The Hammock Blog

For example, in a typical year, we will work with around 150 freelance writers, photographers, illustrators, videographers and web developers. We also outsource a long list of administrative and technical support services ranging from managing payroll to keeping our color printers humming.

Being a customer of outsourced services has taught us a lot about being a provider of outsourced services. For the most part, these lessons have come from taking what works in one experience or relationship and applying it to the next similar challenge. I'll admit, with much regret, that some of these lessons have come from our being "bad clients."

At Hammock, we have a talented staff of writers and editors who contribute to the magazines, Web sites and other media we produce for associations, but we also rely on a network of amazing freelance writers and photographers to help us tell our clients' stories. What does it take for a freelancer to catch our eye? We asked Hammock editors to share their thoughts on the topic. Check out the Q & A below for tips on writing winning queries, impressing editors and building ongoing relationships with publications.

Why outsourcing makes sense in today's economy.