The ABC's of Freelance Writing
Many people want to be freelance writers, but only some will succeed. What are their secrets? While luck does play a factor, there are basic steps everyone can take to make their hard work pay off. These "ABC's" will help you become one of the success stories of the writing world.
Advertise
Utilizesocial networking to get your name out there. Make sure to join websites that cater to businesses looking to hire writers.
Blogging
In today's world, it's not only articles that clients need. Companies are also looking to hire bloggers. Read popular blogs and make sure you know how they work to give yourself a leg up in the business.
Consistency
Make sure your writing quality is consistent. If you slack off even one time, you're missing a great opportunity to make money and build connections.
Dedication
It takes a lot of patience to be a freelance writer. Sometimes you won't get the job, but stick with it. Your dedication will pay off.
Edit
Always read over your work before you send it to a client. If you have many typos and errors you will come across as unprofessional.
Feedback
Learn from feedback and be grateful when you receive it. It will make you a stronger writer. Respond to a client's feedback and change your piece accordingly. Don't take it personally.
Goals
Set reasonable goals for yourself about what you want to achieve as a freelance writer. Reward yourself when you achieve your goals.
Health
If you're not getting enough sleep, eating right, and taking care of your mental health, it will show in your writing. Forget what you've heard about starving artists--be healthy!
Invest
Invest time and energy into searching for clients and improving your writing skills. Treat freelance writing like you would any other job.
Just do it.
Don't procrastinate when you have an assignment. Give yourself plenty of time to get the job done.
Knowledge
Pursue topics that you are passionate about. Be a lifelong learner. The more you know, the more you will be able to write about.
Learn
Learn from your mistakes. If something you're doing isn't working, change it.
Manners
If you treat clients with disrespect, they are unlikely to work with you in the future, let alone recommend you to someone else. Being courteous can go a long way.
Network
Build professional relationships with other writers as well as clients. This way you can get recommendations, hear about new opportunities, and maybe even secure regular assignments with a returning client.
Organize
This goes for your workspace as well as your writing. Break articles up into paragraphs, bullets, or lists. Make it easily accessible. Keep your desk or workspace neat, and you'll be able to focus on the job at hand.
Plan
If you just start writing without thinking first, you're ideas will seem disconnected and rushed. Plot out what you want to say before you begin typing.
Questions
If you're unsure about a part of the assignment, don't be too proud to ask the client to clarify. You can also look online to see if other writers have had similar predicaments, and perhaps find the answer to your question.
Risks
Don't be afraid to take risks. If the job seems exciting and right for you, submit a pitch! The worst that can happen is you won't get the job. On the other hand...
Start small
Starting out, you're more likely to get published by a local newspaper than a popular fashion magazine. Build up your resume over time, working your way up to bigger publications.
Toot your own horn
It's okay to brag a little. Convince clients it is worth paying you to write their article. However, don't over do it. Cockiness isn't the same thing as confidence
Understand the assignment
Read over the client's directions carefully. Put your ego on the back burner, and make sure you do the job the way you agreed you would.
Voice
If you develop your unique style, your writing will be memorable. Technical writing skill will only get so you so far. Adistinct voice will help readers connect to your writing.
Weekends
Give yourself weekends to relax, and maybe even write for pleasure. Everyone needs a break sometimes. You'll be refreshed and ready to work again soon.
X-rated
Make sure you know your audience, and use appropriate language! Avoid profanity, obscure slang, and never, ever use internet language like "LOL" or "How r u?" in a professional piece of writing.
Yada yada yada
Don't ramble on and on in your writing. Be snappy and get to the point.
Zest
Don't churn out bland, run of the mill writing. Give your work a little something that makes it stand out and come to life. Remember, reading is meant to be a pleasurable activity. Give your audience a good time, and they will come back time and time again.
