But before we overtake ourselves, let’s answer the age-old question: What does a freelancer actually do?
This is essentially the case when a self-employed person outsources their services to individuals or companies, usually on a short-term basis.
So, if you are tired of the day-to-day business and want to venture out on your own, freelance work may be the way to go! And if you are considering this avenue, you already have one of the essential skills to make it in this industry: courage.
But what else does it take to be your own boss and write great content?
Let’s find out:
1. Explore freelance opportunities
Before you can become a freelancer, you need to know what opportunities are available to you in this employment structure.
You can browse LinkedIn or explore various freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Contently, or Contena.
By starting your career on one of these industry-specific websites, you will build connections with the right people and get paid to write content directly.
Whichever freelance marketplace option you choose, be sure to pay attention to what clients are looking for in a writer and how you can improve your skills (or customize your resume) to tailor them to their needs.
As you browse various freelance jobs, keep the following in mind:
- popular industries that freelancers need
- different types of jobs, such as copywriting or blogging
- popular niches
- desired skills
- Prices, and
- different goals for each role.
2. Define your niche
Once you have a clear idea of the options, you can make an informed decision about your niche.
it is central that you define your niche so that you have an idea of what you want to write about. Make sure you pick something that piques your interest, like your favorite hobby, as this will help you with your writing dedication and purpose.
According to Elna Cain, a niche is an area that you are experienced in and can write about well.
Examples of popular, high-paying content niches include:
- Finances: Writing on topics such as accounting, personal finance or cryptocurrencies is in great demand.
- travel: This includes topics such as restaurant and hotel reviews, travel guides or lifestyle pieces.
- Digital marketing: More and more brands are looking for guides or tutorial content on topics such as social media, e-commerce or affiliate marketing.
- Alternative health: This industry is booming right now and topics related to yoga, CBD, metal health, and nutritional supplements can sell for a pretty penny.
These examples are just a drop in the bucket of the various niches that you can explore. So play around and do your research – you are sure to find the right solution!
3. Done, done, write!
Now that you know what to write about, it’s time to start writing. And what better way to practice than to set up your own blog? Getting started is a breeze with free blogging platforms like Wix, WordPress, and Medium. Even LinkedIn has its own section where you can post articles.
If you’re wondering why you should blog instead of directly applying for a freelance position, the answer is simple – practice, practice, and even more practice!
It’s no secret that the more you do something, the better you get. This is especially true in writing. As you write and share more work on these platforms, you can get feedback that will help you improve over the long term.
Additionally, your blog will help you build an online presence and would be a great work portfolio to include on your resume. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!
4. Perfect your pitch
Now that you know more about the freelance industry and are actively practicing your writing, you need to know how to sell your work to clients.
Where you want to serve is up to you. Fortunately, there are a variety of options.
You can send your content to print or online publications, which usually offer guest authors or paid projects. While these options offer unpaid or minimal payment, it is a great way to get your name out there.
Alternatively, you can be brave and introduce your services to some of your favorite websites or brands – you might just get lucky!
Now, if you have no idea how to present your content, follow these tips to get started:
Be precise
Nobody likes a pitch that is all fluff. In your email, make sure that you keep your item description focused and as short as possible. Also, make sure to include the title of your article in the subject line of your email.
Do your research
Don’t waste your time or publication time submitting content that doesn’t fit your brand or niche.
Instead, research the publication’s audience and style guide so you can target your presentations to the companies that are most receptive.
Make sure your writing is of high quality
It is crucial that your pitch is clear and concise, while also attracting the editor’s attention. Don’t be afraid to be creative and show your personality.
Also, make sure to proofread your work and pitch so that they are free of typing and spelling errors. Nothing looks as unprofessional as a writer who fails to read through his or her work.
Be polite
Not every pitch you submit is going to be successful, and that’s fine. But make sure you stay respectful and professional no matter what.
That way, you will stay in the good books with these publications and will be able to develop a relationship with them over time.
Don’t be shy to follow up
If you haven’t heard of a release, don’t be discouraged. These companies are likely dealing with hundreds of pitches each week, and yours may have been lost in the crowd.
But don’t worry, just send a respectful follow-up email and ask if they’ve reviewed your work.
5. Never stop learning
Last but not least, if you want to be the best freelance writer, never stop expanding your skills.
Fortunately, we live in the digital age, so any course, resource, or tutorial is just a few clicks away.
Websites like Elna Cain or ProBlogger offer solid writing advice, while online communities like Freelance Writers Den can help you engage and learn from like-minded people.
Would you like to find out more? Consider taking an online course or continuing your studies in this area. Going that extra mile will only benefit your freelance career.
For example, if you want to venture into writing for digital publications, taking a course on SEO writing is a surefire way to make yourself a top candidate. Websites like Udemy or Skillshare offer courses on anything and everything!
Remember that after all, knowledge is power!
Do you have any tips on how to get there as a freelance writer? Let us know in the comment section below.
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Would you like to learn more about the freelance industry? Then be sure to check out the South African freelancer puzzle: How Much Do I Charge?
* Image courtesy of Unsplash
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