8 Ways to Get Started as a Freelance Writer

Freelance writing is a very common way for people to earn a living from home, working online. It allows for a high level of flexibility and control of your schedule. Additionally, writers are essential to websites, bloggers, advertisers and marketers. A high quality writer is worth their weight in gold. Once a newbie writer can prove their skills, they can quickly and easily increase their own salary in a short amount of time.

Write Blurbs and Short Articles for WordGigs

WordGigs works with US residents to write content in a variety of forms. From eBooks to website articles, they often have a need for writers with interests in many topics. WordGigs is known for hiring writers with very little writing experience. From time to time they have needs for short blurb writers.

Create Website Content at Textbroker

Textbroker is known for being a great place for newbie online content writers to get a start in the virtual freelance writing world. However, if your skills are not immediately on top, it can become difficult to find work available. Every writer is rated/ranked. The higher you are ranked, the more opportunities you will have access to.

Bid on Gigs at Upwork

Upwork is a great marketplace for gaining freelance clients as a newbie. If you are able to begin working for a low wage in exchange for gaining experience, skills and positive feedback, it can be stepping stones toward high paying long-term clients through Upwork.

Start A Blog or Website

Having a blog or website is a great outlet for writers. It can also be a way to display sample work or you can even work hard to make your own online content generate revenue. However, the latter requires a lot of time, patience and dedication while you build an online business.

Write and Sell eBooks

If you have a lot of information and interest on certain topics, you can turn that knowledge into ebooks. Not only can you sell your ebook yourself through sites like Amazon, but you can sell the book itself for one lump sum. Sites like Constant-Content.com allow you to sell the ebook rights.

Create Content on Hubpages

If building a website intrigues you, but the technical side of blogging stops you from pursuing that dream, consider posting your content on a site like Hubpages. Hubpages shares the revenue earned with you and you don’t have to deal with hosting and building a site yourself.

Tips for Getting Started as a Freelance Writer

If you have a passion for writing and want to explore freelancing as a career, here are six essential tips to help you get started on your freelance writing journey.

Define Your Niche and Target Audience

Identify your area of expertise or interest and narrow down your writing niche. Focusing on a specific niche allows you to build credibility and attract clients looking for specialized content. Determine your target audience and tailor your writing style and content to meet their needs.

Create a Portfolio of Writing Samples

Develop a portfolio of writing samples that showcase your skills and expertise. If you don’t have any published work, consider creating your own blog or contributing to platforms that accept guest posts. Your portfolio should demonstrate your writing style, versatility, and ability to engage readers.

Establish a Professional Online Presence

Build a professional online presence to attract clients and showcase your work. Create a writer website or a blog where potential clients can learn more about you and your services. Utilize social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram to network with other professionals in the writing industry.

Set Competitive Rates

Research industry-standard rates for freelance writers and determine your pricing structure. Consider factors such as your experience, expertise, and the type of writing projects you undertake. While starting, it may be necessary to offer competitive rates to attract clients, but aim to increase your rates as you gain more experience and build a strong portfolio.

Network and Build Relationships

Networking is crucial in the freelance writing industry. Connect with other writers, editors, and potential clients through professional organizations, writing communities, and online forums. Building relationships with fellow writers can lead to collaboration opportunities, referrals, and valuable industry insights.

Market Your Services

Promote your freelance writing services to attract clients. Utilize various marketing strategies such as creating a professional pitch, sending query letters to publications, guest posting on relevant blogs, and leveraging social media to showcase your expertise. Actively seek out writing opportunities and consistently market yourself to establish a steady stream of clients.

Having success in any of these forms of online writing will put you a step closer toward earning high wages as a freelance writer. What do I consider top pay for a Freelance Writer? Payscale.com says Freelance writers earn anywhere from $11-$68 an hour. This wide range is due to the varying levels of experience, skills and requirements needed for different projects.

Top paying Freelance Writers should be shooting to earn at least $50 an hour for their work. Remember that as a freelancer, a lot of your time goes unpaid. Time looking for clients, time billing, emailing clients etc. Therefore, while your billable hourly rate may show as $50/hour you actual paid per hour may be quite lower.

Don’t let low paying gigs limit you, expect to start small but don’t stop there.

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