How to be a greetings card writer

In The Independent, Emma Jayne Jones looks at how to get work as a greetings card writer.

The market is mainly served by a lot of smaller publishers - over 800. Source the ones who are looking for freelance writers. Visiting trade fairs is a good way to do this, or subscribe to the industry magazine Progressive Greetings.

Most publishers buy work outright and you will be expected to sign over copyright, losing ownership of the piece.

The amount and style of payment varies with agreements being per line, per verse or for a group of ideas. Verses are usually paid from 50p a line to £25 a verse, whereas punch lines need special skill and can earn up to £150 per idea.