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How Do I Get Into Travel Writing

Ever wondered how to get into travel writing as a freelancer? You’re not alone. Many new writers ask, “How do I become a travel writer?” or “Can I get paid to travel and write?” Here’s how to get started—even if you’re not jet-setting just yet.

But it’s not all cocktail cruises, high-end hotels, or jaw-dropping wildlife encounters, like I’ve experienced as a freelance travel writer. Behind the scenes, there’s a lot of hard work involved, much of it unpaid. It’s an important factor to know when you’re considering ‘how do I get into travel writing?’

Despite the downsides, I still think travel writing is the best gig in the world. Here’s why you should consider adding a travel writing skillset to the existing work you do – and how to get started.

What is travel writing?

Travel writing defies easy description and every freelance travel writer might have their own take on it. It would, on the surface, seem to be about destinations and journeys. Yet what really brings a narrative to life are the people you meet, the experiences you have along the way, and the things that don’t go according to plan.

Although travel writing is non-fiction, and thus based on facts, it is highly subjective, being shaped by an individual writer’s interests, preferences, and biases.

What is freelance travel writing?” is another common question from beginners. Travel writer Jonathan Raban described his craft as “a notoriously raffish open house where different genres are likely to end up in the same bed.”

Travel writing borrows from multiple genres, including memoir, journalism, fiction, poetry, and (some would argue) commentary. It also crosses a range of subject areas, including history, geology, politics, popular culture, gastronomy, and more. (Find out more of the types of freelance writing freelancers should know.)

Even technology gets a twirl, as robotic baristas, contactless check-ins, and wearable tech like translation earbuds continue to change the face of travel.

Travel writing also encompasses multiple different types of freelance writing:

  • You might pen an experiential first-person narrative for a print newspaper,
  • Or a listicle (such as ‘12 fun things to do in Rome’) for a print magazine,
  • Or a research and photo-based slideshow of “20 Must-visit restaurants in London” for a lifestyle website.
  • You might contribute to travel or generalist websites or gather material for your own travel blog.

Do you think longer projects might be up your alley when you look into how to get into travel writing?

 Some travel writers compile guidebooks that are designed to dispense practical advice on where to stay, eat, shop and tour.

As you explore how to become a travel writer, you might consider writing something like Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love book. Others such as Bill Bryson entertain by sharing the funny or absurd aspects of travel while still others share deeply transformative travel experiences.

How Do I Get Into Travel Writing as a Freelancer?

“If you’re asking yourself, ‘how do I get into travel writing?’ start close to home to build up good writing samples.

Getting started in freelance travel writing doesn’t require your passport, you can get into travel writing as a freelance writer by starting with an area you know well, like your hometown. Here are some ways you can build up examples of freelance writing samples for clients to see your travel writing clips.

  • Start a portfolio with local travel stories
  • Publish stories on Medium or your own blog
  • Write guest posts for travel blogs
  • Create a travel writing-specific section on your LinkedIn
  • Pitch local papers and regional magazines (check grocery stores and coffee shops for free publications)
  • Repurpose travel content into newsletter content or digital products. You could build up a following and learn how to earn a passive income for freelancers.

What are the benefits of adding travel into your freelance writing mix?

Even if you don’t plan on becoming a full-time travel writer, there are sound reasons why you may wish to add a travel writing skill to your repertoire as part of the exercises when you ask yourself “how do I get into travel writing?”

It improves your observational skills.

When you’re trying to capture the essence of a destination, you’re paying keen attention to all the details. There’s a necessary focus on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. You’re intent on ‘showing’ not ‘telling’, on analyzing your emotional responses, and reflecting on the meaning of it all. This naturally improves your storytelling skills, making your content in all areas more engaging.

(Keep in mined these 13 truths and 1 lie about being a travel writer.)

The novelty stokes your creativity.

Immersing yourself in an unfamiliar destination encourages you to make novel associations – which is one of the key elements of creativity, says Moshe Bar, author of Mindwandering. “The more preprogrammed our thinking is, the less likely innovative connections are to be made and fewer creative ideas will bubble up,” he writes in his book. The exploratory nature of travel writing can thus spur your creativity, benefitting your work in other areas.

You stumble across additional story ideas.

It’s rare to go off on a travel writing jobs assignment and come back with only the story you were originally commissioned to write. Many other possibilities usually present themselves once you’re on the road (usually with minimal additional effort on your part). And they’re not always travel-related. For example, what I’ve learned during travel writing assignments has led to pitches, and subsequent commissions, from business, science and agricultural publications.

How can I get my first travel story published?

Many freelancers wonder how to get into travel writing when they don’t have samples to show clients. (Yes it’s the old “chicken and the egg” situation) .Getting your first freelance travel assignment and travel story published might be easier than you think.

Start close to home.

Local newspapers or regional magazines are often looking for stories about nearby attractions, which provides an accessible entry point for new freelance travel writers. Also remember that what’s routine for you is interesting, or even exotic, for someone else. That’s one of the reasons that editors actively seek out writers who are resident in a particular area. Read more about why your backyard is the best place to kick off your travel writing career.

Publish on your own freelance travel blog or website.

You’ll need a strong track record of publication to break into publications like Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler, but you don’t need anyone’s permission to publish travel stories on your own blog or website. The content you publish may even attract editors and clients looking for fresh voices. For example, freelance travel writer Matthew Kepnes initially wrote about his adventures on his NomadicMatt.com blog – but has since been published in The New York Times, CNN, The Guardian, and more. Travel blogs can also become assets in themselves.

Guest post on established travel blogs.

Guest posting on established travel blogs is another way to get your foot in the door, reach new audiences, or boost your online presence. Some blogs actively seek guest contributions and provide detailed submission guidelines, allowing you to craft submissions that best suit their needs.

Some pay a nominal fee; others don’t pay at all. This might be acceptable if you’re just starting out. Travel blogs that currently accept guest posts include The Art of Travel, Practical Wanderlust, and Backpackers World Travel.

How to pitch travel articles to magazines, websites, and top publications

Exposure on your own or more established travel blogs will only get you so far. Eventually, you’ll want to sell your stories to a travel publication that’s willing to pay for them – and this usually starts with freelance article pitches to the editor.

A travel story pitch needs to identify the destination you’re proposing to cover.

As with other pitches, open with an engaging hook which captures the editor’s attention and gives them a sense of what’s to come. (I recommend writing the first couple of sentences of the story you’re proposing to write, using all the colorful sensory detail you can muster.)

It’s also important to identify your travel article’s angle – that is, the unique perspective you’re planning to take with this freelance travel feature.

‘Kyoto’, for instance, is a destination, not an angle. But exploring the essence of Kyoto, as revealed through its Zen gardens, as in this piece in The New York Times, is an angle. 

Your pitch will also need to answer the two questions that are usually top of mind for editors – “Why this?” and “Why now?”

For example, a new airport, along with the introduction of international flights, makes a story about the under-the-radar destination of Greenland newly topical.

A freelance travel article pitch may also identify why a particular story is a good fit for that publication – or why it would work well in one of the publication’s regular sections.

Don’t forget to include details on your credentials with a link to your portfolio – which is why getting those first few freelance travel stories under your belt, as described earlier, is so important.

How do you find publications to pitch to?

Despite the generally grim state of editorial publishing, it seems there are still trillions of travel publications to pitch to.

One of the ways I still like to find them is by browsing the shelves of my local news agency or library.

Along with top tier print publications such as Conde Nast Traveler, National Geographic Travel and Travel + Leisure, there are also those aimed at particular niches.

In my local (Australian) market, these include publications focusing upon high-end travel (think Luxury Travel Magazine), adventure (including Wild), the intersection of travel, food and wine (as in Gourmet Traveller) and many more.

Most generalist magazines and newspapers also have travel sections.


There are also publications which contain substantial travel content such as Roads & Kingdoms, Outside Online, and Adventure.com.

Don’t overlook B2B trade publications such as Travel Weekly and Skift, which are aimed at industry professionals such as travel agents and destination marketers rather than the general public.

Many publications in all the categories above will have submission guidelines which provide useful guidance on what they’re looking for and might even serve to spark ideas.

Searching freelance job boards such as Contena, joining groups such as TravMedia or professional associations such as the Society of American Travel Writers, subscribing to curated lists of editor callouts such as  Opportunities of the Week Newsletter x Study Hall, are other good ways to keep your ear to the ground about travel writing opportunities.

FAQ about getting started in travel writing

What does travel writing pay in 2025?

We get it, you’re wondering, Can you make money as a freelance travel writer? Yes, it’s possible but know that few publications are upfront about the rates they pay for travel writing. That’s because they vary wildly depending on the publication, story type, and writer’s willingness to work for peanuts – or for nothing.

For example, despite publishing a finicky list of ‘dos and don’ts’ for writers, BootsnAll does not pay for submissions. Rather, it offers exposure (which might be acceptable if you’re trying to build a portfolio), and a single backlink (which comes in handy if you’re keen to promote your own blog).

At the other end of the spectrum, big budget publications like Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure used to pay up to $2.00 per word for the print publications, according to Who Pays Writers. (Note that those numbers were from 2017.)

However, some contributors to that freelance rate website have also reported rates of as little as $0.17  USD per word for those same publications.

In my experience, the majority seem to pay anywhere from $0.30 USD to $0.62 USD per word.

But when you factor in the time spent travelling, then subsequently writing the relevant stories, the difficulty associated with making a living through editorial work alone becomes apparent.

For that reason, many travel writers also take on various types of freelance writing for other niches, content writing for brands (BTW, what is “content marketing?”), tourism boards, or travel companies, or blogging for their own sites.

Writing on his own blog, Tim Leffel claims that publishing a story on your own travel blog is likely to yield far better financial returns over the longer term than publishing the same story with a mainstream media title.

Do you pitch the story first or do the travel and then pitch it? 

This is a real chicken-and-egg scenario, with no satisfactory answer other than ‘it depends’.

Often, you’ll only uncover the most captivating angles once you’ve had time to explore a destination.

And when you’re just starting out, you generally won’t have the support of tourism boards and other travel industry players, so you’ll often need to travel at your own expense.

After spending time on the ground, you can then write about your travels, in the hope that an editor is sufficiently interested and engaged to buy your words.

However, more established travel writers tend to pitch an editor first, and then undertake the travel.

That’s because once you’ve secured a confirmed commission from a publication, you’re in a much stronger position to seek sponsorship for your trip from the relevant tourism board, or hotels, restaurants, and tour companies that will feature in your story.

Just be aware that there are some big-name titles – including BBC Travel, The New York Times and The Washington Post – that won’t commission stories based on sponsored travel.

In practice, I usually pitch first, so I can set off with at least one confirmed commission, along with the sponsorship that makes it all possible.

On the road, I almost always stumble upon additional stories which can be placed subsequently.

Discover how to wring multiple stories from each trip.

How do I get invited on press trips?

Once you have a few published travel stories under your belt, you’ll likely start to receive press trip invitations – either from PR representatives or editors you’ve previously worked with.

Also known as group familiarization trips (or ‘famils’ or ‘fams’) these tend to be fast-paced, but rewarding.

To increase your chances of being on the invite list, it’s important to build (and maintain) a quality freelance portfolio.

Attending networking events such as TravMedia’s International Media Marketplace (IMM) is another way to build contacts and learn more about upcoming press trip opportunities.

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The best freelance jobs for students in college
Freelance Jobs Money Writing Advice

Best Freelance Jobs for College Students

Finding a job that fits your college schedule can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube with your eyes closed. With classes scattered throughout the day and a social life to maintain, squeezing in a traditional job might seem impossible. But what if there was a way to earn money, build your resume, and gain valuable skills without sacrificing your study time or social life? And what if it involved freelance for college students?

When you figure out the best freelance jobs for students, you’ll learn ways to earn more money in college and how to find freelance writing for college students jobs that suit your interests.

Browsing freelancing websites for students allows students to work from anywhere, anytime, and on their own terms. Being able to start a freelance career in college is probably easier than you think.

Plus, with the rise of the gig economy, there’s never been a better time to dive into student freelance jobs. According to a Harvard Business Review study, approximately 150 million people in North America work in the gig economy.

So why not you? Grab your laptop and a cup of coffee, and let’s explore the best freelance gigs for students that can help you earn money while keeping your college life on track!

Can You Work Freelance as a Student?

Absolutely! Many students successfully juggle their studies while freelancing. Freelance for college students offers the flexibility to work around your varied class schedule, study sessions, and extracurricular activities. (Downtime in between classes? Great opportunity to scour freelance writing websites for freelance jobs.)

Unlike traditional part-time jobs, freelancing lets you pick up projects when you have time and pause when you’re swamped with exams. Whether you’re looking for freelance writing for college students, graphic design, or tutoring gigs, you can earn money while gaining experience in your field. (And no, you don’t have to tell any clients that you’re a college student who is freelancing.)

How Do College Students Start Freelancing?

Starting a freelance career in college is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get started:

Identify Your Skills: What are you good at? Writing, graphic design, social media management, tutoring? Choose a skill that you enjoy and that has a market.

Build a Portfolio: Even if you don’t have professional experience, create sample projects to showcase your abilities.

Sign Up for Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great places to land freelance jobs for students when you’re a beginner and want to gain experience.

Network and Promote Yourself as You Discover Freelance for College Students Tips: Use LinkedIn, social media, and college connections to spread the word about your services.

Start Small and Grow: Begin with lower-risk projects to get your feet wet and build a few samples, then increase your rates and take on more challenging work as you gain experience.

    Why Freelancing Is Good for College Students

    Before we discuss the types of best freelance jobs for students (there are many of them!), let’s consider why freelancing is a fantastic option for anyone juggling the demands of college life. Learn simple ways how to improve your writing so you can command higher freelance rates.

    Create a Schedule That Works for You

    Unlike traditional jobs, freelance gigs for students allow you to work when it suits you best. Whether you’re an early riser who likes to get work done before your first class or a night owl who prefers to burn the midnight oil, freelancing allows you to choose your working hours.

    This is especially important when you’re prioritizing a college workload. No more awkward gaps between classes or rushing to a part-time job after a long day of lectures! Once you start a freelance career in college and you freelance from a dorm room or write wherever you want, you can meet client deadlines easily.

    Build Your Skills with Real-World Experience

    Freelancing is like a hands-on internship that pays! You’ll gain real-world experience in your chosen field, develop a versatile skill set, and build a portfolio that impresses future employers. Plus, you can learn at your own pace, taking on projects that challenge and help you grow.

    Learn to Network Like a Pro

    As a freelancer, you’ll likely connect with professionals across various industries. These connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, internships, job offers, and collaborations that can boost your career long after graduation. Freelancing is a great way to build a professional network and a freelance community that provides social support and camaraderie.  Later, working that “network” will be key when you explore the best ways to find freelance writing jobs for beginners.

    Earn While You Learn with Freelance Jobs for Students

    One of the biggest perks of freelancing is the earning potential. As you gain experience and build a reputation, you can increase your freelance rates and take on more lucrative projects, looking for higher-paying jobs on freelancing websites for students. This means you can earn more than pocket change—freelancing can help pay for tuition, textbooks, and even a few nights out with friends!

    The Best Freelance Jobs for Students in College

    Now that you’re excited about the benefits of freelancing in college, let’s explore some of the best freelance jobs for students. Whether you’re a wordsmith, a techie, or a designer, there’s a student freelance gig out there for you. The variety of work makes it easy to start a freelance career in college.

    Freelance for College Students Writing Work

    If you love writing and have a way with words, content writing is one of the best freelance jobs for students. The opportunities are endless, from blog posts and articles to social media content and product descriptions. Plus, writing gigs can often be done on your own time, making them perfect for a busy student schedule.

    Pro Tip: Explore niches that interest you! For example, consider writing legal blogs or articles for local law firms if you’re studying law. Not only will you be earning money, but you’ll also be reinforcing your knowledge in your field of study and networking with potential employers.

    If you’re looking to sharpen your freelance writing skills, check out the freelancing courses created by Diana Levey. Diana’s courses cover everything from the basics of freelance writing to advanced strategies for growing and scaling your freelance business.

    Graphic Design

    Do you have an eye for design? Freelance graphic design is a fantastic option for students with a creative flair! Whether designing logos, creating social media graphics, or crafting infographics, there’s a high demand for visual content that stands out. Behance.net is a great tool to use when looking for freelance graphic design gigs.

    Pro Tip: Start by offering your services to small businesses or student organizations. It’s a great way to build a portfolio and gain experience while still in school.

    Virtual Assisting (VA in College)

    If you’re organized, detail-oriented, and love helping others, becoming a virtual assistant could be your perfect freelance gig. Virtual assistants (VAs) help businesses with email management, scheduling, and data entry tasks. It’s a great way to gain administrative experience and keep everything running smoothly for your clients!

    Check out Belay for open virtual assistance roles that could be a fit while doing freelance for college students. Belay specializes in hiring for virtual assistant roles and matches freelancers with businesses looking for administrative support.

    Pro Tip: Highlight your organizational skills and reliability in your profile. Clients love VAs who can keep them on track and make their lives easier.

    Web Development

    Are you a coding whiz? If so, web development is one of the most lucrative freelance jobs for students. Whether you’re building websites from scratch, customizing WordPress themes, or developing front-end solutions, web developers are always in demand.

    Pro Tip: Start with smaller projects to build your portfolio. As you gain more experience, you can take on larger, more complex projects that offer higher pay.

    Social Media Management

    Social media management could be your calling if you’re a social media guru who knows how to engage an audience and create killer content. Many businesses seek experts to manage their online presence, create content calendars, and analyze engagement metrics. We think this is one of the best freelance jobs for students because you’re already using the tools often each day.

    Pro Tip: Use your own social media profiles to showcase your skills. Demonstrating a strong personal brand and understanding different platforms can help you land clients. Discover why freelancers need a personal brand and how to create one.

    Freelance Tutoring

    Do you excel in a particular subject? Why not share your knowledge and get paid for it? Online tutoring is a fulfilling and flexible freelance job for students who want to help others succeed. Whether it’s math, science, or helping with college essays, online tutoring can be done from anywhere with an internet connection. That’s why it’s one of the most popular remote jobs for college students. Explore local tutoring opportunities or remote freelance tutoring jobs on websites like Care.com. 

    Pro Tip: Create a profile on tutoring platforms (like Care.com) and highlight your academic achievements and tutoring experience. Positive student reviews can lead to more opportunities and higher rates.

    Transcription Services

    If you’re a fast typist with a keen ear, transcription services could be an ideal freelance gig for you. Transcriptionists convert audio files into written text, and there’s a demand for transcription services in various fields, from legal to medical. Platforms like Rev hire freelancers to transcribe and caption content. 

    Pro Tip: Accuracy and speed are key in transcription work. Consider investing in good transcription software and practice regularly to improve your skills.

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    Proofreading and Editing Can Be Some of the Best Freelance Jobs for Students

    Proofreading and editing are excellent freelance jobs for students with a strong grasp of grammar and attention to detail. You’ll help clients polish their content, ensuring it’s error-free and reads smoothly. Scribendi is a Canadian company that hires freelance editors and proofreaders to edit content for its ESL, academic, and professional clients. 

    Pro Tip: Build a reputation for being thorough and reliable. Word of mouth is powerful, and satisfied clients will likely recommend your services to others.

    Freelance Photography

    If you are passionate about photography, why not turn it into a freelance business? Freelance photographers can work on various projects, from event photography to product shoots.

    Pro Tip: Build an online portfolio showcasing your best work. Social media platforms like Instagram can also be a great way to attract clients and show off your photography skills.

    Freelance Translation

    Are you bilingual or multilingual? Freelance translation could be a perfect fit for you to do freelance work while in college. Translators are needed to convert written content from one language to another, and this skill is in high demand in various industries. Check out Gengo for freelance translator opportunities. 

    Pro Tip: Highlight your language proficiency and any specialized knowledge you have (like legal or technical translation). Being able to translate complex documents can command higher freelance rates.

    How to Get Started with Freelancing Remote Jobs for College Students

    Now that you know the best freelance jobs for students, you might wonder how to get started. Here are some tips to help you kickstart your freelancing career and be an attractive candidate when you promote yourself on freelancing websites for students:

    • Create a Portfolio
      • A portfolio is crucial, whether it’s writing samples, design work, or coding projects. It showcases your skills and helps potential clients see what you can do.
    • Set Your Rates
      • Research the going rates for the type of freelance work you want to do. Start with competitive rates to attract clients, and as you gain experience, don’t be afraid to raise your prices.
    • Join Freelance Platforms
      • Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great places to find student freelance gigs. Create a strong profile and start applying for jobs that match your skills.
    • Network with Other Freelancers
      • Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Join online communities, attend industry events, and connect with other freelancers. Networking can lead to referrals and job opportunities.
    • Keep Learning
      • The freelance world is constantly evolving, so staying updated on the latest trends and skills is important. Check out Diana Levey’s freelancing courses to continue honing your craft and growing your freelance business.

    Excel While Landing Top Freelance Jobs for Students

    Freelancing is an incredible opportunity for students to earn money, participate in remote jobs for college students, gain valuable experience, and build a professional network while still in school. With the flexibility to work around your schedule and the potential to grow your income as you gain experience, freelancing is a smart choice for any student looking to balance work and study.

    So, why wait? Start exploring the best freelance jobs for students today and take control of your college experience and financial future. Remember, with the right skills and a little hustle, the possibilities are endless.

    Ready to learn practical skills? Try the “get paid to write” e-course

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    Mindset/Motivation Money Work-Life Balance Writing Advice

    Master Freelancer Goal Setting: A Guide to Success without Stress

    I was part of a wave of journalists who had to flee the failing newspaper business. In 2021, I took a voluntary buyout that didn’t seem that voluntary. Almost every year since 2008, the companies I worked for laid off employees or offered buyouts. It was going to be a matter of time before I was involuntarily shown the door and needed to think about freelancer goal-setting strategies.

    It was a painful yet ultimately rewarding decision to transition into full-time freelance writing. I had to find out for myself the answer to, “Can you earn a living freelancing?”

    I’d say it’s a resounding, “Yes.” I’ve more than tripled my income since I started freelancing.

    There have been many stops and starts and wrong turns in my freelance journey but I’ve managed to achieve a degree of success that has allowed me to create a long-term blueprint for growth. It’s a multilayered plan that includes investing in my business, creating financial efficiencies, and setting financial goals. 

    To grow your business, you need to set aside time to think about a long-term growth strategy. It’s hard to envision a prosperous future when you’re struggling to get clients in the early phase of freelancing but if you are committed, you’ll get to a point where you can plan for your financial success and establish a healthy freelance money mindset.

    4 Things to Think about During Freelancer Goal-Setting

    Keep these topics in mind when you set freelance goals and look toward building a sustainable freelance business.

    1. Invest in Your Business

    This is the first year I’ve been able to commit a sizable budget to investing in my business.

    A year ago, I took the step of turning my freelance business into a Limited Liability Corporation. What is an LLC?  It’s essentially a business structure that shields owners from any personal liability they might incur.  

    For me, there was a psychological component to creating an LLC. It created the formal structure I needed to move forward with advancing my business. I wanted to be a business owner instead of a freelance writer. Becoming a business owner helped me frame and strategize for the future. It’s given me an avenue to decide what services I can offer, what services I want to offer, and how I want to grow my business. 

    As a freelancer, it felt like I was randomly chasing freelance writing jobs. Now, I’m changing my website and my business name so I can reposition from being a freelance writer to running a writing business. Small words that shape how we see ourselves can have big impacts. These are forms of investments. 

    2. Establish Financial Goals as Part of Freelancer Goal-Setting Strategy

    Everyone has bills to pay. Without a regular paycheck, it’s critical for freelancers to know exactly what they need to get through the month. For instance, by the end of my first year I was making around $3,000 per month freelancing. It wasn’t great but I had a ramp that allowed me extra time to build my business because I received a 10-month buyout from my previous job. 

    Having a financial cushion to start your freelance business is important. Once you’ve established your business, you need to have financial goals that project growth. Pare it down to monthly goals. 

    Initially, I wanted to make more each month than I did the month before. My goal was $5,000 per month. Financial progress isn’t linear for any business. You have to be prepared for downturns that could result from a lack of work or slow payments from clients. 

    It’s also important to stash away at least 25% of your income for taxes. (Get more taxes for freelance writers tips.) I pay myself every two weeks and I save at least 20% of my income. At least half of my savings goes toward my retirement. 

    If business is lean, you’ll have to consider cutting expenses. However, this is a short-term solution that should only be applied as a final resort. You don’t want to live with the stress of constantly having to be frugal.

    3. Create Strategies to Achieve Those Freelance Money Goals

    There are multiple ways to increase your income. My big break was landing an anchor client. My anchor client accounts for over 80 percent of my revenue. My financial goals are currently $12,000 per month. 

    Do I hit it every month? No, but it’s not an unreasonable standard at this point in my business.  Some freelancers have two or three freelance anchor clients. 

    These are priority clients. They account for the majority of your revenue and time. My anchor client was a game changer. It allowed me to raise rates for other projects and it created enough security for me to turn down assignments that didn’t seem like a good fit or didn’t pay enough. 

    Nothing in freelancing lasts forever so I’m operating under the assumption that eventually I’ll lose my anchor client. I view it this way to stay motivated. I must constantly diversify my client list and be ready to pivot, offer new services, and be prepared for downturns. 

    You should constantly look for different services that could work for you. Some of the highest-paying freelance skills of 2024 include mobile app development, AI Development, Website Development and others. 

    4. Write Down Skill Goals as Part of Freelancer Goals

    What are skill goals? It’s simply learning a new skill that you can translate into a service for your clients.  The five highest-paying freelance writing skills of 2024 involve ghostwriting, UX writing, and healthcare writing to name a few. Explore these to see if you have any interest in building upon your innate know-how.

    I’m taking a class on premium ghostwriting that focuses on how to write an educational email class. It’s a service that I’ll likely add at some point. It might be adding SEO writing expertise to your portfolio of services. From free to paid classes, there are multiple ways to increase your SEO knowledge and add value to your services. It’s a great skill to incorporate into freelancer goal-setting sessions. 

    A former journalist who understands story pitches and what makes a good story could add a public relations component to their services. There are clients who will pay you to get publicity for their stories. This can be very lucrative. As your business grows, you’ll have to figure out how to manage it and whether you want to scale it out by adding employees or whether you want to manage it as a solopreneur. 

    Take Freelancer Goal-Setting Strategies Seriously

    Establishing a road map for your financial growth is imperative to make it in freelancing. Devote a half day each week to journaling or writing out your future financial goals. Some key fundamentals for financial growth include setting a monthly goal, planning daily for future revenue goals, making sure you are diversifying your clientele through freelance marketing strategies, putting some money aside every month for taxes and your savings, and learning new skills. 

    How you follow these freelancer goal-setting fundamentals is up to you but you have to do these tasks to have a chance for sustained success.

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    Clients Industry Money Writing Advice

    What’s An Average Freelance Writer Salary?

    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? Why embark on a new career path without an inkling of the average freelance writer’s salary?

    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 the Average 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 average 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 Increase Your Average Freelance Writer Salary

    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 Freelance Writer Salary Details

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average freelance writer salary 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, science writing, or copywriting for SaaS (software as a service) brands often increase the average salary of a freelance writer, 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.

    Get paid to write: learn in 10 lessons with this online course

    Understanding Freelance Hourly Rates vs. Project Rates

    Let’s examine the pros and cons of hourly rates vs. project rates when you’re considering the average salary of a freelance writer.

    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 no matter what your freelance writer salary is.

    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 and find out how much to charge for a 500-word article.

    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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    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 Writing Science Topics 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 by writing science topics.

    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 science writing 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 focusing 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 freelance science topics 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.

    Writing science encompasses a variety of formats, each with their own purpose and style.

    Being able to present your science writing work in many different ways can help you cast a familiar subject in a fresh light, present information in the most effective manner, and maximize 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 phenomena for a general audience like this piece on ‘Sinking Cities’ for Stuff.

    Keep these in. mind when you’re looking for science writing jobs and pitching science stories to publications.

    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 and those looking to get science writing jobs).

    “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. It’s a great way to become a successful science writer.

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    Clients Industry Money Writing Advice

    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.

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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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    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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    Industry Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

    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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    Clients Writing Advice

    How to Get Freelance Writing Work

    Becoming a successful freelance writer is about more than just honing your craft—it’s also about finding a steady stream of work that pays the bills and keeps your business growing. (For many of us, having enough clients to work with regularly is a constant struggle or freelance challenge.) 

    Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned freelancer looking to expand your client base, there are several effective strategies you can use as you explore how to get freelance writing work. This guide will walk you through the key methods to land those coveted writing gigs, from leveraging your website to pitching cold emails.

    Here’s How to Get Freelance Writing Work

    These are some of the tools professional freelancers use to find freelance writing jobs whether they are beginners or experienced freelance writers looking to get freelance writing work. When you’re ready for pro tips on how to find freelance writing jobs, we’ve got you covered.

    Use your website.

    Your website is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal as a freelance writer. It’s not just a digital business card; it’s a dynamic portfolio that showcases your skills, expertise, and personality to potential clients. I found that having a website sealed the deal for many potential freelance clients who looking into my personal freelance brand.

    Start by ensuring your website is professional and easy to navigate. Include a well-crafted “About Me” page that tells your story and highlights your unique selling points as a writer. Your portfolio should feature a range of writing samples that demonstrate your versatility and proficiency across different niches. If you’re just starting out and don’t have many samples, consider creating blog posts on topics you’re passionate about or offering to write for a friend or family member’s small business website at a reduced rate. This will help you build a portfolio that you can proudly display.

    SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is also crucial when setting up your website. Use relevant keywords throughout your site, particularly in your blog posts and portfolio pieces, to make it easier for potential clients to find you through search engines. Additionally, include a clear call to action on every page, encouraging visitors to contact you for writing services.

    Lastly, make sure your website is mobile-friendly and loads quickly. Clients are likely to be browsing on various devices, and you want to make the best impression possible, regardless of how they access your site.

    If you want to learn how to work from home while caring for children, check out some of these freelance jobs for moms.

    Ask for referrals.

    I totally understand that this can feel a bit “ick,” but one of the most effective ways to find freelance writing work is through referrals. Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, especially in the freelancing world where trust and reliability are paramount.

    In fact, many freelancers I come across tell me that the previous employer(s) or former colleagues are their first clients.

    Start by reaching out to your existing network—friends, family, former colleagues, and even past clients. Let them know you’re freelancing and would appreciate any referrals. This can be done through personalized emails, a LinkedIn update, or a casual post on your social media profiles. 

    Be sure to clearly outline the types of writing services you offer and the kinds of clients you’re looking to work with. I think it’s wise to have a basic website live where they can see some samples of your work and an easy way to contact you.

    If you enjoy working with a certain client and they seem happy with your freelance skills, ask them for referrals to other colleagues who might need support or, to keep you in mind should they know someone else who wants to hire a freelance writer.

    Turn in great work.

    One of the best answers for how to get freelance writing jobs is to do a fantastic job on any assignment you turn in. As a former magazine editor who assigned articles to freelancers to turn in, I always remembered the writers who turned in good reporting and research, followed instructions, sent me a draft on time, were good about the editing process, and who had more ideas for the website or magazine. 

    Being an excellent freelancer to work with will help you stand out amongst the competition and be the answer to how to get freelance writing work. 

    Clients would much rather work with great freelance writers repeatedly or on a retainer over explaining their process and finding new freelancers every month.


    Ask for testimonials from satisfied clients as well. These can be powerful social proof on your website and LinkedIn profile, encouraging potential clients to hire you.

    Learn how to get freelance writing work through social media.

    Social media platforms like LinkedIn, X, Threads, Instagram, and Facebook can be gold mines for finding freelance writing work—if you know how to use them effectively.

    On LinkedIn, ensure your profile is optimized with a professional photo, a headline that includes “freelance writer,” and a summary that highlights your expertise and services. I think mentioning a niche or two that you excel at is helpful for standing out amongst freelance writer competition.

    Join LinkedIn groups related to your niche or industry, and actively participate in discussions.  Comment on other professionals’ posts on LinkedIn who are in your industry–including those editors you’ve been trying to get noticed by.

    This helps you build visibility and connect with potential clients. Follow editors, content managers, and companies you’d like to work with. Sometimes editors post calls for pitches or job openings on their profiles or, they’ll share a job post from an editor at a different publication.

    Facebook groups for freelance writers or specific niches can also be great places to find job leads. These communities often share job postings, advice, and opportunities. Just make sure to contribute to the group as well, rather than just lurking or posting self-promotional content.

    Some editors are still posting calls for writers on Twitter/X these days but it tends to be slowing down. You might want to try connecting with editors on Threads or on Instagram if they are sharing professional types of posts there on a public profile.

    Write great article pitches.

    One of the best freelance writing tips Pitching articles to publications is a tried-and-true method for finding freelance writing work, especially if you’re interested in writing for magazines, websites, or blogs.

    need help writing article pitches? this guide can help

    The first step in pitching is to identify the publications you want to write for. Spend time reading the publication or website to understand their style, tone, and the type of articles they publish.

    (I recommend using the library to read recent and back issues or to get access to free digital copies of the publication. I use the Libby app and Hoopla to access online magazines.)

    Once you have a good understanding of what type of content they publish, look at their editorial calendar online (usually in an advertising section).

    See which month and themes they’re working on before you spend a lot of time brainstorming ideas for an issue that might be complete.

    Your pitch should be concise, compelling, and tailored to the publication. Start with a strong subject line that grabs the editor’s attention, outline your article idea and explain why it’s a good fit for their publication. Let them know why you should write it.

    Include links to your relevant writing samples, and be sure to mention if you have any specific expertise or personal experience that makes you uniquely qualified to write the piece. Follow up if you don’t hear back after a week or two, but don’t be discouraged by rejections. Pitching is a numbers game, and persistence is key.

    If you’re just starting out, consider pitching smaller, local publications or niche blogs to build up your portfolio. As you gain more experience and bylines, you can start targeting larger, higher-paying publications.

    Use cold email pitches.

    A lot of freelancers don’t like to employ this strategy when they explore how to find freelance writing work. That’s a mistake.

    Cold emailing can be an effective way to land freelance writing work, especially with companies or brands that may not advertise freelance opportunities. The key to a successful cold email is personalization—show the recipient that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in working with them. 

    Make sure you also let them how you can add value to the company, including any data points from past clients that would be worth noting – like getting clients to the first page of Google with content or driving their newsletter open rate up by 20%.

    Share links to your portfolio, and suggest a time to discuss how you could work together.

    Follow up a week or two later if you don’t hear back. Cold emailing is all about persistence and finding the right contact at the right time. Even if you don’t get an immediate response, your name might stick in their mind for future projects.

    Apply to freelance jobs to find freelance writing work.

    Freelance job boards are a popular way to find writing gigs, but they can also be highly competitive. To stand out, you need to be strategic about where and how you apply.

    First, identify the job boards and websites that list freelance jobs that align with your niche. Set up alerts so you can apply as soon as new jobs are posted—timing can make a big difference.

    Get 50 freelance websites to find work

    You might need a freelance resume so keep that in mind and have one ready to include. Attach or link to specific writing samples that are relevant to the job, rather than sending a generic portfolio.

    Getting Freelance Writing Work Can Feel Rewarding

    For me “getting the assignment” is half of the fun of freelancing. (Then I realize I have to do the work!) Finding freelance writing work isn’t easy but it is rewarding. By leveraging your website, networking through referrals, turning in amazing freelance work, engaging on social media, pitching articles, sending cold emails, and applying to freelance jobs, you can build a steady stream of work that supports your freelance writing business.

    Remember, every client interaction is an opportunity to build your reputation, expand your network, and secure more work in the future. Stay proactive, keep honing your craft, and the opportunities will come.

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