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Best Ways to Turn a Side Hustle into a Full-Time Freelance Career

More than 36% of adults had a side hustle in 2024, according to a bankrate.com survey. If you have a side hustle while working full time, you’ve likely considered making your side hustle a full-time career.

What’s a side hustle? It’s a second, nonprimary job or source of income for a working adult.

Here are some statistics on side hustles, according to a Self.inc financial survey.

  • A side hustler spends between 5 and 10 hours per week on their second job.
  • A little over 19% of the people with side hustles make over $1,000 per month.
  • An average side hustle grosses $688 per month.

For people who love their side hustle more than their job, the question inevitably arises: Should I turn my side hustle into my full-time job? And if so, how do I turn a side hustle into my full-time job?

That depends. Let’s look at some factors you should consider before making the transition.

How to Make a Side Hustle to Full-Time Freelance Job Transition

Keep these side hustle tips at the forefront of your mind when you consider making the leap from a freelance side hustle to a full-time freelance career.

1. Understanding the Challenge

Do you know what it’s going to take emotionally and financially to support yourself and perhaps someone else if you transition to a full-time freelance career? When I was a full-time writer, I was able to get article assignments without doing any freelance marketing. 

Occasional opportunities came to me via word-of-mouth or referrals from editor friends who knew my work. I had freelanced early in my career, and avoided going back to it even though I suffered through a long period of dissatisfaction as a staff writer for one reason: I hated the marketing component of it. It wasn’t natural for me to self-promote, and I knew I’d have to spend three-quarters of my time in the beginning writing pitches and dealing with rejection.

It was easy for me to make some extra money in my spare time as a full-time writer without doing much outreach but I knew I’d have to dig deeper to make it on my own. I made the move to full-time freelance out of necessity after I took a buyout from my full-time job in 2021. Before I left, I tried to learn as much as I could about freelancing by focusing mostly on the business part of it.

I transitioned from side hustle to full-time freelance by taking a few online courses from successful freelancers, some group coaching sessions, and by talking to freelancers who’d made the transition. Even with years of writing experience, I still sweated the change. It’s okay if you feel that way, too.

Know your weaknesses before you make the leap to a full-time freelance career and work on them.

2. Putting Money in the Bank Before Going from Side Hustle to Full-Time Freelance

It’s important to have enough cash to make it through a start-up period. If you have clients already, you won’t need to have as much money socked away to get through the build-up process. A general rule is to have three to six months of cash available for living expenses if something causes you not to work or if you need to get work.

My standards are currently more aggressive but it took me time to build it up. I have a year’s worth of cash for any financial hiccups I could incur. I did that by setting aside a portion of my income beyond my taxes and savings for an emergency account. 

One option to stay afloat is to take a part-time job. This can help you flip the script while you bank some money as you go from side hustle to full-time freelancer. Your side hustle is now your full-time job but you still have a way to bring in money outside of your main job.

I was leery of doing this because I wanted to devote all my energy to building a business. I figured it was more cost-effective to go all-in on freelancing than to split my time working. However, it has worked for many freelancers. It just depends on your situation.

3. Have a Freelance Business Plan

Write a business plan, put it away, and forget about it for a while. It doesn’t need to be fancy but it should be on paper and act as a guidepost for your journey. 

A simple plan for making the transition from side hustle to full-time freelancer is that you should have two important numbers: Your projected monthly income and projected monthly expenses. 

A third component is the clients you are targeting.  Of course, your plan will become more sophisticated as your business grows but, having a super detailed business plan without having clients is meaningless. 

The sooner you can start bringing in money, the better off you’ll be. You can always go back and flesh out your business plan. Building up a roster of paying clients is the most immediate goal. The U.S. Small Business Administration can help you create one.

It’s important not to parse every word of the business plan when you make the move to running a full-time freelance business. It can hold you back. I’ve seen new freelancers agonize over creating the perfect business plan. Avoid that trap. It just saps your energy. 

Trust me, you’ll need to put a lot of energy into finding new freelance clients.

4. Create Your Identity As a Full-Time Freelancer

Be committed to your new title. Let people know that you’re a full-time freelancer. That includes current clients, family, and friends. 

Your online presence should announce your new role. Don’t be shy. One litmus test for making the move from part-time side hustle to full-time freelance is if you are comfortable and confident enough to be public about your role. If it’s not comfortable to call yourself a freelancer, you might want to consider waiting before you leave your full-time job. 

This part was scary for me because I genuinely liked my full-time job. You have to immerse yourself in your new role. I took a class that taught me how not to think like a journalist. The hard skills I learned as a journalist—writing, editing, fact-checking—are useful but, I had to rewire my bedside manner and deprogram myself from being overly skeptical, blunt, and detached.

Those qualities are beneficial for journalists but don’t necessarily help when you have to move into sales mode for your new business. Get to know the characteristics successful freelancers adopt.

5. Know Your Worth

Early in my freelance journey, I took any job that came my way. If you have a side hustle, you should know the value of your work. I knew eventually, I’d be able to charge more. 

What’s important here is to understand that you’re running a business and your well-being depends on your ability to make money. Many people who have a side hustle love it. The dynamics can change, however, when you’re side hustle becomes your main source of income. 

You’ll have to establish your rates and be firm with them. That “nice-to-have” freelance rate that was a little extra gravy in your bank account when you held a full-time job needs to be consistent and a high enough freelance rate to sustain your business and lifestyle. Having a balanced freelance money mindset can help when you’re looking to build a lucrative full-time freelance career.

<learn how to launch your freelance business in a weekend>

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Clients Freelance Jobs Industry Writing Advice

 How to Find Clients on LinkedIn

In the last few years, LinkedIn has become one of the most pivotal networking sites for freelancers. Many freelancers are trying to explore it for how to find clients on LinkedIn, how to find freelance writing jobs using LinkedIn, using it to research freelancing leads, or build a reputation as a professional freelance writer. If those are your goals, LinkedIn is the place to be for freelancers.

Gone are the days when LinkedIn is just a job-searching networking platform. Today, LinkedIn is one of the most reputable social media platforms for business professionals, entrepreneurs, consultants, and creatives to exist in one place.

Being active on LinkedIn as a freelancer will not only help build your online reputation. It can also help your network refer you to opportunities in their circles or promote your services.  Keep reading to learn how  LinkedIn is an important tool for freelancers and how it can help and your first freelance writing job or your fiftieth. You’ll learn LinkedIn tips for freelancers that cover how to build your LinkedIn profile, grow your audience, and tips on what to post on your feed.

Discover 50 websites that list freelance jobs

Here’s How to Find Clients on LinkedIn

Follow these steps to get more freelance clients on LinkedIn by using the popular social media platform more effectively.

Build Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is like your own billboard, you want people to stop and connect with you. How? The key to a successful LinkedIn profile is confidence.

  • Make your profile copy sing.

Your profile should boast about your key strengths, accomplishments, and answer the question of why someone should hire you. The goal of your profile is to stand out enough to inspire your ideal freelance client to message you. These are the key factors to get right when you want to explore how to find freelance writing jobs using LinkedIn.

You have to navigate the lines of boasting about your achievements while also letting potential high-paying freelance clients know how you can help them. (BTW, here’s what to say to a potential client when you send a connection request on LinkedIn.)

  • Write a scroll-stopping LinkedIn headline.

Looking to find freelance clients on LinkedIn? Optimize your headline add a little punch like, “Firecracker of Content Marketing” or “Branding Genie.”. It catches the viewer’s attention while answering who and what you do. Your confidence should jump off the page and attract ideal clients. (Mine says “Atlanta-Badass Ghostwriter.” My potential freelance clients know what they’re going to get. Great copy with a side of sass.)

A good detail to add to your headline is your location, contact info, and a hashtag. You want to ensure that your headline comes up on the first page of LinkedIn search results—and at the search engine results. If you’re a copywriter, SEO expert, or write for a specific freelance niche, include that.

  • Show your best self as you think about how to find freelance writing jobs using linkedin.

Many freelancers neglect the importance of a good quality headshot. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on headshots when you’re trying to stand out as a freelancer on LinkedIn. You can use your camera phone. Ask a friend to help. Your headshot should be warm and inviting. You want people to be curious about you and have a desire to learn more about you.

Try selecting a headshot with a little personality and one that highlights your best features. (Save the car selfie or bathroom selfie for another social media platform.)

Grow Your Audience

Building connections is one of the most critical aspects of your LinkedIn profile. Many people prefer to connect with former colleagues or classmates but you shouldn’t stop there. As a freelancer, you’ll want to make new connections with lots of new people online—particularly ones who work at companies you might want to work for as a freelance consultant.

Your friends, colleagues, or former classmates may come in handy for endorsements of your skills or a referral. But, think bigger. A good tip is to grow your audience within your freelance niche market. For example, if you’re a real estate freelancer, you’ll want to connect with home designers, developers, contractors, and commercial real estate agencies.

Expanding your connections with those in your niche market is one key to success and finding freelance clients on LinkedIn. You’ll also find success by attending industry events, social groups, or leaving a comment on a post for a potential client. Remember, every connection is a potential new client in the future.

Engaging with your connections on LinkedIn is also pivotal to succeeding on the platform. People want to feel special and important. After you receive a connection request, send a voice note or a personalized video. This not only helps build a friendship, but it also helps boost your visibility online.

Liking, sharing, or commenting on a post with those in your network increases your chances of attracting a new freelance client on LinkedIn.

Try an experiment by leaving five comments or likes on posts per day for one week. You’ll see a significant boost in your connection request and DMs.

How to Find Clients Freelance Writing Jobs Using LinkedIn…

Know that every freelancer struggles with what to post on LinkedIn occasionally. I prefer to do a combination of storytelling, business content, or freelance tips as a post. This helps my connections to learn more about me on a personal note.

At the same time, I am attracting ideal clients to want to work with me. It’s helpful to view your impressions and analytics to see which types of posts are resonating with your network.

Don’t be afraid to try new content strategies to see what works best. A good way to find your next post idea is to share your latest challenge as a freelancer or news of the latest project you just booked. It’s always great to post milestone birthdays, vacation photos, pets, or a random selfie of you in your workspace. (The LinkedIn algorithms love photos with posts these days!)

Posting consistently is a great way to boost your profile as a freelancer. Whether you post early morning, midday, or late in the evening, you’re feeding the algorithm. LinkedIn likes that a lot. That being said, there is such a thing as posting too little or too much.

I prefer to post at least twice a day during the weekdays. I take an occasional break on weekends or I focus on engagement as I explore getting freelance work on LinkedIn. (Another Best Freelance Tips freelancer Diana Kelly Levey says she finds higher-than-expected engagement on LinkedIn on Sunday nights. Who knew?)

You want to remain active on LinkedIn to attract clients and stay up to date on trends. An inactive account is the equivalent of a beautiful house with no tenants. Find a balance that works for you and show up as yourself online.

Write Articles on LinkedIn to Draw in Freelance Clients

One of the best aspects of LinkedIn is the writing articles feature. As a freelancer, clients will frequently request to see your portfolio. By writing articles within your niche, you can help clients see samples of your writing for free. That’s just one way writing articles can work to your advantage when you’re wondering how to find freelance writing jobs using LinkedIn.

You can also create a specialized newsletter within your niche or a standalone article once you’ve toggled to Creator Mode on the platform. Either is a good way to promote your skills and knowledge as a freelance writer. The more you can get your writing samples in front of your ideal freelance client on LinkedIn, the better your chances of securing high-paying work.

When it comes to choosing what to write about on LinkedIn there are some great strategies you can implement.

  • You can run a poll on a controversial topic in your niche.
  • You can search the latest headlines or trends.
  • You can subscribe to a few newsletters in your market to stay abreast of current topics.

Finding what to write is all about staying engaged and locked into the market. You can also connect with industry leaders and take keynotes from a discussion to convert it into a LinkedIn article. When in doubt on how to choose a topic, ask your network.

Engage with the LinkedIn Community

Do you enjoy leaving comments on other freelancers’ posts? If not, you’re missing out on an opportunity to grow your network and presence. It’s one of the best strategies for how to find clients on LinkedIn.

By leaving a comment on a post you are inviting other potential viewers to learn more about you and your services. Stop scrolling and start leaving an in-depth comment on a fellow LinkedIn user post.

One of the most effective strategies for leaving a comment is to first thank the host. You want to highlight and acknowledge them. Next, when leaving a comment you want to share a tidbit on your background and why you are supporting the post. Lastly, you want to add any relevant hashtags to the post. The hashtags can increase your visibility across LinkedIn and invite others to connect with you to chat more.

Leaving a comment on a post is a great way to meet potential clients and it gives you a conversation starter in their inbox. It’s one of the best tips to find clients on LinkedIn that many freelancers don’t think about.

There are many industry leaders on LinkedIn. It can feel a little intimidating to attract their attention. Before you pitch your services in the inbox or like every post, try this. Start by engaging with the industry leader online by leaving a comment, subscribing to the newsletter, and connecting with those who are within their network.

Sometimes you have to go through the middleman to get to the big fish. Ask for an introduction or book a consultation. It never hurts to take a risk and gain a big reward.

Search for Freelance Opportunities

LinkedIn wants you to land a client or job on the platform. Thus, the LinkedIn job search feature will become your best friend. Whether you’re searching for a “content writing” opportunity in the United States or “remote writing” opportunities, you can find them on LinkedIn.

A good rule of thumb is to learn more about the company that is hiring and follow them or their employees on LinkedIn. If you land the gig great, if not, you can learn more about the next opportunity with them.

Turn on your notifications to learn more about new company products or services. Some companies or organizations enjoy partnering with freelancers for projects. You can pitch someone within the marketing department about your freelance services, it’s a win-win for all.

Keep at It to Find Clients on LinkedIn

Lastly, LinkedIn is unlike most social media platforms on the market. You want to remain professional and relatable when connecting with potential clients. It’s important to not only promote your services. You want to combine a mix of education and entertainment. (Pet pics always seem to perform well.)

Consider your inbox as an invite-only opportunity to work with you or refer to your services. I always say that the more people in my network, the more referrals I’ll receive later. As a freelancer, always keep your eyes peeled for your next opportunity.

Make LinkedIn your playground as you explore how to find clients on LinkedIn. The more fun you have on the LinkedIn platform as a freelancer, the better chances you’ll have with landing clients.

FAQs

  • How often should I update my LinkedIn profile?

Sharing your latest achievements with your network will help increase your visibility and trustworthiness. Whether it’s an award, new freelance client, or starting a new position, be consistent with sharing an update at least once a week.

  • What kind of content works best for engaging potential freelance clients?

The best content that works best for engaging with potential clients would be a good mixture between infographics, lead magnets, and videos. Potential clients want to know that you are a subject matter expert and can effectively communicate ideas in a way that is pleasing to the market.

  • How can I convert LinkedIn connections into actual clients?

One of the best ways to convert LinkedIn connections to actual clients is by having a lead magnet. By offering a free eBook or a paid subscription newsletter helps keep your business or services planted in your clients’ minds. Whether it’s email marketing tips, virtual assisting services, or content marketing ideas entice your ideal client to sign up to learn more on how to achieve their desired goal with you.

Here are linkedin post templates when you’re wondering what to share on linkedin
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2025 freelance writer trends
Industry Mindset/Motivation Money Writing Advice

The 2025 Freelance Writing Trends for Freelancers to Know

Freelancing is an ever-changing industry, and as freelancers, part of our job is to change with it and adapt to changing trends in a way that can help our continued success.  That being said, adapting isn’t always fun and comfortable, but having an idea of what to expect might make you feel a bit more chill as you consider freelancer trends and predictions. That’s why we’re setting some freelance writing trends for 2025 to help you have a sense of what might come down the pike in our industry.

When I got into freelancing in 2019, I had no idea what I was doing and started out writing about beekeeping for some clients and luxury properties in Spain for others. After that, I shifted into writing about real estate and building materials with no idea that 2020 was coming and, amongst other changes, the real estate industry was about to go crazy. 

Looking back, I was in the perfect position and there was plenty of content to write. As the real estate craze settled down, there wasn’t as much of a need for content in that niche, and I shifted my focus to more home improvement, personal finance, and commerce.

A lot of the time, it feels like riding a wave and trying to keep my head above water and taking things as they come while simultaneously being proactive and getting ahead of trends, so I can position myself to be in the right place at the right time to get clients and projects — if that sounds like a lot, it is! 

To help you learn about 2025 freelance writing trends and freelance predictions for the year ahead and beyond, we’re covering what professional freelancers have to say about the industry:

The 2025 Freelance Writing Trends Freelancers Should Be Aware Of

I talked with freelance writers and looked at recent survey findings to figure out what’s coming in 2025. But the freelance industry is still ever-changing, so while this is what we see coming, it can always shift and change in ways we don’t expect. 

AI is here to stay, but not in the way that we thought as freelance writers

“AI is here and it’s not going anywhere,” says Kaitlyn Arford, a freelance writer who curates a newsletter with freelance writing opportunities. “I think at this point the companies that want to use AI for content are going to use AI, while others have returned to hiring writers.  I’ve also seen opportunities for writers to work with AI and I would expect to see some of that next year. (For example, brands wanting writers to edit AI copy or train AI models.)”

While general sentiment has moved away from the panicked AI will take our jobs freak-out that occurred when ChatGPT rolled out, AI is still impacting the freelance industry. Ashley Cummings, founder of the boutique content marketing agency, Searchlight Content, who along with freelancer, Emma Siemasko, conducted a survey on the state of AI in content marketing, says, “With the rise of AI, I think the freelance writing world will see more of what I’m calling Content Conductors, or good writers and editors who are hired to prompt AI, tweak, and reword. I think it’s unfortunate, but I think it’s coming.”

LinkedIn is the place to be for freelance writing jobs

“Twitter/X used to be a stable place to connect with editors and find pitch calls,” says Arford. “That’s not true anymore. LinkedIn is the place to be.” She recommends that “your LinkedIn profile reflects what you do as a freelancer and clearly shares that you’re available for hire.” 

see linkedin post templates to try when you’re feeling stuck and don’t know what to write

The professional social platform isn’t just a place where you explore how to find freelance clients on LinkedIn, though it can be very helpful for that. Freelance writer Kat Boogaard says she’s been approached about doing some LinkedIn ghostwriting projects for company executives who want to build their personal brands. Ghostwriting LinkedIn posts (and articles) or generating thought leadership content for executives to post may also be an upcoming freelance niche to explore.

Add to your freelance client services

Speaking of niches, it might be time to broaden yours. High-paid freelance skills will ensure you always have freelance work to do.

I’m predicting this is a freelance writer trend for 2025. While there’s a lot to be said about niching down and focusing on a topic that you know well, there is a time and a place to explore other niches, and 2025 might be the time to consider these best high-paying freelance niches. 

As content budgets for freelance writers have become tighter in recent years—I just had an editor tell me their budget is small this year and another client paused content one month to wait for their budget to renew — you may need to get creative with freelance business offerings.

“Experiment and do whatever you have to to stay afloat,” says Arford. “That might mean working in multiple niches or in different types of work, like offering more services.” Consider one of these 10 passive income for freelancer streams to bulk up your bank account.

Freelancers have to be proactive to maximize 2025 freelance writing trends

We’ve all seen that perfect call for pitches on LinkedIn or X/Twitter only to glance down at the hundreds of comments announcing people have sent pitches. It’s frustrating, but that freelance trend likely isn’t going anywhere, at least we don’t expect it to disappear by 2025. What does this mean for your business? 

Ditch the feelings of discouragement and get proactive with pitching freelance articles and services via cold emails.

Building relationships with local businesses and other people in your area is a great practice to try, recommends Arford. (Check out local ‘Chamber of Commerce’ groups, local meetup events, and professional organizations in your town or city.) You can also reach out to editors and potential clients with a letter of introduction that shares who you are, what you do, and how you may be able to help them with their content needs. 

[Here are LinkedIn outreach templates to try when you want to connect to someone and pitch your business.]

[Steph’s tip: I started using ChatGPT to ask for editor emails, and it actually works!]

Relationships are key to making 2025 freelance writer business strides

Building relationships with editors, other freelancers, and public relations teams will be your winning ticket to generating more work in 2025. While there are still freelance job boards and newsletters that share calls for freelance pitches, there’s a lot to be said for cultivating your own relationships.  You never know who might become your next anchor client for 2025.

Building relationships with editors, not just for work but to genuinely connect, can mean that you’re top of mind when they need a writer. Connecting with other freelancers can lead to work down the road if someone they work with needs help. And PR reps are a great source of ideas and can connect you with products and experts to enhance your stories.

Take freelance relationships a step further and work together to take on larger projects, suggests freelance writer Andy Strote, agency founder and author of How to Become a Successful Creative Freelancer. “Freelancers can propose a ‘virtual agency’, a team of freelance experts brought together for [a] project,” he says. The team might include a writer, designer, and developer who can take on larger projects for a client. This is a good strategy to explore as a freelance writing trend for 2025. Work connecting with those freelancers you’ll team up with in 2024 so you have your team in place.

Bring On 2025 Freelance Writer Trends

Obviously, none of us can actually predict which trends will take hold in 2025, but it does help to be proactive, take a look at where things are now, and predict where they might be headed. It’s also a good time to start planning—and pad your bank account as best you can.

If you want to start offering more or different freelance writing services, this is a good time to start researching who needs them and how you can reach potential clients. If you’re going to ask existing clients for freelance referral work, we’ll show you exactly how to do that.

You can also research up-and-coming freelance writing niches for 2025 or explore an area that you think would be a good fit and compile a list of potential clients or editors. The new year is just around the corner, and now is the time to start preparing for 2025 freelance trends to hit.

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Examples of Freelance Writing Work

One of the things, and there are quite a few, that surprised me about freelance writing is that freelance writing comes in many forms. Each type of freelance writing seems like it comes with its nuances, terminology, and rules, so getting an idea of different examples of freelance writing work can help you zero in on the type of writing you want to do.

Some examples of freelance writing work include editorial writing, content marketing, copywriting, ghostwriting, and social media writing, and we’ll go over these and more in this article to help you get a handhold in what can feel like an overwhelming number of options. The type of writing you choose to pursue will depend on the publications you want to write for, the type of content you want to write, and the amount of research you want to do.

The tricky part can be that many of these types of writing have similarities and subtle overlaps. For instance, you could be a ghostwriter and a social media writer if you’re writing LinkedIn posts for company executives. Or you can do content marketing writing for a company’s blog. 

But the good news is that while this can make things confusing, it can also make it easy to move from one type of freelance writing to another if you want or need to. 

What are Examples of Freelance Writing Work?

Here are some different freelance writing examples. See freelance writing samples and different ways freelance writing can be explained in the business world. This can help you be on your way when exploring how to find freelance writing jobs.

Editorial Writing

Editorial writing is typically included in online and print magazines, newspapers, and other publications. In it, the writer takes a specific stance on an issue or writes from their perspective about a topic with a very defined angle. 

To become an editorial writer, you need to position yourself as an expert in the area you’re writing about, and it doesn’t necessarily have to be politics or climate or anything that heavy. 

You may be an expert in efficiency or healthy products for your home and then leverage that into writing expert editorial content.  In some circles, editorial writing for magazines and websites is synonymous with journalism writing. For others, examples of freelance writing samples that include editorial writing might be an opinion piece.

Freelance Writing Example: The New York Times — The newspaper is a good place to see editorial writing in action. 

Content Marketing Writing

Companies use content marketing writing to inform and educate their customers (and potential customers) as well as engage them with the brand. If you’ve headed to a brand’s blog, gotten a series of emails from a company, or read a case study of a company’s past projects, you’ve seen content marketing in action. These are all freelance writing examples.

This type of freelance writing is intended to position a person or brand as an expert in their field and engage their current and potential customers or clients. Content marketing writing can take many forms, typically blog posts and articles, email sequences, and even case studies. 

This type of freelance writing work can easily overlap with ghostwriting because some brands may not want the content attributed to a specific writer but rather act as the voice of the brand speaking to their consumers.  A freelance writing sample in this niche could address “7 Ways to Use X New Product” from the company or something like “7 Signs Your Teeth Aren’t as Clean As You Think” on a dental product brand site.

Example of freelance writing: Get even with dark spots: Hyperpigmentation explained

Copywriting

Whether you know it or not, you see copywriting just about everywhere. Copywriting in its most basic form is writing advertisements, but it can include product descriptions, product labels, website copy, newsletters, scripts for commercials, and more. Essentially, it persuades readers or listeners to take action and purchase, subscribe, follow, etc. Copywriting doesn’t typically come with a byline, but you may be able to see your writing out in the wild.

Freelance Writing Example: Native Whole Body Deodorant Spray — Check out the Scent Description as a freelance copywriting example. (Actually, all of the webpage copy could be examples of copywriting.)

Sponsored Content Writing

Sponsored content writing overlaps with content marketing writing, blog writing, and social media writing depending on where it’s published. Sponsored content writing includes a product or service that’s being promoted by the brand. 

This type of freelance writing can even be woven into editorial writing, and it can sometimes be so seamlessly integrated that it can be difficult to spot unless you know what you’re looking for. Look for copy that says “sponsored content” or “sponsored by” on a website article page or a print magazine page.

Freelance Writing Example: 3 Easy Ways to Make Your Home Look More Luxe — Sponsored by MINWAX

Technical Writing

If you’ve used a product’s instructions to set up a new device or gadget, you’ve experienced technical writing. This type of writing includes writing user manuals and product instructions as well as white papers that do a deep dive into a particular subject or aspect of a company’s business. 

To be a successful technical writer, you’ll need to be a skilled researcher as well as have a deep knowledge of the subject matter or business. If you have real-world experience in the industry you’re writing about, that’s definitely a plus.

Freelance Writing Example: Shark Detect Pro Robot Vacuum User Guide 

Ghostwriting

Curious about ‘what is ghostwriting?’ Ghostwriting means writing under another person or company’s name. Ghostwriters can write books, speeches, blog posts, and more. The downside to this is that you may not get recognition for your work, and you may not even be able to discuss it depending on the nature of the work.  It’s also why it’s challenging to know which of these are freelance writing examples.

But the upside is that you can work with clients to craft their tone which can create a rewarding experience for you as you work toward an example of freelance writing in the ghostwriting field.

Freelance Writing Example: Arktura — The company’s blog, as well as an Op-Ed could be ghostwritten, or LinkedIn posts and articles might be ghostwriting examples. (It’s hard to spot these!)

Journalism

Journalism refers to reporting on current events, issues, and trends, but it can also overlap with content writing depending on how much reporting you’re doing. If you’re working for a news publication, the type of writing will likely rest firmly in the journalism category. But certain types of content writing in which you interview expert sources about a topic and then report your findings or use it to support the topic can also fall under the journalism umbrella.

Freelance Writing Example: Your favorite news source

Video or Podcast Script Writing

Video or podcast producers can hire a freelance writer to create the script from which they will produce their content. Depending on the structure of the video or podcast, you may write a fully fleshed-out and detailed script, or you may be responsible for creating a looser outline if the show is more free-flowing. The amount of research and expertise you need will also depend on the type of content they produce. This could overlap with social media writing if you’re writing scripts for TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube.

Example of Freelance Writing: Solar System 101 | National Geographic — Someone had to write the script for the narrator to read. 

Social Media Writing

Social media writing typically deals with writing copy for social posts on Instagram, LinkedIn, or X, but it may also consist of writing scripts for Reels or TikTok videos and include content strategy depending on the client and their needs. You can work with individuals, brands, or other companies. Because the line between social media writing and content creation can be blurry, make sure you discuss expectations with your clients and clearly lay out what deliverables you’ll be producing for them. 

Freelance Writing Example: The Skinny Confidential Instagram

Blog Writing

Many companies maintain blogs, and therefore need blog writers. Blog writing is a broad category because examples of freelance blogs can range from thought leadership content from Fortune 500 companies to tips and tricks from a beauty brand to information about your local HVAC company.

Blogs often fall under the content marketing umbrella because the goal of a blog post is to reach potential customers and inform and engage them, so they think of the company when they need to reach out for products or services. Blogs can also be a form of editorial writing or come directly from an individual for whom you can ghostwrite.  You might want to create freelance writing samples that show how you’d write a blog for a particular client and feature it on your website.

Example of Freelance Writing: Better Money Habits — Bank of America’s blog, which would also be an example of content marketing writing.

How to choose examples of freelance writing work that’s best for you

Finding the right type of writing work often takes some trial and error. I’ve tried copywriting and email sequences, but I mainly focus on content marketing, especially blogs and articles as my sweet spot for freelance writing examples.

Your choice might also depend on the time you have for research. When I’m busy, I prefer jobs with light research over more in-depth journalistic writing.

Exploring different freelance work and connecting with editors will help you discover what you enjoy and excel at.

Discover freelance pitches that sold when you download this pitching template

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Freelance Jobs Industry Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

What is the first step to start freelancing?

Should you build your freelance writer portfolio website or start applying to freelance jobs? 

Should you start writing article pitches for your favorite publication or try to find first freelance writing job for beginners through newsletters that curate online job offerings?

These are common freelance questions I get from my freelance blog readers, LinkedIn followers, and freelance coaching clients who want to explore how to get freelance writing jobs.

You might feel like you should know the answer but, you’re in good company in a burgeoning freelance marketplace.  In fact, I’ve been at this freelance writing career for two decades and finding freelance writing jobs is always part of my monthly marketing plan to keep my pipeline full of work. I know of many experienced freelancers in similar situations who are also always exploring how to find freelance writing jobs.


I believe there is no wrong answer when you’re learning how to find freelance jobs and you aren’t sure of the first step. 

Simple Ideas for How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

Here are some strategies to think about when you want to find freelance content writing jobs:

  • Some freelancers will find their first job by applying to a freelance gig on a website like Fiverr or Upwork.
  • Others will launch their freelance website with their bio, sample clips (published articles or blogs), and information on how to contact them.
  • Another freelancer might apply to freelance websites that list paying jobs and freelance gigs.
  • A recently laid-off freelancer might reach out to their network on social media to let them know they’re available for work. 
  • Some freelancers will share their best freelance skills on social media and remind audiences that they have some openings in their schedule for freelance writing work.

All of these are good options and ways I suggest freelancers find freelance jobs in today’s marketplace.

There are plenty of other approaches for someone looking to find freelance work as well.

That’s why my freelance writing online courses, I show freelancers a variety of ways to find freelance gigs. 

But since there are so many ways to find jobs for freelancers—it can feel overwhelming. 

That’s why I suggest beginner freelancers wanting to know ‘how do I start the freelance basics’ focus on two to three factors.

A Pro Freelancer’s Blueprint for How to Find Freelance Jobs

I’ve been a freelancer for over 20 years and earned a six-figure freelance salary for most of the years I’ve been a full-time freelancer. Here are the best ways to find freelance jobs and get started freelancing so you appear professional and clients want to hire you.

Create a professional online presence.

This could be a website. This could be a LinkedIn profile page. This could be a freelance writer portfolio on a content marketing platform website or a third-party site. 

It’s important that when clients look you up–because they will–they see what you want them to see and you’re showcasing your strongest freelance presence as you work toward how to find content writing jobs.

If you’re a full-time employee and don’t want to use your full name as your website or landing page, that’s fine for beginner freelance writers who want to learn how to find freelance jobs. It could be “Melissa’s Writing Services” or “Jose’s Copywriting Company” and you can link to it directly from your email pitch.

The professional presence should share what kind of freelance services you offer, how someone can get in touch with you, any relevant past experience, as well as a sample or two if you have them.

Decide which freelance niches you’re interested in.

I don’t think all freelancers need to be extremely niche, especially when it’s a beginner freelancer who’s exploring how to find freelance jobs that will help them build up experience.

I do, however, think freelancers who are wondering how to find freelance writing jobs should examine jobs that fit their interests first. Everything you write and work on as a freelance won’t be the most exciting topic ever and one you’d love to cover but, in the beginning, I think it’s helpful to establish a freelance niche that captures your interests and you have a background in.

What do I mean with this?

If you love gardening and have a passion for home gardening, consider starting with that niche. You might pitch gardening magazines or lifestyle publications or websites that address this topic.

I your day job involves a counseling degree and you love addressing mental health topics, consider writing these times of articles for a health magazine, app, or brand if you feel comfortable.

IMO, when you’re applying to freelance writing jobs for beginners, having a vast experience in an area—professionally or personally—is what will set you apart and get noticed in a sea of experienced freelancers.

Know which type of freelance work you want to do to get freelance writing jobs.

This part is important and shouldn’t be ignored. You probably explored the topic of how to find freelance jobs and how a beginner should start freelancing with a writing style in mind. You might want to write ad copy and landing page copy for brands. You might want to sell personal essays to parenting magazines. You might want to do content marketing writing or content writing for brands. You might dream of seeing your name as a byline in a newspaper, magazine, or online editorial, or magazine-style websit a. 

The exciting thing about freelancing is that there are so many different styles of freelance writing you can try and different types of freelance writing the businesses are looking for. What’s even more appealing is that there are a ton of freelance writing jobs for remote work. Keep in mind when you are searching for freelance jobs that some of the types of freelance writing tend to pay better than others.

For example, writing personal essays for a lifestyle website can be fun and rewarding and is a great way to have a published clip that shows your personal style and “voice,” but it doesn’t pay that well in my experience. Copywriting for brands and helping them convert leads into paying customers is a more lucrative form of freelance writing. 

Whichever style of writing you decide to do as a beginner freelance writer doesn’t mean you have to stick with that for the entirety of your career. But I do think it’s important to be able to tell potential clients what type of writing you can offer them when you’re trying to figure out how to find freelance writing jobs online.

 I started out writing reported articles and magazine-style articles for websites and now I do more content marketing, SEO blog writing, and copywriting for brands.  While I can cover all of these types of writing for a particular client it’s helpful when I send them introductory email if I can let them know about which type of writing I’m pitching them to hire me for.

In my freelance online course “how to earn $100 an hour or more freelance writing,” I address where to look for freelance work that tends to be higher-paying, how to choose a niche in a lucrative field, and how to enhance your writing skills so you’re offering writing services brands want writers to have.

Where to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

There are a ton of resources for freelance writing gigs out there that you can get in your inbox each day or each week, as well as setting up alerts on job boards.

My weekly newsletter “Diana’s Best Freelance Writing Tips Newsletter” features at least five freelance jobs I found each week. Subscribe via that link to get it in your inbox midweek. My subscribers tell me that they enjoy reading it to find new ways of how to find freelance writing work and read the job listings.

Here are some ways you can find remote writing jobs:

Work Your Network

Referrals from coworkers at full-time jobs probably account for about 70 percent of my business. You might think, “But I don’t know anyone in publishing!” Well, do you know anyone in any business? I bet you do, and chances are their company has a blog or a website that needs content. Let those people know you’re a freelance writer who can help with their editorial needs. Skim through your LinkedIn contacts to see if any businesses could use your freelance writing skills.

Look for Freelance Writing Jobs on Job Boards

Freelance writing job boards can be a goldmine, but be selective. Don’t apply to any random gig that says “freelance writer” if the topic bores you. You want freelance writing jobs that pay well, align with your interests, and could lead to repeat work. Building up your writing clips in a specific genre makes you more marketable in the long run.

Follow Editors and Media Outlets on Social Media

Editors often post “calls for pitches” on X/Twitter, so make sure you follow the brands and editors you want to write for. It’s a great strategy for those who want to know how to find freelance writing jobs online.. You can find editors’ names in a magazine’s masthead or by searching LinkedIn, then track them down on X. If you see “Editor at X Company” in their bio, you might even find their email address there for easy pitching. 

Here’s what to say in a linkedIn message when you try to connect with an editor

Share Relevant Content on Social

Get noticed by building your freelance brand on social media. Follow industry hashtags, share articles in your niche, and post content that matches the freelance writing jobs you want to land. Some freelancers get approached for assignments simply because they share valuable content on social media. For instance, an editor might see you posting about travel writing and reach out with an opportunity to write for them.

Use Content Mills (Cautiously)

Some writers use platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find freelance writing work. While they aren’t always my first recommendation for more experienced writers, they can help you build up your portfolio if you’re just starting out as a beginner freelance writer.

I have heard plenty of stories where freelancers found high-paying freelance writing gigs on the platforms. Focus on writing content that fits the genre you want to work in, and once you have a few clips, start searching for better-paying clients if you don’t feel you’re being paid what you’re worth

Approach each freelance content job online with caution as there are plenty of freelancer client scams online.

Skim the App Stores

Apps often have blogs, and they need freelance writers! I’ve made thousands of dollars writing for apps in niches like health, fitness, and finance. (Brands I’ve written for include Headspace, Noom, Fitbit, MyFitnessPal, UnderArmour, LoseIt, Weight Watchers, Nike Training Club, Sleep Cycle and more. Look at the apps you use every day—chances are they need content, and you could be the writer to provide it once you figure out how to find freelance writing jobs.

Watch for Mergers, Acquisitions, and Companies Going Public

If a company in your niche just went public or merged with another, they might have the budget to hire freelance writers. Reach out to editors or content managers at these companies and congratulate them on their recent success. It’s a great way to open the door to future writing opportunities.

Research Top 100 Companies

Check out lists like “Top 100 Companies to Watch” or Fortune 100 lists to see which businesses are excelling in your target niche. If they’re growing or winning awards, they’re likely producing a lot of content and may need freelance writers. Do some digging, then pitch your freelance writing services to the companies that catch your eye.

Stay On Top of New Product Launches

Freelancers who stay ahead of industry trends often find the best writing gigs. Read business news to see which brands are launching new websites or adding new content sections. Pitch your writing services to companies that are expanding—you could be the fresh voice they need.

Look for Freelance Writing Jobs with Nonprofits

Many people overlook nonprofits, but these organizations often have large budgets for content. Nonprofits use blogs, newsletters, and articles to share their work with donors and the public, and they need writers to create that content. I’ve earned over $60,000 writing for a nonprofit since 2014, so don’t dismiss this avenue.

Check Out Your Local Library

Libraries are great places to get inspiration and find freelance writing leads. Flip through consumer magazines and niche publications you find there—many magazines have sections you might not expect, like travel in a car magazine or beauty in a parenting mag. I like this freelance writing jobs tip because it’s a good way to do industry research for free. If your library has a free tool like HOOPLA or LIBBY you can use to download magazines, you can do this freelance job research from the comfort of home. Keep an open mind, and you might find new markets for your freelance work.

Join a Local Networking Group or Chamber of Commerce

Networking with local professionals can lead to valuable freelance writing jobs. Join a Chamber of Commerce or networking group in your area to meet business owners who need content. Many small businesses and local organizations need freelance writers to create blogs, newsletters, and marketing materials.

Keep a File or Notepad of Magazine, Radio, and Podcast Ads

When you hear ads on podcasts or see them in magazines, those brands are investing in marketing—and they might need a freelance writer. Keep a file or notepad handy to jot down the companies you notice when you’re watching TV or streaming, walking with a podcast on, or listening to the radio. Then research their content needs in case they have some freelance writing jobs postsed. These businesses are already spending money, and they could be your next freelance writing client if you pitch them right.

Pay Attention to News and Trends in Organizations

Keeping up with news and industry trends can help you find freelance writing gigs before others do. When you notice an organization making waves, reach out to offer your writing services. Staying informed gives you an edge in landing freelance writing jobs with companies that are growing. 

You might want to set up Google alerts for industry-specific keywords so news articles are sent to your inbox. I also recommend asking publicists in your industry to be added to their “media lists” so you’re one of the first to get press releases and announcements that might be under embargo.

Look for High-Paying Freelance Writing Gig Opportunities with Local and Federal Government

Yes, even Uncle Sam needs freelance writers! Government agencies often post freelance writing jobs for content creation, including blogs, public relations pieces, and technical writing. Keep an eye on local and federal job boards, as they frequently have opportunities for freelance writers to contribute to public projects and they’re great placed to look when curious about how to find freelance content writing jobs. You might need to become certified to apply for these contractor roles but once you’re in, you usually are certified for a few years.

Research Brands That Sponsor Niche Conferences and Events

Brands that sponsor niche conferences or events often have marketing budgets for freelance work. After sponsoring an event, they usually need blog posts, articles, and social media content to highlight their involvement. Reach out to these brands for potential freelance writing jobs—they’re often looking for help promoting their latest marketing efforts.

Mind the Sponsors on Social Media and Newsletters

Many brands sponsor content on TikTok, Instagram, and newsletters, which means they might need freelance writers. If you notice a brand sponsoring multiple posts or ads, consider pitching them for freelance writing opportunities. They have ad money to spend and they might have marketing money for freelancers, too! Social media can be a goldmine when you’re exploring how to find freelance writing jobs if you follow the right accounts and stay proactive.

12 Websites That List Freelance Writing Jobs

Here are freelance writing jobs websites you can check out to find the right content writing job for you to kick-start your freelance side hustle or full-time freelance business.

BloggingPro

This website curates work from home freelance jobs, remote writing jobs, or helps pull together jobs for those who seek freelance, full-time, part-time, contract, or internship roles. 

Skyword

Skyword connects freelance writers with high-end clients in content marketing. This platform is known for decent pay and steady opportunities in a range of industries, including healthcare and tech. It’s a great place for both beginner and experienced freelancers to find writing jobs with household brands.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful remote writing job search tool for freelancers, allowing you to browse freelance writing jobs, connect with editors, and market your skills. Update your profile to include “freelance writer” in your bio and regularly check the jobs section for new opportunities. Many freelancers land clients simply by being active and visible on this platform.

FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a trusted freelance job board offering hand-screened remote and flexible jobs. The platform is a great option for freelance writers who want to find work-from-home gigs or flexible writing positions. It also provides helpful resources like articles and webinars for freelancers.

JournalismJobs

JournalismJobs.com features freelance writing jobs, though many listings are for full-time positions. Their “freelance jobs” section highlights opportunities in journalism, so it’s worth checking out. Save listings to pitch to potential clients down the road, even if they no longer have openings.

Upwork

Upwork is a well-known freelance writing site, especially for beginners. While there are many opportunities, it can be time-consuming to pitch yourself and sift through low-paying gigs. Be selective about the jobs you apply for and always ensure you’re charging a fair rate for your skills.

Freelancers Union

Although it doesn’t list many freelance writing jobs, Freelancers Union is a great resource for all freelancers who want to learn tips for finding content writing jobs. You can join their community for free, access discounts, get help with freelance taxes, and even find insurance. They also offer a blog you can contribute to for extra writing clips.

Fiverr

Fiverr is another platform to find freelance writing jobs, ranging from SEO writing to speechwriting. While rates can be low for beginners, experienced freelancers with strong profiles can earn more. Use Fiverr to gain a few samples, then move on to higher-paying gigs.

Contently

Contently is a top site for showcasing your freelance writing portfolio and connecting with reputable brands. Freelancers compete for high-paying gigs, and the platform tends to have quality clients in niches like healthcare and finance. Keep your profile updated to increase your chances of landing freelance writing jobs.

ClearVoice

ClearVoice is a good option for beginner freelance writers looking to host a portfolio and find writing gigs. Though the pay may be lower than on platforms like Contently, it offers steady work in various industries. Create a profile to increase your chances of being discovered by clients in need of content.

Wellfound

Wellfound, formerly known as AngelList Talent, is a platform that connects startups with job seekers. It serves as a job board and recruiting tool specifically geared towards the startup community. Wellfound allows companies to post job openings, and candidates can create profiles to apply for positions directly through the platform.

nDash

Ndash is a content creation platform that connects freelance content writers with businesses and individuals that need content for their company blog. The platform allows businesses to post content creation projects, such as articles, blog posts, case studies, whitepapers, and more. Freelance writers can then browse these projects and submit proposals to work on them.

Learning How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs isn’t Hard

It just takes time, due diligence, and following up. One of the things I didn’t do when I was looking for freelance writing jobs as a beginner that I later regretted was not tracking all of the “freelance marketing” and “freelance jobs search” I was doing. I could have done that using a CRM tool, Google Sheets, Excel or free tool like Notion—like I use today. That would have helped me stay on top of all the ways freelance writers can find freelance writing jobs like I listed above. Don’t make my mistake!

If you want to see 50 Freelance Websites That List Freelance Jobs, get the resource here. 👇

See 50 Freelance job websites. Get the download here
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How to Use Social Media to Find Freelance Clients

Social media is a goldmine for freelancers—but you don’t need to scroll endlessly to strike gold. With a strategic and authentic approach, you can create a steady pipeline of leads and opportunities without sacrificing hours of your day. Let’s explore how you can find freelance clients on social media using platforms like LinkedIn, Meta, and Bluesky to find freelance clients while keeping your screen time in check.

The Immense Value of Social Media for Freelancers

Social media isn’t just for cute pet videos; it’s where business happens, too. Your ideal clients are more likely to scout for talent online than ever before. You can showcase your expertise, build genuine connections, and gain visibility within your niche. 

Here’s the kicker: You don’t have to be on every platform. (Whew!)The key to success is to focus on one or two that align with your goals and ideal client avatar. Here’s how freelancers can use social media to find freelance clients:

How to Use Social Media to Find Freelance Clients

These are the top social media platforms for freelancers where clients hang out and freelance jobs are often posted:

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the professional network powerhouse, perfect for B2B and B2C freelancers who dabble as freelance writers, designers, and consultants. It’s not just a place to list your resume—it’s where you network, showcase your skills, and find direct client leads. With LinkedIn’s robust search filters, you can identify opportunities while posting content and establishing authority. (We’ve even got top freelance writer LinkedIn tips.)

Use keywords like “freelance graphic designer” in your headline and current job title to make yourself discoverable in LinkedIn’s search. Post updates about completed projects with links or share helpful tips to keep your profile active and updated. 

Reach out directly to prospects with personalized LinkedIn messages that highlight how you can solve their problems. To stand out, your messages must be genuine.

Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads)

Meta, aka the parent company of Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, shines in its community-driven approach. Freelance  Facebook groups are hubs for business owners actively seeking services. Joining and contributing to these groups lets you connect directly with potential clients and casually showcase your expertise. For example, if you’re a pet freelance writer, you might want to join Facebook groups of local pet and animal business owners.

Search for groups related to your niche (e.g., “Freelance Copywriters” or “Graphic Designers for Hire”) to meet like-minded freelancers. Participate in conversations and offer advice without being overly promotional or salesy. When the moment’s right, share your services and link to your portfolio to secure new work and clients. Stay consistent in your engagement, and follow up with prospective freelance clients on Instagram, Facebook, or Threads.

Bluesky

Bluesky is the newest rising star social media platform, with a format similar to X, also known as Twitter. Bluesky for freelancers allows you to connect with innovators and early adopters who joined since it launched in 2023. Its fresh approach and topic tags allow freelancers to join discussions and get noticed by forward-thinking clients in tech, design, and creative industries.

Find freelance clients on Bluesky by staying active in discussions relevant to your industry, specialty, or niche. Consistently comment and start meaningful conversations that position you as an expert to make the most of Bluesky for freelancers.

How to Use Social Media As a Freelancer?

Here’s how freelancers can find freelance jobs on social media and secure steady work with high-paying freelance clients

Choose Your Platforms Wisely

Your time is your most valuable asset, so pick platforms that deliver results. If you’re a B2B writer, designer, or consultant, it makes sense to learn how to find clients on LinkedIn. Use its robust search filters to find leads and share content highlighting your unique freelance skills (everyone has something to share!). 

Meta, or Facebook, is ideal for its freelance-specific groups where business owners actively seek help. Participate meaningfully in these groups to connect with potential clients.

Instagram’s profile grid feature or “highlights” section is the perfect way to show portfolio visuals, how-to’s, and behind-the-scenes of your freelance work or business. Instagram has a more ‘casual’ feel, though consistent posting and engagement will go a long way. Build your Meta profiles to position yourself as an expert; stay active, and you’ll surely attract prospective clients!

For those in more technical or forward-thinking industries, Bluesky—a hub for innovators—is worth exploring. Engage with topic tags and connect with users shaping new trends. Other platforms like Discord, TikTok, and YouTube are excellent for niche communities or video content. If you’re interested in exploring those options, remember, don’t spread yourself too thin. Start small and expand as you see results.

Optimize Every Social Media Freelance Profile to Attract Clients

Your profile is your digital storefront, so make it count! Use job-specific keywords in your bio, headline, job experiences, and about sections to make yourself searchable. Add clear calls to action, such as “DM me for project inquiries,” or include links to your portfolio. 

 A clear, friendly profile picture and visually appealing banner can further boost credibility. Consider using client testimonials to showcase your expertise subtly.

For example, a headline like “Helping small businesses grow with strategic content | Freelance Writer” will show clients exactly what you can do. Bios can emphasize specialties like “Copywriter specializing in ad copy that converts” and lets you position yourself as an innovator in your field. Adding niche keywords, such as “health writer” or “SaaS UX Writer,” can also help. Think of your profile as the first impression that hooks potential clients.

Harness the Power of Hashtags and Search Features

Do you know hashtags and search tools can uncover social media freelance opportunities with minimal effort? On LinkedIn, use job search filters and hashtags like #CopywritingJobs or #FreelanceDesigner to find relevant leads. Turn on LinkedIn job alerts to stay updated on new opportunities and get a notification in your email inbox when a relevant gig is posted. 

Meta’s Groups search function can help you identify posts from clients seeking freelance help. With its topic tags, Bluesky allows you to connect with discussions and job postings in emerging fields. Strategic use of these tools ensures your content and profile are discoverable to the right audience.

Freelancers Should Engage to Build Community and Client Relationships

Lurking won’t land you clients, but authentic engagement will. Comment thoughtfully on industry posts to share insights, advice, or questions that add value. Regularly share content showcasing your skills, such as project case studies or tips, positioning yourself as an expert. 

For example, post a LinkedIn article about “How to Write Engaging Facebook Ad Copy” or share a video that would appeal to potential clients. Sure, it might seem like you’re “giving away your secrets” on the social platform but most likely, a small business owner will see you know what you’re talking about and hire you to help them with their ads.. In Meta groups, offer actionable advice when someone asks for help in your area of expertise. Your visibility and credibility grow with every genuine interaction!

Is Video and Community Content the Secret Sauce?

Video content and community engagement can fast-track your success. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube allow you to showcase your expertise through tutorials, case studies, or quick tips. The creator of one of our favorite podcasts for freelancers, Latasha James’ ‘Freelance Friday‘ YouTube channel demonstrates how educational content can attract clients by building trust before they even reach out. Discord is another option: participating in freelance-focused servers or creating your niche community fosters connections. You don’t need professional equipment to get started—authentic, smartphone-recorded content is enough to stand out.

Using Social Media to Find Freelance Clients Fast

You don’t need to live online to find freelance clients. A focused, strategic approach can take you further than endless scrolling ever will. Choose one platform (maybe two!), optimize your profile(s), engage with intention, and track your results.

Your challenge: Pick one tip from this post and try it out this week. It could be revamping your LinkedIn profile, joining a new Meta group, or experimenting with Bluesky tags. Take action and see where it leads. Remember, small efforts on social media can yield big returns—and your next big client might just be a click away!

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What are five high-paying freelance skills?

I ran into my old journalism lecturer at a social function recently. When I mentioned I was freelance writing, he asked, “Is that a polite way of saying you’re between jobs?’” If so, I responded, it means I’ve been ‘between jobs’ for more than 20 years now as I’ve added to my freelance skills.

I earn a living freelancing and freelance writing isn’t even one of the highest-paying freelance skills of 2024. (BTW, here are the highest-paying freelance writing writing skills to know in 2024.)

Freelancing—in a whole range of fields beyond writing—is no longer just an alternative career path.

Thanks to technological advancements, changing work preferences, and the global shift toward remote work post-pandemic, freelancing is now a legitimate mainstream option offering significant earning potential, flexibility, and opportunity.

In 2020, the cross-border money transfer service Payoneer surveyed 7,000 freelancers from more than 150 countries and found that the worldwide average rate charged by freelancers was $21, higher than the $19 average rate from two years earlier.

Those don’t sound like the sort of dollars that would entice anyone to quit their day job.

But such a figure vastly under-represents the pay packets earned by people who are working at the upper echelons of the pay scale. In order to reach that status, you need to adopt some high-paying skills for freelancers.

Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer, or a beginner freelancer new to the freelance market, focussing on in-demand skills such as mobile app development, AI development, customer relationship management (CRM), website development, or social media content creation, can open doors to top-paying projects.

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal also provide the infrastructure to connect with clients and manage freelance work efficiently, paving the path toward success in the freelance economy as you add on the skills of a freelancer clients want. (Here’s how to snag a download of 50 freelance sites that list freelance jobs.)

There are diverse opportunities available for professionals navigating the evolving landscape of work, says Matti Yahav, Chief Marketing Officer at Fiverr.

“By aligning (with) these burgeoning industries and cultivating in-demand skills, aspiring individuals can unlock pathways to financial success and professional fulfillment,” Yahav says.

The 5 highest-paying freelance skills for 2025

When you’re ready to carve out your career at the more lucrative end of the freelance market, it’s well worth boning up on the following skills as well as the highest-paying freelance writing skills.

Best freelancing skills: Mobile app development

Mobile app development is one of the skills of a freelancer that involves creating software applications that run on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. They’re typically developed for platforms like iOS (Apple) and Android (Google). Mobile app development is one of the high-demand freelance skills. Mobile app developers need a strong grounding in programming languages and development tools and frameworks. Though many gain this knowledge through a computer science degree, self-taught developers can also succeed.

The Business of Apps says about 27 million developers were building for mobile in 2022, pointing out that software for mobile “permeates every business vertical on the planet”. That means the desktop or mobile app software developer profession has seen its popularity skyrocketing—which is why you might want to add it to your list of freelancing skills. While the Business of Apps notes that independent mobile app developers earn about $1500 a month on average, there are ‘Pro’ developers on Fiverr charging more than $6000 per project. Highly experienced developers and those in major tech hubs can potentially earn more.

Best freelancing skills: AI Development

If Netflix, Amazon, or Spotify has ever suggested the perfect movie, book, or song, you’ve seen the work of an AI developer in motion. Developing recommendation algorithms that analyze user preferences and behavior to highlight related content, products,or services, is just one task attributed to the burgeoning field of AI development.

More broadly, The Code Institute says AI developers “design, develop, and deploy AI-powered solutions.” They create algorithms and systems that allow machines to perform tasks that would otherwise require human input and intelligence as a freelancer skill. AI developers work on machine learning models, neural networks, natural language processing (NLP), data analysis, and computer vision. Their skills are useful in a wide range of fields, including healthcare (medical imaging and diagnostics) and finance (fraud detection and credit scoring).

You’ll need a sound background in mathematics, along with proficiency in programming languages to secure a gig as an AI developer, but the financial rewards are among the highest in the tech industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the median salary in 2023 was $145,080 per year. Not too shabby!

The surge in demand for AI services underscores the growing importance of technology-driven solutions across sectors, says Yahav. “With searches for ‘AI influencer’ skyrocketing by 63.05% and inquiries for ‘AI SaaS’ experiencing a staggering 14.61% increase, it’s evident that businesses are keen to harness the power of AI to drive innovation and growth,” he says.

Zendesk says that more than nine in ten companies now use customer relationship management (CRM) software, making this another high-demand area to pursue for a freelancing skill. CRM developers are professionals with programming and coding expertise who gather customer information for companies to help them track, store and organize customer data, according to Career Karma. CRM tools also assist companies in streamlining the sales process, finding new leads, boosting profitability, and strengthening brand loyalty.

Best freelancing skills: CRM Management

As the eCommerce sector continues its robust expansion, Shopify is emerging as a favored platform for small businesses, Yahav says. “Freelancers proficient in Shopify design and marketing are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, with earning potential reaching up to $3,000 per project,” he says. A combination of programming, social skills, and problem-solving freelancer skills are required to earn the big bucks. Discover CRM software that’s on our list of best apps for writers.

Best freelancing skills: Website development

There are a staggering 1.11 billion websites in the world, with three new websites built every second, according to Forbes Advisor. Website developers are the people charged with the responsibility of creating and maintaining these sites, and ensuring they attract attention amid the noise.  Website developers might focus on the front-end (user-facing) side of the equation, while back-end developers make websites functional and secure, ComputerScience.org notes. Full-stack developers handle the entire web development process. These aren’t necessarily easy skills to develop but they are worthy best freelancing skills to learn for staying power in this field.

The numbers give some sense of the possibilities for professionals in this field. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says that overall employment of web developers and digital designers is set to grow 16 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The median pay is $92,750 per year, though Pro web designers on Fiverr are charging around the $15,000 market for a single premium project. (BTW, how much can you make on fiverr per month?)

As with the other inclusions on this list, it’s important to master different programming languages and tools, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python and Ruby. Some develop these high-paying skills for freelancers via college and university education classes while others pick them up through online courses and coding bootcamps.

Here are some freelance skills business owner Diana Kelly Levey learned with a freelance side hustle.

Best freelancing skills: Social media content creation

The creator economy is massive. Linktree’s 2022 Creator Report revealed that there are around 200 million social media content creators, defined as “individuals who use their influence, creativity, or skills to aggregate and monetize their audience.” While most only start earning at the six-and-a-half-month’s mark, 1 in 10 influencers earn more than $100,000 per year, while the top three percent are generating more than half a million a year. This seems to settle the argument over whether content creation is a “real job.” (Time for your parents to stop rolling their eyes at it!)

While many universities offer courses (variously titled content and social media marketing, content creation, digital media, and the like), it’s also possible to learn ‘on the job,’ with lots of resources publicly available. According to Fiverr, searches for ‘social media content creator’ are up 58%, suggesting that this is an important area to watch.

“Businesses are actively seeking skilled freelancers to bolster their social media presence,” Yahav says. “Roles such as SEO backlinks, Google Ads campaigns, and social media content creation are in high demand, offering earning ranges of up to $2,000 per project.”

Whether you’re a seasoned long-term freelance pro or a newbie, focusing on in-demand skills such as mobile app development, AI development, CRM management, website development, and social media content creation can help carve out your corner in a bustling marketplace. Companies are willing to pay and that’s why these are some of the highest-paying freelance skills you should know in order to make good money as a freelancer.

Frequently asked questions about the highest-paying freelance skills

Here are common freelance skills questions asked and answered about high-demand freelance skills:

How do I get my first freelance job in these high-paying fields?

Getting your first freelance gig might be the hardest part of the process. Gaining qualifications is helpful but, in some of these areas, optional. When you feel you’re good to go, focus on building a freelance portfolio which will showcase your skills with sample projects, open-source contributions, or case studies that showcase your know-how.

While you might not rely completely on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal, creating profiles with these sites might serve to ‘turn on the tap’ and thus ensure a steady flow of clients. (Is Fiverr worth it?) Network and seek referrals by joining professional communities, attending industry events, and connecting with peers and potential clients on LinkedIn. Word-of-mouth referrals can also be a great way to land your first gig.

What are some of the freelance challenges faced in these high-paying fields?

The best freelancing skills are important to have in your freelance toolkit. But, high-earning freelancers still face a range of obstacles. Here are a few freelance challenges:

  • Staying current with technology is crucial, making continuous learning through online courses, webinars and subscriptions to industry publications essential.
  • Managing client expectations requires clear and frequent communication in the form of regular updates (and usually a bit of problem-solving). Ensuring you have a thorough understanding of requirements before starting a project is also important.  These are the top questions to ask freelance clients.
  • Balancing multiple projects can test the best of us, making effective time management and organizational skills essential. Many successful freelancers use project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of deadlines and deliverables.

How can I ensure my freelance rates are competitive yet fair for these high-paying freelance skills?

Setting competitive yet fair rates involves knowing your worth, while keeping one eye on the market. Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Glassdoor, or check online forums, to research the going rates. Consider your experience and skill level by factoring in your expertise, years of experience, and the complexity of the projects you handle. Soon you’ll be earning $100 an hour—or more—freelancing.

You’re a specialist with advanced skills? You can – and should – charge higher rates. Also, just as hotels and airlines do, adjust your rates based on demand. If you find yourself consistently booked out, or receiving more referrals than you can handle, it might be time to raise your rates as a demand management strategy.

Finally, don’t forget to account for overheads and expenses in these skills for freelancer rates. Overlooking these costs of freelancing can put a real crimp in your take-home pay.

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Industry Writing Advice

How Do I Get into Science Writing?

Say “science writing,” and most people think of popular authors like Malcolm Gladwell, whose 2005 book Blink demystified rapid cognition, or science journalists like Ed Yong, who won the Pulitzer Prize (among other awards) for his coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This article focuses on this type of science writing—the kind that bridges the gap between academic research and everyday readers.

But freelance science writing goes beyond what you find in newspapers, magazines, and blockbuster books. It can also include drafting grant proposals, preparing research papers, compiling technical documents, writing trade magazine articles, or authoring academic books about science.

Dr. Marina Hurley, who delivers workshops in Writing Clear Science, says the common thread among all these activities is that the topic relates to science and “the information presented has been gathered, analyzed, and critiqued using accepted scientific methods.”

“Any assumptions, ideas, predictions, or suggestions must not be presented as though they are scientific fact,” she writes on her website.

Why Should You Consider Science Writing?

Taking on science writing for newspapers, magazines, or websites can complement the other writing work you already do.

Adding this specialization lets you diversify your skills, income, and audience. It also encourages you to immerse yourself in intellectually stimulating topics.

Writers who enjoy research-driven storytelling or want to contribute to public understanding of critical issues—like climate change or health—may find it especially rewarding.

Those in the adjacent field of science communication may even influence public opinion or help inform policy. (For more on the differences between science communication and science journalism, read this.)

How Do You Start Science Writing as a Freelancer?

Some science writers stumble into the field by accident.

Several I know transitioned into science writing during their pursuit of a degree in marine biology, after completing a PhD in parasitology, or while working in public relations and marketing.

My first Cosmos freelance writing science assignment happened after I toured Singapore Airlines’ catering department during a freelance travel writing assignment. I learned about why food and drink taste different at altitude, did more research, and interviewed experts on the topic. That first story led to ongoing assignments with both print and online publications.

How can I get my first science article published?

There’s no single path to science writing. But there’s room for everyone. Here’s a handful of tips for breaking in.

Discover your freelance niche.

First, as in all forms of freelance writing, it can pay to find your science writing niche/s.

Getting as granular as, say, genomics or infectious diseases, can be advantageous when editors are keen to assign a story to someone who’s deeply immersed in a particular subject, according to Helen Pearson, writing in the National Library of Medicine.

However, always be willing to stretch your wings should other opportunities present themselves. (To read more about breaking free from the shackles of a niche, read this.)

Start small to kick off a science writing career.

You might be dreaming of bylines in Discover or Scientific American, but editors of top tier publications are unlikely to assign features to untested writers.

Focus instead on building a portfolio by starting a blog and posting about what fascinates you personally, whether that’s astronomy, oceanography, or the latest research on climate change.

Writing a blog provides useful practise in targeting an understanding an audience—whether it’s comprised of physics buffs like you, or professionals in a related field, or high school teachers looking for resources to supplement their earth sciences lessons.

It’s not necessary for your blog to take off and reach thousands (although it might).

Rather, its presence demonstrates that you can communicate effectively about complex subjects—and it provides a solid track record of publication behind you.

Be a joiner.

Joining a professional association such as the National Association of Science Writers (in the US) or the Science Journalists Association of Australia can provide a way to access events, build networks, gain mentoring, and learn about new opportunities.

Similarly, signing up for training with The Science Talk or Writing Clear Science, or even completing a specialist science journalism degree is as much about connecting with like-minded others (including potential employers) as it is about the course content.

Internships with media outlets, museums, or laboratories can provide additional entry routes into a freelance science writing career.

Following science journalists (such as Sarah Kaplan) on X/Twitter or subscribing to their newsletters (such as this one by Ed Yong) is another way of discovering hot topics and possibly even open freelance jobs and opportunities for science writers.

How can I sustain my science writing side hustle?

Research different publications that publish science stories.

Familiarizing yourself with the newspapers, magazines and online platforms that publish science stories is essential if you want to maximize your opportunities for publication.

Mainstream media outlets like The New York Times, The Australian and The Guardian often run science stories aimed at general readers. Freelance science writers might be able to break into those pubications with a great article pitch.

Specialist publications like Scientific American, New Scientist, and Popular Science are written for science enthusiasts, while magazines like Astronomy are written for those with niche interests.

While not focussing exclusively on science, publications such as Smithsonian Magazine also run science-related articles on research breakthroughs, natural history, space exploration and environmental issues.

Trade publications such as Consulting-Specifying Engineer and Architectural Products may also have openings for freelance science writers.

But online platforms such as Live Science and Quanta Magazine (or the online versions of related print publications, as with Cosmos) offer the bulk of opportunities for freelance science writers today.

Pitch, pitch, and pitch again.

Pitching is a key skill for freelance science writers—and all freelance writers—but first you need to come up with compelling ideas.

(Read Steal my 5 Favorite Ways to generate saleable story ideas for some tips on how to do this.)

The Association of British Science Writers says that science writers’ “bread and butter” is reporting new results from journals and conferences, so that’s a good place to start searching for story leads.

Press releases distributed by companies, universities, funding bodies and scientific publishers are other potential story sources, but bear in mind that their purpose is promotional in nature.

General news stories can also provide starting points, if you look for the science angle. For example, the recent California wildfires have sparked multiple stories, like this one in the BBC, on how climate change is contributing to natural disasters.

Even seemingly mundane daily activities can serve as inspiration for science stories. For instance, I wrote this Cosmos story about a cane toad busting project I participated in, after needing to protect a new puppy from the poisonous amphibians.

Editors receive hundreds of pitches from freelancers every day, so it’s crucial to make yours stand out.

You can do this by reading—and strictly adhering to—the detailed submission guidelines for freelance writers many publications make available on their websites.

For example, Discover has a comprehensive breakdown of different segments of the print magazine as well as what they’re seeking in each.

Have sufficient flexibility to write in different formats as a science writer.

Science writing encompasses a variety of formats, each with their own purpose and style.

Being able to present your work in many different ways can help you cast a familiar subject in a fresh light, present information in the most effective manner, and maximise the amount of words you’re able to sell from a single interview, research paper or field excursion.

Some of the most common formats found in science writing include the following:

·       News stories: These short, timely pieces report on recent events, discoveries or events, such as this story on the health risks associated with loneliness.

·       Features: This type of freelance example includes more in-depth articles which explore a topic in detail. These often incorporate interviews, narrative storytelling, or personal experience, like this story I wrote on Growing a personalised cure.

·       Profiles: This allows a freelance science writer to highlight the work and personality of a scientist or researcher. The New York Times has a collection of such profiles.

·       Trend stories: Explore emerging patterns or shifts in science and technology, like this ‘Five Key Trends in AI and data science for 2024’ story published in MIT Sloan Management Review.

·       Explanatory articles: Here is where science writing breaks down complex concepts or phenomenon for a general audience like this piece on ‘Sinking Cities’ for Stuff.

FAQs  

Do you need a specific degree to do freelance science writing?

As a freelance science writer, it’s easy to be intimidated when so many people around you have PhDs—or maybe that’s my imposter syndrome showing.

Seriously, though, do you need scientific training to become a freelance science writer? The consensus is that while a degree in science or journalism doesn’t hurt, it’s certainly not necessary.

Scientific training can prove useful, says Aneri Pattani, writing at The OPEN Notebook (which has some great resources for aspiring science writers).

“But for every benefit the years spent earning a science degree may bring—from gaining technical knowledge to understanding a scientist’s daily life and avoiding common science interpretation errors—there’s a potential drawback, too.”

Though her article is from 2018, it’s a comprehensive and still-relevant read about the pros and cons of scientific training.

What does science writing pay?

You’re probablly wondering, Is science writing one of the highest-paying freelance niches of 2025?

The fees for science writing stretch from nothing (yes, really) to at least USD 2 per word, according to this database published by science writer Robin Lloyd.

Those which pay the highest fees include Harvard Public Health, Scientific American and The Atlantic.

Those which don’t pay at all (though they do offer edit your story) include Solar Today Magazine, Massive Science and The Conversation.

However, most science writing outlets pay within the mid-range.

A range of factors determine the final fee you’ll receive.

Such factors include whether your story is destined for print, or digital-only publication, whether you’re considered a subject matter expert (they typically earn more), the type of story (with op-eds usually attracting flat fees), and whether the story was solicited or not.

A writer’s willingness to negotiate can also influence what you’ll earn. According to Lloyd, writers should always ask for a higher fee than what a publication initially offers.

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Industry Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

How to Get Past Writer’s Block: A Guide for Professional Writers

Writer’s block is a mental state that prevents you from writing or even coming up with ideas to write about. Some writers insist it’s an illusion, arguing that not acknowledging it will help you break through. But let’s face it: It’s no illusion. Writer’s block often stems from fear of failure, perfectionism (which often results in procrastination), or plain uncertainty.

Pretending it doesn’t exist rarely helps. The mind is powerful, and sometimes, you need to help it get out of its own way. Writer’s block, whether brief or lasting, can strike anyone. And while it can seem like writer procrastination at times, it isn’t’ the same thing. After I finished my MFA, it took me a year to write another story. (I’ll explain how I overcame it later.)

3 Tips on How to Overcome Writer’s Block

Curious about how do you fix writer’s block? Need quick actionable steps on how to get past writer’s block? Get a professional writer’s tips to work through writer’s block so you can put words on the page and complete your freelance assignments.

Move It, Move It

When my book launched in 2023, the Author’s Guild interviewed me. They asked for my go-to remedy for breaking through writer’s block, and my answer was, “Clean the kitchen.”

Why? Two possible things happen when you try this remedy. First, you may decide you’d rather write, sit down, and put something on the screen. Second, you may actually clean the kitchen. In both cases, you’re likely to experience one of two outcomes: a clean kitchen or a breakthrough in your writing.

Movement helps unblock your creativity because it increases blood flow, boosting cognitive function. It also releases endorphins that reduce stress and anxiety, while offering a mental break that allows your subconscious to process ideas.

Find a type of movement that works for you. Maybe it’s a brisk walk, a swim, or lifting weights. Or try gardening or tidying up your workspace. Cleaning works especially well for me because it involves specific tasks that keep my mind occupied, leaving space for creative ideas to surface.

If cleaning isn’t your jam, check out 7 tried-and-true ways to improve your writing.

Switch Your Medium to Work Through Writer’s Block

Writing by hand is a popular solution as a way to overcome writer’s block. The physical act of using a pen and paper activates different areas of the brain than typing. Studies show that handwriting can improve sensory processing and conceptual understanding—perfect for unlocking stuck ideas.

If handwriting isn’t your thing, try switching to another medium. Draw a picture, create a Canva mood board, or act out scenes from your story. For instance, I involve my family when I’m stuck. I explain the scene and let them suggest what should happen next—especially if it involves characters facing peril.

Another tactic is to switch projects. Having multiple projects (fiction, nonfiction, short-form, long-form) lets me jump to another when I feel blocked. Working on various types of freelance writing might help you eliminate writer’s block you’re experiencing for a particular project. Finishing a different task can give you a sense of accomplishment and might even spark new ideas for the original project.

FAQs

Write More (or Write Differently)

“Just write” may sound like tired advice, but it works. Start typing anything—even if it’s “I don’t know what to write” over and over. Freelance writer Diana Kelly Levey shares that when she struggles to start an article draft for a freelance client she types something on the Google Doc or Word document like “Amazing Headline Here” and “Riveting intro about X, Y, and Z here that will set up the sources and story angle.” Then she gets into the meat of the article writing and goes back to those areas later.

Once you start writing something, eventually, your brain will shift gears, and something useful will emerge.

Lawrence C. Connolly, an author, uses an interesting trick: He writes first thing in the morning, before his “critical brain” wakes up. For some, writing early—or in a new environment like a coffee shop—helps shake loose ideas.

The most transformative method I’ve found is morning pages, a concept from Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way. Write three pages every morning, no matter what. Cameron compares this practice to clearing a muddy windshield: By decluttering your thoughts, you make room for creativity to flow.

Deciding to simply write anything quickly can help you become a faster writer in 20 minutes.

How Do I Know If I Have Writer’s Block?

Writer’s block can show up in many forms and when you’re trying to get out of a writer’s slump it can feel like you’re stuck in quicksand without a rescue option in sight. You might feel unable to think of anything to write, or everything you write feels wrong. Avoiding your project, lacking motivation, or feeling apathetic can also be signs.

If you’ve tried multiple remedies without success on how to get past writer’s block, it may point to deeper issues like depression, anxiety causing writer’s block, or freelance burnout. In that case, seeking professional help might be the best course of action.

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Freelance Jobs Industry Money Writing Advice

10 Passive Income for Freelancer Revenue Stream Tips

Freelancers are keenly aware that freelance writer salaries and overall income can fluctuate from month to month. (Financial experts would call this an “irregular income.”) One solution to this common problem? Passive income for freelancer streams.

So what is passive income? It’s a way to earn money without doing much—or any—effort. But I’ll be honest. I think every type of ‘passive income’ involves some startup effort and ongoing marketing to keep audiences engaged and find new customers.

How to make passive income work for you? These income sources can work in the background to help create stability for your freelance business, so you don’t always have to rely solely on client work to keep your income steady.

But what exactly is passive income for freelancers, and how do you get started?

Explore 10 passive income streams for freelancers that can help boost your earnings and bring financial security to your business.

10 Passive Income for Freelancer Ideas to Earn More Money

Use your freelance skills, research and know-how to find ways to “make freelancer money while you sleep.” Yes, almost all of theses passive income ideas will require some upfront work and ongoing maintenance.

1. Offer Paid Newsletter Subscriptions

Are you regularly sending out newsletters to your audience? If you’ve built a solid readership, consider offering a paid subscription for exclusive content. With platforms like Substack, freelancers can monetize their expertise by sharing advice, tips, and industry news directly with their subscribers.

Paid newsletters are a hot commodity amongst creators, perhaps because it’s the best form of ‘owning’ a platform if a social media platform kicks you off or goes under. You’ll still have your subscribers! It’s becoming one of the most popular answers to ‘how to make passive income?’

Many Substack publications have the option for newletter creators to charge $5 to $50 a month for a subscription, according to some recent data. Even if you only have 100 people paying a month, that’s a nice little side hustle passive income for freelancer rate coming in for work you’re already doing.

If you can build an engaged audience, it’s a simple and sustainable way to create passive income. You could get started on Beehiiv, Substack, or another newsletter platform for passive income streams. I use Beehiiv which includes sponsorship opportunities that pay out if subscribers click on the links and I get paid if my newsletter readers subscribe to other newsletters I recommend. You can also earn money as an affiliate.

2. Create an e-Book

One of the most straightforward ways to create passive income is by writing and selling an e-book. I’ve personally had success with my e-book “100+ Tips for Beginner Freelance Writers” which continues to sell and bring in revenue with little extra work after the initial effort.

Freelancers can easily create e-books using content they’ve already developed, whether it’s blog posts or lessons learned from their niche. The eBook market is expected to reach $14 billion by the end of 2024, according to Statistica. And yes, we’re expecting it to go up as a passive income 2025 option.

Whether you’re a freelancer with knowledge in a specific niche or you’re simply someone who has a vast background on a particular topic chances are, others would pay to know what you do. Research the market, analyze the competition, and discover the digital product possibilities.

3. Develop a Digital Online Course

Have a unique skill or expertise that others could benefit from? Turning your knowledge into an online course is another way to create passive income. I’ve personally created freelance online courses on platforms like Teachable, and although there’s upfront work, they can generate consistent income once live.

In recent years, online learning has exploded. Self-paced learning to enhance one’s professional skills, get degrees, or acquire certificates has never been more popular—and on-trend! Whether you decide to build email courses, video tutorials as part of freelance online courses as I have or webinars, there’s money to be made in teaching what you already know. Yes, it will take marketing efforts as well but hopefully, some solid email newsletter writing can go a long way to securing more customers into this freelance passive income stream.

4. Sell Notion Templates or Digital Tools

If you use Notion or other project management tools to streamline your freelance work, consider creating and selling templates to other freelancers. These tools are becoming increasingly popular, and there’s a market for people who want plug-and-play systems to save them time.

Notion’s user base has grown exponentially in the past few years, showing that demand for templates and productivity tools is only increasing. By selling your organizational systems, you’re helping earn passive income while already doing tasks that help your business.

5. Sell Your Research or Reports

As a freelance writer, you’re already conducting a lot of research. Why not package that research into valuable guides or reports that others are willing to pay for? Freelancers in niches like finance, health, or content marketing can create resources like rate guides, media lists, or white papers that others will find useful.

Some freelancers like Kaitlyn Arford offers up guides on freelance outlets that pay freelancers and she keeps updating it throughout the year on a Trello board. This is a service and resource freelancers pay for. One of my bestselling eBooks is a pitching guide on 24 freelance pitches that worked. In a way, it’s a “set it and forget it” type of product that could fulfill one of your passive income 2025 dreams this year.

This method allows you to monetize the work you’re already doing and reach a broader audience beyond your clients.

6. Monetize Your Blog With Ads for Freelance Passive Income

If you’re already writing a blog as part of your freelance marketing, why not turn that traffic into income? By adding Google AdSense or other ad platforms, you can make money with each visitor or ad click on your site. I’ll acknowledge that blog writing isn’t necessarily fast and easy, it requires effort and time to build up an audience.

While it takes to build a blog audience, it’s a long-term investment that can pay off. And while yes, AI writing tools might take the blog writing jobs of some freelancers, you’ll want to showcase your work on your site and be able to have samples to show potential clients.That’s why I suggest you blog on something you’re passionate about and you’d write about for free. Because well, in the beginning, you will be writing for free. Once you’ve got steady traffic, ads can become a reliable source of passive income.

7. Sell Proprietary Templates to Earn Passive Income 2025 Money

Do you have workflows or templates that save you time and make your life easier? Many freelancers do! I personally sell a customizable Client Intake Form that freelancers can use to vet potential clients, and it’s become a freelancer passive income stream for my business.

Templates are always in demand, whether it’s for project management, content calendars, or pitch email scripts. Websites like Etsy or Gumroad make it easy to sell digital templates, with minimal maintenance required after the initial upload.

8. Create Custom Physical Products to Sell to Generate Passive Income for Freelancer

For those creative freelancers who love a good quote or funny sayings, consider building a freelance side hustle for passive income that involves custom products like T-shirts, mugs, photos, printed quotes, or planners to diversify your income. Check out Etsy, Pinterest, and Shopify sites for inspiration.

Why bother selling writing slogans and caricatures on T-shirts? The global custom T-shirt printing industry is projected to hit $14.8 billion by 2032. Look for platforms that allow creatives to sell products without managing inventory or shipping. It’ll make your life much easier and is a fun way to generate freelance passive income.

9. Utilize Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is one of the most popular ways passive income ideas. It’s been around for a long time and it seems to be a marketing trend that’s here to stay. By promoting products or services on your blog or social media, you can earn a commission for every sale made through your unique link. For freelancers, this could include promoting software tools you use already, online courses, or even office supplies.

As an example, I have an Authory affiliate link I use in blogs that’s associated with my name. I think it’s a great portfolio site for freelancers and would recommend it anyway so why not get a kick-back on that recommendation?

Afraid you’re behind the trend and it’s too late to catch up? The affiliate marketing industry is projected to continue to grow, fueled by influencer marketing by social media influencers. If you already have a blog, following on social media or a hefty group of newsletter subscribers, affiliate marketing is a no-brainer for earning passive income.

10. Host Paid Webinars

Freelancers often become experts in specific areas of their trade, whether that’s freelance writing, project management, or social media strategy. Why not share your knowledge through a paid webinar and turn it into a passive income for a freelancer opportunity? You can charge attendees a fee to join, and then sell the recording afterward with bonus materials to continue to help others.

Platforms like Zoom or Crowdcast make it easy to host webinars, and they can be a great way to build authority in your field while earning passive income. I hosted a live webinar with my nutritionist friend Natalie Rizzo and then we turned it into an online presentation on Teachable that other freelancers can purchase and watch.

Now that you’re feeling confident about ‘what is passive income’ and ‘passive income ideas 2025, set aside some time to carve out your next side business to help you earn money while you sleep.

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