paid within the timeframe specified and you followed directions about payments, nudge. Don't feel embarrassed to nudge. They're obligated to pay you and on time.

Side note: If you've worked for a venue before, don't be afraid to ask for a bit more money, either.

Speaking of money: #writers for periodicals should keep in mind what different venues pay. If you can submit a piece to 3 outlets which are a good match for your piece, send it to the highest paying one whenever all else is equal. Go down the list if you get rejected by your #1.

Remember what I said about making sure that you invoice? The first thing you should do if you didn't get paid is to check that you sent the invoice. Before you scream at them about non-payment. Probably 25% of the times I didn't get paid on time, I forgot to invoice.

Always be polite, but be FIRM if the publisher or editor are infringing on your rights. Unless you have a contract stating otherwise or they told you up front, they do not own your work--it's assumed they have first publication rights only.

If you are nervous about #editing: Send material in early. Ask directly, "Can I please see the edited text before it goes to print?" As you develop a relationship w/editors, you can ask them, "If you'd like a change, can you let me know what you want & let me do it?"

Also, don't assume that because X person printed in a magazine, they pay well. And don't assume you'll be offered the same pay they received. Remember what I said about asking about remuneration up front? ;)