7 Tips to Break Into Freelance Writing
Many want to become a freelancer, yet few take the jump.
Whether it’s due to the hesitation of doing the work themselves or because they don’t think they can succeed, potentially successful writers will avoid giving a freelance career a shot.
Are you finding it thought to break into the freelance writing world? It can be tough to market yourself and find your first client.
However, once you land those first few paying clients and begin to build a portfolio, you’ll be shocked at how quickly you will build a steady (and lucrative!) revenue.
Want to give it a shot? Here are seven tips that can help you enter the world of freelance writing:
1. Write Every Day
One of the best ways to improve your writing skills is to write every day. This will help you develop a strong writing habit and increase your writing proficiency. You can write articles, blog posts, or even just practice writing exercises.
Will you make money? Probably not, but you will improve your skills. And as you continue to practice, you’ll get better and better.
A practical way to practice writing every day is by answering questions on sites such as Quora. Make an account, follow spaces in your niche, and answer questions in a blog or article format. You’ll be amazed at how you learn to write for the reader and quickly build a following as you answer questions and people take notice!
2. Build a Portfolio
Why write every day? Beyond growing in your comfort zone, it will help you build a portfolio!
Having a strong portfolio for potential clients to see showcases your work and can also help give them confidence in working with you. Plus, if they like your work, they are likely to share it with their friends and followers, giving you even more exposure.
3. Sign Up for a Freelance Writing Course
One of the best ways to learn about freelancing is to take a class.
This will help you understand the basics of finding clients, negotiating rates, and more. Plus, it can help give you the confidence you need to start out independently.
Thanks to the advent of the internet, plenty of online courses you can purchase and watch. Follow some successful freelancers in your niche or industry, and you will quickly find the right class for you.
4. Use Job Boards and Freelance Platforms
Freelance platforms can be anathema among established professionals in any field, as they often drive down rates and make it difficult to find quality work. But for beginners, they can be a godsend.
Job boards and freelance platforms are websites that connect freelancers with clients. These platforms are a great way to find freelance writing jobs, as they have a large pool of job postings. Some of the best job boards and freelance platforms include:
5. Follow Freelancers in Your Field
One of the best ways to find writing jobs is to follow bloggers and journalists in your field. Many of these professionals regularly post job openings on their websites or social media pages.
By following these professionals, you can stay up-to-date on the latest job openings in your field and find opportunities that you may not have otherwise known about.
6. Attend Local Writing Workshops and Conferences (and Online!)
Attending local writing workshops and conferences is a great way to network with other freelance writers and learn more about the industry.
These events often have a variety of workshops, panels, and networking events that can help you improve your writing skills and learn more about the business.
Additionally, many of these events offer online webinars, which are a great way to learn from the comfort of your own home. Even if you can’t attend in person, watch webinars or conferences on your own time, and download any podcasts that offer tips for writers.
7. Use Your Social Media Accounts to Promote Yourself — and Your Work
Social media is a great way to promote your writing and establish yourself as an expert in your field.
It can also be a great place to network with other professionals working and finding jobs. Don’t stress too much about growing your social media following. Focus on providing helpful content and being a source of industry information for those who follow you.
A great way to promote your work is to create a LinkedIn profile with links to samples of your work, an About Me section that provides links or descriptions about what you do, and a list of your published articles under Experience.
In addition, you can use LinkedIn to find writing jobs by searching for freelance writing opportunities and applying as a way to grow your portfolio.
BONUS! 8. Join a Freelance Accelerator Program
Freelance accelerator programs are a great way to start as a freelance writer. These programs offer training, mentorship, and networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry.
Personally, I’ve taken part in The Copywriter Club’s Copywriter Accelerator, which was a fantastic way to boost my experience, make connections, and hone my skills. And I’ve been getting steady work opportunities since the program began!
What Are You Waiting For? Get Freelancing!
With all of these tips and tools, you’re ready to go out and find your first freelance writing gig.
And remember: don’t worry too much about where the jobs come from — just be proactive and take action!
Soon enough, you’ll have a steady stream of clients and freelance work opportunities that can help you pursue your dreams. Accept praise, learn from rejection, and never stop learning.
🤔 What do you think? Do you have any advice on getting started as a freelance writer? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below!
