If you’re curious about becoming a freelance writer, you’re likely wondering: What does freelance writing actually look like? You might be exploring examples of freelance writing work or want to know how to write a freelance article.
From crafting blog posts for businesses to writing scripts for videos, freelance writing covers a wide range of opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add more types of freelance writing to your freelance writer’s portfolio, understanding the different types of freelance writing jobs is key to enhancing your career.
Let’s dive into the various types of freelance writing, examples of each, and what you can expect as a freelancer as you embark on the process of how to find freelance writing jobs.
Find Out Finally: What Does Freelance Writing Look Like?
Wondering where to start as you think about the various types of freelance content and what does freelance writing look like? This guide is a great overview to set you up for success.
1. Blog Writing
One of the most common and accessible types of freelance writing is blog writing. Whether you’re ghostwriting posts for businesses or running your own blog, this form of writing allows you to educate and engage readers on a wide array of topics. Blog posts typically range from 600 to 1,500 words and can focus on anything from SEO-optimized how-tos to personal experiences.
Example of Blog Writing:
- “5 Simple Steps to Boost Your Fitness Routine” (For a fitness brand’s blog)
Blog writing can be a great way to start your freelance journey, and if you specialize in a niche like health, technology, or lifestyle, you can increase your rates and gain consistent clients.
2. Article Writing
If you’ve ever flipped through a magazine or scrolled through an online publication, you’ve seen examples of article writing. Freelance writers often contribute articles to print or digital outlets. This type of writing can involve in-depth research, interviews with experts, and producing content that is educational, entertaining, or both.
Example of Article Writing:
- “12 Quick Breakfasts Ready in 7 Minutes or Less” (for Reader’s Digest)
While article writing can be competitive, the pay is often higher than blog writing, especially if you land work with well-known publications.
3. Copywriting
Copywriting is the art of writing persuasive content for advertising and marketing purposes. This could include product descriptions, email campaigns, landing pages, or social media ads. The goal? To get the reader to take action, like purchasing a product, signing up for a service, or subscribing to a newsletter.
Example of Copywriting:
- “Discover the Ultimate All-in-One Skincare Solution” (for a skincare brand’s product launch)
Copywriters often charge premium rates, especially if they’re skilled at crafting compelling calls to action that drive conversions.
4. Content Marketing Writing
Content marketing writing involves creating valuable content that informs, educates, or entertains readers while subtly promoting a product or brand. Think of this as storytelling with a purpose. Content marketing can take many forms, from blog posts and articles to case studies and white papers.
Example of Content Marketing Writing:
- “How to Keep Your Pet Healthy Year-Round” (for a pet food brand’s blog)
Content marketing can be a lucrative freelance writing avenue if you’re good at blending education with brand messaging.
5. Ghostwriting
Does LinkedIn post writing count when you’re thinking about what does freelancing writing look like? It does! Ghostwriting involves writing content for someone else without receiving public credit. You could be hired to write blog posts, eBooks, speeches, or even entire books under someone else’s name. Ghostwriters need to be skilled at capturing their client’s voice and tone.
Example of Ghostwriting:
- A CEO’s blog posts on leadership strategies (ghostwritten for a corporate executive)
Ghostwriting often pays well since the writer must be adaptable and is often working on high-profile or in-depth projects.
6. White paper writing
If you’re writing white papers for clients, you’ll want to quote your freelance rates accordingly because they can be a lot of work. The goal of a white paper is usually to share a company’s exclusive research, and to point to strides the company is making in the industry, setting them apart from the competition with their innovations and learnings. Writing a white paper might include doing interviews with industry experts, original research, including case studies, and possible include design or infographic elements.
Examples of White Paper Writing
- While I have written white papers for a few health clients, I suggest freelancers check out The White Paper Guy as a helpful resource on all things freelance white paper writing.
7. Social Media Writing
In today’s digital age, social media writing is one of the fastest-growing types of freelance work. From writing Instagram captions to crafting entire social media campaigns, freelance social media writers help brands maintain a strong online presence. The goal is to engage followers and boost brand awareness through clever, shareable content.
Example of Social Media Writing:
- “Top 5 Skincare Tips for Glowing Skin ✨ #SelfCareSunday” (for a beauty brand on Instagram)
This type of writing requires a knack for catchy, concise content and often pays per post or campaign.
8. Video Script Writing
If you love creating content that comes to life through visuals, video script writing might be for you. With the rise of YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels, brands are investing in video content more than ever, and they need skilled writers to craft their scripts. This type of writing requires strong storytelling skills and the ability to convey a message clearly and concisely.
Example of Video Script Writing:
- Writing a YouTube script for a company or, writing a video script for a case study and client testimonial. Here’s an example of a video script and landing page I worked on for a health client.
Video scriptwriters are in high demand, and the pay can be substantial, especially if you work with larger brands or production companies.
