Freelance writing is a great way to earn some extra money on the side. But as you may discover once you get a foothold in the industry, it’s more than possible to turn it into a full-time job and lifelong career.
There are some hurdles that you have to overcome, however, like finding work and winning contracts. But that’s where this guide can help.
Below, we take a look at some top tips and advice on finding and winning freelance writing work.
We also look at some guidance on building a freelance business. But first, let’s look at the broad range of freelance writing work currently available.
What types of freelance writing work are there?
One of the challenges you may encounter when entering the world of freelance writing is the broad scope of jobs available.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of freelance writing work:
- Content writing – This involves creating written content for websites, blogs, and social media.
- Copywriting – This involves writing persuasive text to sell products or services, such as advertising copy or product descriptions.
- Technical writing – This involves writing about technical subjects for manuals, user guides, and other instructional materials.
- Creative writing – This involves writing fiction, like fantasy or scifi, poetry, and other forms of creative expression.
- Grant writing – This involves writing proposals to secure funding for organizations.
- Resume writing – This involves creating professional resumes for job seekers.
- News writing – This involves writing articles for news websites, newspapers, and magazines.
- Academic writing – This involves writing research papers, essays, and other types of academic writing.
- Business writing – This involves writing business reports, memos, and other types of business communications.
In general, the type of freelance writing jobs you do will depend on your interests, skills, and experience. Some freelance writers specialize in one type of writing, while others work in several different areas.
How can you find freelance writing work?
The biggest challenge that many writers face when they decide to go freelance is actually finding work and winning contracts. We’ll come to winning contracts and clients soon, but first, let’s take a look at some of the best places to find freelancing writing opportunities:
- Freelance job boards – Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr are job boards where clients post writing projects and freelancers can bid on them.
- Social media – Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can be used to network with potential clients and promote your writing services.
- Your own website – Creating a website and portfolio can help you showcase your writing skills and attract potential clients.
- Content mills – Websites like Textbroker and iWriter pay writers to produce articles and other content.
- Online writing communities – Websites like Medium and ProBlogger offer a platform for writers to share their work and connect with potential clients.
- Cold pitching – This involves reaching out to companies and pitching your writing services directly.
- Referrals – Word of mouth and referrals from satisfied clients can be a great way to get new writing gigs.
It’s important to build a strong online presence and establish yourself as a credible and reliable freelance writer.
Having a well-crafted portfolio with testimonials and reviews, as well as offering competitive rates, can help attract clients.
Networking with other writers and participating in online writing communities can also help you find new writing opportunities.
How to win contracts
Winning freelance writing contracts requires a combination of showcasing your writing skills, building a strong online presence, and marketing yourself effectively to potential clients. Here are some key tips for achieving success when it comes to pitching for work:
- Build a strong portfolio – Showcase your best writing work in a professional and accessible format. Make sure your portfolio is easy to navigate and showcases your range of writing skills.
- Establish yourself as an expert in your field – Choose a niche or area of writing that you’re passionate about and have experience in, and position yourself as an expert in that field.
- Network with other writers and potential clients – Attend writing events, join online writing communities, and connect with potential clients on social media. Building relationships and a positive reputation can help you get more writing work.
- Offer competitive rates – Be aware of the market rates for your type of writing and make sure your rates are competitive. Be flexible and open to negotiating, but also be confident in the value you bring to the table.
- Be responsive and professional – When a client reaches out to you, respond promptly and professionally. Be respectful, reliable, and provide high-quality writing that meets their needs.
- Market yourself effectively – Promote your writing services through your website, social media, and other marketing channels. Be confident, clear, and concise about what you offer and why you’re the best choice for their writing needs.
Overall, to win freelance writing contracts, you need to demonstrate your writing skills, build a strong online presence, and market yourself effectively to potential clients. By following these tips and being persistent, you can successfully secure writing projects and build a successful freelance writing career.
Advice on building a freelance writing business
Building a successful freelance writing business requires a combination of strong writing skills, a good work ethic, and smart business practices. One of the best pieces of advice for achieving success as a freelance writer is to treat your writing like a business.
This means being organized, setting clear goals, and consistently seeking out new writing opportunities. It’s also important to continue to improve your writing skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.
Networking is another key component of success as a freelance writer. Building relationships with other writers, clients, and industry professionals can help you get more writing work and grow your business.
Finally, it’s essential to be professional and responsive in your interactions with clients. Provide high-quality writing that meets their needs, communicate effectively, and be reliable and dependable. By following these practices and continuously working to improve and grow your business, you can build a successful and rewarding freelance writing career.
About the author
Richie Billing writes fantasy fiction, historical fiction and stories of a darker nature. His stories often explore real-world issues in fantasy lands.
When not writing, Richie works as an editor and digital marketer and teaches creative writing both online and offline, as well as speaking at events and conventions like Fantasycon.
Most nights you can find him up into the wee hours scribbling away or watching the NBA.
Find out more at www.richiebilling.com