Get Paid for Writing – Become a Freelance Writer
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- Freelance writing - An Introduction
- What is freelance writing?
- Types of freelance writing gigs
- How do I get started as a freelance writer?
- The Benefits of Being a Freelance Writer
- How much money can you make as a remote writer?
- Tips for freelance writers to find clients for writing services
- What tools and resources do you need to start a freelance writing business?
- 7 ways to earn money writing online
- 15 Best sites to find online writing jobs
- Commonly asked questions about freelance writing
- Wrapping up
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About the Author
Are you looking for a way to make money from home? Do you have a passion for writing? If so, freelance writing may be the perfect business for you. This guide will teach you how to start your own freelance writing business, including how to find clients and set your rates. So, if you’re ready to start making some extra cash, keep reading!
Freelance writing – An Introduction
When you think of a writer, what comes to mind? Someone who spends their days hunched over a keyboard in a dimly lit coffee shop, sipping on overpriced lattes and banging out article after article? Or maybe you think of a novelist, holed up in their home office for hours on end, churning out page after page of the next great American novel.
While those images aren’t far from the truth for some writers, there’s a whole group of professional wordsmiths out there who don’t fit that stereotype: freelance writers. Freelance writing is a field that is open to anyone with a knack for writing and a desire to work independently.
What is freelance writing?
There are many advantages to being a freelance writer. For starters, you get to be your boss and set your hours. You also get to choose which projects you want to work on and which clients you want to work with. And since you’re not tied down to one employer, you have the flexibility to take on as much or as little work as you want.
Types of freelance writing gigs
There are many different types of freelance writing gigs available for those looking to get started in the field. Here are just a few examples:
Article writing:
Perhaps the most common type of freelance writing job, article writers create content for magazines, newspapers, websites, and more.
Web content writing:
Freelance web content writers produce the content that appears on websites. This can include anything from blog posts and product descriptions to website landing pages and e-commerce content.
Copywriting:
A freelance copywriter creates persuasive marketing materials like sales letters, email campaigns, and ad copy.
Editing and proofreading:
As a freelance editor or proofreader, you would review and revise written materials for spelling, grammar, and clarity errors.
Ghostwriting:
Ghostwriters are hired to write articles, books, or other materials that will be published under another person’s name.
Technical writing:
Technical writers create user manuals, how-to guides, white papers, and other complex documents that require specific subject matter expertise. You might also consider becoming a freelance grant writer or legal writer.
How do I get started as a freelance writer?
If you have a knack for writing and are looking for a way to make some extra money, then freelancing might be the perfect fit for you. As a remote writer, you can work from anywhere in the world and on your schedule. Plus, there is a wide range of writing opportunities available, from copywriting to content marketing to SEO writing. If you’re interested in getting started as a remote writer but not sure where to begin, here are 5 steps you can take:
1. Choose your niche
What type of writing do you want to do? What subjects interest you? When you narrow your focus to a specific niche, it will be easier to market yourself as an expert in that area and find clients who need your services.
The first step to becoming a remote writer is deciding what type of writing you want to do. There are many different niches within the writing industry, so it is important to choose one that you are passionate about and have some experience with. For example, if you love to travel, you could write about your experiences in travel magazines or blogs.
Or, if you have a background in marketing, you could specialize in copywriting or SEO writing. Once you have decided on your niche, research the types of clients that are looking for writers in that area.
2. Build your portfolio
The next step is to start building your portfolio. This is where you will showcase your best work and demonstrate your writing ability to potential clients. When choosing pieces for your portfolio, be sure to select ones that are relevant to the type of writing you want to do as a freelancer.
For example, if you want to write web content, including some blog posts or articles that you have written for other websites would be beneficial. If you have no previous writing experience, don’t worry – just start by writing some samples in the style and tone that you think would be appropriate for your desired clients.
A strong portfolio is essential for any freelancer looking for work. Start by creating some sample pieces in your chosen niche so that potential clients can see what you can do. Once you land your first few clients, be sure to ask if they would be willing to provide a testimonial or case study that you can use in your portfolio as well.
3. Find clients’
Once you have decided on your niche and built up your portfolio, it’s time to start finding clients. The best way to find clients as a new remote writer is by networking and building relationships with people in your industry. Attend industry events, connect with other writers on social media, or join relevant online communities and forums.
You can also create a website or blog to showcase your work and attract organic traffic from potential clients who are searching for writers online. Finally, don’t forget to reach out directly to companies or businesses that you would like to work with and pitch them ideas for articles or blog posts.
4. Negotiate rates and contracts
Once you start landing clients, it’s important to negotiate rates and contracts before beginning any work. This will help ensure that both parties are on the same page from the start and will help avoid any misunderstandings further down the road.
When negotiating rates, be sure to take into account the time it will take you to complete the project as well as any research or editing costs that may be involved. It’s also important to get the details of the project in writing before starting any work, including deadlines, deliverables, and payment terms.
5. Get started
Once you have negotiated rates and contracts with your clients, it’s time to get started! Be sure to stay organized by keeping track of deadlines and deliverables for each client in a central location.
If possible, try to batch similar projects together so that you can make efficient use of your time (for example, if you have two clients who need blog posts written, try writing all of the blog posts for one client first before moving on to the other).
One of the benefits of freelancing is setting your hours—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat it like a real job. Create a schedule for yourself and make sure you stick to it so that deadlines are met and clients are happy.
The Benefits of Being a Freelance Writer
Are you thinking about becoming a freelance writer? Perhaps you’ve been laid off from your job and are looking for a way to make some extra money. Or maybe you’re a stay-at-home mom who is looking for a way to work from home. Whatever your reasons for considering freelance writing, there are many benefits to this type of work. Here are just a few of the advantages of being a remote writer:
1. You can be your boss.
One of the best things about being a freelance writer is that you are your boss. You can set your hours and work as little or as much as you want. Of course, this also means that you are responsible for finding your clients and projects, but it also means that you have the freedom to work when and where you want.
2. You can work from anywhere.
Another great benefit of being a freelance writer is that you can work from anywhere in the world. As long as you have an internet connection, you can work from home, at the local coffee shop, or even on vacation. This flexibility is perfect for people who prefer to avoid a traditional office setting or who want to travel while they work.
3. You can choose your projects.
When you’re a remote writer, you get to choose which projects you want to work on. This means that you can pick and choose which topics interest you and write about things that are meaningful to you. Of course, sometimes you may have to write about topics that aren’t particularly interesting, but for the most part, you get to choose what you write about.
4. You can set your hours.
As a freelancer, you get to decide when and how much you work. Of course, this means that you’ll need to be disciplined enough to meet deadlines and put in the hours necessary to succeed. But it also means that you can take a break whenever you need one or take on extra assignments when they’re available. The choice is yours!
5. You can charge what you’re worth.
As a freelancer, you get to set your rates. And since you’re not tied down to one client or one company, if someone tries to lowball you, you can simply walk away and find another client who values your services.
6. You can learn new skills.
Working as a freelancer allows you to learn new skills and build upon existing ones. For example, if a client asks for content that falls outside of your area of expertise, research and writing about the topic will help expand your skill set—and make you more marketable to future clients!
7. You can choose your clients.
When you’re a freelancer, you get to choose who you work with. This means that you can hand-pick clients whose projects interest you and whose values align with your own. No more working with people who don’t appreciate your talent!
How much money can you make as a remote writer?
This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on so many factors, including:
– The type of writing you do (e.g., copywriting, SEO writing, ghostwriting, etc.)
– Your level of experience
– Who your clients are (e.g., small businesses or large corporations)
– How much time you’re willing to spend writing each week
Assuming you’re a reasonably experienced writer and you’re able to land clients who are willing to pay a fair rate, you could easily make $500 or more per week as a remote writer. Of course, if you want to earn even more money, you can always work more hours or take on more challenging writing projects.
So, if you’re interested in earning a great living as a remote writer, there’s potential to do so. Just remember that it will take some time and effort to build up your clientele and your reputation in the industry. But once you’ve established yourself, the sky is the limit!
Tips for freelance writers to find clients for writing services
1. Start with your existing network.
The people you already know are a great place to start when looking for clients. Talk to your friends, family, and acquaintances about your writing business and see if they know anyone who might be interested in your services. You may be surprised at how many people are willing to give you a chance if you just ask.
2. Get involved in online communities.
There are countless online communities dedicated to remote writers and other creative professionals. These can be great resources for finding potential clients and networking with other writers. Try joining some of these communities and participating in the discussions to get started.
3. Use social media to your advantage.
Social media is a powerful tool that can help you reach a larger audience with your writing business. Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to promote your services and reach out to potential clients. Just make sure not to spam people with too much self-promotion!
4. Attend events and workshops.
Events and workshops related to writing and freelancing can be great places to meet potential clients. Attend some of these events and introduce yourself to people as professional writers – you never know who you might meet or what opportunities might come from it.
5. Don’t be afraid to cold pitch.
If you’ve exhausted all of the other options, don’t be afraid to reach out to potential clients directly with a cold pitch. This can be daunting, but it’s often worth it if you land even just one client from it. Make sure your pitch is well-written and tailored specifically to the client, and you’ll increase your chances of success.
What tools and resources do you need to start a freelance writing business?
To freelance successfully, you need more than just a knack for writing; you also need business acumen and some very specific tools and resources. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
A laptop or PC:
Diving into freelance writing can be an exciting venture, but it’s important to have the right tools for success. While having a good grasp of grammar and style is essential, a reliable laptop or PC is also crucial for creating professional-looking documents and staying organized. Modern devices have sophisticated word processing software that allows writers to track changes, easily collaborate with clients, and create eye-catching formatting.
In addition, investing in a high-quality computer ensures that it will function smoothly for years to come, minimizing distractions and ensuring deadlines are met. So if you’re ready to start your freelance writing business, don’t forget to select a dependable laptop or PC that meets all your needs.
A portfolio of your work:
As a remote writer, you’ll need to be able to show prospective clients samples of your work. Put together a portfolio of your best writing samples and be sure to keep it updated with your latest and greatest work.
A website:
In today’s business world, a strong online presence is key. Having a website that showcases your work, highlights your skills, and tells potential clients a little bit about you can go a long way in helping you land gigs. If you’re not sure how to get started, check out this guide to building a freelance writer website.
A strong social media presence:
Social media can be a great way to connect with potential clients and promote your work. Be sure to build up a strong presence on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
A professional email address:
When you’re sending out pitches and trying to land clients, you’ll want to make sure you have a professional-looking email address. Something like yourname@freelancewriter.com will do nicely.
A contract template:
Once you start landing clients, you’ll need to have a contract in place that outlines the scope of work, timeline, and payment terms. This will help protect both you and your client and ensure that everyone is on the same page from the start.
While not all of these tools and resources are essential, they can certainly help you be more successful in your online writing business. By having a strong portfolio, website, and social media presence, you’ll be in a much better position to attract clients and land writing gigs. And by using contracts, invoices, and a good bookkeeping system, you’ll be able to run your business more efficiently and effectively.
7 ways to earn money writing online
If you’re looking to get paid to write online, one of the best ways is to find your writing niche and focus on it. Whether it’s parenting, cooking, personal finance, or a specific hobby, identify your area of expertise and offer your services as a remote writer in that field. Networking with others in your niche can also help find writing opportunities that pay well. In addition, consider creating a portfolio website or blog where you can showcase your writing skills and potentially attract potential clients. Below are some ways for making money online by writing:
1. Write articles for businesses:
As a professional writer, the internet opens up numerous opportunities to make money writing articles for websites and online publications. Many businesses hire freelance writers to create high-quality content for their websites or feature articles for their company newsletters. Being paid to write articles, whether it’s on a one-time or ongoing basis, can be a rewarding way to use your writing skills and make extra income from the comfort of your own home.
Of course, as with any writing job, it’s important to do your research before committing to a project and always accurately represent your writing experience and qualifications. But with some dedication and effort, writing articles online can provide a steady stream of income as a professional writer.
2. Write blog posts:
As a remote writer, you can offer your services to busy bloggers who might not have the time or resources to continually come up with new content. You can get in touch with potential clients through freelance websites like Upwork or Fiverr, setting your rates and pitching your ideas to them. Not only will you get to do what you love and get paid to write a blog post, but you’ll also get the opportunity to connect with other bloggers and expand your network.
Not everyone has the time or skills to consistently create engaging content, so they turn to professional writers like yourself. It may take some time to get established and build a client base, but once you do, the opportunities are endless. You can also branch out into writing for small businesses and companies in need of website content or promotional materials.
So why not get paid to write something you love? Start offering your services as a freelance blog writer today.
3. Start your blog
Are you a writer who loves to share your thoughts and experiences with the world? A blog may be the perfect outlet for you. Not only does writing a blog post provide a way to express yourself creatively, but it can also earn you money. To get started, think about what particular niche or subject you would like to focus on in your blog. It could be your personal stories, a hobby or passion, or even advice on a certain topic.
Once you have determined your blog’s focus, consider ways to monetize it. You could sell ad space on your blog or join a network that pays writers for their content. By starting your own blog, you can turn your love of writing into a profitable side hustle. So what are you waiting for? Start writing your unique perspectives on the world.
4. Write content for social media sites
Are you a talented writer with a knack for social media? Why not consider getting paid to write for social media accounts? Many companies are constantly looking for content creators to manage and update their social media presence. As a remote writer, you can work from the comfort of your own home and help promote a brand’s message through engaging content.
Content marketing through social media has become increasingly important in today’s digital age, and companies are willing to invest in talented writers to help boost their online presence. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to make money while utilizing your writing skills on social media platforms.
5. Write for magazines:
Working as a remote writer, one of the various ways to make money is by writing for magazines. Whether it be print magazine or online, there are many opportunities for online writers to contribute content and get paid in return. One option is to pitch articles to the well-known, bi-monthly magazine that pays for submissions. However, there are also lesser-known publications and even online magazines that regularly hire freelance writers, providing another avenue for earning an income. So as a remote writer, don’t forget to consider writing for magazines as a way to make money and enhance your skill set.
6. Start guest blogging:
Many writers are looking for new ways to monetize their skills, and one option is guest blogging. By writing guest posts for other websites or blogs, not only do you gain exposure and credibility, but you also have the opportunity to get paid for your work. When approaching a potential site for a guest post, make sure to research its submission guidelines and consider pitching specific article ideas. This can greatly increase your chances of being accepted as a guest blogger.
7. Start writing personal essays
Are you a skilled writer looking to get paid for your work? Consider submitting personal essays to magazines and online publications. These types of pieces can be particularly lucrative as they provide a unique, personal perspective on a certain topic or theme. Additionally, many publications are constantly on the lookout for new and fresh voices in their editorials and columns.
If you have an in-depth feature story or opinion piece, countless magazines and websites accept submissions. And don’t forget about niche markets – special interest publications and newsletters may offer higher pay for unique content. So start honing your skills and seeking out opportunities to get paid for your writing today!
15 Best sites to find online writing jobs
Never fear! We’ve compiled a list of 15 great sites to help you find online writing jobs that are both interesting and high-paying. So put on your favorite pair of reading glasses and get ready to start applying!
1. Upwork
If you’re looking for a wide variety of writing gigs, then Upwork is a great option. This website connects freelancers with businesses and individuals who need their services. You can create a profile and bid on projects that interest you. Once you’ve landed a gig, you can communicate with your client directly through the Upwork platform.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is another great option for remote writers. This website is similar to Upwork in that it connects freelancers with clients who need their services. However, on Fiverr, all gigs start at $5. From there, you can upsell your services with additional add-ons. This makes Fiverr a great option if you’re just starting as a remote writer and don’t have a lot of experience under your belt.
3. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a great site for finding flexible, telecommuting jobs in a wide variety of industries, including writing. You can search for writing jobs by keyword or category, and there’s even a handy “Remote OK” filter that will show you only writing jobs that can be done remotely.
4. Indeed
Indeed is one of the most popular job search engines out there, and for good reason. You can search for writing jobs by keyword and location, and the site will also provide you with a list of related keywords that you can use to broaden or narrow your search.
5. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a great place to look for online writing jobs because it’s such a widely used platform among employers and employees in all different industries. To find writing jobs on LinkedIn, just do a keyword search for “writer” or “writing” and see what comes up!
6. Craigslist
Craigslist isn’t just for finding apartments or selling old furniture—you can also use it to find online writing jobs! Just do a search for “writer” or “writing” in the “Jobs” section of the site, and you’ll be sure to find some leads.
7. Freelancer
Freelancer is another great option for finding writing gigs online. This website works similarly to Upwork, in that freelancers can create profiles and bid on projects that interest them. Once you’ve landed a gig, you can communicate with your client directly through the Freelancer platform.
8. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is another website where freelancers can find writing gigs online. This website works similarly to Upwork and Freelancer, in that freelancers can create profiles and bid on projects that interest them. Once you’ve landed a gig, you can communicate with your client directly through the PeoplePerHour platform.
9. Problogger
Problogger is a great resource for bloggers of all levels of experience, but it’s also a great place to find online writing jobs. Just head over to the “Jobs” section and start browsing through the listings!
10. JournalismJobs
If you’re looking specifically for journalism jobs, JournalismJobs is the site for you. You can search for openings by keyword or location, and there’s even an advanced search option that lets you specify things like job type (full-time, part-time, etc.), salary range, and more.
11. BloggingPro
BloggingPro is another great resource for bloggers that also offers a handy job board feature. Just click on the “Jobs” tab at the top of the page to browse through current openings!
12. Contently
Contently is a site that connects freelancers with businesses that need content created—which means it’s a great place to find online writing jobs! Just create a profile and start applying to gigs that interest you.
13. FreelanceWritingGigs
FreelanceWritingGigs is exactly what it sounds like: a site that helps freelancers find writing gigs! You can browse through current openings or submit your listing if you’re looking for something specific.
14. MediaBistro
MediaBistro is another fantastic resource for writers looking for online gigs. The site has both full-time and part-time job listings in a variety of industries, including advertising, marketing, publishing, and more!
15. Guru
If you’re a remote writer looking for new opportunities, Guru.com is the place for you. Their platform offers a wide range of writing jobs in various industries, from medical and legal writing to blog content and copywriting. The site also allows you to easily create a profile showcasing your skills and experience, making it easy for clients to find and hire you. Plus, their user-friendly interface makes applying for jobs and managing projects a breeze.
Commonly asked questions about freelance writing
1. What are some good freelance writing resources?
There are many great online writing resources available, including websites, blogs, and forums. A quick search on your favorite search engine should reveal plenty of options.
2. How can I improve my online writing skills?
honing your skills. Practice makes perfect, so the more you write, the better you’ll become. In addition, reading other writers’ work can give you some great ideas and help you see what techniques work well.
3. What are some common mistakes made in online writing?
One of the most common mistakes is not proofreading your work before hitting “publish.” Always take the time to read over your piece before making it public, and fix any errors you find. Additionally, watch out for common grammar and spelling mistakes, as well as typos.
4. What style should I use for my online writing?
The style of your writing will depend on the audience you’re writing for and the purpose of your piece. In general, however, clarity and conciseness are key. Keep your language simple and easy to understand, and avoid using jargon or complex sentence structures.
5. How should I format my online writing?
Again, this will depend on the audience and purpose of your writing. In general, though, it’s important to use short paragraphs and break up your text with subheadings. This makes it easier for readers to scan and find the information they’re looking for.
6. What tone should I use in my online writing?
The tone of your writing will also depend on your audience and purpose. In general, though, it’s important to maintain a professional and courteous tone. Avoid sounding too casual or informal, as this can turn readers off.
7. How long should my online writing be?
There’s no hard-and-fast rule for how long your writing should be. In general, though, shorter pieces are better suited for the web. Keep your writing concise and to the point, and avoid rambling on unnecessarily.
Wrapping Up
Freelance writing is a great way to make money from home. You can work as much or as little as you want, and there are many different types of freelance writing gigs available. If you’re not sure how to get started, we have some tips and resources for you. Be sure to check out our other blogs for more information on making money online.
