How to Become a Freelance/Telecommute Writer and Start Freelance Writing for Editors and Clients
To become a full-fledged freelance writer, it takes more than the ability to write. If you read between the lines, it takes both a brilliant mind and a strong heart!
On being a freelance writer
I've had people ask me what I do for a living, and I tell them frankly that I'm a full-time freelance writer. Most people react by saying that, for the kind of job I do, I sure have it easy! They'd like to have that too, so when can they start?
Right from the start, this is the kind of attitude which raises questions about your motivation to write. Certainly, everyone wants to earn a living and make both ends meet in a way that's easier and less stressful than most jobs. However, writing's going to take more out of you than your desire to self-express and be self-employed.
On becoming good at what you do
Step 1: Invest in hard work.
Early on, it's important to realize that freelance writing is more than just a clerical job you accomplish at the snap of a finger or a creative venture you achieve with a burst of inspiration. Most of the time, it's purely hard work, firm resolve, and self-discipline which see you through.
Step 2: Act like a professional.
Being an entrepreneur, it's a small business you run as an independent contractor on a sole proprietorship basis. Once you go full-time instead of part-time, it's more of a personal statement. Your passion for writing has made the transition from a hobby into a career. You're ready to earn big-time in a career which can be very financially rewarding, depending on how efficient, reliable, and professional you are.
Step 3: Be known for original content.
Based on the standards you've set for yourself, you simply can't bank on copied or rehashed content. You've got to invest in your own original thought in order to respect the work of others and contribute unique material of your own.
Step 4: Learn the art of self-promotion.
When you enter freelance writing as a web marketing venture, it's going to be all about self-promotion. To advertise your skills in writing, you must manage your business well and maintain a reputation that's credible.
In other words, write over and above what satisfies your personal ego. With the customer as your focus, provide write-ups which exceed expectations on quality and content.
The specialty and its challenges
If you want to be known for a particular specialty, then establish your niche. For instance, promote yourself as a web marketing specialist or as a lifestyle expert.
On the other hand, if you have a wide range of expertise on different subjects, profess to write about anything under the sun. However, be prepared for the challenge of writing on a wide range of topics. Set your mind that you're not about to let boredom, indifference, or procrastination get in the way of what you've promised to deliver.
To source out more clients, it all starts with a good business proposal. Make your sales pitch through an effective letter and a well-written copy. This brings us full-circle to how good you really are at writing.
Although you have the liberty of writing on your own time, you also have the responsibility of writing for an audience. Thus, you're accountable for providing your readers with content which is both interesting and relevant. After all, what would a freelance writer be without written work which is actually published, read, and considered worthwhile?
(C) WritingBids.com
On being a freelance writer
I've had people ask me what I do for a living, and I tell them frankly that I'm a full-time freelance writer. Most people react by saying that, for the kind of job I do, I sure have it easy! They'd like to have that too, so when can they start?
Right from the start, this is the kind of attitude which raises questions about your motivation to write. Certainly, everyone wants to earn a living and make both ends meet in a way that's easier and less stressful than most jobs. However, writing's going to take more out of you than your desire to self-express and be self-employed.
On becoming good at what you do
Step 1: Invest in hard work.
Early on, it's important to realize that freelance writing is more than just a clerical job you accomplish at the snap of a finger or a creative venture you achieve with a burst of inspiration. Most of the time, it's purely hard work, firm resolve, and self-discipline which see you through.
Step 2: Act like a professional.
Being an entrepreneur, it's a small business you run as an independent contractor on a sole proprietorship basis. Once you go full-time instead of part-time, it's more of a personal statement. Your passion for writing has made the transition from a hobby into a career. You're ready to earn big-time in a career which can be very financially rewarding, depending on how efficient, reliable, and professional you are.
Step 3: Be known for original content.
Based on the standards you've set for yourself, you simply can't bank on copied or rehashed content. You've got to invest in your own original thought in order to respect the work of others and contribute unique material of your own.
Step 4: Learn the art of self-promotion.
When you enter freelance writing as a web marketing venture, it's going to be all about self-promotion. To advertise your skills in writing, you must manage your business well and maintain a reputation that's credible.
In other words, write over and above what satisfies your personal ego. With the customer as your focus, provide write-ups which exceed expectations on quality and content.
The specialty and its challenges
If you want to be known for a particular specialty, then establish your niche. For instance, promote yourself as a web marketing specialist or as a lifestyle expert.
On the other hand, if you have a wide range of expertise on different subjects, profess to write about anything under the sun. However, be prepared for the challenge of writing on a wide range of topics. Set your mind that you're not about to let boredom, indifference, or procrastination get in the way of what you've promised to deliver.
To source out more clients, it all starts with a good business proposal. Make your sales pitch through an effective letter and a well-written copy. This brings us full-circle to how good you really are at writing.
Although you have the liberty of writing on your own time, you also have the responsibility of writing for an audience. Thus, you're accountable for providing your readers with content which is both interesting and relevant. After all, what would a freelance writer be without written work which is actually published, read, and considered worthwhile?
(C) WritingBids.com