Freelance writing is a fantastic career that lets you make money while getting to do something you love. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a professional writer, taking the leap and becoming a successful freelance writer may just be one of the best decisions you can make.
That said, you may also be wondering how to actually start as a freelance writer. Don’t worry, because it’s easier than you think. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to become a freelance writer and make money writing.
Set Up a Freelance Writing Business
The first step in your freelance writer journey is to set up the business side of your writing career. This step is often overlooked by aspiring freelance writers, but having a well-run, professional business setup is key to looking like a professional in your chosen industry.
Here are some tips for getting started with setting up your business:
Choose a Business Name: Decide on what you want your business to be called and check online to make sure nobody else is currently using that name.
Register Your Business: Depending on your local regulations, you may need to register the business with the state.
Set up a Bank Account: Open a separate bank account so that you can keep your business finances separate from your personal finances.
Get Necessary Insurance: Depending on the type of writing you do, you may need to get liability insurance as well as business insurance.
Equip Yourself with the Right Tools
After you get your business set up, the next step is to equip yourself with the right writing tools. Even if you have great writing skills, the tools you use will have a significant impact on your success. Here are some of the essential tools that every freelance writer should have:
Laptop: Invest in a laptop or desktop computer so that you can get your work done.
Writing App: Get good software for organizing and editing your work. If you’re using a computer for editing then invest in a good writing app such as ProWritingAid.
Professional Website: Set up a website to showcase your writing portfolio and get more eyes on your work.
Accounting or Invoicing Software: Get software to make it easier to manage your finances and sending invoices.
Find Writing Gigs and Market Yourself
Now that you’re all set up, it’s time to find writing work. This is often the hardest part for newbie freelance writers, but it’s actually pretty easy if you follow these tips:
Build a Network of Contacts: When starting out, your best bet is to reach out to people you know and ask if they need any writing services.
Look for Writing Jobs Online: There are tons of job boards with remote writing gigs. Check out websites such as Upwork and Freelancer for the latest job postings.
Pitch Prospective Clients: Reach out via email to those companies or publications you’d really like to work for.
Connect on Social Media: Use social media to search for writing gigs and make valuable connections with other writers and potential clients.
Start Your Own Blog: One great way to get your work seen is to start a blog and showcase your writing.
Finally, the best way to market yourself as a freelance writer is to always aim for the highest quality. That means always submitting your best work, responding quickly to clients’ requests, and never underselling yourself.
Focus on Building a Sustainable Career
The last step in becoming a successful freelance writer is to focus on building a sustainable career. This means going beyond just scouring job boards and pitching potential clients.
Here are some tips for building a sustainable freelance writing career:
Find New Clients & Projects: Never stop looking for new and better opportunities.
Create a Regular Schedule: Set up a regular schedule for yourself and make sure you stick to it.
Set Goals & Reach Them: Set both short- and long-term goals for yourself.
Price Your Services Fairly: Give yourself the due respect you deserve and price yourself according to what you’re worth.
Focus On Quality: Quality will always be the key to success, so always strive to give your clients the best work possible.
Becoming a successful freelance writer doesn’t have to be a daunting task. There are lots of different ways to make money writing, from blogging to freelance marketplaces. All it takes is for you to take the first step and start putting your business and writing skills to work. So what are you waiting for? Start taking the steps to become a successful freelance writer today.
