Sometimes my spam folder reveals some interesting nuggets. I discovered one sent to this blog and spam-binned by the software that is on the face of it, genuine.
The correspondent (who shall remain nameless to protect the guilty) was asking for me to contribute to an upcoming article on her client’s website. The client being a car dealer in South London. I presume the plan is for the article to be a blog post on their website. The discussion is to be about the recent legislation outlawing lane hogging on motorways. Anyway, I was being approached as a professional – presumably because I am a qualified motorcycle instructor and erstwhile driving instructor. Would I please submit 100 words towards this article? If accepted, I’ll get a back link from the article.
Well, excuse me…
On the occasions that I write professionally – and this is what I was being asked to do – I charge the going rate. Somewhere in the region of £100 would apply in this instance. To expect me to help shill your client’s website for free is taking the piss. Throwing me the offer of a link is adding insult to injury. I don’t need your link – I couldn’t care less who links here or how many people do. It is of no consequence to me or anyone else. But what really struck me is that I am being solicited to write and then, having made the effort and put in my time for free, if the piece is accepted I’ll get a link back. Wow!
I think I’ll be passing on that wonderful offer.