So, you want to learn how to become a freelance writer?
I get a lot of emails from people asking me how to get started as a freelance writer and no matter where you are in the world, the steps to take to becoming a freelance writer are the same.
It’s a great way to earn extra cash and actually make a living from it, so I thought I’d write a guide to help new freelance writers jumpstart their business.
I’m not the best writer.
Heck, I know I’m not the greatest writer out there either.
But, many new writers think or feel they need straight A’s in English or to major in Journalism to be a freelance writer. But, that’s not the case.
It’s scary isn’t it?
The thought of telling your current freelance writing job you want a raise.
They could end up never emailing you again.
What’s your writing process?
I’ve been a freelance writer for a little over a year now and I am still finding my groove when it comes to writing my client pieces.
I’m a mother to twin toddlers and distractions are a normal part of my day. So, I know having a system in place is crucial to the success and outcome of my freelance writing business.
Okay.
You’ve been freelance writing for a while now but you still aren’t making any headway. Most of your projects are one-offs or ad hoc pieces and nothing is consistent.
You’re not sure why because you feel your rate is reasonable and that you’re a good writer. So, why aren’t you making a living from your freelance writing business?
I have a guest poster for you today. Her name is Lenka Podzimek and she won $100 in the first pitching challenge I created just for my course participants of Write Your Way to Your First $1k. I put up $100 as a way to motivate students to take action and start pitching, hoping they land their first or next freelance writing client. Lenka is here to tell her story of how much she learned since taking my course and how much confidence she now has as a professional freelance writer.
Want to know a little secret?
It’s 10:30 a.m. on a Saturday and the house is a mess, I’m still in my PJ’s and I have impending deadlines to meet.
Being a freelance writer and mom to twins is challenging.
If you’re a freelance writer, do you have a website for your services?
If you do, are you attracting clients with it or is your site sitting there, unable to convince anyone who shows up, why they should hire you?
Maybe you have a blog already with a Hire Me page, hoping to land your ideal client.
New freelance writers are often told to guest post as a way to build their portfolio.
After all, if someone else thinks you’re good enough to write on their blog, then surely a prospective client will think you’d be good for their company too.
Most guest posting is a free writing opportunity. You are giving away your best content for free!
Do you know how to write a pitch?
I know it can seem a bit tedious at times, but I tell my course students that knowing how to write a good pitch is the best way to quickly land consistent and decent paying jobs.
It’s how I first got started with freelance writing.
