For nearly two months, I flipped through pages and pages of online information and ebooks learning how to become a freelance writer. There are plenty of resources available and I thought it might be helpful to give a brief overview so you don’t have to spend as much time searching for them as I did.
Here are the basic tips for getting started as a freelance writer. This is not a complete list; my goal is to make the process less intimidating for you. If you need guidance in a specific area, just scroll down to the appropriate heading to get some pointers.
What is a Freelance Writer?
The first question you may have when starting out as a freelance writer is, “What is a freelance writer?” This question is understandable, since the term “freelance writer” is both descriptive and vaguely sex. It works with many different forms of writing, and you may wonder how to determine exactly what it is.
As a freelance writer, you provide writing services where needed. These services can include blog posts, web pages, technical writing, copywriting, business writing, ghostwriting, medical writing, eBooks, and more.
You can provide these services directly to customers or through third party websites.
How do you become a freelance writer?
In the end, you’re just getting started. Read the article on the subject first. You can also ask existing freelance writers how they feel about entering the field. Many freelance writers blog about their experiences, so it’s easy to find this information online.
If you take a step in this direction, you will be amazed at how many doors will open for you. But it is important not to be overwhelmed by all the articles and ebooks on this topic. Do your research and then apply what you have read. Try not to fall into analysis paralysis.
What qualifications are required?
One of the most important qualifications for a person to start as a freelance writer is to enjoy writing. If you don’t like writing, you won’t build a sustainable career, as you may not be motivated when you face challenges.
The second qualification is the willingness to learn and grow as a writer and own PR agency. As long as you’re willing to hone your craft and reach out to potential clients, you can consider yourself qualified.
Do I need a journalism degree?
If you have a basic knowledge of English and can write clearly and frequently, you usually don’t need further training. If you plan to write for technical publications or another professional field, you may need to demonstrate previous experience.
If you want to specialize in a specific freelance writing service and are hesitant about getting started, you can find online courses on copywriting, white papers, and more. So if you want to get additional training before offering freelance writing services then you will definitely get this opportunity in the form of an online course.
Should I Start My Own Freelance Writer Website?
If you’re planning to market yourself as a freelance writer, you definitely need a writer’s website. An online presence allows potential clients to find you, which in the long run saves you time looking for gigs.
But don’t worry, you only need to start with four pages on the site:
1. Landing Page (or Home Page)
It should give a brief overview of your services and clearly show how potential customers can contact you
2. About page
About pages let potential customers know about your personality and whether you work well together. But they should be written as future customer service, not autobiographies.
3. Services
Let potential clients know what writing services you offer.
4. Contact details
Make it easy for potential customers to contact you if they have questions or want to entrust your services. If it’s hard to reach you, they can move on to the next freelancer on their list.
After acquiring a client, the following two pages to add are: Portfolio and Testimonials. The work you do as a freelance writer is called “editing.” When you list clips on your portfolio page, it communicates your freelance writing experience to prospective clients. When you provide links to clips, they turn into writing samples that help you get more gigs.
A testimonial page (or section) communicates at least two things:
1. You are a good partner, and
2. You deliver high-quality work
Both of these things will help you attract more customers as you gain a firm foothold in the industry.
anyway
Getting started as a freelance writer doesn’t have to be a daunting task
