Freelance writing is essentially writing for hire for other people's websites, magazines, newspapers or books.
This kind of writing is an obvious way to earn extra money when you’re a writer, but it is non-scalable, and you can only earn that money once.
If you do write freelance, then make sure that you balance your time between writing for others and writing for yourself. Keep focusing on building your own assets, writing your own books and building your own brand.
Here are some tips for freelance writing based on discussions with friends of mine who make decent income from it.
1. Make a plan
Freelance writing is hard work and if you end up doing the most basic jobs writing for content mills at tiny rates, you will burn out and hate writing.
So do your research about the best ways to earn decent money, learn from successful freelancers, make a plan and then target the higher paying opportunities. Only apply for the jobs that fit your ideal situation.
2. Work smarter, not harder
Writing on the more difficult and in-depth topics will earn you more money than just following the muse.
Finding a couple of bigger, regular writing clients or contracts will be easier than jumping on lots of individual pieces of work.
Listening carefully to what the client wants and then delivering to that sounds obvious, but so many writers don't do this.
3. Keep track of submissions, invoicing and payment and be clear on your terms and conditions
If you're doing work for lots of clients at the same time, it's really important to check that money has come in when it should and follow up on time if it hasn’t.
4. There are plenty of freelance writers earning excellent money, so don't undervalue your skills
Don't join a race to the bottom, underbidding people on sites like Upwork. Aim to differentiate yourself so you stand for quality and demonstrate that you're worth the money.
Of course, if you're just starting out, you may well have to do some work for free to get those first credits under your belt. Just don't let that period stretch out for too long!
5. Write on your own blog
Examples of your writing that demonstrate your expertise can attract clients to you, rather than you having to chase them down. You need a professional-looking site that includes information about you personally, your rates and skills.
6. Relationships are really important
Think of your connections as social karma, recommend jobs to others and it's likely that you will get recommendations in return.
Further resources
- 71 ways to make money as a freelance writer – fantastic guide from The Write Life on paying freelance opportunities with specific rates: www.TheCreativePenn.com/freelance
- The Write Life: Helping writers create, connect and earn
- Make a living writing – practical help for hungry writers. Run by the fantastic Carol Tice.