RWJ’s Next Chapter: Paying Writers and Elevating Voices
From the desk of editor-in-chief Melissa Tripp:
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve expanded the Remote Writing Jobs directory to include guest writers worldwide.
Connecting writers to paid work matters, but I’ve always believed that true support requires more than sharing opportunities. It means investing in writers directly, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building credibility by paying for original work myself.
This vertical strengthens what RWJ already does. You can still use the directory to find steady opportunities across the industry, and now you can also pitch work to be featured in-house. My goal is to empower writers and publish pieces that illuminate the craft, culture, and business of writing today.
The pieces I publish explore the writing world from a point of view that is thoughtful, reflective, analytical, or a mix of all three. I look for work that leaves readers thinking differently about their work or the industry at large.
How to Pitch
Your pitch should show that you understand the voice and purpose of RWJ. Keep it focused and grounded in a clear idea. Include a working title, a short premise explaining what the piece is about, and the angle you plan to take. Your angle should reflect lived experience, observation, or authority instead of general advice.
Pitch when you have a defined direction, not a broad theme. After a few sentences, I should be able to see why your story would resonate with readers and contribute meaningfully to how we think about writing and the lives of writers. Send only ideas that fit this focus. I’m looking for work with voice and perspective, not beginner tips or generic guidance.
If you think your voice would be a great fit for this publication, you can pitch me at rwjsubstack@gmail.com.
Be mindful of your subject line. Something specific and engaging will catch my attention more than a generic title like “RWJ Pitch.”
Word Count
Most accepted pieces fall between 500 and 1,200 words. Shorter or longer pieces may be approved if the idea warrants it. The goal is depth with intention, not hitting a strict word count.
Payment
I pay $0.50/word for all accepted work. I’m proud to offer this rate because it recognizes the thought, care, and effort that go into each piece. This rate is structured to be sustainable for both contributors and the publication, and paying writers fairly is non-negotiable.
How This Work Is Funded
This publication is funded entirely by paid subscriptions to Remote Writing Jobs. Your support makes it possible to commission new work and pay writers a respectable rate.
If you believe in the work I’m doing and would like to support this one-woman outlet, consider becoming a paid subscriber to RWJ for $15/month or $60/year. You can also go further by becoming a Founding Writer Ally with a $120+ annual contribution. Allies help accelerate the mission and play a crucial role in sustaining the writers whose stories power this community.
When to Expect a Response
I review pitches on an ongoing basis. You can generally expect to hear back within 2-3 weeks. If your pitch is accepted, you’ll receive a confirmed word range and rate before drafting.
Not every pitch will receive detailed feedback, and not hearing back right away doesn’t reflect the strength of your writing. I prioritize ideas that align most closely with the spirit of this publication.
If you haven’t heard back after three weeks, feel free to follow up.
Publishing Pace
RWJ’s priority is connecting writers to vetted, well-paying opportunities. This publication complements that mission without pulling focus. I commission and publish pieces selectively so the directory remains central to the platform.
Rights and Attribution
Writers retain full ownership of their work. I don’t ask for exclusivity but all pieces must be originally written for RWJ and cannot have been previously published. Once published, you’re free to share or republish your work wherever you like. Every piece includes your byline and a link to your tip jar so readers can support you directly.
Why This Matters
RWJ began as a directory to help writers find work. Expanding it to include guest writers lets me invest directly in the people who keep this industry alive. Paying writers myself is part of how I hold this commitment. This publication creates space for insight, reflection, and perspective that too often goes unpaid or overlooked.
By commissioning original work, RWJ supports writers in a tangible way and models a more honest, sustainable approach to creative labor. Writers deserve more than job leads. They deserve to be recognized, compensated, and heard. Anyone who believes in fair pay can find ways to make it real. This is mine.
(Editorial Note: As a responsible, independent outlet, I’m committed to serving the writing community with integrity and transparency. That means being honest about my challenges. Bringing this initiative to life hasn’t been easy. I’ve fallen short of funding goals before, which kept me from officially launching a project like this or paying the writers I wanted to feature. It was discouraging, and at times, walking away felt like the only option. But this mission matters too much to give up. I’m back, determined to make RWJ a thriving, sustainable paying market. With your support, I can finally make this vision a reality.)