It’s the 21st Century, and you need to put yourself out on the web as a freelance writer. In part 2, you will discover the value of being online as a freelancer and learn about pitching your portfolio to potential clients. Read on to learn more on how to become a freelance writer.

Your skillset is the primary avenue that you will utilise to get yourself noticed while freelancing.

Photo by Dustin Lee 

How to Become a Freelance Writer, Begin!

A great site doesn’t happen overnight, but with sites like Squarespace or Wordpress, you’ll get it done regardless.

• Your site will be about you; it will need to introduce you in a professional capacity meaning samples of your work and reviews from previous customers/clients.
• Spend some time studying other freelance websites to get a feel for how you can construct your site.

You’re going to need to show yourself off. Clients will want to see the body of your work if they’re going to hire you. Collate some of your best pieces of work and submit it as a portfolio, these can be both digital and hard copy; you will need both for pitching in person and emailing prospective clients.

• If you’ve already had a few clients, include some pieces that have received the best feedback.
• If you’re still just starting up, include some sample pieces as well. Try to write about topics that are in the niche you’ve selected.  

You’ll need to be able to sell your skills in thirty seconds. The same amount of time you’ll be in an elevator. Come up with a few sentences that sum up you as a writer and memorise them for when you need some rapid-fire networking. Keep it short and direct.

• “I’ve recently transitioned to freelance writing. My niche tends to be cooking on a budget. I look for ingredients and recipes that are easily affordable, delicious and easy to cook. I also enjoy pointing readers to decent takeaways in their local area. Previous clients have loved recommendations and recipes.”

You’ll need to make new contacts in your new career. Check online to see if there are any local networking groups, usually meeting for breakfast or lunch for an hour a week or once a month. Mark these down on your calendar and attend to increase your contacts.

• You can also sign up to a specific group of freelance writers to learn how others gather clients.
• You may also be able to find a professional meet up group from various fields so you can develop contacts that work for clients.

Check for freelance work on as many websites as possible. Perform a search for freelance jobs, and you’ll be there. Always read reviews before committing to a specific job.

• As with regular jobs, you may be asked to provide a CV with writing examples.
• Most sites allow you to choose between longer and shorter projects. You are ranging from a few weeks to a few hours.
• Ask what the rate of pay is. It may be by the hour or the assignment.
• Popular sites for this include Upwork, Skillbox and Writers Market.

Pitch yourself to your field. If you would prefer to work for established clients, you can reach out to them; they may pay directly for articles. For example, if your chosen subject is “Travelling on a Budget”, you may reach out to Jetsetter.

• Begin by reaching out to the editor of your client. Write up a pitch to send in an email to sell yourself as best you can.
• Consider pitching an article to the site or let them know that you would be happy to take contract work.

A high number of employers use LinkedIn; this makes it a great place to build up more contacts. Create a profile that highlights you as the most professional freelance writer you can be.

• Be sure to indicate your preferred niche and career goals.

In the third article, we will explain How to Become a Freelance Writer effectively by introducing work environment advice and proven finacial methods to keep you on track.