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

More than 36% of adults have 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?

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 acquiring new 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.

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Industry Money

How Do Freelancers Get Paid?

The world of freelancing is booming in today’s fast-paced environment. Not only have the types of freelance jobs expanded, but how do freelancers get paid has evolved beyond traditional methods. ‘

Understanding the freelance project scope is essential to ensure fair compensation and ensure you’re getting paid a freelance salary or freelance rates that you’re worth. 

That being said, knowing the variety of compensation options can significantly impact your financial stability. This article will explore different methods of payment for freelancers and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option. As a result, this can help you decide which route is best for you. Please note depending on your client they may already have a system in place. Be sure to do your research to ensure it aligns with your goals and your freelance money mindset.

Discover the top methods freelancers rely on to secure their funds. 

Answered: How Do Freelancers Get Paid?

There are a multitude of ways that freelancers receive payments. Here are some to explore with your clients to discover which ones work best for your freelance business. 

Direct deposits

    Direct deposits and automated clearing house (ACH)  transfers are one form of payment used to pay freelancers for their services. ACH transfer is an electronic transfer made between credit unions or banks. This solution is safe and efficient. Before signing a contract, you and your client will agree on the project price. You will also set the payment frequency, such as biweekly or monthly. This solution is great for retainer clients or ongoing client collaboration.

    The Pros of freelancers getting paid with direct deposits

    • It’s free! Direct deposits do not have additional fees from third parties.
    • Bank details unlock access to complete the transaction promptly.
    • You have control of the amount of your paycheck you would like deposited into your account. 
    • You can conveniently get paid without showing up in person.
    • Direct deposits reduced the risks of physical checks being lost or stolen.

    The Cons of freelancers getting paid with direct deposits

    • International transfers may result in conversion fees which can be costly. This depends on the location of the transfer. 
    • Some banks have processing delays during the weekends or holidays. Keep this in mind when sending out your invoices to prevent delays.
    • This option is not suitable for someone who does not have a bank account as you’re looking for answers to how do freelancers get paid.

    Direct deposits are a free and convenient way to receive compensation for your devoted work. However, delays can occur depending on your bank.

    Paypal 

      Paypal is a popular method of how freelancers get paid due to its global reach and user ability. Over 70 million freelancers use PayPal in the United States. Therefore, it is the most used money platform for freelancers. PayPal is convenient because you can add money to your account without re-entering payment information for each purchase. Freelancers can maximize their business by using PayPal; it’s like having an assistant.

      PayPal offers customizable payment options, invoices, and instant funds. Paypal also sends you reminders for late funds and unpaid invoices. This helps you stay organized. Utilizing these features within PayPal enables you to concentrate more on what’s important: getting paid for freelance work, my friend.

      The Pros of freelancers getting paid with PayPal

      • PayPal process within minutes.
      • Various countries and industries trust PayPal.
      • No monthly fees helping reduce fees as you explore how do freelancers get paid.
      • Using PayPal provides you and your client with a level of security.
      • PayPal enables you to connect your account to your bank account, debit, or credit card.

      PayPal is the way to go for managing your business transactions. With PayPal, you can easily send out professional-looking invoices, provide various cash options, and even automate reminders for any outstanding payments.

      The Cons of freelancers getting paid with PayPal

      • Each buy or sale has a small transaction fee, and fees depend on the sale’s amount.
      • Suppose you experience payment delays due to suspicious activity. PayPal suggests contacting your card provider to obtain a replacement card.
      • If you choose to connect your bank account, deposits can take 3 to 5 days to transfer.
      • If you want the cash immediately in your bank account, you’ll be charged a fee.

      Venmo and Cash App Helping Freelancers Get Paid

        Venmo and cash apps are other great tools that freelancers use to get paid within minutes. In 2009, Venmo introduced a way to pay others without a cash exchange. It has taken off, and freelancers are on board for quick and convenient compensation. Venmo and Cash App are solely peer-to-peer payment platforms, making them ideal for today’s economy. Both apps allow you to easily send and request money from people in your network, even If you are not initially connected as friends.

        Venmo and Cash App will help ensure that you are sending money to the correct person by asking you to confirm the recipient’s phone number, username, or email. It’s important to have accurate contact information on hand. Once the money is sent, it can be challenging to retrieve it.  The Cash App with its enticing slogan “Do More With Your Money” has features similar to Venmo’s. Both apps allow you to send a personalized message to the client about the purchase. This helps with organizational or tax purposes. 

        The Pros of Freelancers Getting Paid with Venmo & Cash App

        • Payments are easily accessible and almost instantaneous.
        • Both apps offer exclusive discounts with either the app or app card.
        • You’re able to send money using a personalized QR code for transactions.
        • The on-screen calculator allows you to split payments when using Venmo.

        The Cons Freelancers Getting Paid with Venmo & Cash App

        • Venmo and Cash apps are used in specific regions limiting their global reach.
        • Venmo has a small transaction fee.
        • Both apps do not offer invoicing tools and freelancer marketplace support.
        • Cash App limits the amount of money you can send or receive.

        Both Venmo and Cash App make it easy to send your clients personalized QR codes. This adds a fun touch to getting instant funds.

        Stripe

          Stripe is a powerful platform for retail freelancers. It offers products in many countries. It is also known for global payments, which boosts your revenue. It accepts money online or in person. Stripe also sends you an email when your payment is deposited. The tracking feature makes it easy for you to stay on top of your payments without worrying about when and if they will arrive.  Keeping mind these important tax tips for freelancers throughout the year so you don’t feel stressed during tax season.

          Stripe handles credit card payments and direct deposits effortlessly. Thus, making it great for freelancers who run their businesses through their websites. Stripe can also meet your client’s financial needs. It offers buy-now and pay-later options at checkout. Adding this feature allows you to beat your competition by improving your cash flow.

          The Pros Freelancers Getting Paid with Stripe

          • Supports cross-border payment methods in 195 countries and 135 plus currencies.
          • High-quality security and fraud protection measures.
          • Offers 24/7 support when you need it.
          • Tailor-made payment process to fit individual needs.

          The Cons Freelancers Getting Paid with Stripe

          • Transaction and conversion fees apply for international payments.
          • Business transactions in person have limited functionality.
          • Requires some software expertise.

          Stripe provides a wide range of payment methods that cater to different countries and currencies. You count on their round-the-clock availability for any tech support you might need. The only catch is that you might need a bit of software know-how to get it all set up.

          Business Checks as a Way of Freelancers Getting Paid

            In today’s digital world, checks can be less common for most businesses. A check is a signed document. It tells the bank to pay a specified amount to the recipient. This could be in the form of payroll checks or cashier’s checks. Some freelancers do not prefer this method of payment for many reasons. Yet, many companies still pay freelancers with printed checks.

            The Pros Freelancers Getting Paid with Checks

            • Checks do not have transaction fees.
            • Checks provide a transparent paper trail for the freelancer and client.
            • Has an in-depth clearing processing system in place.
            • Using checks allows you to avoid carrying cash with you.

            The Cons Freelancers Getting Paid with Checks

            • Mailing and clearing checks can be time-consuming, taking several days to clear.
            • Payment delays can occur if the check bounces due to insufficient funds from the freelance client.
            • It’s easy for checks to get lost in the mail or stolen.
            • Overdraft fees may occur if there are insufficient funds in your account.

            Freelancers dislike using checks for payment because they take time to arrive in the mail and clear. 

            Invoicing Software 

              Freelancers often use invoicing management software. Those include Honeybooks or QuickBooks to send professional invoices to their clients. These tools ensure accuracy and consistency between you and your clients. Who doesn’t want to get paid on time, said no freelancer ever.

              Invoicing software can handle payments via bank transfers, credit card payments, and more. Freelancers are saving time. They are using this option for payment because it’s simple, error-free, and reliable.  BTW, if you’re looking to save time with freelance invoicing software, consider these productivity apps for freelancers.

              The Pros Freelancers Getting Paid with Invoicing Software

              • Creates professional invoices at your fingertips.
              • Notifies you of reminders and follow-ups, reducing administrative tasks.
              • Software systems prevent human error when creating contracts and invoicing.

              The Cons Freelancers Getting Paid with Invoicing Software

              • Some invoicing systems may be too complex and require training.
              • There are some invoicing software that may require a subscription fee.
              • Some systems may not have the customization needed for your business.

              Invoicing software, like Quickbooks, lets you be consistent and error-free with your clients. 

              Discover the Perfect Payment Option for You

              Freelancers have many payment methods. Each has pros and cons. By understanding these options, you can ensure your funds promptly. The key is to choose the payment method that aligns with your needs and the needs of your clients. How freelancers get paid can vary depending on the payment system they opt for. Whether it’s a check mailed to you or sending out personalized invoices. The choice is yours. 

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              Clients Industry Money

              What Are Freelance Writer Salaries?

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

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

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

              What is a Freelance Writer Salary?

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

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

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

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

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

              Key Factors Influencing Freelance Writer Salaries

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

              1. More Experience Equals Higher Rates

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

              2. Niche Down and Earn More

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

              3. Consider Your Local Cost of Living

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

              4. Find Clients and Industries with a Marketing Budget

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

              Average Salary of a Freelance Writer

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

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

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

              Understanding Freelance Hourly Rates vs. Project Rates

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

              Pros of Hourly Freelance Rates 

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

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

              Cons of Freelance Hourly Rates

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

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

              Pros of Freelance Project rates

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

              Cons of Freelance Project rates

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

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

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

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

              Tips for Increasing Your Freelance Writer Salary

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

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

               Here are more tips to increase your freelance writer salary.

              1. Negotiate Higher Rates

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

              2. Build a Strong Portfolio with Client Testimonials

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

              3. Expand Your Services

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

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

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

              How to Reach Financial freedom as a Freelance Writer

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

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

              FAQs

              1. How do freelance writers get paid?

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

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

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

              3. How much do freelance writers make?

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

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

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

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              Clients Industry Mindset/Motivation

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

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

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

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

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

              Tips to Discover Your Freelance Niche

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

              Tip 1: Reflect on Your Passions and Interests

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

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

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

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

              Tip 2: Assess Your Skills and Expertise

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

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

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

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

              Tip 3: Research Market Demand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

              Tip 5: Trust Your Instincts

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

              Your Path to Freelance Success Begins with Discovering Your Niche

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

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

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

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

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

              Your Freelance Niche Doesn’t Have to Be Forever

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

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

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              Freelance Jobs Industry Writing Advice

              What is Content Marketing Writing?

              Do you think you’re missing out by not knowing the answer to ‘what is content marketing writing?’ This article will give you helpful insight into this form of writing so you don’t have to smile and silently nod. Sometimes people use freelance content marketing writing and journalism writing interchangeably. This can be misleading. 

              Each discipline requires a specific skill set. Yet, each field brings a different flair for writing to specific audiences—and both might require interview and researching skills—but content marketing writing is about creating awareness for a product or brand.

              It’s biased, even if a brand or product isn’t mentioned in the article. Journalism involves unbiased reporting and research, any conflicts-of-interest should be eliminated or at the very least, disclosed. Sometimes journalism is referred to as content writing but what makes it journalism is the reporting aspect.

              You might be wondering if you’ve ever read a content marketing writing example before but you probably have—it’s everywhere. I’ll give you an example. 

              Have you ever typed in a search into Google, then clicked on an article and read an informative article and been surprised to look up and realize it was under a product’s website? That’s an example of content marketing writing. It may have mentioned the product or service or it may not have. It likely included some kind of “call to action” (CTA) to do something, like sign up for a newsletter, join a mailing list, or learn more about the brand. 

              Your work as a freelance content marketing writer can greatly impact brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. It makes a rewarding and irresistible profession. 

              What is Content Marketing Writing to a Freelancer?

              Freelance content marketing writing is versatile and merges individuality and strategic marketing goals. It involves compelling, purpose-built content that engages the target audience and ultimately leads to a sale. This type of writing relies on information that provides captivating storytelling that draws in readers and turns them into brand loyalists.

              Freelance content marketing writers in this field can reach out to marketing managers, VP of marketing, and content managers to share their backgrounds and expertise to let them know why they’d be an asset to the brand. There’s plenty of work to be found in small businesses, large brands, and large associations.

              (Read samples of introductory emails to send to content marketing managers.)

              Could the answer to “what is content marketing writing” be that it’s your next freelance writing skill to add to your LinkedIn profile? Freelance content marketing writing is a satisfying and lucrative freelance skill to have. You’ll drive customer satisfaction and conversion rates through the following types of content marketing writing:

              • Blogs
              • Social media posts
              • Newsletters
              • White papers
              • eBooks/Digital downloads

              A content marketing writer aims to capture the brand’s audience, resulting in a trusted customer. 

              Freelance content marketing writers use their exceptional writing skills, marketing knowledge, and add data and research findings to create content that gets ranked well on SERPs (Search Engine Results Pages) and turns audiences into repeat visitors.

              Content marketing writing also helps build brand awareness. This tactic generates organic leads and happy clients, making this one of the highest-paid freelance writing skills. Freelance content writers can work with several clients in different niches, like health, beauty, Software as a Service (SaaS), pets, healthcare, and personal finance.

              You might even hear of this type of content as B2B or B2C writing. B2B is business to business (think of a software company selling their product to Microsoft). B2C is business to consumer. This could be a blog on a beauty brand, a pet product, or a service provider’s page.

              It’s about being a well-versed professional. You must understand the customer’s pain points and search engine optimization, known as SEO. SEO involves addressing relevant topics that others have looked up on the internet. 

              For example, when searching “ how to become a freelance marketing writer” or “how to get started as a marketing freelancer?” These related searches in your content can be great for keywords or headlines. Why? It’s because you are answering questions people want answers to. Content marketing writers are critical. They provide key information while being relatable and business-oriented. Knowing how to write good articles as a freelancer with primary keywords and secondary keywords is essential for success in search engine rankings and from your client’s standpoint. 

              Content Marketing Writing vs Magazine Writing

              Content marketing writing has a different voice, framework, and audience. It is not like magazine writing. Magazine writing tends to be shorter than content marketing writing, this could also depend on the publication. 

              The goal of magazine writing or editorial writing for magazines is to inform and entertain magazine subscribers of digital audiences on various topics related to the magazine. This type of writing isn’t trying to sell anything–other than maybe an editorial magazine subscription. Magazine writing is more likely to focus on a publication’s audiences (although there’s a lot of affiliate marketing and sponsored content on and in magazines these days). Magazine-style writing often includes feature stories, reported articles, interviews, or personal essays. 

              Content marketing aims to engage and convert target audiences for brand awareness. Content marketing writing concentrates on customer action, generating leads, or boosting sales. An example is “7 Reasons Why You Should Switch to Vegan Lip Products,” and you’ll find this blog on a vegan beauty company’s website, possibly with a link to sign up for a newsletter and get a promo code. Magazine writing would likely include a non-biased roundup of the “7 Best Vegan Lip Products.” 

              How Much Does Freelance Content Marketing Writing Pay?

              Be honest. When you explored, “what is content marketing writing,” you certainly wanted to know if being a freelance content marketing writer pays well.


              When you’re a freelance content marketing writer, pay is commonly per project or per article. If you and the client come up with an agreement about a specific number of pieces (articles) you’ll produce per month as an ongoing relationship, it’s known as a retainer agreement. 

              As of 2024, many content marketing writing assignments tend to pay better than online magazine assignments of the same word count. That might be because brands have more money and stand to potentially earn more with each piece of content. 

              In general, content marketing writing likely pays at least $0.50/word and up, often closer to $1/word/

              Freelance content writers can charge based on the complexity of the scope of the project. Magazine writing can also receive payment for the number of words, interviews, research involved in the piece, and per project. The magazine determines writers’ rates based on the magazine’s budget and the writer’s level of experience.

              How Do Editorial Writing and Freelance Content Marketing Writing Differ?

              Editorial writing is also known as opinion writing. The author expresses their opinion or viewpoint on a particular topic. This type of writing is generally published in newspapers or magazines. Freelance content marketing writing builds readership for a brand and drives traffic. 

              Editorial writing emphasizes the editorial board or author topics the team represents. You can find the editorial team on the publication’s website. They’re a group of professionals with diverse skills in fact-checking, writing, and editing. The team ensures that the information presented is accurate, engaging, and error-free. That being said, a brand’s CEO can write an op-ed and submit it for possible publication. It will likely be skewed to support their brand’s initiatives but it should also be well-reported.

              Editorial writing style is more persuasive. It focuses on using logic to support the opinions. Content marketing styles use storytelling to optimize the readers’ experience and with a call to action (CTA). This will encourage the reader to take part in their offer. An example of a call to action is “I want this”, “ or “Download here” or “Learn more.” 

              Writers sprinkle these phrases throughout their content marketing blogs to entice the reader to view what they’re selling. Editorial writing may not include a call to action. Yet, it provides a format centered on current events, cultural trends, or social issues.

              Content marketing writing often focuses on brand stories and case studies.

              Which Style of Writing Suits You: Content Marketing, Magazine Journalism, or Editorial Writing?

              Freelance content marketing writing is versatile and merges individuality and strategic marketing goals. It is also a high-paying freelance niche and allows growth and opportunity. Content marketing writing builds trust and authority. It uses well-crafted words to inspire the audience. If you enjoy writing blogs to drive organic traffic, freelance content marketing writing is for you. But let’s recap on the difference between magazine journalism writing and editorial writing. 

              Magazine journalism writing tends to be longer than content marketing writing and its goal is to inform and entertain audiences online and print to encourage repeat visits. 

              Typically, magazine writers earn payment based on the number of words, while freelance content marketing writers earn payment based on the project. Editorial writing is persuasive and it uses logic to support the opinions. Content marketing styles use storytelling to optimize the readers’ experience. 

              Now that we’ve satisfied your top questions on “what is content marketing writing?” sign up for a newsletter to get more freelance skills in your inbox.

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              Can You Earn a Living Freelancing?

              You’re thinking about starting a freelance career or, you’ve already kick-started one and wondered if it’s truly possible to earn a living freelancing and earn a living freelance writing. Some days freelancers can feel like they’re rolling in the money and need to turn down freelance assignments. Other days, you keep refreshing your inbox to see if clients need your freelance talents and stress about your bank account statements.

              When I was in high school, I dreamed of becoming a freelance writer who worked from home and was able to support a family. My first byline was in 1978, and it wasn’t until 1996 that I made the leap from “full-time employee” to “full-time freelance writer.”  The journey has been an exciting one, and the Internet has made the process a lot easier.

              Until the past two decades, freelance writers had to submit everything via snail mail. Can you imagine writing a query letter (magazine pitch), and making sure you included a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) if you wanted a reply? Then it would take several months before you would hear back from an editor.

              These days, you can get rejected within a few hours thanks to the invention of email. But, you can also get an assignment within a few hours, too.  You can earn as much money as you want as a freelancer. Marketing is the key component.

              That’s why it’s still possible to earn a living freelance writing.

              4 Ways You Can Earn a Living Freelance Writing

              Making a living as a freelancer is possible when you follow these steps.

              1.  Write articles for publications and websites. 

              One of the reasons you’re thinking about earning a living as a freelance writer is because you’re interested in writing for magazines, editorial websites, or brands.

              Some places will pay “per word,” while others will pay “per project.” 

              Many magazines and websites hire freelance writers to help with content. 

              (Hint: look for publications and websites that are a good fit for your interests and skill set.)

              2.  Write greeting cards. 

              Yes, people are still buying them and this industry needs your writing talents.

              Most card companies accept submissions from freelance writers. Visit their website and look for the submission guidelines. In the past, I have sold greeting cards for rates ranging from $75 to $150. Blue Mountain Arts pays $300. Research card companies online at the Greeting Card Association.

              (Hint: look for greeting card companies that are not in the association…they won’t be getting as many submissions from freelance writers.)

              This is just one of many fun answers to the question, “Can you earn a living freelancing?”

              3.  Write for specialty newsletters. 

              I got one of my first freelance newsletter writing assignments after answering an ad on a job board. article was only 250 words, and it paid $100. Find lots of newsletters at the Directory of Associations and Industry Newsletters. You could also offer freelance writing services to clients as a writer for their e-newsletters.

              4.  Write books. It’s a great way to earn a living freelancing.

              Sure, that’s way easier said than done, John!

              Here’s how to earn a living freelancer with book writing projects.

              ·         The “traditional way” is when you create a book proposal and either submit it directly to a publisher, or through a literary agent (there are still plenty of mainstream publishers that accept submissions directly from authors).

              ·         You can also “self-publish,” either on Amazon or with a “print on demand” (POD) company. When you self-publish on Amazon, for example, they handle all the printing and shipping, etc., and you receive a monthly royalty payment.

              ·         You can also find “work-for-hire” book project opportunities. Many publishers have ideas for books and need authors to create them. I have worked on these types of projects for rates ranging from $800 (for a children’s book for a school library publisher) to $15,000 (for a business book for a mainstream publisher).

              ·         Write chapters for publishers. Many publishers are looking for “experts” in different fields to write just one or two chapters for a book. (I wrote a few chapters in “Family Health for Dummies” and “Men’s Health for Dummies.”)

              FAQs: Can You Earn a Living Freelancing?

              How much do freelancers earn freelancing for a living?

              Good question, and the answers are all over the place. For example, there are several surveys online that indicate the average hourly rate for a freelance writer is about $29. Other surveys have the figure higher, and few even have it much lower.

              I have never been a fan of an hourly wage for a freelance assignment. Most of the freelance assignments I get these days pay on a per project or per word basis. Much better, in my opinion. (That being said, freelance rates are how they charge are up to each freelancer.)

              In the past, I have written articles for rates ranging from 50 cents to $2.00 per word.  These days most of my article assignments pay between $350 and $750, depending upon a variety of factors (timeline, amount of research that is required, and if outside sources are needed as quotes).

              Consider these stats from SmartBlogger.com:

              ·         50% (or more) of freelance writers earn less than $30k per year.

              ·         18% of freelance writers reported income levels of $31k – $50k 

              ·         5% reported making between $100k – $125,000

              ·         4% earned over $125,000

              Can I make a career out of freelancing?

              Is it possible to seriously earn a living freelancing?

              Most freelance writers are happy with getting assignments as a side gig and starting a freelance side hustle.

              Depending on your schedule, you may only have time to squeeze in one article per week. Or, as a reminder, we all get the same 24 hours a day, seven. days a week. Learning how to manage your time wisely…and financially…should be a key factor in deciding if you want to make a career out of freelance writing.

              Can freelancers make good money?

              Freelancers can absolutely make good money doing this! I know hundreds of freelance writers who are making darn good money. In fact, most of them are making great money—over six figure freelancer salaries.

              Brainstorm some ways to find those higher-paying projects. Present yourself as a professional and convince the editor that YOU are the right freelance writer for the next assignment.

              Is freelancing still profitable?

              Freelancing is still profitable for freelancers if you’re willing to embrace marketing, marketing, and marketing. (Did we get the point across?) A freelance marketing plan is the key to a successful…and profitable…freelance journey. The more you market yourself, the more bylines and checks will come your way.

              Don’t be afraid to try something new and get outside your comfort zone when it comes to being able to earn a living freelancing. I never thought I would be writing greeting cards and school library books, but I am glad that I tried it.

              How to Make a Living as a Freelance Writer

              While the freelance landscape has shifted dramatically over the past few decades, one thing remains constant: the importance of marketing oneself effectively. Whether you’re earning a living freelancing by writing articles, crafting greeting cards, creating newsletters, penning books, or promoting yourself and your freelance business on social media, marketing is the key to attracting high-paying clients and catapulting your earning potential.

              In order to stay relevant and successful for decades to come, be resilient, embrace new opportunities, and continuously refine your marketing skills. You can indeed earn a living freelancing and thrive in the roller coaster ride that is the freelance industry. So, don’t hesitate to explore new avenues, seize opportunities, and make your freelance dreams a reality.

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