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How to get started with simple writing jobs from home

Keen to get cracking on simple writing jobs from home? Taking advantage of the flexibility, cost savings, productivity, and work-life balance that comes from working from home is easier than you might think. 

‘Working from home’ used to have a whiff of unprofessionalism about it. The very phrase once evoked visions of people in pajamas, laboring from non-traditional ‘workstations’ such as the couch, the bed, or the bath, and failing to turn up to meetings.

How things have changed. The pandemic-led migration to remote work helped to shift old perceptions and fuel a new world of online opportunity. In Australia, where I’m based, more than a third (36%) of workers now work at least partially from home, figures from the latest Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey show.  One recent survey of U.S. respondents said nearly 60 percent of the white collar workers surveyed has access to remote work.

Freelance writing is one of the most accessible and flexible types of work you can do from home. It’s relatively easy to learn how to start content writing from home with no experience.

In fact, it’s probably the most ‘accepted’ or even ‘expected’ work-from-home gig. You can take things at your own pace when you work one of these types of freelance jobs. You can approach it on a full-time or side-hustle basis. And you probably already have most of the equipment you need–like a notepad, laptop, WiFi access,  and a mobile phone.

A step-by-step guide to securing simple writing jobs from home

Here’s how to find freelance writing jobs and content writers that can be done remotely.

Discover your freelance niche – or niches

Before launching straight into the job hunt, it’s important to think about the shape you’d like your writing career to take. From surfing and science to travel and true crime, there’s an infinite range of possible topics to cover. 

But also consider the form in which you’d like to write—whether editorial articles, ghostwritten thought leadership pieces, blogs for brands, copywriting, technical writing or many more. Just don’t get too hung up choosing the ‘right’ niche from the get-go. Follow the thread of your curiosity and your interests – and niche – will likely evolve over time. Do some research into the best high-paying freelance niches if you aren’t sure of where to start.

Build a strong portfolio

Potential clients don’t want to hear about your writing goals and dreams. They’ll want to see what you can do for them right now—and that means a portfolio brimming with high-quality writing samples. It’s a crucial component as you’re wondering how to build a freelance portfolio.

If you’re a beginner freelance writer, it’s important to spend some time creating samples that showcase your skills. Ensure they are aligned with the kind of work you’d ultimately like to do. For example, if you’re hankering to write about food, don’t put finance stories front and center in your portfolio (though they’re probably better than nothing). 

Writing at ‘mate’s rates’ for friends, family members, or local businesses is another way of beefing up your portfolio. 

Create a professional online presence

When potential clients Google your name, will they see your professional website, LinkedIn profile, and your most recent freelance articles? Or will they see Facebook snaps of you drinking and dancing till dawn? 

Ensure your online presence speaks to your professionalism and work ethic. There are many ways to bolster your online authority and create a great first impression. Tim Leffel, author of Travel Writing 2.0, suggests boosting your visibility with a blog. “It’s a great mouthpiece, a search engine magnet, and eventually something that will get your media attention and writing assignments,” he writes. Your portfolio and blog can both live on your website. This is one of the best things you can do when you’re starting out figuring out how start content writing from home with no experience

Find simple writing jobs

Securing simple writing jobs from home requires a combination of strategies. Signing up for newsletters that curate job openings, such as Opportunities of the Week, Write at Home, or Diana Kelly Levey’s Freelance Writing Tips newsletter, are good places to start. Networking with other writers, or following editors, companies, publications and industry influencers on social media can bring fresh opportunities to light. 

Some people recommend exploring job boards such as ProBlogger, Freelance Writing Jobs and BloggingPro, but this isn’t something I’ve done, so I can’t vouch for it. Others suggest signing up to freelance platforms such as Contently and Fiverr, but I personally haven’t gained any work from either and Fiverr’s flood of daily spam is really very tiresome. (One writer shared, “How much can you make on fiverr per month?”)

Apply for simple writing jobs from home that match your skills and interests

Cold pitching can sound scary. But reaching out to editors, brands, or websites to offer services, typically in the form of an email pitch or article pitch, has always been the fastest route to new freelance client work for me. 

Whether you’re the initiator, or you’re responding to general callouts like those outlined in the newsletters and freelance writing jobs websites mentioned above, it’s important to present yourself professionally. 

Be sure to read and adhere to any guidelines. For example, a job posting might ask that you include certain keywords or submit samples in a particular format. Some requirements can be highly specific. One recent callout I saw online noted “you need to be in or near Miami for this role and have a great interest in the music/tattoo scene”. If you don’t meet the criteria, then don’t fudge it. The job is not for you.

Track your inquiries and follow up

Developing some sort of system to monitor your pitches or other forms of outreach to potential clients is vital if you want to stay organized and maintain some level of visibility over your efforts. 

Use an Excel spreadsheet or even a simple Word table to log the details—including what you submitted, to whom, and when. You might find some of the top productivity apps for freelancers helpful for your business. 

If you don’t hear back within a week or two, following up can mean the difference between landing an assignment or not. Many writers are reluctant to do this, but I’ve found that a polite email follow-up will often nudge a decision-maker into action. Even if that answer is a ‘no thanks’, it frees you up to explore other options. But don’t call, follow up several times a day, or argue the merits of your piece in an effort to change someone’s mind.

Maintain a positive mindset

When you’re searching for the best ways to find freelance writing jobs, you might get discouraged at times. Working from home as a freelance writer has its challenges. Sometimes you’ll be overwhelmed with work; other times, you’ll wonder where the next gig is coming from. When things aren’t going well in your office of one, it’s easy to feel isolated, frustrated, discouraged and even demoralized. 

So ensure you’re maintaining your self-care, in the form of exercise, nutrition, hydration, sleep, and social contact. It’s also important to tackle any mindset blocks such as feelings of freelance Imposter Syndrome, perfectionism, or fear of rejection. 

Setting realistic goals, investing in ongoing learning and seeking support can also help you hang in when the going gets tough. These are crucial steps to forming a good freelance writer salary and remain sustainable in this industry.

Frequently asked questions about simple writing jobs from home

Popular Q&As for those thinking about how to start content writing from home with no experience.


How much can I earn from simple writing jobs from home?

Earnings from simple writing jobs from home vary widely. They depend on factors such as your experience, your preferred niche (or niches), the clients you secure, how hard you work, how effectively you market, and even how lucky you are. 

Intent on writing poetry for literary journals? 

You probably won’t be buying a Lamborghini any time soon. But if you’re willing to bone up on highly-paid freelance writing skills such as technical writing, UX writing, digital content writing, ghostwriting or health and medical writing, you’re likely to bring in much bigger bucks. For example, Upwork says technical writers can earn as much as $125 per hour.

How can I stay productive when working from home on simple writing jobs from home?

People often tell me they’d never be able to work from home because of all the ‘distractions’ it contains—such as television, laundry, pets, and more. Yet a combination of discipline, organization and strategic planning can keep even the most distractible individual on track. 

Set consistent working hours as part of a freelance work schedule to provide a sense of structure to the day and be sure to log off the computer and turn off the phone when the working day is done. 

Create a dedicated workspace that’s pleasant to settle into. Establish clear goals for the day and use time blocking to ensure the most important projects are tackled first. Set firm boundaries with friends and family members who think ‘working from home’ means that you’re always available or ‘not really working’.

Are there other simple jobs I can do from home?

While freelance writing is a popular choice for remote work, many other gigs can be done from home. These include virtual assistance (providing administrative support to businesses from a remote location), graphic design (creating visual content for websites, ads and other mediums), online tutoring (providing academic support and instruction via the internet), web development (designing and building websites for clients), and digital marketing (helping businesses promote their products and services online). Whether you opt for freelance writing, or one of the many other types of gigs, remote work offers a plethora of possibilities.

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Clients Freelance Jobs Industry Mindset/Motivation Writing Advice

How Do Freelance Writers Find Work?

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

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

How Can Freelance Writers Find Work?

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

Build and Leverage Your Network

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

Use Social Media to Announce Your Services

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

Secure Repeat Assignments

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

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

Research Content Marketing Agencies

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

Use Freelance Platforms like Contently, ClearVoice, and Skyword

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

Cold-Pitch to Editors and Companies

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

Craft a Personalized Pitch

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

Start a Blog

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

Choose a Niche and Share It With Clients

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

Explore Job Boards for Freelance Writers

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

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

Use Freelance-Specific Job Boards

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

Post Regularly on Social Media

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

Share Your Published Work

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

Read Freelance Newsletters

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

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

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

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

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

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Industry Writing Advice

How to Build a Freelance Portfolio

Building a high-quality freelance writing portfolio is one of the best ways to showcase your skills and offerings to potential clients. It can also help clients find you and reach out, creating “inbound leads”—which is the ideal scenario! 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just aren’t sure where to start, we get it. Learning how to build a freelance writing portfolio can seem overwhelming, especially if you haven’t given it much thought or—you’re like many freelancers—you give it too much thought, making it over complicated and delaying the freelance writing portfolio development because you’re frozen with fear. 

(It’s time to get over it and dive into why you need a freelance writer portfolio.)

We’re here to help you simplify your freelance portfolio and give you some tips on the best ways to create a freelance portfolio, what to include, and how to maintain it as you grow your freelance writing business. We’ll also cover how to enhance your freelancer portfolio’s impact and how to choose the right platform to host your freelance portfolio.

Essential Elements to Address as You Build a Freelance Portfolio

Your freelance writing portfolio should capture your writing skills as a writer and make what you write about very clear. To build your portfolio, you first need to know what you do and who you want to work with, and then choose the samples that best showcase your skills and niche.

Include clips–also called freelance writing samples—that are relevant to the type of writing you are focusing on. Examples could be blog posts, articles, white papers, case studies, email sequences, ghostwriting samples, ad copy, and product copy. Here are the essential elements to include along with the sample articles:

  • Your name
  • A short bio
  • Contact info
  • Niche or focus area
  • Types of writing you do
  • Past clients’ names and/or logos

How to Build a Freelance Portfolio That Has Impact

A high-quality, well-organized portfolio can result in you getting more work from dream freelance clients. But making sure that your portfolio can do this means putting in some work on the front end and tending to some ongoing maintenance after you set the freelancer portfolio live. Here are a few ways to enhance your portfolio’s impact and showcase your abilities as a freelance writer.

Choose the Right Platform for Your Freelancer Portfolio

There are tons of platforms out there that allow you to create a portfolio, and choosing the one that works best for your freelance writing goals can make the portfolio creation process much easier. The two main ways to create a portfolio are to use your business website or choose from one of a variety of portfolio sites. 

  • Your website: If you choose to use your business website, you can do this pretty easily depending on the platform you use. I use WordPress, so I just created a page dedicated to my portfolio and listed the articles that I want to showcase with a link to the live version. You can also do this with Squarespace or another website builder.
  • Clippings.me: The free version of this portfolio site allows you to add up to 10 articles by simply pasting the story link. The paid version is $9.99 per month and gives you unlimited clips along with a custom domain, password protected portfolio, and more.
  • Muck Rack: Muck Rack is free for writers and journalists and will automatically pull your writing clips and put them on your profile page. This is a great, low-maintenance way to maintain a portfolio, but it won’t be curated or organized. 
  • Contently: You can create a free portfolio on Contently and then use it to work with clients through their platform. Setting up a profile is pretty easy, and then you can add the URLs of your work to have it uploaded to your portfolio.
  • Journo Portfolio: This site allows you to create a free portfolio with 10 items. You can also upgrade to one of their paid packages for more features. They note on their site that If you do upgrade to a paid version (of this or any other portfolio site), make sure to track the expense as it can be a tax-deductible business expense.

Determine How to Organize a Freelance Portfolio Well

How you organize your freelance writing portfolio will depend on who you want to write for and how many different types of writing you do. I currently have mine organized into “Real Estate,” “Design,” “Home Improvement,” and “Other Stories.” The “Other Stories” category is at the very bottom and acts as a catch-all for stories that I’m really proud of and that show my writing style but don’t fit neatly into the other categories.

You can organize your freelance portfolio by:

Curate the Freelance Portfolio to Your Niche

Your portfolio isn’t simply a place to house all of your work. Your portfolio should be curated to your target freelance niche or one of these high-paying freelance writing niches of 2024 to demonstrate your knowledge of and ability to write about the subject. That said, you can include multiple niches in your portfolio as long as they are well organized.

Shift as Your Freelance Career Builds When You Learn How to Build a Freelance Portfolio

When you start freelance writing, you may end up taking any work that comes your way. (It’s how many beginner freelancers build up their freelance portfolios.) This will help you get clips that you can use to show your expertise and writing style to other potential clients. Once you have a solid set of writing examples in your portfolio, you can start to leverage them to shift focus as you go. 

For instance, if you want to get into medical writing as a freelance medical writer, but you’re currently working with environmental topics, work on writing in areas where the environment and health intersect and then include those in your portfolio. 

When I was starting out, I wrote for a luxury property finder client. I used these samples to get into more real estate writing, and I used my real estate writing samples to get work in the design and home improvement niches.

You can choose to stay in the same niche if you’re enjoying it, add new skills to diversify your offerings, or do what I did and slowly move into new categories by combining topics.

Revisit the Freelance Portfolio Regularly

As you get more freelancer work and generate more examples of your freelance writing or freelance design work, you should revisit your freelance portfolio, switching out old work for new work samples that highlight your current skills and niches. 

You can always keep older work in your portfolio if it clearly highlights your skills or is something that you’re particularly proud of, but if it no longer reflects the work that you’re doing, you should go ahead and remove it in favor of more recent work (*makes note to revisit my portfolio*).

 (You can also “hide” samples from public searches on some platforms–like WordPress—but then hyperlink directly to the piece if you’d like to show a particular client.)

If you’re working on shifting into a new niche or type of writing, you can move the most relevant samples to the top or most prominent position in your portfolio. 

How to Create a Freelance Portfolio to Showcase Your Skills

Creating your first freelance writing portfolio can seem intimidating at first, but the best way to do it is to just do it. You can always change platforms or add different clips later if you want to pivot or find something that fits your needs better.

Here’s a to-do list to help you if you’re creating a freelance portfolio for beginners:

  • Choose a platform like a website (WordPress, SquareSpace, Wix) or a portfolio site (Clippings.me, Journo Portfolio)
  • Write up a short bio
  • Narrow down your freelance niche or ideal client
  • Pick five to10 clips or projects that showcase your skills and what you offer clients
  • Upload them to the platform you chose
  • You can add images from free platforms like Unsplash and Pexels to add life to the samples or simply include hyperlinks directly to the sample.
  • Share the freelance portfolio on social media or send to potential clients (Many writers include a link in their email signatures so it’s easy for clients to browse.)

When you’re starting out as a freelance writer, or even if you’ve been doing this for a while, putting your work out there can feel a little scary, but when you have a high-quality, easy-to-navigate freelance writing portfolio, you can showcase your work to highlight your skills and attract clients that you want to work with. 

Check out these freelance portfolio examples for inspiration:

Jennifer Goforth Gregory (a content marketing writer whose portfolio is also organized by niche or topic)

Diana Kelly Levey’s Freelance Writing Portfolio (organized by freelance topic or freelance niche)

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Mindset/Motivation Work-Life Balance Writing Advice

Top Apps for Productivity for Freelancers

It can be difficult to know what types of programs or the top apps for productivity will work best for you as you start a freelance business. Usually, it takes a little trial and error, and you add tools as you discover you need them and then evolve in your solopreneur journey. It’s been more than two decades since I started freelancing. There are some new programs and software for freelancers I’ve discovered since I expanded my business, and there are some programs I’ve been using from the beginning.

I’ll share my favorite tools that help me stay organized and productive and some of the reasons I like them over other popular products on the market. In some cases, I’ll tell you about apps that I think sound interesting but I haven’t started using them because I see no compelling reason to switch from what currently works for me. Sometimes I use several apps in the same category, mainly because I have to be able to use the apps that clients are using.

I am the only person in my business, so I don’t have to pay employees (although I have in the past paid contractors), but I do have four major types of work. I edit, teach, write books, and write in a freelance capacity in several subjects. So, these solutions work for many kinds of remote work.

I am able to manage all aspects of my business with mostly digital tools, and most of them work with all of my work “hats.” Here, I address important categories in the best apps for productivity that help my freelance business

The Tops Apps for Productivity for Freelancers

Get to know the tools for freelancers and best tech for freelance writers to set your freelance business up for success.

Calendar Apps for Productivity

Did you forget a deadline? Time to add a calendar or to-do list program—or maybe both to your freelance business. Honestly, I have both plus a physical whiteboard for things I need to keep in front of my face at all times. Okay, okay, I also have a chalkboard for story ideas. What can I say? I’m Gen X and stuck between two worlds.

You’ve probably used calendars for personal appointments and some professional meetings by now.  I don’t usually put deadlines on my calendar—that’s for my to-do list. As a freelancer with a family, my business life and my family life bleed into each other, and it’s often important that everybody in my household knows where I’ll be for business to prevent them scheduling things that conflict with when my clients need me.

Everybody in my family has, at some point, asked me to use Google, Outlook, or iCloud calendars, but I have not budged in my love for Cozi Family Organizer.  Eventually, they all came around.

Why is this calendar one of my top apps for productivity? Cozi allows everyone in your group (or family) to sign into the app and make appointments (color-coded by person) that everyone can see. There are also lists (shopping and other customizable), so nobody has an excuse for not knowing what the household needs when they’re at the store!

I love the ability to make either repeatable events or a range that covers days (so I can block out conferences or vacations). There are pop-up reminders as well. While there might be calendar apps for freelancers that are more sophisticated now, I’ve had Cozi since my now-grown kids were little, and I will probably never give it up.

Cozi has a free version that isn’t nearly as comprehensive, but it’s a good way to see if this calendar will work for you. The subscription price for the premium version (Cozi Gold) is $29.99 per year.

I have recently heard about a similar organizer that has even more options. FamilyWall’s free version has much the same capabilities as Cozi, but its premium version syncs with other calendars and has a messenger function built into it. The premium version is $44.99 per year. Depending on what you need, though, it might be worth checking out if you need a productivity app that can sync with family.

Task Management Top Apps for Productivity for Freelancers

You could put your assignments, deadlines, and notes on your calendar, but when the calendar gets full, it’s hard to figure out what’s personal and what’s business. That’s why I initially  looked into project management tools for freelancers to help me manage my business. Like many of the best productivity apps, what works for you is highly personal, so it’s good to find some with free plans or at least a trial period to see if it works for you.

I started with Week Plan, which I used for several years. It allows you to segment your tasks into customizable categories, and you can check off items as you do them. It also gives you space for long-term planning and the ability to split projects into smaller tasks.

These qualities are still what I look for in any project management product. At some point, though, it became a little unwieldy for me, although don’t remember why. Week Plan has a free trial period. It is normally $104/year, but they often have sales of 20% off. So, I still recommend checking it out.

Todoist is a list-making organization app for freelancers that I landed on a few years ago, and I’m still very happy with it. It offers all the same tools as Week Plan for a lower price, and it has a mobile app (which Week Plan doesn’t have). Todoist offers a free plan, as well as a Pro plan ($48/year) and a Business plan ($72/year).

The Business plan offers a shared team workspace, which could be helpful if you’re a freelancer who works with a team or uses a virtual assistant to help your business. I love the reminders you can set, and the Todoist team is always creating new functions and offering tips on how to use the program to its fullest capacity.

Some other popular tools in this category are Trello (there’s a free version plus plans up to $17.50/user/month) and Asana (free version plus plans up to $24.99/user/month), but both of those programs are very team-oriented, which I feel introduces a very different element to the product that makes it unnecessarily complex when only one person is using it.  You’ll find a lot of overlap between task management tools and project management tools for freelancers.

Financial Apps for Freelancers

When you get that first client who doesn’t have their own onboarding system, they’ll probably ask you to send an invoice and a way to pay you. And you could create an invoice in your word-processing program, but then how do you remember whether they paid? Enter payment and bookkeeping programs to help with freelance organization and help improve your freelance money mindset.

Invoicing Apps for Freelance Business Owners

I’m a little conflicted about the best invoicing tools for freelancer right now—so much so that my search for a better one prompted the idea for this article. I used InvoiceNinja for a very long time, and their free program has all you really need, including being able to accept credit card payments and integrate other payment programs.

The only reason I recently switched from this program is that they changed everything drastically in an update. It’s an open-source program, which means you can customize it, but it just took more knowledge than I could understand. To be fair, they tried very hard to help me. The team sent me customized videos of what to do and were very patient. In the end, though, I just didn’t want to work that hard to do my invoices, and I looked for another program. It took weeks to find one that worked as well as InvoiceNinja had worked for me before the change. But if you’re more technically savvy, I still highly recommend InvoiceNinja.

I discovered Kosmo after weeks of searching for a top invoicing app for freelancers. It’s relatively new, as it was founded in 2021, and it was designed specifically for freelancers. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of Invoice Ninja, but it’s simple to use, has the ability to create projects, proposals, contracts, and invoices, and it tracks payments. You can also set up credit card and ACH payments through it. Kosmo is free for the first two clients/projects, after which you must upgrade to Pro pricing, which is $9/month or $90/year.

Other freelancers like freelance invoicing software platforms like Wave App, Bonsai, Honeybook, or Square invoicing services as part of their top apps for productivity to run their freelance businesses efficiently.

Bookkeeping Productivity Apps for Freelancers

Quicken has been my bookkeeping tool for freelancers for several decades now, and I occasionally think I should switch it up, but I find comfort in having all my previous data. I might have to chalk this one up to age too, but I haven’t had any real problems in all these years of using it, and they do continually update the product in ways that make it even easier to use. It allows me to identify all the tax items for my business, add new credit card accounts, and update all my bank and credit accounts by connecting Quicken to them. It downloads all my transactions and reconciles them in seconds.

Quicken has two options, both of which are subscription pricing. There is no free option, but they do have a 30-day trial period. You can go with Quicken Classic for up to $7.99/month or Quicken Simplifi for $3.99/month. They often run sales that take a dollar or two off the price, so see if you can catch a sale or find a coupon code. Both support identifying categories of items, which is really all you need to keep track of your income and expenses for your freelance business.

Either will also handle multiple checking and savings accounts if you separate your business accounts from your personal accounts (I have 9 accounts altogether). If you want more reports and budgeting tools, Quicken Classic is for you. But if your needs are pretty simple, start with Quicken Simplifi (for which there is a mobile app).

I considered switching to Gnucash because it can import files from Quicken and it’s free. However, it’s an open-source program, which is not a bad thing, but that’s what led to so much frustration with Invoice Ninja, so I’m not really interested in trying to navigate a program that might frustrate me. But if you’re starting out fresh and feeling adventurous, I say give it a try to see if it’s one of the best productivity apps for freelancers.

Tax Form Solutions for Freelancers

If you’re using an accountant to do your taxes, then they can probably help with any tax forms you may need to produce for other people, but if you do it yourself with tax software, I have to call out efile1099NOW. Many of the programs that allow you to produce tax forms are focused on large numbers and are pretty expensive if you only need one or two. The most I’ve ever had to produce (for people I’ve paid more than $600 in one year) has been two. It was frustrating until I found this solution.

They can process all kinds of employee and non-employee forms, but 1099 is the only experience I’ve had. For one-person businesses, the account is free, and it’s only a few dollars to send the form to the contractor/employee, file the appropriate form with the government, and keep the records for your own tax files—either electronically or on paper. I can’t recommend them enough. Learn more about business write-offs and more in the best taxes for freelance writers tips.

Collaboration Apps for Freelancers

These tools for freelance business owners help you work with clients and other freelancers.

Filesharing/cloud storage apps for freelancers

For my own file storage and sharing, I am a firm believer in Dropbox. The Basic plan is free and gives you 2 GB of space. I have never run out of space at this level, and I put a lot in there. If you’re a freelance writer, pictures and text don’t take up a lot of space. And I tend to only put things in there that I might need to access from other places or share with other people.

Anything else I put on my regular hard drive. There are other plans for larger amounts of space, or if you need really fancy functions like watermarking or end-to-end encryption. But my guess is that your free account will last you a long time.

Filesharing can also be done with other programs, but the only times I use these apps are when the client sends documents through them. Of course, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t explore them for any of their other management tools.

Box also offers storage up to 10 GB for free and e-signing of up to 5 documents per month. The Personal Pro plan gives you 100 GB of storage and up to 15 e-signs per month.

Zoho doesn’t offer storage, but its Work Drive is easy to use, and if a client sends you a file through this service, you don’t have to initiate an account to use it. You can also send files to clients this way.

WeTransfer is very similar to Zoho in that you don’t need an account if your client is using this service, and they don’t seem to offer storage, but strangely enough, they allow you to create mood boards. So, if that’s something that interests you, check it out! It’s a good service to use if you have large files to send to a client—just let them know you sent them files via WeTransfer so they can be on the lookout for that email.

Some of your freelance clients will use Microsoft storage hubs or Google Drive to share files. No matter which filesharing software for freelancers you decide to use, make sure it’s consistent for each client.

Organization Apps for Freelancers

What about keeping track of submissions, applications, or anything else you might have to organize to make sure nothing falls through the cracks? Do you write some fiction on the side and want to dip your toes in those waters? Yep, there are apps for that.

Notion is an interesting space to explore. It is deeply customizable. Many templates are built into the program, and other helpful people have created templates that they make available (often for free), so you don’t have to start with a blank page.

You can start with an already-created template for just about any kind of organization you can think of. I have a marketing template on my Notion site so far. There are paid plans, but the free plan gives you unlimited pages as long as you’re the only one in the space (although you still get to invite 10 guests to see your customized space!). I’m not using this app to its fullest extent, but I hope to get more adventurous with it soon. Other freelancers, like fellow writer Diana Kelly Levey, agree that Notion is one of the best productivity apps for freelancers. (She uses it to track freelance article pitches, email marketing outreach, and as a freelance project management tool.)

Plaky is also a task and project management app for freelancers that works well with teams, but I use it to organize the artist residencies I have applied to. It’s also very customizable, but it didn’t intimidate me too much because it has a great drag-and-drop kind of setup. The free plan limits the size of your board, but you can have unlimited boards. The Pro plans start at $3.99/month/user, but I can’t imagine many freelancers would need more than the free plan.

The Submission Grinder is a free program that helps you look for markets where you can submit your fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. It keeps track of where you’ve submitted each piece already and lets you narrow down the type of market that best fits each of your manuscripts. So, dust off those stories and poems and see who you might want to send them to!

I always love to find free tools, but in creating this list, I realized that most of the tools for freelancers I’ve had the longest and are the most useful are ones I pay for—even if the product does have a free option. I still prefer tools that have at least a free option or a trial period so I can see if I like it before I decide to pay for it.

Honestly, a useful tool is priceless, but as freelancers (and especially new freelancers), every penny must be thoughtfully allocated. I hope my list will help you make some of those decisions. Don’t feel as though you have to change your current system, but if you are thinking about a change or reading this makes you realize that your system can be better, then I hope you will have found some helpful ideas here.

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The Highest-Paying Freelance Writing Skills

As the gig economy continues to gather pace, so too do the opportunities to secure higher-paying freelance writing assignments. But no two scribes are the same. Some seem to scrape by, barely making ends meet (believe me, I’ve been there). Others, on the other hand, take home six-figure freelancer sums.

The difference usually doesn’t always boil down to skill, talent, or education, or even how busy, lucky, or well-connected you are. Rather, your earning potential as a freelance writer is directly related to the types of work you’re willing to take on. Still, you probably want to know the highest-paying freelance writing skills to help you get the most earning potential for your time.

There are some sexy freelance niche subjects, like travel, which seemingly everyone (including me) wants to write about. This has led to a saturated market in which competition naturally keeps the prices down and those who persist (like me) must lump it. Travel might even be one of the places beginner freelancers seek out when asking “how do I find my first freelance writing job?“

Then there are other areas where advancements in AI-driven writing tools are radically reshaping the landscape. For example, the Associated Press uses AI to automate some corporate earnings and sports stories, freeing up its reporters for ‘higher-impact work’. That sounds like a good thing, but it also means that generalists and those with only basic writing skills will need to up their game.

Broadening and deepening your freelance writing skills by dipping your toe in the waters below is one way to rake in more moolah.

The Highest-Paying Freelance Writing Skills of 2024

When you’re ready to level up your freelance writing know-how and hone your skills, look to these types of writing.

1. Technical writing

If you’ve ever struggled with a software installation guide, trawled through an annual report, or tried to make sense of the user’s manual for your new washing machine, you’ll quickly appreciate why skilled technical writers are in such demand. Technical writing aims to break down specialist or complicated subjects in a way that everyday consumers of their product or service can understand.

Instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other supporting information are a technical writer’s bread and butter. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says employment of technical writers is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. According to Upwork, technical writers can earn as much as $125 per hour. (BTW, how do you set an hourly rate for freelancers?)

Some potential technical writers worry that the detailed knowledge required to succeed in this field is beyond them; however, one technical writer contributing to one public forum identified that you don’t need higher education as much as a willingness to learn fast on the job. Others noted that six-figure salaries were the norm rather than the exception.

2. UX writing

Could this be one of the best high-paying freelance writing skills to learn? Maybe! UX writers can also assist clients with their websites – from plotting the path a user would take to reach conversion, such as signing up for a newsletter, or making a purchase. UX writers may plan the website’s structure to ensure smooth navigation, write targeted content for landing pages, design compelling calls to action, and ensure the website is well well-optimized for mobile devices.

Like technical writing, user experience (UX) writing shares the goal of making information accessible and user-friendly. It also requires a high level of know-how. But instead of creating documentation, user manuals, or the like, UX writers guide users gently by the hand through different digital interfaces. Think of the screen of your mobile phone or laptop, the buttons you click on an app, or the voice you hear when you’re talking to Amazon’s Alexa, according to the UX Content Collective.

UX writers’ work is designed to create a seamless user journey, reducing the friction points that lead frustrated users to abandon their (virtual) shopping carts or click the ‘close screen’ button. So UX writers who are doing their job well will be, essentially, invisible.

The field is relatively new, with a look at Google Trends revealing that ‘UX writing’ didn’t start to take off as a term until 2018. But growth in the field will continue to ‘boom’, according to the UX Design Institute, with increasing specialization seeing the emergence of UX writers for chatbots, UX writers for virtual reality, and more. While the UX Design Institute lists the average UX writer salary in the USA as $74,997, senior UX writers in San Francisco can earn as much as $132,000.

3. Digital content writing

The online world is expanding like never before. With every click, people and organizations are sharing information, deepening virtual connections, and building new communities. Statista figures show that between 2015 and 2023, average daily internet use increased by 16 minutes – which doesn’t sound like much. But multiply that by all the people on the planet and all the days in the year and the potential for the digital marketing industry becomes apparent. Digital ad spending is expected to grow to $730 billion annually by 2027, according to MarketWatch.

This translates to a plethora of opportunities for writers who are adept at creating content and copy for a range of digital platforms, including websites, blogs, videos, social media posts and ads, infographics, whitepapers, advertising, and email marketing campaigns.

While there are plenty of opportunities out there, the writing skills one needs to write copy that drives conversions or sells is a totally different than the freelance writing skills required to write articles for mainstream media publications. (Learn how to get started freelance writing for brands.)

Those who’ve cut their teeth in editorial offices will find that writing copy that drives conversions, or sells, is totally different to the freelance skills required to write articles for mainstream media publications. But copywriting or content marketing writing for brands tends to pay more than editorial writing for magazines and websites.

Freelance writers who do both sometimes say they take on editorial writing for the prestige, and UX writing for the paycheque. Some digital content writers claim that it’s entirely possible to earn six figures from freelance writing gigs—but you’ll need to put the hard work and the hours in to do so, particularly as a beginner freelance writer.

4. Ghostwriting

When it was released in 2023, Prince Harry’s memoir Spare became the fastest-selling non-fiction book of all time. But it wasn’t actually written by Prince Harry. That honor belongs to ghostwriter JR Moehringer, who worked with King Charles’ youngest son for two years in order to capture his story, in his voice.

Of course, ghostwriters don’t just put together non-fiction (or fiction) books. They are also engaged in writing articles, thought leadership pieces, stories, reports, website materials and any other content which is, officially at least, attributed to another person.

Because ghostwriting is such a broad church, pay rates and arrangements vary widely. According to Compose.ly, ghostwriters can command anywhere from 10 cents to $4 per word—or even more—depending on their reputation and skills, and the nature of the project. Depending on the circumstances, they might even get a share of royalties.

Celebrities and influencers who want to produce content, but don’t want to invest the time themselves, are fuelling increased demand for ghostwriters. And as high-powered executives seek to build their personal brands, Business Insider reports that in-demand LinkedIn ghostwriters can command in the range of $500 to $700 an hour.

5. Healthcare and medical writing

Developing print or digital documents that revolve around medicine or healthcare is another highly lucrative niche. With drivers including technological advancements, an aging population, and increased demand for services, the global healthcare market (including pharmaceuticals, medical devices and biotechnology) is poised to reach $37.4 trillion in value by 2030, according to Deloitte United States. This means that writers who can tackle this subject with the right blend of creativity and scientific rigor will be in high demand. It’s why these are among the best-paying freelance niches of 2024.

The American Medical Writers Association (AMWA) explains that freelance writers in this niche can expect a varied workload involving the production of research papers, regulatory documents, and educational materials for healthcare professionals and patients. Grant proposals, poster presentations for medical conferences, medical and health care books, and more, also fall within medical writers’ remit. But the technical and regulatory scrutiny surrounding this work means you can’t just skate through with a minimum of knowledge.

Almost four in five (78%) of medical writers have a PhD, Masters, or other advanced degree, the AMWA’s 2019 Compensation Survey found, and nearly half (42%) have been at it for more than a decade. (Results of its equivalent 2024 survey are still being calculated). But the rewards are considerable, with the median gross income for full-time freelance medical communicators reaching $151,000, with those working in the regulatory corner of the niche earning as much as $203,000. If those rates sound good to you learn how to become a freelance medical writer.

If you love health topics, this might be one of the best freelance writing skills to learn to find high-paying freelance clients.

Frequently asked questions about the highest-paying freelance writing skills

Here are common freelance skills questions asked and answered:

I keep hearing how ‘the riches are in the niches.’ What’s that all about?

This common saying highlights the financial advantages associated with focusing on one or more specific areas of expertise—aka “freelance niches”—in freelance writing. Specialists can develop deep expertise, making them highly sought-after by clients who are willing to pay a premium for their unique insights and skills.

Popular and general writing fields are also saturated, making it hard for individual writers to stand out, and thus command higher fees. Specializing in a niche also allows writers to build a portfolio of work that is irresistible to their target clients. And once you’ve established a rock-solid reputation, it’s easier to secure repeat business, long-term contracts, and referrals, further benefiting your bank balance.

What if I don’t know anything about software, or healthcare, or any of the freelance writing skills that pay well?

Good writers can turn their hands to just about any subject. Sometimes, it can be an advantage to approach a subject knowing little to nothing, because an outsider’s perspective is exactly what’s needed to translate something complex into something relatable to the average reader. I’m not recommending that you ‘fake it till you make it’ when it comes to applying the best freelance writing skills. Rather, it’s about doing enough research to really get to grips with a subject—and then communicating what you’ve learned.

The alternative is to skill up in the area that interests you. For example, there are a host of courses designed for budding UX writers, including those offered by the UX Writing Hub or UX Content Collective. Relevant professional associations usually also offer training, conferences, and more, along with the opportunity to network with others who are more experienced. For example, though it’s a relatively new field, the User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA) International now has 2400 members online.

Or, get in touch with freelance coach Diana Kelly Levey to learn more about how to find the best freelance writing skills for you and hone them so you can find high-paying freelance work.

How can I safeguard my freelance writing earnings into the future?

Though the field of freelance writing has been battered by many outside forces – such as the shift to online news which shuttered many editorial offices and, more recently, the adoption of AI for some forms of content creation – it continues to morph and change, rather than collapse altogether.

Safeguarding your freelance earnings into the future involves a combination of diversifying income streams and engaging in ongoing professional development. Taking on different types of writing projects, offering additional services and creating passive income streams (such as by writing and selling ebooks or online courses) can minimize the risk of future shocks.

Engaging in ongoing professional development is also key to shoring up your financial security into the future. Improve your skills by taking courses, attending webinars and reading industry publications. Obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance your credibility and help attract higher-paying clients – with the added benefit that you can then stash more away for a rainy day.

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13 Characteristics of Successful Freelance Writers

We all want to know what successful freelance writers do that keeps them in the game for the long haul. If you’ve ever wondered what the characteristics of successful freelance writers and successful freelancers were, check out some of the traits in this lift.

You might have some of these freelance money mindsets, possess most of these traits, or none of these characteristics.

That’s okay. The most important thing to do is take inventory of where you’re starting, where you want to be, and make small strides to get there every day.

The 13 Traits Succesful Freelance Writers Always Have

Work on these professional freelance skills, personal skills, and implement systems to help you achieve your goal.

  1. They’re skilled communicators: Beyond merely stringing words together, successful freelance writers master the art of communication. They can distill complex ideas into digestible content, captivating readers with their clarity and eloquence.
  2. They’re resilient: The path to freelance success is fraught with challenges, but resilient writers persevere in the face of adversity. They view setbacks as opportunities for growth, bouncing back stronger and more determined than ever before.
  3. They’re collaborative: While freelancing may seem like a solitary pursuit, successful writers understand the power of collaboration. They foster strong relationships with clients, editors, and fellow freelancers, recognizing that collaboration fuels creativity and innovation.
  4. They’re self-disciplined: With freedom comes responsibility, and successful freelance writers excel in managing their time and workload. They set boundaries, establish routines, and prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring maximum productivity and efficiency.
  5. They’re lifelong learners: Successful freelance writers are perpetual students of their craft. They eagerly seek out opportunities for growth and development, whether it’s through online courses, workshops, or simply devouring books and articles on writing.
  6. They’re innovative: In a crowded marketplace, innovation is key to standing out from the crowd. Successful writers embrace innovation, constantly seeking out fresh ideas and creative approaches to their work.
  7. They’re resourceful: When faced with the biggest freelance challenges, successful freelance writers don’t throw in the towel—they get resourceful. Whether it’s overcoming writer’s block or navigating a tricky client situation, resourceful writers find inventive solutions to every problem.
  8. They’re strategic: Behind every successful freelance writer lies a well-thought-out strategy. Whether it’s setting SMART (Specific. Measurable. Achieveable. Relevant. Time-bound) goals or devising a comprehensive freelance marketing plan, strategic thinkers approach their freelance career with purpose and intention. Learn how to become a freelance medical writer.
  9. They’re adaptable: In the ever-evolving landscape of freelance writing, adaptability reigns supreme. Successful writers embrace change, eagerly exploring new niches and adapting their skills to meet the demands of diverse clients and industries. The Best High-Paying Freelance Writing Niches of 2024.
  10. They’re proactive: Rather than waiting for opportunities to come knocking, successful freelance writers seize the initiative, actively seeking out new clients and projects. Their proactive approach sets them apart, propelling them towards greater professional success.
  11. They’re empathetic: Empathy lies at the heart of impactful writing, allowing writers to connect deeply with their audience. Successful freelancers possess a keen understanding of human emotions and experiences, infusing their work with empathy and authenticity.
  12. They’re confident: There will be days in every freelancer’s career where they doubt their freelance writing skills, their worth, and wonder if this industry is “worth it.” Successful freelance writers persevere through those days and remember that they have skills and gifts to offer the world. They’re confident in their abilities to get an assignment done and do it well, even when feelings of impostor syndrome creep in.
  13. They know their weaknesses: Long-lasting, lifelong freelancers who’ve made this their career know what their weaknesses are and how to work around them. Do they struggle with not being a faster writer? Procrastinating on assignments? Marketing themselves? 50 Affirmations for Writers. They work on the areas of their lives, personalities, and skills that could use some TLC and find ways to improve. That might be through therapy, meditation, reading books, taking freelance online courses, and taking an interest in self-development.

Do you have some of the traits of successful freelance writers?

It isn’t possible to adopt all of these success characteristics at once. But, if you try to incorporate them into your freelance business as building blocks, you’ll start building up these characteristics of freelance success and be on your way toward creating a thriving freelance career.

Ready to learn if you can earn $1,000 a month freelance writing? It can be done.

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How to Get Past Freelance Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can feel like you’re the only one going through it but it’s a relatively common freelance challenge. Experiencing feelings of freelance imposter syndrome can occur in freelancers who often work in isolation and face constant uncertainties. (So, basically all of us.) Addressing this issue is crucial for freelancers to thrive and grow in their careers. Let me share a personal story to illustrate how real and impactful imposter syndrome can be.

The first time I experienced imposter syndrome was when I walked into my new office in Manhattan in 2010 as a senior magazine editor. The office was big, bright, beautiful, and had a view of the Chrysler Building. (My favorite building in the city.) Did I mention I had my own office?!

Immediately, my internal voice told me, “Oh, they think you’re more important than you are.” Or, “Wow, they think you’re a bigger deal editor than you are. They’re going to be disappointed.” And even, “Gulp. What did I sign on to do here?”

What the heck? Why can one office in a building make me feel that way? It was the first vivid memory I had of experiencing “imposter syndrome.”

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their skills, talents, or accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud. According to the American Psychological Association and research, it’s when someone struggles with feelings that they’re a fraud and haven’t earned what they achieved. (And you feel like someone is going to find out that you’ve been “posing” in this role for too long.)

Studies show that over 80 percent of the population has experienced it. Whew! But what also sucks about feeling like you’re a fraud (and that you’re gonna get caught in this lie) is that you feel alone. You think you’re the only imposter in your office, in your friend group, in that class at the gym, and among parents in your kids’ friend groups. (So, I’m not the only one who feels bad when some other kid’s parent sends home a massive goodie bag at a holiday and I didn’t?)

When someone has freelance imposter syndrome feelings—or experiences this in any professional setting—they think they haven’t earned what they achieved.

This syndrome can affect performance, confidence, and mental health, causing anxiety, fear of failure, overworking, and freelance burnout. Imposter syndrome also tends to be more prominent in people with underrepresented identities.

Why Freelance Imposter Syndrome is So Common

Freelancers frequently face rejection and uncertainty. Putting yourself out there can feel intimidating, especially when pitching ideas or cold emailing clients. And then when you realize an editor deleted your pitch or you don’t hear back, it’s going to add to those feelings of being a fraud or a hack who can’t cut it in this industry. Did I mentioned I’m Getting Turned Down for Assignments and I’m Okay with It?

It’s taken me two decades of freelancing to not think “I must suck” and “They don’t like me” when I don’t hear back on pitches and introductory emails.

Recognizing and Naming Thought Distortions

Thought distortions are habitual errors in thinking that negatively impact our ability to succeed. Think of them as the barbed wire fences guarding the doors that would allow the positive thoughts to flow through. Common thought distortions include:

  • Black-and-White Thinking: “I’m too junior, they’ll never hire me.”
  • Fortune-Telling: “That freelance rate I shared is too high. They’d laugh me out of the room.”
  • Mind-Reading: “The client hasn’t responded since I sent the proposal yesterday. They must have hated it.”
  • Should Statements: “I should be working harder.” (Stop ‘should-ing’ all over yourself.)

For example, instead of thinking, “I’m not experienced enough; they’ll never hire me,” reframe it as, “I have a lot of freelance experience. While this exact situation is new to me, that doesn’t mean I can’t do it. I can learn new freelance skills.“

Taking Action Despite Fear

One of the best ways to overcome imposter syndrome is to take action. Recently, I had a conversation with a newsletter subscriber about how she could break into a new type of freelancing and she admitted she was feeling “imposter syndrome” even though she knew she had the background, experience, and skills to succeed. I told her that I totally understood where she was coming from but to try to quiet those voices and just “take action.” For her, that meant sending article pitches. Fear of failure can hold all of us back.

Tips for Overcoming Freelance Imposter Syndrome

There are several things you can do to work toward a positive, encouraging mindset.

  1. Share Your Feelings
    • Talk to someone you trust about your feelings of inadequacy. Opening up can help you gain perspective and receive constructive feedback. You’ll also realize you likely aren’t alone in those feelings of freelance imposter syndrome.
  2. Work on Your Skills to Overcome Freelance Imposter Syndrome
  3. Discuss Your Failures
    • Share your failures with others, either privately or publicly. It helps to realize you are not alone and others have faced similar challenges. Post it on social and ask others if they can relate. You’ll probably see a lot of engagement on that share.
  4. Take a Deep Breath and Act

Practicing Confidence Can Help You Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Changing your self-talk can significantly boost your confidence. Here are some ways to practice confidence:

  • Own Your Accomplishments: Write down and verbalize your achievements. I like to keep a client “praise document” I can refer to during rough weeks.
  • List Your Skills and Talents: Acknowledge what you’re good at.
  • Recount Successful Experiences: Remember times when you tried something new and succeeded.
  • Ask What’s the Worst That Could Happen: Realize that failure is not as catastrophic as it seems.

Recognize These Feelings When They Come Up

I’m reminded of the acronym about feelings of “FEAR” (False Evidence Appearing Real). The next time you feel like an imposter or have feelings of inadequacy realize they are rooted in fear. Most likely fear of failing.

Overcoming imposter syndrome is an ongoing process, but taking actionable steps can make a significant difference. Remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Every freelancer experiences moments of doubt, but with the right strategies, you can push past those insecurities and thrive in your career.

Inquire about freelance coaching services to learn how to overcome freelance challenges.

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How to Get Started Freelance Copywriting as a Beginner

I’m still relatively new to freelance copywriting but I have decades of writing experience under my belt and plenty of time studying headlines that inspire consumers to buy a magazine or click on a headline. It can be a lucrative industry which is why I wanted a pro’s take on freelance copywriting for beginners.

Just because you’re a good writer and even a solid content marketing writer or journalist doesn’t mean it’s easy to cross over into freelance copywriting. I went to an experienced freelance copywriter whom I’ve worked with when I was at magazines and asked Linda Melone to share her best tips for those who are thinking about how to get started copywriting for beginners.

Melone is a certified conversion copywriter who specializes in working with B2B clients in the fitness and health fields. (She’s a certified personal trainer as well so she knows what she’s talking about.)

If you’re thinking about getting started copywriting and don’t know where to begin or, perhaps you want to add copywriting skills to your resume so you can get more freelance work, read on to get a pro copywriter’s best tips for beginners and curious freelancers in this interview I did with Melone.

How to Get Started Freelance Copywriting for Beginners

Why is now a good time for freelancers to learn copywriting skills?

LM: It’s a good time because the copywriting world is changing so fast with AI that even experienced copywriters find they need to hone their skills. So getting in on the ground floor requires you to start at a different level right out of the gate. New copywriters need to be able to grasp AI to begin to compete.

How did you get started in copywriting?

LM: I wrote content articles, mainly for magazines and online publications for many years. When the publishing world took a nosedive around circa 2014 or so, I started an online fitness business and wrote all my own marketing material and ads. It required me to learn a new set of skills. I loved the decision-making psychology involved in copywriting and the science behind writing to motivate people to take action. So I took courses and hired several different copywriting coaches over time to get me started. My first clients were people in my immediate social circle. I moved on from there.

How do you suggest most people get started learning copywriting? (any specific courses to take, books, YouTube videos to watch, local college courses?)

LM: I suggest signing up for courses with CopyHackers – they have a lot of free material. And joining a copywriting online group enables you to bounce questions off of other copywriters, which can be super helpful. Find the teachers that resonate with you. The Copywriter Club is another good group, run by Kira Hug and Rob Marsh. They have an active Facebook group as well. 

What is the difference (in your words) between content writing, copywriting, and content marketing writing?

LM: Content is important for SEO (e.g. blogs), and is used to entertain and inform–although there’s some overlap. Copywriting tends to be more goal-oriented. It’s written to motivate people to take some sort of action: sign up, book a call, buy, start a trial, etc. Content marketing uses strategies to establish trust and authority with the audience and involves both copy and content. Examples may be taking podcasts, videos, blog posts and turning them into snippets on various social media platforms. 

What are some of the skills and qualities essential for success in copywriting? 

LM: Some skills overlap from content writing: creativity, writing mastery, research, and interviewing skills. In addition, copywriters and those considering how to get started copywriting for beginners should have an understanding of SEO, storytelling abilities, and analytical skills. The latter is needed to gauge the copy that’s working and not so you can adjust accordingly.

How can beginners with no copywriting experience create samples for a portfolio?

LM: Beginners can rewrite outdated ads or poorly written content to show expertise. Be sure to mention it’s a rewrite in your portfolio as a “before and after”  to avoid confusion.

Another suggestion for beginner copywriters with no experience? You may need to start writing for free at first. For instance, nonprofits and charities would be appreciative of good copy. And start locally. 

How do I pivot from freelance content marketing writing to begin a freelance copywriter?

LM: It is possible. That’s exactly what I did. It’s important to research and study copywriting to understand the difference, first. Study the greats, like David Ogilvy, and dissect their copy to see what makes it so effective.

Network and learn from copywriting communities and webinars and connect with other copywriters. And market yourself on sites like LinkedIn, where potential clients often look for copywriters. 

Why is magazine writing and/or journalism a good (or not good) background for copywriters

LM: I found my interview skills as a magazine writer greatly helped in researching and speaking with my client’s customers. Being able to speak with a diverse audience is an essential part of the background research involved in copywriting. Storytelling and research skills also overlap.

Where should beginner copywriters look for freelance work/jobs?

LM: Getting started as a freelance copywriter with no experience isn’t easy, but it’s no different than starting any new career. UpWork or Fiverr are both highly competitive but can give you a start.

Ask friends and family for referrals and network on LinkedIn. The latter is playing the long game because it’s about establishing yourself as an authority.

Leave insightful comments on LinkedIn posts for people and companies that fit your ideal customer profile. 

Do you have good tips to share around networking and collaborating with copywriters and marketing professionals?

LM. In order for beginner freelance copywriters to build up relationships, they should attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to network with other copywriters and marketers. Become active on LinkedIn and in LinkedIn Groups where people share knowledge.

Some cities have freelance Meetups to connect with other like-minded people. Be sure to always offer value first to build trust. Share information and be authentic. People can tell if you’re only connecting with them so you can pitch them. 

Do certifications matter today? Why/why not?

LM: Yes and no. If a person understands what it takes to earn a certification, then yes. But most clients only want to know if you can make them money.

Learn more about Linda Melone at TheCopyWorx.com.

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