• What is TAF?

      TAF is the Triangle Association of Freelancers, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group of professional freelance writers primarily based in the Triangle region of North Carolina. With more than 100 active members, our mission is to network and provide advice, encouragement and information to independent area writers. We also mentor those new to the profession.
    • What kinds of writing are TAF members involved in?

      The majority of our members generate nonfiction magazine articles and author books. Many also compose fiction, personal essays, newspaper columns and more.
    • How do TAF members communicate?

      Members correspond through the private members-only section of this site, as well as having the opportunity to attend monthly meetings, an annual spring conference, and a variety of member-hosted events throughout the year.
    • What are TAF's membership fees?

      Annual dues are just $25. Membership affords you the opportunity to build a professional profile on our Find A Freelancer page, access to resources on the members-only section of our site, and a substantial discount to Write Now!, our annual spring conference. Learn more by visiting our Member Benefits tab, or join today.
    • When and where does TAF meet?

      We currently meet on the last Wednesday of every month (except November & December).
      **WE ARE MEETING VIRTUALLY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.**
      We open Zoom at 7:00, and the formal portion of the meeting begins promptly at 7:15 p.m. All TAF meetings are open to both professional and beginning freelance writers. There is no charge to attend.
    • Does TAF offer conference discounts?

      We work hard to keep our event affordable in order to accommodate as many writers as possible. To that end, we strive to provide attendees with an excellent value as well as an outstanding panel of presenters each year. TAF members receive a significant discount on conference registration.

    • I’m interested in having a professional writer talk to my group/organization. Can TAF help?

      Many TAF members are available for speaking engagements, and offer lectures on a variety of topics. For further information, please reach out to members individually.
    • Does TAF host guest speakers? Can I be a speaker?

      Several prominent area writers and other industry professionals have presented at TAF meetings. We are always interested in hearing from individuals who have a unique perspective on writing and publishing. If you'd like to be considered as a future speaker, please reach out to any member of our Board of Directors.
    • Is TAF affiliated with the North Carolina Writers Network (NCWN)?

      No, however the two organizations have a cordial working relationship, and often promote each other’s events and activities.
    • I’ve always wanted to be a writer. Where should I start?

      Novices are encouraged to write as much as possible, and to read industry publications such as Writer’s Digest Magazine; The Writer; and the most current edition of Writer’s Market, an annual publication listing thousands of freelance markets and helpful advice for beginners including a categorized breakdown of what to charge. In addition, TAF founder Don Vaughan offers an occasional course on Freelance Writing for Beginners. Programs of study in creative nonfiction and other forms of writing are often available through area colleges, local chapters of national organizations, area arts organizations, and regional conferences and workshops.
    • Would TAF be willing to edit/critique my work?

      Sorry, no. While we strive to provide encouragement to writers at all stages, our members are simply too busy with their own assignments to offer critiques. Our focus is on issues related to freelancing and running a business -- from query writing and fees to markets, online research, and the writer-editor relationship. Individuals who are serious about pursuing a writing career are encouraged to attend TAF’s monthly meetings as well as our annual conference for professional insight, information and guidance. Some individual members offer services (for a fee) that include manuscript evaluation and copy editing. Use the Find A Freelancer tab to locate these members.