WorkLifeGroup is running a writing contest that’s meant to help them find contributing writers but in my opinion, they’re going about it the wrong way. “We’re aiming to identify writers all from over the globe to write for us on an ongoing basis; to join WorkLifeGroup as contributing writers (paying gigs, naturally!).” No entry fee, prize is $500. Deadline: Jan 31st, 2010.
Before you enter, however, be sure to read all the terms and conditions. Not only does the story have to be original and written specifically for the contest, but the company says they may use your writing in their site even if you don’t win:
WorkLifeGroup reserves the right to publish any and all entries submitted, but publication may not indicate the entry has won a prize.
Also, although they assure you that you retain the copyright to your writing:
The Author grants WorkLifeGroup a perpetual license to display online and use the authored content contributed by the Author.
I’m sure that WorkLifeGroup is sincere when it says that it’s looking for writers it can hire in the future but as the contest guidelines are currently written, it certainly sounds like an easy way for them to get free content. Check out #13 below:
Copyright
10. The Author retains copyright to the story created and contributed to the web site.
11. The Author grants WorkLifeGroup a perpetual license to display online and use the authored content contributed by the Author.
12. For the story judged the winner, in consideration for the prize money awarded the Author grants an exclusive perpetual license to display online and use the authored content contributed by the Author, and will not allow the story to be displayed online on any other web site.
13. The perpetual license for WorkLifeGroup to use the authored content includes possible use for product commercialisation, promotion, and education, and may include use in whole or in part, including extracts and quotations.
Some hopeful writers may be fine with these conditions but I suspect experienced freelancers will shy away. Whatever your level of experience, always remember to READ THE FINE PRINT.