Best Freelance Tips
Category

Clients

Category
first freelance job
Clients Freelance Jobs Industry Writing Advice

How Do I Find My First Freelance Writing Job?

Ready to kick-start your search and land your first freelance job? Be open to opportunities when you’re exploring how do I start freelance writing. Finding gigs and even long-term assignments is easier now than it was in the early nineties when I literally stumbled into mine. Solutions to how do I get my first freelance writing job are right at your fingertips now.

My first printed article, which led to my first columnist gig came about because I worked for the company and expressed an interest in one of their magazines. When I turned the piece in, the editor read it right in front of me—which is how I discovered I had stapled the first page of the manuscript upside down. The lesson here is that you don’t have to be perfect to start freelancing, especially when you explore “how do I find my first writing job?” The actual writing is all that matters.

However, these days, you have to make yourself known to a wider range of people so you can connect with the opportunities that are out there. Doing that takes a lot of reading and networking. Sometimes you have to go outside your comfort zone and write something you might not know a lot about. It’s almost always worth it.

How do I start freelance writing?

Looking for work is literally part of freelancing. Every day, read freelance newsletters, LinkedIn alerts, and any freelancing websites looking for freelance writing opportunities. There are a lot of places to look when you’re looking for work as a beginner freelance writer! This will give you some leads to follow for pitches or applications. I always make it a goal to send in one pitch or application every day. 

Make a list of ideas you have for articles and create a template for a pitch letter. This will include a couple of sentences for the pitch idea, a small paragraph about who you are and why you’re the person to write this article right now, and a small paragraph that lets the editor know why you think this article would appeal to their readers. The letter should be short, have a succinct point, and professional (yet friendly). 

When you see a call for pitches about a topic that matches something on your list, fill in that pitch letter template with the specific details and send it out. Your goal is to get a good idea across quickly to somebody who may be reading fifty of these letters a day. If they think you can make their life easier, you’re likely to get the job!

How do I start freelance writing with no experience?

There are different answers to this question of how to find freelance writing jobs, depending on where you are in life. If you’re looking for entry-level freelance writing jobs, but you have other experience, then the easiest way to kick-start a freelance writing career is to write in the space where your expertise lies. Trade magazines are a great place to start doing this. This is probably the biggest advantage of having your first freelance job be the start of a second career.  Here are the 5 Ways to Start Freelancing with No Experience.

If you’re not established in a specific industry, the first thing to do is make a list of your hobbies and things that interest you. Make sure to read widely about any topic you want to write about and be as knowledgeable as you can, then search for article requests. These may even be in publications you’ve been reading, which is important when looking for freelance writing opportunities for beginners. Being familiar with a specific publication makes it easier to write in the style they prefer and to know what types of articles they’re interested in. If you think of something while you’re reading, go to their masthead (or website), find the editor for the section you want to write about, familiarize yourself with the writer’s guidelines, and pitch the idea! 

How do I find first freelance writing job clients?

We get it. You’re ready to discover the best ways to find freelance writing jobs for beginners. And that can be tough when clients want to know what you’ve written before. Prior published pieces are called “clips.” Here are some suggestions on how to get your first freelance writing samples, even if you haven’t had a freelance client yet.

  • If you have written for any publications, make a PDF copy of the articles and keep them in a folder that people can access online. DropBox and Google Doc work well for this. 
  • If you haven’t published anything traditionally yet, you can still make a portfolio by writing samples and publishing them online. 
  • Medium gives you the ability to create your own portfolio without waiting for somebody else to publish you. It’s kind of like having a blog but better. What you write has the look and feel of an article, and as a member (which is free), you can also submit to Medium publications. The articles you post to your own account are considered published clips, and you can even choose to monetize them.
  • You can also write articles on LinkedIn as a creator.

Once you’re in talks with clients, bring up some of these top questions freelancers should ask clients.

It’s a good way to show professionalism while you’re exploring your first freelance writing job.

Ways to find freelance writing jobs, even if you’re a beginner

If you are making plans to leave an existing job, it might help to let people know about your future freelance plans. While you still have easy access to your network of colleagues, find out if their companies use freelancers, and alert them that you will soon be soliciting that type of work. 

If you don’t already have a profile on LinkedIn , make one. In almost all cases, the free version of LinkedIn will be sufficient. Make your portfolio available, click on the option to say you’re “open to work,” and sign up for job alerts in the field you want to work. 5 Ways to Spruce Up Your LinkedIn Profile.

Facebook and Instagram may be important, depending on the type of work you’re looking for. 

Facebook especially has different groups for all kinds of things. Search for groups that may provide job leads or even just networking within the general writing community or in your niche, and check in with them often. You want to become a legitimate member of the communities you choose, not just somebody who asks for job leads or advertises their services. Success in these fields requires making real connections—relationships are everything! You might even want to give copywriting a shot and learn how to get started freelance copywriting as a beginner.

Can I make a living as a freelance writer?

Yes! But probably not at first. (Sorry not sorry. We’re all about honesty here, especially when it comes to “can I earn a living freelancing.”)

You might think you’re ready to rake in the money once you’ve figure out how to start freelance writing.

But takes a while to become established and, depending on what publications you’re writing for, the amount of pay and how long it takes to be paid means this is not something that will likely pay the mortgage right away. Many outlets pay on publication, and the lead time for articles can be months. So you may be writing about Christmas in July, but you won’t get paid until after Christmas. Many freelance writers also dabble in other creative or academic work to keep things interesting.

 I also work as an editor, write fiction, and teach online classes. All of these are part of my freelance income and allow me to switch between tasks so I’m not always having to produce articles. I like the variety, and I have made a good living doing it for about twenty years.

Is freelance writing a satisfying career?

This is not a get-rich-quick kind of job, but it’s very satisfying. I’ve been working as my own boss for so long that I don’t think I could ever work for anybody else again. You get to choose the projects you want to take, find new and interesting work all the time, and work wherever you want to. One good thing is that submissions aren’t sent on paper anymore, so you’re safe from upside down first pages!

FAQ on How to Find First Freelance Writing Job

How do I find entry-level freelance jobs?

Besides LinkedIn and Facebook, here are some of my go-to sites when I recommend others find their first freelance writing job and the best newsletters for freelancers for finding jobs as a beginner freelance writer:

Just doing a search for “freelance writer sites” will give you some good articles with reviews of sites. Some sites require subscriptions, but many have unpaid options. I typically choose the unpaid option until I find work through it. If I do, I’ll pay for a subscription.

Some sites don’t charge a subscription but may take a small cut of any work you contract through them. There are lots of newsletters out there that aggregate freelance jobs weekly or even daily, and a search on Substack (https://substack.com/) may get you quite a lot of newsletters to follow that can help as you get started freelance writing.

How do I get my first freelance writing job?

If you have nothing to offer as a clip, one of the ways you can approach an editor is with an offer to write an article “on spec” (which stands for speculation). This means that you write the entire article first and submit it to the editor, who will then decide whether or not to accept it. This is in contrast to pitching the idea, getting a contract, and then writing the article.

 It takes more work ahead of time, but if the editor doesn’t take the article, you can always pitch it elsewhere. Either it will find a home, and you’ve had your first sale, or you can use it as a start to making your own portfolio on a site like Medium.

Still feeling curious about how to find first freelance job? Check out the “Get Paid to Write” online course.

by
Keep Reading
freelance writing jobs for beginners
Clients Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

What Are the Best Ways to Find Freelance Writing Jobs for Beginners?

Beginner freelance writers start out with a lot of excitement about the possibilities and opportunities that may come their way. But it’s also easy to feel overwhelmed and like you’ll never ‘catch up’ to experienced freelancers or be the one who captures the attention of a client who is looking to hire freelance writers. If you’re exploring ‘what are the best ways to find freelance writing jobs for beginners’ you should know there are thousands of newbie freelancers out there right now like you. The key to finding freelance writing jobs is to look in the right places and stay dedicated with your freelance marketing efforts.

How Can I Find Freelance Writing Jobs?

These are the best ways you can find freelance writing jobs when you’re new to freelancing.

Tap into Your Personal Network

Networking is one of the most powerful tools for finding freelance writing jobs online. Many seasoned freelancers get their first clients through previous employers, colleagues, or friends. Don’t be shy about letting people know you’re available for freelance writing work. Post on social media, message old coworkers, or even ask family members if they know anyone who could use your writing skills.

Use Social Media to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

 Platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook are great for posting that you’re available for work and for joining freelance writing groups. Even if you don’t know anyone in the industry, nearly every business needs content—whether for their website, blog, or social media channels. Someone out there is looking for exactly what you offer. Luckily, there are tons of ways on how to find freelance writing jobs.

Turn Every Job into a Repeat Freelance Client

Once you land your first freelance writing job, it’s much easier to get more. If you enjoyed working with a particular editor or client, don’t hesitate to ask if they need additional content so you’re lined up for repeat assignments. Building long-term relationships with clients can give you steady work and you might even explore getting on a retainer or contract.

Many successful freelancers rely on repeat clients to maintain a solid income stream. (I try to have two or three of these a month!) It’s one of the secrets to freelancing success—don’t let that first freelane writing job be a one-and-done.

Join Content Marketing Agencies and Freelance Platforms

Some people hear “content mills” and run for the hills (yep, I meant to rhyme) but don’t dismiss all freelance platforms as danger zones. Some sites pay peanuts, but others—like Contently, Skyword, ClearVoice, nDash, Toptal, and content marketing agencies that win awards usually offer better-paying opportunities.

These platforms allow beginners to build a portfolio of links so potential clients can see your freelance writing abilities and help you work with reputable brands. Working with some of these agencies is how I secured some of the biggest-name clients I have.

Be Discerning with Low-Paying Freelance Job Websites

 Low-paying platforms often prioritize whoever bids the lowest, meaning you’ll struggle to make decent money. (And you might feel stressed about having to constantly stay on the platform throughout the day.)

Higher-quality platforms vet their writers and connect them with top-tier clients, making them a much better option for serious freelancers. That being said, don’t take anyone else’s advice about these platforms, try some of the notoriously lowering-paying freelance job sites for yourself. You might find amazing work opportunities on there and build great clips.

Try Cold Pitching Editors and Managers

Cold pitching may feel daunting at first—it takes some confidence!—but it’s a direct way to land clients you’ve always dreamed of working with. You might want to start with article pitching to magazines and editorial websites or, cold-pitch marketing managers and content managers at brands to introduce them to you as a potential resource.

Research the companies and editors you’d love to write for, then tailor your pitch to them. This is about playing the long game. You will probably get ignored or rejected but cold pitching strategically is one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door with premium clients. The more you be specific about why your skills and background are the perfect fit for them, the better your chances.

Build a Freelance Writing Portfolio

A blog is a great way to build your portfolio when you’re just starting out. It shows potential clients what you can do and gives you the opportunity to showcase your expertise in areas you want to write about.

Whether it’s pet care, personal finance, or parenting tips, writing on a topic you’re passionate about can attract clients who need content in that niche.  If you want to land clients in the fitness industry, write blog posts, slide shows, or even social post copy that includes workout tips or healthy meal ideas. It’s your chance to prove you know your stuff.

I tell my freelance coaching clients to write the types of clips their ideal client would want to see in the format they’d hire you to write for them. Yes, you can do interviews with experts even if the content will only live on your blog.

Try Freelance Writing Job Boards to Find Freelance Assignments

Freelance writing job boards are a goldmine for beginner writers. That being said, they can be saturated. Websites like ProBlogger, Contenta, Freelance Writing Jobs, SimplyHired, JournalismJobs.com, and BloggingPro regularly post writing gigs for all experience levels. By checking these sites regularly and applying quickly, you’ll improve your chances of landing quality work. Remember to check LinkedIn, too. Many freelance writing gigs are posted directly on LinkedIn, and you can use the platform to network with potential clients.

Utilize Social Media to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

Social media isn’t just for doomscrolling and entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for promoting your writing skills and finding work. Share your freelance work, post about topics in your niche, and engage with brands and editors. Quite a few editors post on X/Twitter or LinkedIn when they are looking to hire freelance writers. I like using social media to build relationships with editors as well as other freelancers who might pass along gigs or recommendations. It can be a fun community if you’re in the right social circles.

Find Freelance Writing Job Search Success

In my opinion, freelance writing can be a fulfilling and high-earning career if you approach it with the right strategies. (And try to mentally and fiscally be prepared for ups and downs.) Work your network, use reputable freelance job platforms, and setting fair rates can help you find freelance writing jobs that match your skills and interests.

The better the work you’re turning in and the more relationships you’re building with clients you’re working with, the more you’ll be able to make this career last for the long haul.

FAQs

What are anchor clients, and why do they matter for freelance writing jobs?

Anchor clients are those clients who consistently provide work and help stabilize your freelance income. Having one or two anchor clients gives you breathing room to focus on improving your freelance skills rather than constantly hustling for new freelance writing assignments. Most successful

How do I write a good cold pitch?

Keep it short, sweet, and relevant. Address the editor by name, explain why your writing fits their needs, and include a few samples of your best work. Remember, editors are busy, so make your pitch easy to read and get to the point quickly. These are article pitch writing templates that work (and cold email tips, too!)

How do I set freelance writing job rates as a beginner?

Freelance writing rates depend on your experience, niche expertise, type of project, and the client’s budget. Research industry standards and start by charging project-based or hourly rates to ensure fair compensation. Oftentimes, clients will already have a budget in mind.

Over time, gradually increase your rates as you gain more experience and build your portfolio. Learn more about calculating your freelance writer salary.

Get freelance writing jobs in your inbox each week with this free newsletter

by
Keep Reading
how do freelance writers find writing jobs
Clients Freelance Jobs Industry Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

How Do Freelance Writers Find Work?

Freelance writing can be a fulfilling career, but finding consistent work can leave you wanting to pull your hair out or tossing and turning at night. It’s not just an issue for beginner freelancers.

Here’s a comprehensive guide that answers the common search of how do freelancers find work to help you find freelance writing jobs without relying on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. This article draws from practical tips to help you find your first freelance writing jobs or diversify your current client base. As you’ll see in the following tips, when you’re thinking about how to get freelance writing work, it will take “putting yourself out there.”

How Can Freelance Writers Find Work?

Ensuring you know how to find freelance writing jobs will take some gumption and grit but once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find that knowing how to get freelance work is easier than you initially thought.

Build and Leverage Your Network

One of the most effective ways to secure freelance writing work is by tapping into your existing network. Friends, former colleagues, and even acquaintances may need content writing for their businesses, blogs, or marketing efforts. Letting people know you’re available for freelance work is crucial.

Use Social Media to Announce Your Services

Post about your freelance services on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and X/Twitter. This can be as simple as a post announcing you’re open for freelance work, sharing the types of content writing you can provide, and encouraging people to reach out. Many businesses need content but don’t know where to start—your post might be the nudge they need to hire you. Ask friends and family to share your post on their feeds. Consider posting about your freelance business in an alumni group or local business group on Facebook to drum up new clientele.

Secure Repeat Assignments

Once you’ve landed a freelance gig, focus on turning that editor-freelancer synergy into a long-term client relationship. If you enjoy working with an editor or client, pitch them more ideas or ask if they need additional content. This strategy not only keeps your schedule full but also reduces the amount of time spent hunting for new clients.

Repeat assignments from a reliable client are a key component of a successful freelance career, providing a steady income stream and reducing stress.

Research Content Marketing Agencies

Exploring how to find freelance writing jobs? Content marketing agencies often need freelance writers to produce articles, blogs, and other written materials for their clients. While many agencies have their roster of writers, they regularly seek fresh talent. Reach out to content marketing agencies, particularly those that align with your niche, and inquire about freelance opportunities. Unsure of where to start? Search online for “ad agencies” or “content agencies” + “[your town.]”

Use Freelance Platforms like Contently, ClearVoice, and Skyword

These freelance jobs platforms connect freelancers with brands and content agencies looking for writers. The pay tends to be higher than that of “content mills,” and you’ll be working with reputable companies. Make sure your profile and portfolio on these platforms are polished and reflect your best work.

Cold-Pitch to Editors and Companies

Cold-pitching is an effective method for freelance writers to find work, especially if you have a clear idea for a story or know a company that aligns with your niche. While it requires effort to research the right contact and tailor your pitch, cold-pitching can lead to high-quality assignments.

Craft a Personalized Pitch

When cold-pitching, be specific. Research the outlet or company, and craft a pitch that fits their style and audience. Highlight why you’re the best writer for the job, and be sure to include links to relevant samples or your portfolio. Tailored pitches stand out more than generic emails.

Start a Blog

Blogging is a great way to showcase your writing abilities. It gives potential clients a tangible example of your style, tone, and expertise. By writing regularly on topics related to your freelance niche, you not only improve your skills but also attract clients who see the value in your work.

Choose a Niche and Share It With Clients

Your blog doesn’t need to cover a wide array of topics. Instead, focus on a niche where you have expertise or strong interest. By consistently sharing blog posts in a specific niche, you can position yourself as an expert, which makes it easier for clients to see the value of hiring you.

Explore Job Boards for Freelance Writers

Job boards can be a useful resource for finding freelance writing gigs. There are numerous job boards dedicated to freelance writing roles, often sorted by niche or expertise.

Get a list of 50 websites and online resources that list freelance jobs

Use Freelance-Specific Job Boards

While general job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn can sometimes have freelance listings, it’s better to use freelance-specific platforms such as ProBlogger, Freelance Writing Gigs, and Journalism Jobs. These sites typically list higher-quality freelance writing opportunities.

Post Regularly on Social Media

Using social media to promote your freelance services isn’t a one-time activity. Regular posting about your latest work, your availability, or industry insights can help you stay top of mind for potential clients.

Share Your Published Work

Posting links to published pieces or snippets of your recent projects can serve as proof of your expertise. It’s also a way to increase your visibility in your chosen niche. Don’t be shy about promoting your successes or sharing testimonials from satisfied clients. Send the final clips to any experts you interviewed along with your’s and the brand’s social media handles, encouraging them to share the content on their feeds as well.

Read Freelance Newsletters

Many freelance writers find success by subscribing to industry newsletters that compile job leads. Newsletters like The Freelancer, Morning Coffee, and Writers Work regularly share freelance writing job listings.

These newsletters save you time by aggregating freelance writing job leads from across the web. Subscribing to a few reputable ones will keep fresh opportunities in your inbox without you needing to actively search.

Subscribe to diana’s freelance writing tips weekly e-newsletter

Diversifying Your Approach Is the Best Solution to ‘How Do Freelance Writers Find Work?”

Finding freelance writing work often takes time and persistence, but diversifying your approach helps. Utilize your network, cold-pitch, explore job boards, and leverage content marketing agencies to build a strong client base. The more proactive and consistent you are in seeking opportunities, the more freelance writing work will come your way.

by
Keep Reading
freelance writer salary wallet
Clients Industry Money

What Are Freelance Writer Salaries?

Let’s be honest, if you are thinking about becoming a freelancer or freelance writer, you really want to know what a potential freelance writer salary is, right?

Who gets into this business without any curiosity about freelance writer salaries?  I know I wanted to discover some hourly freelance rates and my true earnings potential when I got into the field.

Having an understanding of how much you could earn as a freelance writer is essential. Here, we’ll dive into the world of freelance writing rates, explore freelancer salary structures, and provide you with some tips to maximize your earnings.

What is a Freelance Writer Salary?

As a freelance writer, you can choose different ways to earn money, depending on the type of writing, industry, and project type. 

Per word: You might get paid a “per word rate” for long-form articles and blog posts. (Here’s how much you should charge for a 500-word article.)

Per hour: You might get paid for consulting or editing services for each hour you work. 

Per project: For larger assignments and long-term projects, you might get paid for each project.

Having the flexibility to quote their price and structure allows freelance writers to adjust prices to fit different types of work and client needs. Knowing how to adjust your freelance rates can ensure you’re able to earn a living freelance writing.

Key Factors Influencing Freelance Writer Salaries

Here are some tips to consider when setting your freelance writer rates, whether that’s per hour, word, or project, and how to increase your freelance writer salary.

1. More Experience Equals Higher Rates

Your experience and expertise are gold! Seasoned writers with extensive portfolios can charge higher rates because they can tackle complex assignments and deliver content that requires very little editing.

2. Niche Down and Earn More

Specializing in high-demand and the best-paying freelance niches like technology, healthcare, or finance can significantly boost the demand for your services and, in return, boost your income. Clients pay more for specialized knowledge that meets their specific industry needs. Picking a niche is not required, but it could be a good fit for you depending on your experience.

3. Consider Your Local Cost of Living

Where you live matters when you quote your freelance rate. Writers in higher-cost areas typically charge more to cover living expenses. Conversely, those in lower-cost regions might adjust rates to attract clients while still maintaining a reasonable income. You don’t have to tell the client this but keeping local and state tax costs in mind as you work toward your freelance writer salary is important.

4. Find Clients and Industries with a Marketing Budget

Corporate clients and industries like finance and healthcare have larger marketing budgets, allowing writers to command higher rates. Smaller businesses or nonprofits might have tighter budgets, but targeting high-paying freelance clients can elevate your earning potential.

Average Salary of a Freelance Writer

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for writers was $73,690 in May 2023. In the United States, freelance writers earn an average of $23 an hour as of July 2024, according to ZipRecruiter. Specialized fields like technical writing or copywriting for SaaS (software as a service) brands fetch higher rates, starting at $84 per hour, and report annual earnings similar to $163,800.

If you’re aiming to be a freelancer earning one of those competitive freelance writer salaries, you need to keep honing your freelance skills and learning how to run your business better.

Enroll in this course to learn how to earn $100 an hour (or more) as a freelancer.

Understanding Freelance Hourly Rates vs. Project Rates

Let’s examine the pros and cons of hourly rates vs. project rates. 

Pros of Hourly Freelance Rates 

Hourly rates are like a freelancer’s safety net—you get paid for every single minute you work on a project. This can be especially handy when projects take unexpected turns (hello, surprise revisions!).

Another great thing about freelance hourly rates is that they’re perfect for projects where the scope and the due date are more likely to shift. Charging by the hour ensures you won’t lose out if the workload balloons. 

Cons of Freelance Hourly Rates

As you get better and faster at what you do, hourly rates might start feeling like a speed bump. Sure, you’re finishing tasks in record time, but your earnings don’t reflect that boost in efficiency. 

Plus, let’s face it, there are only so many hours in a day. When your earnings are tied to your hours, your income has a built-in ceiling. This can make it tough to take on new gigs or enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

Pros of Freelance Project rates

Project rates, on the other hand, are like a breath of fresh air. You agree on a set fee for the entire project, and everyone knows what to expect (no surprises!). This kind of financial predictability can make budgeting a breeze and keep stress levels nice and low, allowing you to focus on knocking the project out of the park.

Cons of Freelance Project rates

Misjudge the time or resources needed to complete a project, and you might find yourself working for pennies. It all hinges on your ability to foresee potential challenges and include them in your quote.

 If your client decides to add on extra bells and whistles midway through, you could end up putting in extra hours without extra pay. This is where clear communication and good contracts become your best friends.

When understanding freelance writer salaries, it’s crucial to account for taxes. Unlike a traditional W2 job, freelancers do not have taxes automatically deducted from paychecks. 

This means a portion of your earnings must be set aside. Work with a tax professional or use reliable tax software for help navigating the complexities of taxes for freelance writer salaries.

Tips for Increasing Your Freelance Writer Salary

If you’re looking to make six figures as a freelance writer, it’s possible. Still, you’ll need to aim for a higher hourly rate and higher-paying assignments or dedicate time to working extra hours to reach the goal of increasing your freelance writer salary. 

It’s fine to start writing 500-word articles for $50 each if you’re a beginner freelancer, but you’ll need to earn at least $2,000 weekly to make a six-figure freelancer salary in gross numbers–that means no vacations!

 Here are more tips to increase your freelance writer salary.

1. Negotiate Higher Rates

Showcase your experience and expertise to justify higher rates. Build a solid freelance portfolio with client testimonials to bolster your credibility. Clear communication about deliverables and deadlines also helps clients see the value in investing in your services.

2. Build a Strong Portfolio with Client Testimonials

A robust portfolio and glowing testimonials are your best friends. They provide tangible proof of your skills and reliability, making it easier to attract higher-paying clients.

3. Expand Your Services

Stay competitive by learning new skills like SEO optimization or social media content creation. Offering a broader range of services can justify premium rates and attract a wider array of clients.

Whether you are freelance writing as a side hustle or freelancing full-time, it’s important to set annual goals and break them down into monthly, weekly, and daily goals. That way, you have an “average” target rate to aim for. It’s crucial to revisit that freelance writer salary goal periodically to see how well you’re tracking that goal. 

As a freelancer, you must keep yourself accountable if you need to make modifications to that initial number or if you need to kick your behind into high gear for the remainder of the year.

How to Reach Financial freedom as a Freelance Writer

Ready to kick your freelance writer salary into high gear? It’s possible to improve your freelance money mindset when you understand how to set fair rates that reflect your skills. Remember to incorporate factors like experience, niche specialization, and industry standards. 

Stay informed, build a strong portfolio, and continuously hone your craft to thrive financially and establish yourself as a valuable asset in the freelancing world. You can do this! 

FAQs

1. How do freelance writers get paid?

Freelance writers are typically paid per word, per project, hourly, or through revenue sharing, with terms negotiated based on the work’s scope and nature.

2. What should freelance writers consider when setting their rates?

Consider your expertise, project complexity, industry standards, desired income, and the time required for research, writing, and revisions. Review these top questions freelancers should ask clients before quoting your rate.

3. How much do freelance writers make?

Earnings vary widely based on experience and project complexity but typically range from $0.10 to $1.00 per word or $20 to $100+ per hour.

4. What types of clients do freelance writers work with?

Freelance writers work with businesses, agencies, publications, nonprofits, and individual entrepreneurs, creating content for websites, blogs, articles, and marketing materials.

by
Keep Reading
best freelance client questions
Clients Money

Top Questions Freelancers Should Ask Clients

The first time I jumped on a discovery call with a potential freelance client, I was completely nervous almost to the point of my hands sweating. I was anxious and excited to secure my first client. 

Although the discovery call was over the phone, I wanted to make a great first impression on the client. As the discovery call proceeded, I began to realize I had no clue on how to properly vet the client. I wasn’t sure of the top questions freelancers should ask clients and made some gaffs. Whoops!

There I was with butterflies in my stomach and sweaty palms eager to sign the contract with no idea if the client was a good fit for me.

Does this sound familiar? It’s common in those who want to know how to start freelancing with no experience.

When you don’t ask important questions during the discovery call to clients, you miss key information. Some clients are not as forthcoming about project details, deadlines, communication preferences, or payment methods. As a freelancer, this is all on you to ask for clarification to help ensure you are making an informed decision.

It can be easy to overlook or neglect the vetting process for potential clients. (We’ve all been there!) Oftentimes, as freelancers, we’re searching for our next client to help keep the lights on and to afford a mocha chai latte at Starbucks. But by not vetting potential freelance clients, as a freelancer you’re doing yourself and your client a disservice. 

Here are some of the best freelance client questions to ask before you agree to a freelance rate as well as after you get the freelance assignment.

Consider using this freelance client intake form before you get on a call with a potential client to avoid time-wasters.

Top Questions Freelancers Should Ask Clients Before They Sign a Contract

To help you sidestep one of the many pitfalls of freelancing, we’re sharing tips and top questions freelancers should ask clients before they commit to the freelance assignment. By the time you secure your next discovery call, you’ll feel confident and ready to start the project.

What’s the project scope?

Before you start the freelance project, you want to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the scope of the project. For example, it’s important to know the specific deliverables of the project. Some clients would prefer to see a rough draft of the project and a final deliverable delivered via pdf. Getting clarification on the deliverables and project objectives will help avoid delays in communication or project mishaps. It’ll also help you avoid scope creep down the line if the client asks for more.

As a rule of thumb, it’s important as a freelancer to have your own set of requirements in order to start a project. You want to come across as confident and trustworthy as possible. You achieve this by providing your client with a checklist of specific requirements you need for the project. Once everything on the checklist has been submitted, you can begin the project with ease. 

What’s the deadline?

Clients want to work with freelancers who are able to meet deadlines with a short turnaround. As a freelancer, it’s important to manage your time and energy efficiently.  The more projects you acquire within a month, the more you limit your availability to take on new clients. Time is your most precious resource as a freelancer!

It’s important to measure your capacity to accept projects and understand the length of time required to complete current ones. 

As a rule of thumb, I always measure out a two-week window for edits or last-minute changes on a project. This way, I estimate that even after I’ve turned in an article or project on deadline, I allow for a bit of buffer room in my schedule for additional changes on the project.  

If you can turn in an assignment early to your freelance client, even better. Just expect that you need some time in your schedule for revisions. This is why you shouldn’t try to book yourself with too many freelance projects. That’s a recipe for freelance burnout.

It’s helpful to establish milestones with the client. Milestones are a great way to approach a project to ensure you are meeting client expectations and the project is on task. Some freelancers require payments to meet milestones. An example might be that the first 25 percent of a project fee is paid after an outline is approved. Another 25 percent or 50 percent will be paid after the first draft. The final amount will be paid after the article or project is approved.

Occasionally projects do run into roadblocks. This is a common freelancer challenge.

When roadblocks occur on a project, communicate with your client. The issue might be a last-minute change to a draft or pushing the deadline date a few days out. Provide your client with a heads up so they can adjust accordingly. 

It never hurts to offer a discount in your rate for the next project for the small inconvenience. Remember, the more flexible you are with clients, they will return the favor, and be more likely to work with you again.

What are the freelance rates?

As a freelancer, your rates will periodically change over time. With more skills and experience, your rates should increase to meet market demands. When it comes to determining a rate for a project, there are a few things you should consider–like the amount of research required, the topic, and the deadline. 

Each of these should be factored into the rate in addition to your experience, niche, and bandwidth to accept the project and come up with freelance writer rates. I prefer to raise my rates twice a year with new clients to stay competitive and to meet my monthly income goals.

When it comes to negotiating your rates as a freelancer, you have rights. Most freelancers accept the first offer the client presents because they are desperate for the work. Don’t feel bad, we’ve all been there in our freelance journeys. 

As a rule of thumb, it’s always good to have a counteroffer or negotiate the rate. Negotiating is not putting the project or client at risk. It allows the client to consider the amount of the investment they are willing to pay for your services. In the end, if a client is unwilling to negotiate the rate, be willing to walk away from the project. Trust me, the right client won’t ditch you because you pushed back on a rate.

How do freelancers get paid?

When it comes to payment methods, I prefer to keep it as professional, efficient, and simple as possible. Most clients prefer to receive a customer invoice from freelancers. 

This is helpful in tracking expenses and time for both parties. If you’re new to freelancing,  you might want to consider Paypal as a payment method. Once you become more established, Quickbooks could be a great option for a fee. Other clients will do a direct deposit into your bank account.

How should freelancers charge?

Some freelancers prefer to be paid on a retainer, per project, or hourly basis. For me, it depends on the project. For example, if I’m hired to write three to four blog articles for a real estate company on a three-month contract, I prefer to work on a retainer fee which is one lump sum payment each month. 

The frequency of payment that you receive for a project should be discussed with the client prior to accepting the project. If you start out on a retainer or project basis and the client wants to increase your responsibilities, you’ll need to increase the amount you’re paid.  It’s important to review the terms of the original agreement and consider making necessary adjustments to protect yourself throughout the time you work for each client.

Top Questions Freelancers Should Ask Clients After Getting the Assignment 

Here’s a freelance template you can reference and send a tailored version of to your client to ensure you’re on the same page when it comes to the freelance project scope, resources, deadlines, as well as voice, and tone. It’s a great way to ensure you’ve identified the top questions freelancers should ask clients.

How Much Research and Which Resources Should I Use?

1. Clarify where research materials will be sourced from (in-house or you have to find sources).

2. Ask if the client will provide any specific resources or reference materials.

For most freelance projects clients will request images and backlinks to support the content. As a freelancer, it’s important to clarify where the clients prefer information to be sourced. For example, clients may allocate a small budget for research. They will permit you to source articles and clips from Google Scholar to cite as a reference in your work. If you’re hired as an in-house freelancer, there may be more contingencies regarding where you can retrieve resources and materials.

Many clients are flexible in their approach to meeting the needs or requirements for a project. It always helpful as a freelancer to provide your client with a content brief. Your content brief should in specific questions or reference request for materials that they specifically want to be used for the assignment. A good resource for material or reference would be SemRush, Reddit, Pinterest, or Answer The Public.

What are the Interview Requirements?

1. Inquire if interviews with subject matter experts are necessary.

2. Discuss logistics and scheduling for interviews, if needed. (Many freelance clients will introduce the freelancer to the team member they need to interview via email so they know you’re working with the team.)

As a freelancer, you will need to interview subject matter experts for an article or blog. If you have a reliable social media network or personal network that you can go to from time to time is beneficial. However, you want to keep your pulse on leading subject matter experts that can bring a fresh perspective or supporting argument to your article. Suggest the idea to your client to see if interviewing a subject matter expert is necessary.

Once you have the green light from your client to interview a subject matter expert. You’ll want to go over the logistics of how you’re going to cover the interview. Your interview should be done in real-time to help gain more quotable insights. It’s always best to record the interview via Zoom and transcribe the clip later.

Who’s the Client’s Audience?

Every brand or organization will have a key demographic that they are targeting for marketing purposes. As a freelancer, you must ask probing questions to learn more about your client’s target audience. You will want to know more about the client’s target audience age, economic status, social stats, and preferences for communication. The more you know about your client’s target demographic, the better prepared you are to develop a concept to address the project deliverables.

What’s the Voice and Tone?

Understanding each freelance client’s desired style, tone,  and voice will be an important aspect of your role as a freelancer. The best way to learn more about your client’s tone, style, and voice is to do a deep dive into their online persona. Take detailed notes on their social media captions, subscribe to the newsletter, or via online videos. Compile all of your notes to identify the brand tone and voice to help create a visual avatar of the client’s target audience and messaging. Remember to ask if they have any blog samples to send over that capture this well.

What is the Revisions and Feedback Process?

1. Establish the process for submitting revisions and incorporating feedback.

2. Clarify the number of revisions included in the project scope. Charge more if the client asks for additional edits.

Before submitting your final draft, you want to permit your client the opportunity to submit revisions or feedback request. This is a golden opportunity for you to receive constructive feedback on your work. Per your client you can establish a process for revisions that may include sharing a Google Doc, highlighting errors, or adding comments.  The process should be efficient and convenient for both parties to avoid any delay in meeting the deadline. As a rule of thumb, it’s important to discuss the number of revisions for the project. You don’t want to be a doormat because your client is simply not satisfied with the changes. Be flexible, yet firm.

Establish Final Delivery and Approval

1. Confirm the preferred method for delivering the final project

2. Discuss the approval process and any necessary sign-offs from the client

Once your client has reviewed the project and the edit request have been completed. You’ll need to confirm the preferred method for delivering the project. Some clients will request a PDF file or docx. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to have a backup on hand just in case the file is lost, corrupted, or not to the client’s satisfaction. The final project deliverable should be satisfactory with minimal errors.

As a freelancer, you want to dot all of your I’s and cross all of your t’s as you identify the top questions freelancers should ask clients. Just as you would have an onboarding process with your client. You’ll want to have an approval process that will ensure that your client’s expectations have been met for the project. Your approval process should include a timeframe for your client to review the project and an opportunity for your client to request any further changes. The client should initial the document to confirm that they are satisfied with the project and have reviewed the work thoroughly. Once your client signs off, you can submit the final deliverable to the client.

Ready to kick-start your freelance writing career? Learn the steps to Get Paid to Write.

by
Keep Reading
freelance niche
Clients Industry Mindset/Motivation

Discover Your Freelance Niche: Tips to Discover Your Path to Success

Raise your hand if you’ve heard sayings like “If you’re marketing to everyone, you’re marketing to no one” or “A jack of all trades, master of none.” (Yep, time to put our hands down, too.)

This is exactly why one needs to discover your freelance niche if you wish to be successful as a freelancer. If you’re asking yourself, ‘Why niche down?’ Won’t that mean I’m leaving tons of clients on the table that I could do work for?

Well, sure. But you’ll also compete with millions of people who think the same way, and that’s never a good path to take.

Why choose a freelance niche? The truth is, focusing on one specific type of work, or one specific industry, allows you to become an “expert” in the niche and it also makes it easier to market yourself. You can gear your marketing efforts to a specific niche, rather than every business that may need your services! In fact, why not try one of the best highest-paying freelance writing niches of 2024?

Tips to Discover Your Freelance Niche

When you’re choosing your freelance niche, follow these tips to find one that suits your interests while also being a high-paying freelancer niche.

Tip 1: Reflect on Your Passions and Interests

What do you love to do? What are you good at? What lights your soul up? What creates a fire in your belly? The answers to these questions are the best place to start your freelance niche journey.

If something interests you, and you have a true passion for what interests you, you’re more likely to motivate yourself to push through the roadblocks when they arise. And roadblocks will come, it’s part of the journey.

Take time to brainstorm ideas. Do a brain dump of everything you love, like, and enjoy.

As you do discovery for your freelance niche, you might want to focus on topics—like fitness, nutrition, technology, consumer products—or, you might think about content marketing writing for brands or copywriting specifically. Both are ways you can categorize a niche.

Tip 2: Assess Your Skills and Expertise

As you sort through the thing you love, make sure to ask yourself and others what skills you have that others would consider you an expert in and remember to evaluate freelance writing skills as well. Include things you know you’re good at, but also those that you’d want to do day after day to make money!

Ask your friends and family, as well as co-workers or former co-workers what they know your skillsets are and what you excel at. Ask them, “When discussing specific freelance skills, which ones make you think of me?”

It’s a lot easier to generate income doing things you already love to do, as well as know how to do. No one wants to have to spend extensive time learning new skills, and then master them, so you feel confident selling yourself to others.

When you feel confident providing value to others, it takes far less time and effort to start attracting clients who want to pay you for your service offerings.

Tip 3: Research Market Demand

Once you’ve done all the preliminary work, it’s time to dig in a bit deeper to discover your freelance niche. It might take a bit of time, because you’ll need to research each niche you’re interested to find out if there’s a demand for your niche service or services.

You could have all the skills in the world, master of all things in that niche, but if no one needs the service or wants it—you won’t find much success, or it might take a lot longer to make money in your chosen niche.

Some of the best places to see if the freelance niche you’ve chosen is in demand? Ask people in your network if they would pay for what you’d like to sell them. Look at places like Fiverr, Upwork, or even LinkedIn and see what services business owners are hiring freelancers for.

And there’s always Google! Set up a “Google Alert” to help notify you about information and jobs in your chosen niches.

Tip 4: Test and Iterate While You Discover Your Freelance Niche

Be open-minded and flexible. If you launch yourself, do all the leg work to get your name out there, but months go by without much interest—prepare to re-evaluate your niche and make changes.

Or, you might need to brush up on your skills and add certifications that potential clients would find appealing—like UX certifications, copywriting certifications, or showcasing courses completed on your LinkedIn page.

Consider working with a reputable business coach, or a marketing coach. Focus on working with professional coaches who can help you with the results you want to achieve. Ask them for previous and current clients, and make sure you get the full story of how the coaching process works to help you achieve your freelancer goal-setting strategy.

Tip 5: Trust Your Instincts

Your gut is often the best barometer for what you should and shouldn’t do to become profitable in your chosen freelance niche. You know what lights you up inside and gives you the motivation to get up each morning and earn money. Trust yourself. Trust your skills. Embrace the challenge knowing you’ve got the skills to be successful.

Your Path to Freelance Success Begins with Discovering Your Niche

Entering the world of freelance work and finding success requires discovering your niche. You’ll need to do a deep dive into what your skills and expertise are, what you enjoy doing, and knowing that you can sell this “work” or “service” to others for a profit.

Now’s the time to get real with yourself and your skill set. Talk to friends, family, and professional acquaintances to learn what they believe your strengths are and what types of work they would hire you to do. Then, collect all this information to finally nail down the perfect freelance niche for you to find financial success with.

Your ideal freelance niche could be a topic “healthcare” or “freelance medical writing” or a skill “copywriting for Google ads” or “technical writing.”

You might have a few starts and stops until you find just the right freelance niche, or combination of niches, that will be successful. If you find yourself struggling, first figure out of your niche is too broad. Remember, if you’re trying to market to everyone, you’re marketing to no one!

If you know your niche is narrow enough, but still run into roadblocks to success, reach out to your network and find a reputable business coach who can help you come up with a plan of action to find success within your desired freelance niche.

Your Freelance Niche Doesn’t Have to Be Forever

Don’t worry. You don’t have to choose one specific topic area or skill and only do that one thing for the rest of your freelance career. (That’s what some think are the cons of freelance niche writing.) But, you do want to niche down so you can focus on your main thing until you make your desired income.

You also want to be the freelancer potential clients think of for specific topic writing like “B2B healthcare writer” or “technical writer.” You’ll get more work that way!

by
Keep Reading