I'm staff at a small-town paper (37.5 hours/week, flexible schedule) and thinking about picking up freelance work on the side. My contract only bars competitor work, but I've got tons of story ideas that don't fit our narrow local market. Do you think my editor would be okay with me pitching these stories elsewhere, where there is more opportunity for them to be published?

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It might just be my situation, but a lot of people where I’m at do freelance work too. For a similar reason, there is just a small scope of what we do vs. what people would like to pursue as well. Take the temperature where you are at first and figure out how to proceed. Pseudonyms exist, too!

My manager has absolutely no problem with it. He recognizes that many of us are struggling right now and there isn't a lot he can do to help us, except be supportive about us taking on additional work outside of work hours. Hopefully your manager would be just as understanding.

They don't have to know about it! I think this is pretty common in the industry and you have to put yourself first.

If your contract only limits competitors, you may be okay. But honesty goes a long way. I would bring it up with your editor so it does not look sneaky later. Better to frame it as professional growth.

I would not risk freelancing behind your editor’s back. Even if the contract allows it, it could make them question your loyalty. Playing it safe might keep your main job secure longer.

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