If you are looking for a career that gives you total control over your time and the opportunity to work anywhere, then consider opting for a job as a freelance writer. This career path exposes you to opportunities across different fields where there is a high demand for content writers, copywriters, and ghostwriters.
Companies, organizations, and even professionals need all the help they can get in marketing their products and services and preparing resources like e-books and case studies. Not only does the field offer a wide selection of niches to select from, but you also have the chance to build a livelihood that pays well. Experienced writers can earn hundreds of dollars for every article that gets published. If you are looking to start your freelance writing career on the right foot, here are a few tips to help you find success in this constantly growing industry.
Select a Niche
Before you get started, you need to know where your skills lie. Freelance writing is a broad field and you have many options when it comes to niches you could get into. You can become an online reporter or an SEO content writer. You can also find a job as a technical writer, copywriter, or academic writer. You can also choose the kinds of topics you want to focus on.
If you love traveling, you can start your career as a travel blogger. Do you love to write about the health and well-being of young professionals? There are websites where you can contribute articles on the subject matter. Whichever niche you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy.
Start Building a Portfolio
As a content creator, you need to stand out by showing potential clients the quality of work they will expect from you. A portfolio can do more than showcase your talent. It can also set you apart from other freelance professionals vying for a job. Consider building an attractive portfolio that includes samples of blogs, e-books, brochures, and other materials. You can also include the work you have done for previous clients.
If you haven’t had any experience writing for an organization or individual, consider volunteering in charities and other not-for-profit organizations. You can also write original content on your professional website or online portfolio. Make sure to update your portfolio by adding more recent writing samples. With a well-thought-out portfolio, you can help clients decide whether your skills and writing style match their needs.
Craft a Personal Brand
Once you have developed a professional portfolio, you should now focus on letting other people know you’re accepting work. As a freelancer, you are responsible for promoting your services to potential clients. With the amount of competition in the gig economy right now, you should create an identity that will separate you from your competitors.
This is where crafting a personal brand comes in. Using social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, create professional pages to make it easier for people to connect with you. To gain more visibility, consider publishing content about your niche or industry. This will help you build credibility and trust among potential clients.
Start Networking
Your social media presence isn’t enough to get you to work. You should also focus on reaching out to people who may need your services or who might know someone else in their networks that could benefit from your work. For this, try to join industry events where you get to meet business owners and professionals. This will help you increase your professional exposure and build a contact list of people who can be valuable to the growth of your career.
In addition to connecting on LinkedIn and other platforms, you should also seek out local organizations that share your principles or take part in causes you have joined. In Australia, you can look for media jobs and writing projects involving the preservation of aboriginal culture. Through this, you can make more connections in the not-for-profit sector and build a more impressive resume along the way.
Continue Learning
The best perk you would get from working as a freelance writer is the opportunity for continuous learning. There is a lot you can still learn in the field, so take every opportunity to enrich your skills by joining online workshops and short courses. You should also follow thought leaders in the gig economy that offer valuable advice when it comes to marketing your services, improving your writing process, and handling the business side of your practice.
A career in freelance writing isn’t for everyone, but if you are drawn to the flexibility and the earning potential it offers, you might as well start your journey right by using these tips.
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