what education is required to be a freelance writer

COACHING + PUBLISHING

FORMATTING + DESIGN

FREELANCE COMMUNITY

• The Credentials You Need to Be a Freelance Writer

Be a risk-taking freelance writer

Desire is more powerful than a degree, freelance writer credentials that matter most.

Note: Think you’re missing the credentials or qualifications to be a successful freelance writer? I wrote this post five years ago, and I still see a lot of writers struggle with this. The credentials that really matter have nothing to do with writing, and everything to do with mindset. Enjoy! -Carol.

If I’ve learned one thing mentoring freelance writers, it’s this: Writers are hung up on qualifications.

I wish I had a dime for every time a freelance writer told me:

“I’ve always wanted to pursue a career as a freelance writer, but given that I lack a journalism degree, I felt unqualified.”

To which I can only say: Hey. Me too. Both on the no-degree front (I’m a college dropout with a degree in nothing), and the feeling inadequate thing, too.

Except I just plunged in and started writing anyway.

Do you think lack of qualifications or credentials are holding your back from being a successful freelance writer?

Are you thinking about going back to school, taking another course, or talking yourself out of pitching higher-paying clients because you don’t have an impressive resume?

Everyone should be a life-long learner. But you don’t need a degree or credentials to learn how to become a freelance writer . Nor do you need any special qualifications to start landing beginner freelance writing jobs . Here’s what you really need to find freelance writing jobs :

When I decided to pursue a career as a writer, without the “proper” qualifications, it was a risk. But that willingness to go for it anyway and expose my writing to the world, despite not having traditional reporter credentials paid off in, among other things:

• Appearing in the Los Angeles Times and Wall Street Journal
• Two staff-writing jobs that definitely required a bachelor’s degree
• Winning a national business writing award for the first time in my newsweekly’s 25-year history
• Writing for national magazines and Fortune 500 companies
• Becoming a freelancer and cracking six figures in income

Here’s the secret: Freelance writers never feel legit. We all feel like frauds.

The successful writers just do it anyway.

I was reminded of this during a very funny presentation at the  World Domination Summit  a couple years ago. Top blogger Darren Rowse of ProBlogger put up a slide explaining his qualifications for starting his blog:

My favorite one has to be where he couldn’t figure out how to even bold text! His point was he had absolutely no business starting a blog. But he wanted to blog, so he called himself a freelance writer and got started.

You see, writing isn’t a career where credentials matter. I wish more writers knew that.

Or not the traditional kind, anyway.

The credentials you need to be a successful freelance writer or blogger aren’t earned in a university. If you have the credentials I list below, you are on your way as a freelance writer and a lot of doors are going to open up to you.

Here are the three credentials you really need:

When you’re told a piece of news, do you find yourself asking questions about it? Wondering what will happen next? Why this thing has happened? And then, do you feel compelled to learn more?

This is an essential for any writer. You need to explore. To ask questions. To know. And to share what you find out with the world through the written word.

That natural curiosity will take you far. I’m always joking that I am the original cat that curiosity killed. And brought back. I drive my family nuts with my questions about everything.

That drive to learn and understand will give you a steady stream of interesting stuff to write about that nobody else has thought to explore.

Let’s face it — you can’t be a freelance writer unless you are willing to put it out there and face rejection. You have to be willing to hear “no” and not crumple up in a ball and cry yourself to sleep.

You have to keep pushing, even though there’s a ton of competition out there. You have to be brave and confident that you have something unique to offer the world in your prose.

You could be a brilliant writer sitting in your back bedroom typing alone. But without the courage to publish, you can’t build a career as a writer.

I recently heard from someone who wanted me to give them some coaching. He announced he had $1 million in the bank and wanted to start freelance writing for something fun to do.

I didn’t even respond, because I know this would-be writer is never going to do this for a living. Why? Because being a freelance writer (or a successful blogger) is hard.

Freelancing and building a blog both require hustle, and if you already have a fortune in the bank and have never felt the drive to write before now, you’re probably not going to bother.

One top blogger told me you’ll only become a successful blogger if you have no other way to feed your family. If you have any other option, you’ll take it. Because writing for a living is tough. You have to want it, bad.

You have to crave that recognition and urgently need the money your writing could bring you. Or you’ll write novels in a garret that are published after you die.

But if you have these three things — curiosity, courage, and hunger — you can write your way to wherever you want to go.

What credentials do you think freelance writers need?  Let’s discuss on my Facebook page.

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How to become a freelance writer: The complete guide to getting started

Freelance writing holds major appeal—both as a side hustle and as a full-time job. Not only is it a great way to earn money, it’s also a good opportunity to acquire a new professional skill set and learn about interesting topics. 

Getting started as a freelance writer takes more than motivation, though. In addition to resourcefulness, persistence, and writing skills, you also need a basic understanding of the path ahead. 

If you’re wondering how to become a freelance writer, we’ve got everything you need to know covered in this article. Keep reading to discover what freelance writing is and how you can get started today.

What is freelance writing?

Freelance writing refers to any writing-related work done by freelancers or independent contractors. Like freelance graphic design or consulting, freelance writing is a broad field that spans a wide range of industries and niches. Many businesses—regardless of their size—hire freelance writers to write everything from brochures and restaurant menus to website copy and press releases. 

Some people become a freelance writer as an intellectual or creative pursuit they do along with their day job. For others, it’s a practical way to earn extra income outside of their full-time job. And for some, freelance writing is a full-time job. 

As with all types of freelancing, there are benefits and drawbacks to freelance writing:

Advantages of freelance writing

• Autonomy over your schedule: As a freelancer, you can set your own hours and work when it’s most convenient for you. 
• Control over your projects: You can pick and choose projects, pitch topics you’re passionate about, and say no to assignments you’re not interested in. 
• Flexible rates: You can set your own rates and change them whenever you need to. 
• Freedom to learn and grow: When you’re not bound to writing for one particular publication or company, you can follow your interests and passions wherever they lead you, changing course as often as you like. 
• No ceiling: How you progress and develop as a freelancer is totally up to you. You can take on a handful of assignments every month for fun, or create a full-fledged freelance writing career if you want. 
• Flexibility in how and where you work: You aren’t bound by location or rules when freelance writing. You can work in whatever manner and place suits you best. 
• Minimal equipment required: All you need is internet access and a computer and you’re good to go.
• ‍ Low barrier to entry: You usually don’t need a degree, specialized certification, or even years of experience to become a freelance writer. You just need a good work ethic and decent writing chops.

Disadvantages of freelance writing

• Burden of securing work: Until you’re more established, clients aren't going to appear out of thin air. As a freelance writer, it’s on you to actively seek out writing jobs and assignments. 
• Lack of structure: Unless you’re working hourly with a manager overseeing you, you’re responsible for managing your time and deadlines.  
• Inconsistent income: The amount of money you earn is directly related to the quality and volume of assignments you’re submitting—not the hours you put in. As a result, some months will be leaner than others.  
• Slow growth: It takes time (and patience) to build up a portfolio and secure steady, well-paying gigs. Depending on their skill levels, expertise, and niches, new freelance writers could be working for months or years without consistent assignments and regular clients. 
• Tough feedback: Part of being a freelance writer is conducting revisions and learning to take feedback. Some clients don’t know what they want until they see it, while others will have detailed (and sometimes harsh) feedback. 
• Rejection: Being turned down for freelance writing gigs and getting ghosted by editors and clients is normal, unfortunately. You may encounter more rejection than acceptance as a freelance writer, especially when you’re just starting out.  
• Multiple hats: Writing isn’t the only skill you need as a freelance writer. You also have to be good at researching, marketing, communicating, networking, editing, negotiating, and doing administrative tasks. 

Freelance writing isn’t for everyone, but it could be a good fit for you if you:

• Are good at writing and you enjoy it. 
• Like researching. 
• Are comfortable with a changing workload and uncertain income. 
• Like writing about a variety of different topics. 
• Don’t mind reaching out to people to ask for work. 
• Want to work when it’s most convenient for you. 
• Are interested in learning new skills. 
• Have a healthy attitude toward rejection. 
• Are good at managing your time. 
• Are tenacious.

Understanding the different types of freelance writing

There are countless types of freelance writing, and each one pays differently and requires different skills. Depending on the type of writing you’re interested in, you could do anything from penning health articles for a national news publication to writing grants for non-profit organizations to writing short stories for a literary journal. 

Ready to learn about the most common types of freelance writing? Let's get started.

When most people think of freelance writing, they think of journalism. Journalism is when you write for a newspaper, magazine, or news site. Unlike writing for marketing, journalism is objective in nature (with the exception of opinion pieces). As a result, journalism writing usually requires a substantial amount of reporting, interviewing, and fact checking.  

These days, you don’t necessarily need a journalism degree to become a freelance writer, but it can help you land pitches and connect with editors more easily. Even if you don’t have a degree in journalism, you may still want to take a journalism class. Not only are there distinct stylistic and formatting rules to be aware of, there are also lots of ethical considerations around reporting and interviewing subjects.  

The pay: Local or online news outlets may pay $50 a piece or a few hundred dollars; more established publications can pay up to $1 or $2 a word.

Content marketing writing

Content marketing writing, also called content writing, is any type of online writing used for marketing purposes. Content writing can take the form of reported articles, blog posts, how-to guides, customer success stories, white papers, ebooks, infographics, thought leadership articles, and video scripts. 

Some companies want B2C (business to consumer) content writing, which is written from the business’s perspective to its customers. Others want B2B (business to business) writing, which is when a business speaks directly to other businesses. 

You don’t need marketing knowledge to do content marketing writing, but you should be able to do the following: 1) adapt the voice and tone of your writing to align with different brands, and 2) incorporate specific brand messaging and product mentions into your writing in a cohesive way. 

The pay: As more businesses recognize the value of quality content in digital marketing, the more they are investing in it. As a result, a freelance content writing career is becoming increasingly more lucrative. Depending on the brand, you could earn a few hundred dollars for an article and thousands of dollars for a white paper or ebook.

Search engine optimization (SEO) writing

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the science and art of improving website traffic. A lot of companies hire SEO writers to help them redo their written content in order to appear higher in Google search results and bring more visitors to their websites. 

SEO writing can take a number of different forms, from blog posts and articles to web copy and advertisements. Anyone can write with SEO in mind, but it does take a certain amount of finesse to do it well. You also have to understand your audience and be able to speak to their unique challenges and goals. 

The pay: Everyone from bloggers to major corporations depend on SEO, which means the pay for SEO writing varies widely depending on the company or individual hiring you. For blog posts and website copy, you could earn anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand.

Copywriting

Copywriting is writing designed to sell something. Also called advertising or marketing writing, copywriting can take the form of website copy, brochure copy, emails, and social media ads. Organizations of all types—from local coffee shops and nonprofits to hospitals and tech startups—need copywriters. 

To be a successful copywriter, you should have good persuasive writing skills and at least a basic knowledge of sales tactics. You also need to be able to write in a specific brand voice and adhere to strict brand messaging guidelines. 

The pay: Because copywriting is closer to the point of sale, it usually commands a higher price. Depending on the type of writing and company hiring, you could earn anywhere from $50 to upwards of $200 for a single email, or a few hundred dollars or several thousand for a website landing page (home page).

Academic and educational writing

Academic and educational writing can take the form of writing grants, proposals, research papers, textbooks, curriculum material, and scientific studies, to name a few. Universities, nonprofit organizations, large academic corporations, and think tanks may need academic writers. 

Because academic writing is more specialized and formal than other types of writing, you may need a degree, certification, or experience in a particular field. 

The pay: Rates vary widely for academic writing. Depending on how well funded the hiring organization is you could earn a couple thousand dollars for a grant, for example, and potentially tens of thousands for a textbook or curriculum compilation.

Blogging is an umbrella term that applies to a handful of different types of writing. Content writing and SEO writing, for example, can be blogging, but not all blogging is considered SEO or content marketing writing. 

Blog posts generally have an informal, conversational tone, and exist on dedicated blogs and company websites. Global corporations like Disney and Apple have blogs, as do many sole proprietors and small business owners. 

The pay: Depending on the company, you could earn anywhere from $20 for a blog post to upwards of $1,000.

Creative writing

Creative writing has a broad and loose application—and every kind of creative writing requires a different skill set and qualifications. Creative writing can be anything from blogging or ghostwriting a novel to writing a screenplay for a TV network or crafting poems or short stories for a literary magazine. 

The pay: Scoring a well-paying creative writing job can be tough if you don’t have any connections. Plus, the pay can be extremely varied. Writing for a successful TV show, for example, could net you a hundred thousand dollars or more, while picking up odd jobs ghostwriting may only get you a couple thousand dollars here or there.

Technical writing

Technical writing refers to writing that describes the technical abilities or process of a device, product, or type of software. Technical writing usually comes in the form of user manuals and software guides, although sometimes white papers require technical writing. 

To be a competent technical writer, you need the following: an extensive knowledge of how a particular product or system works, the ability to think analytically, and the ability to write in both jargon and layman’s terms. 

The pay: Because it’s so specialized and tedious, technical writing usually pays well. You could earn the equivalent of $1 a word or more.

Social media writing

Social media writing is a growing field. Though it can fall under the umbrella of copywriting, it doesn’t always. Many businesses and organizations want social media writers who can craft compelling captions, write in a clear and consistent brand voice, and occasionally put out calls to action to buy products or sign up for services.

Being a good social media writer requires staying up to date with changing social media language and trends, as well as understanding how images and words work together to tell a story. 

The pay: Most social media writers charge by the hour, and make anywhere from $20 to $50 an hour.

How to become a freelance writer

If you’re eager to become a freelance writer but don’t know where to start, don’t stress. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and intimidated when you're just getting started, but with some research and preparation—along with a healthy dose of discipline—you’ll be freelance writing in no time. 

Here is our step-by-step guide on how to become a freelance writer, whether you want it to be a part-time side hustle or a full-time career:

Step 1: Do your research

Before you get started on your freelance writing career, you need to understand what you’re in for. After all, there’s a lot more to freelance writing than simply stringing sentences together.

Instead of diving straight in, take the time to familiarize yourself with freelancing by reading books or scouring the internet for information. Helpful resources include: 

• The Write Life
• Make a Living Writing
• Be a Freelance Blogger 
• FreelanceWriting.com
• SmartBlogger
• Copyhackers

You may also want to join a couple of online writing groups, such as The Write Life Community on Facebook or r/Writing on Reddit. You can also browse local or niche-specific groups on Google or Facebook by searching “freelance writers + [your location]” or “[type of writing] + freelance writers.” 

Community groups are a great place to gather information, ask questions, and connect with other established and aspiring freelance writers.

Step 2: Assess your skills and interests

When you first start freelance writing, it’s crucial to have direction and purpose—and figuring out what you’re good at can help. To assess your skill set and interests, start by creating a list of all your education and experiences. Include everything from the after-school jobs you held to the online courses you took for fun, even if they weren’t relevant to writing. 

Then, for each item on the list, write down the various skills or knowledge you developed for that role. For example, if you worked as an administrative assistant, the skills might be communication, scheduling, task management, and organization.

Next, in a separate list, write out all of your interests and passions, no matter how seemingly trivial or strange. Your passions may or may not intersect with your job or education experience and that’s okay. On this list, everything from cooking and hiking to fashion and playing guitar is fair game. 

Once you complete both lists, give them a thorough review. Circle any repeating words you see and make note of any patterns. Then ask yourself the following questions: 

• Where do I have the most experience? 
• Where do I have the most specialized knowledge? 
• What are my favorite things to learn or talk about? 
• Do my interests overlap with my work or education history? If so, where? 
• If I had to write an article right now on any subject, what would it be? 

Answering these questions will give you a better idea of what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing. From there, you can figure out how to apply your life experiences to your freelance writing endeavors. 

For example, if you’ve worked as an IT manager handling security systems, you could potentially write about corporate security software or consumer products for a security company. If you love decluttering your closet, you might be able to find projects writing about organization tactics for a storage or moving company. If you teach elementary school, you could write articles about curriculum updates for a textbook company.

Once you’ve spent some time brainstorming possible writing avenues, the next step is to identify a niche.

Step 3: Identify a niche

A niche is simply a specific topic you want to write about. You don’t have to adopt a niche to become a successful freelance writer, but having one—or a few—can help you stand out and gain traction in your freelance writing business. Here are a few benefits of having a writing niche:

• It gives you credibility and authority on certain subjects. 
• It makes it easier for potential clients to find you. 
• It helps you specialize and build a portfolio quicker. 
• It can give you the confidence to charge more. 
• It can help you narrow your search when looking for work. 

You’ll have the most success if your freelance writing niche is an area where you have tons of experience and expertise. However, you can still choose a niche where you have little knowledge or experience, you’ll just have to work a bit harder to educate yourself and get relevant writing samples.

To pick your niche, the first step is to choose an industry or field. The second step is to choose a focus within that industry. The third step is to zoom in on an even more specific focus.

Let’s say the industry is health and wellness. Within the health industry, you might want to focus on fitness, and within that you might want to zoom in on running. That means you could write running-related articles and blog posts for running publications, fitness apps, or apparel companies. 

Identifying a few different niches gives you an idea of where to start looking for clients, but remember you can change your niche at any time. Plus, certain clients and styles of writing will span a few different niches at once, so you might have the opportunity to develop expertise in multiple areas without extending your job reach too much.

Step 4: Find out who your ideal clients are

Once you define your niche or niches, there are two main ways to find your first client and future work going forward: 1) search for freelance writing gigs and jobs within your wheelhouse, and/or 2) reach out to potential clients or editors directly.

Here are the two steps to follow to find your first client:

1. Research the companies, businesses, and publications within your niche

Grab a snack and get cozy: it’s time for some intensive Googling. Start by searching “[your niche] + companies,” “[your niche] + websites,” and “[your niche] + outlets.” Play around with your search terms by incorporating the name of your city or region, or searching “top [your niche] businesses” or “best [your niche] blogs.” 

As you hunt around each website, try to answer the following questions: 

• Is there a good amount of written content? 
• If so, what is the writing like in terms of subject matter and style? 
• Are they hiring freelance writers?  

If you’re browsing a news publication or blog, look for a section that says “editorial guidelines,” “submissions,” or “staff.” You might find a web page that gives you more details about the outlet’s submission process, pitch guidelines, or pay rate. If you’re lucky, you may even find the name and contact information of the various people on the editorial team. 

On the other hand, if you’re browsing a small business or company website, keep an eye out for a blog, resource center, or customer story section. From there, take note of the byline for each article or blog post, then scroll down the page to see if there’s an author bio. 

If there are a handful of different bylines and the writers don’t work for the company in question, there’s a good chance the company hires freelance writers to create their pieces.

2. Create a prospect list

After you’ve done a healthy amount of research, start making a list of prospective clients by niche. Use an Excel or Google spreadsheet to compile your information and organize it by category. Include the following: 

• Website link
• Name and description of company and/or outlet
• Description of the site’s content
• Idea of the writing services you could offer (like website copywriting or blog writing)
• Link to a submissions or staff page, if applicable 
• Contact information

If you don’t find contact information for an editorial director, content manager, project manager, or business owner, you may have to do some extra digging. This is where LinkedIn comes in handy. You can search a company’s name along with job titles like “content manager,” “marketing director,” or “editor in chief,” depending on what seems most relevant to the projects you’re interested in. 

Read each person’s profile, looking for an indication that they collaborate with freelancers. Some people might say they manage blog content as part of their job description; others might say they’re in charge of reading pitches from freelance writers or handling the company’s digital marketing campaigns. If someone seems like a prospective client, record their name, title, and email address (if available) on your spreadsheet. 

You’ll reference this list later when you’re reaching out to clients directly.

Step 5: Build an online presence

If you want to become a freelance writer, it’s critical to have an online presence even if you're just getting started. At the very least, you need a website or portfolio to showcase your skills, sell your services, and share your contact information. Prospective clients and editors may also want to see your LinkedIn profile and social media handles, depending on the type of writing you’re doing. 

When you’re building out your online presence, keep your niche and target clientele in mind. Instead of simply calling yourself a freelance writer, describe yourself in specific terms, such as “technical copywriter” or “freelance education journalist.” You should also keep your niche in mind when choosing which writing samples to share and how to position your services. 

Ready to get started? Here are four steps to take when creating or revamping your online presence:

1. Create a website

Think of your website or portfolio as the first impression you make as a freelancer. Not only is it an example of your writing skills, it’s also a window into who you are as an individual. A good website doesn’t have to be fancy or complicated, but it should be personal, professional, and detailed. 

Start by developing a landing page that explains who you are and what you write about. You can choose a layout, font, and color scheme that fits your personal style and brand, but the page should still be clear and easy to navigate. 

If you want to make your site minimal, you can include all your information—from past experience to contact information—on the landing page itself. However, if you want more space to explain your process and services, you may want to create separate web pages for visitors to click. 

Arguably the most important part of your website is your portfolio. Keep in mind that your portfolio shouldn’t include every single thing you’ve ever written. Rather, it should display a selection of strong writing samples relevant to your niche. 

As you get more experience, you can add the names of brands you’ve worked with or list the various outlets where you’ve been published.  

Here are a few website platforms where you can pick a template and design your own site—no design knowledge necessary. 

• Squarespace
• WordPress.com

If you want to create a portfolio separate from your website, or if you don't have the money or bandwidth to build a website yet, you can still make a freelance writing portfolio. Contently and Writerfolio let you create free, simple portfolios to show off your freelancing experience.

2. Clean up your social media profiles

Do you plan on using your personal social media profiles to get freelancing gigs? If not, you may want to set them to private mode to keep your professional writing separate from your personal life. 

However, if you’re interested in social media writing or if you want to use your personal platforms for looking for freelance writing opportunities, it’s a good idea to give your handles a professional refresh. Try the following:

• Switch your profile photo to a more professional image.
• Change your social media handles to your full name or something with the word “writer” included.
• Update your bio to mention your work as a writer and link to your website.
• Delete any inappropriate or unprofessional posts or images.
• Consider updating your profile from a personal account to a professional account to give you more credibility. ‍

3. Build out your LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn is an amazing place to pitch editors, apply to freelance writing jobs, and connect with potential clients. Instead of letting your profile sit idle with outdated information, take the time to update it in a manner similar to your website. You might want to:

• Change your job title or description to reflect the writing you want to do.
• Update your photo.
• Specify that you’re available for freelancing.
• Update your “about” section to explain what type of writing you do, what your niches are, and which brands or outlets (if any) you’ve written for.
• Add relevant writing samples.
• Ask your former colleagues or peers to write you a recommendation referencing your writing capabilities. 
• Include your website link and contact information.

4. Make a separate email address

Unless you already have a professional-sounding email address for personal use, it’s a good idea to make a new email address for your freelance writing business. 

You could base the email address off of your website URL, your full name, or your name plus the word “writer” or “freelance writer.” Just make sure whatever you choose has lasting power. You don’t want to box yourself into a certain brand or writing niche if you think your writing career may develop and change over time. 

Try one of these free platforms to create a professional email account: 

Step 6: Learn how to pitch and craft a cold email

There are two skills you need to develop when looking for freelance writing work:

• The ability to pitch a story idea
• The ability to write a stellar cold email

Let’s discuss pitches first.

A pitch is a brief message you send to an editor describing a story or article idea you have. A pitch isn’t just selling your idea, though—it’s also selling yourself as a writer. Pitching is an art, but there’s also a structure to follow. Here are the three components every pitch needs: 

• A succinct, compelling description of your idea
• An explanation of why the idea matters and why it’s relevant to the outlet’s audience 
• A sentence or two that explains your credibility as a writer

Good pitches are original, concise, and detailed. Here’s an example of a pitch for an online magazine: 

I saw your Tweet looking for pitches for the community issue of Runner’s Magazine. Here’s an idea for you to consider:

How Runners Are Banding Together to Clean Up Their Communities

Thanks to a popular Swedish fitness trend called plogging, new running groups are forming nationwide. Their goal, however, isn’t to race or discover new trails—it’s to pick up trash as they jog.  

Plogging, which combines relaxed running with eco-conscious action, is uniting communities in cleaning up the roads and trails pedestrians, runners, and cyclists all love to frequent. The individual and communal benefits are obvious, but why is the trend picking up steam now? As climate change becomes an increasingly urgent matter, people are looking for ways to make a difference within their own areas of interest.  

I’ll interview certified running coach and owner of Nashville Run Group, Melissa Davis; Tommy Jones, a runner who started a plogging group in San Francisco; and Amy Newark, a professor of environmental awareness and change at Georgetown University. 

My work has appeared in Men’s Health and Prevention. You can see samples here [link]. Please let me know if you have any questions or feedback. 

Jamie Jordan

[Contact information]

Let’s break down why this pitch works well. First, the writer gets straight to the point by presenting the pitch at the top of the message. The pitch has a clear headline, a lede (or opening sentence), an angle that ties into the magazine’s upcoming issue theme, and an explanation of how the writer would add color and interest to the story with interviews. 

The writer also mentions their credentials, includes a link to their portfolio, and says they’re open to feedback and questions.

Cold emails

Unlike a pitch, a cold email or letter of introduction (LOI) isn’t necessarily about pitching a story idea, but about pitching yourself and your writing career. You could send a cold email to a potential client, professional contact, or HR person with the goal of introducing yourself, offering your services, or inquiring about work opportunities. 

The recipients of your cold emails should walk away with a clear understanding of who you are, what you do, and why they might want to hire you. A good LOI typically includes the following components: 

• A sentence or two explaining who you are, what type of writing you specialize in, and which businesses/publications/websites you’ve written for
• An explanation of what you can offer and how it ties into their needs
• A link to your portfolio or two or three links to specific writing samples
• A way to contact you

Here’s an example of a cold email:

Hi Rachel, 

I recently discovered your company’s resource center and wanted to let you know how much I appreciate the in-depth articles comparing various smart home devices. I especially loved the piece on voice assistants [link], which was full of practical information. 

Are you looking for any new writers to contribute to the resource center? I specialize in writing reported articles and blog posts about consumer health products. I’m comfortable using SEO keywords and data in my work, as well as interviewing subject matter experts. I’ve written for websites like ConsumerProducts.org and HealthTechTrends.com. You can see some of my work here [link]. 

I’d love to send you some pitches for the resource center or discuss your content needs. If you have questions or would like to set up a time to talk, please feel free to get in touch. 

Sincerely, 

Charlotte Johnson

This cold email works well for a few reasons. First, the writer makes it clear that she knows about the company’s resource center and appreciates it. Second, the writer demonstrates her knowledge of consumer products and ties in her offerings to the company’s potential content needs. And third, the writer ends with a call to action. 

The wonderful thing about a cold email or LOI is that you only need to write it from scratch one time. Once you have a good template to work with, you can (and should!) tailor your LOI to each potential client’s style and needs.

Step 7: Find work

Now that you’re armed with a website or portfolio, a list of potential clients, and a strong LOI or pitch template, you’re ready to begin hunting for assignments. 

Keep in mind that finding freelance writing work is an ongoing endeavor, one that takes resourcefulness, consistency, and perseverance. It’s also a numbers game. The more people you email and the more opportunities you apply to, the more likely you are to get a positive response. Eventually, you might start getting clients through word of mouth.

Ready to get started? Here are some of the best ways to find freelance writing assignments:

Apply to jobs on LinkedIn

Change your LinkedIn job settings to filter for “freelance” or “contract” jobs. Then turn on your notifications for job alerts and start browsing the new postings every day. Some jobs allow you to attach your LinkedIn profile as your resume, while others will require you to send in a separate resume and cover letter or email.

Apply to jobs on job boards

There are a multitude of job boards that cater to freelance writers. Some of them are hit and miss, but if you spread out your search and look regularly you can find plenty of well-paid job opportunities, many with the potential to turn into ongoing work. 

Keep in mind that some job boards are free to browse, but others require a monthly fee for access. Here are a handful to check out:  

• Writers Weekly
• BloggingPro.com
• Indeed.com ‍

Make a portfolio on job sites

There are content platforms, such as Contently , ClearVoice , and Skyword , that connect freelance writers with legitimate clients. The only catch? On most of these platforms, you can’t actually search for writing jobs yourself. You have to build a portfolio and wait for a client or platform administrator to contact you about a work opportunity.

Send pitches to editors

If you’re interested in freelance journalism or blogging, sending pitches to editors or content managers is a great way to get work. You could even try a double or triple pitch, which is when you include two or three story ideas in one email. 

Just try to be thoughtful about which pitches you send, when you send them, and to whom. Many editors don’t like simultaneous pitching, which is when you pitch the same idea to several different publications at a time to see who bites first.

Send cold emails to prospective clients

Send an LOI to as many potential clients as you can. Use the instructions from Steps 4 and 6 of this guide to build a prospect list and write a stellar cold email. As you send your emails, note the dates in a spreadsheet, then schedule follow-up emails for two weeks later if you don’t receive a response.

Respond to tweets that ask for writers

If you have a Twitter account, it’s a good practice to follow the companies, businesses, and publications in your niche, as well as the people who work at those places. Think editors, content managers, creative directors, and digital marketing specialists. That way, you’ll be one of the first to see if these people post about needing a writer. 

You may also want to follow handles that share writing-related job opportunities, such as @Write_Jobs , @WhoPaysWriters , and @JJobs_tweets . Responding to tweets with your contact information or portfolio link could land you a few freelance writing gigs, or at the very least a conversation with an editor or hiring manager.

Ask your family and friends

Consider sending an email to your personal contacts asking if they know of anyone who needs a freelancer. Explain what you specialize in and what types of writing you’re open to, then include your website or portfolio link.

Do a guest blog post on another site to gain traction

If you need exposure or want to build up your portfolio, try pitching a guest blog post to a site within your niche. A lot of websites and blogs accept guest posts from contributors on a variety of topics. Though some sites pay well, others don’t compensate guest contributors at all. However, if the website has a massive audience, it could be worth your time and energy to pitch an unpaid post in exchange for exposure.

Join a freelance writing group

There are hundreds of online freelance writing groups that post job opportunities or share referrals. To weed through the muck, try searching by your writing specialty, niche, or location.

Reach out to people on LinkedIn

Connecting with editors, content managers, and business owners in the niches you’re interested in is a great way to expand your network and keep an eye out for writing opportunities. Don’t send connection requests at random, though. Make sure you select the option to “add a note,”  then spend one or two sentences introducing yourself and explaining why you’re reaching out. 

Depending on why you’re connecting, you could say something like: 

• Love [your company’s] blog! It’s such a great resource. 
• I write about [your company’s specialty] and wanted to connect. 
• Do you need freelance writers who specialize in [relevant topic]? If so, I’d love to connect.

Step 8: Market yourself as a freelance writer

Every successful freelance writer has a marketing strategy. Marketing helps you get steady work, score client referrals, and keep your name and services front of mind. Simply put, marketing is the foundation you lay so future clients come to you with assignments and opportunities. 

Marketing takes thoughtfulness and regular effort, but it’s not as complicated as it seems. In fact, you’ve probably already done a lot of marketing up until this point. Keep at it by allocating at least a couple of hours a day to marketing work.

Here are some common marketing tasks you can do as a freelance writer: 

• Post on your professional social media accounts.
• Update your LinkedIn profile and/or post on LinkedIn.
• Comment on your connections’ social media posts. 
• Send cold emails. 
• Apply to writing jobs.
• Sign up for a trade conference, networking event, or virtual seminar. 
• Connect with people on Twitter and LinkedIn. 
• Optimize your website for search. 
• Create a Facebook business ad for your writing services. 
• Create a one-page digital flier advertising your services. 
• Share the articles and blog posts you write on your social media accounts.

Step 9: Figure out your rates

Determining your freelance writing rates takes some trial and error. You may be tempted to set your rates before you even look for work, but that’s a recipe for disappointment. When you’re just starting out as a freelance writer, it’s better to get an idea of how much certain clients and outlets pay before you lock yourself into a rate that may not be reasonable given your niche or level of expertise. 

Here are the strategies you can use to figure out your rates: ‍

Research your industry and niche

Doing some preliminary research will give you a better idea of where to start when setting your rates. In addition to reading freelance writing blogs and perusing the discussion threads in your online writing groups, check out sites that gather data on rates. Who Pays Writers , ClearVoice , Contently , and the Editorial Freelancers Association give you an idea of standard freelance writing rates across different niches and formats. 

Remember, however, that everything is relative. Certain companies might pay $50 for a 500-word blog post, while others will pay $400 for the same exact work. The price doesn’t always reflect the quality of the work or the effort it takes to produce it; it just shows how different outlets value freelancer work.

Figure out how long it takes you to do certain assignments

Even if you haven’t received an official assignment yet, it’s smart to start tracking your time. Give yourself the task of writing a blog post, case study, or email on a subject in your niche, then see how long it takes you to complete. 

Don’t just track your writing time, though; make sure you also factor in the time it takes to research, outline, format, and proofread your work.

Determine your minimum hourly rate

Your minimum hourly rate (MHR) is the minimum amount of money you need to earn per hour to reach your financial freelance writing goals. Of course, you may not want to charge on an hourly basis, but figuring out your MHR can help you think about your rates in a more practical, realistic way. It’s an especially helpful exercise if you plan to become a full-time freelance writer.  

To start, add up your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, food and groceries, credit card debt, entertainment, health insurance, transportation, and personal expenses. Multiplying your monthly expenses by 12 will give you an idea of the minimum salary you need to earn per year to live comfortably. 

Of course, if you want to leave room for travel, savings, emergencies, and luxuries or indulgences, you’ll need to bump up your minimum salary. 

Next, figure out what it costs to do your freelance writing work. You might have the following business costs: 

• Internet subscription
• Computer updates 
• Professional membership or subscription fees
• Website hosting  
• Accounting fees
• Office equipment
• Business cards

If you want to be a full-time freelance writer, you also have to account for your benefits, like health insurance and paid time off. Once you add up your business expenses and benefits, you’ll have a better idea of what it costs to do freelance writing. 

Let’s say you want to earn $60,000 a year as a freelance writer. After considering your finances and lifestyle, you determine that a $60,000 annual salary will allow you to cover your monthly expenses, put some cash in savings, and still have a certain level of financial freedom. 

Maybe your total business costs add up to roughly $5,000 a year, and you estimate your holiday and benefits will add up to $10,000. On top of paying yourself a $60,000 salary, that means you’re looking at a total cost of $75,000. 

To determine your MHR, you have to figure out how many billable hours you can work in a given year. There are 261 working days (give or take a number depending on whether or not it’s a leap year) in a calendar year, and typically eight working hours in a work day. 

However, you won’t necessarily be working all 261 working days, nor will you work eight billable hours each day. You have to account for sick time, vacation, doctor’s appointments, and non-billable work like meetings, marketing, and administrative tasks. 

If you give yourself 10 days off for national holidays, 14 days off for vacation time, and eight days off for sick time, you’re left with 229 working days in a calendar year. Taking into account lunch, errands, potential appointments, and non-billable work time, let’s say you can realistically log five hours of billable work each work day. 

229 x 5 = 1,145 hours

That’s 1,145 working hours in a year. Divide that by the total cost of doing business, and you’ll have your MHR. 

$75,000 / 1,145 = $65/hour

Knowing your MHR can help you evaluate freelance writing rates and jobs more accurately. Let’s say, for example, that you land an assignment to write a 1,000-word blog post for $300. According to your MHR, you can afford to spend about four and a half hours on this assignment ($300 / $65 = 4.6). 

If the topic requires a lot of research and you know the work will take you eight hours to complete, $300 may not be the best rate for you. On the other hand, if you’re well versed in the subject matter and you estimate that the assignment will take about three hours to finish, $300 is an excellent rate and you’ll be earning well over your MHR. 

To keep your expectations in check, set goals that follow the SMART format, meaning they’re specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely.

Step 10: Decide how to get paid

One of the most important parts of learning how to become a freelance writer is deciding how (and when) you will get paid for your work. One thing freelancers have historically struggled with is getting paid on time. So, we put together a handy resource that digs into why some freelancers struggle to get paid more than others, and how to increase your chances of getting paid faster. Here are some some strategies new freelance writers can take to make getting paid easier: ‍

Create a pricing sheet

To keep your rates straight, it’s helpful to create a pricing sheet that lists your target rates for different types of work. You may want to charge more for website copywriting than blogging, for example. Or maybe you charge more for articles that require quotes from subject matter experts versus articles that don’t. 

You don’t have to publish your pricing on your website, but creating a basic pricing sheet can serve as a reference point when clients ask you for your rates.

Adjust as needed

Rates aren’t set in stone—you can adjust them as needed on a case-by-case basis. For example, you might be willing to lower your usual rate in order to get a prestigious byline or establish goodwill with a potential long-term client. In other situations, you may need to increase your usual rate to compensate for a fast turnaround or additional requests.

Set up an invoicing process

Writing copy can take time, but doing admin work like creating and sending invoices to clients can pile up and be even more time-consuming. Using pre-made invoice templates is one way to save time when you're first setting up invoices for new clients.

Invoicing software like Wave can also help you set up recurring invoices for regular invoices, send payment reminders for overdue invoices, and measure how much money you're bringing in from each of your clients. This can help you create a simple process for billing clients, which can help you save time versus the manual process of creating, sending, and tracking your freelance writing invoices every single time.

Set up a business bank account

Getting a designated business bank account makes managing your income as a freelancer so much easier. Wave Money is a no-fee business bank account made for freelancers that saves you time by automating your business finances and keeping your business and your personal expenses separate. 

You can also send professional invoices to your clients through Wave Payments , which helps you access your money immediately. Did you know freelancers who enable payments on digital invoices get paid 15.4% faster ? And with Wave Money, you get access to free Instant Payouts, making it even easier to speed up your cash flow. 

Instead of spending time chasing down invoices or manually tracking your cash flow, you can focus on landing jobs and becoming a better writer.

Become a freelance writer today

Freelance writing is a great way to make money and do meaningful work, but it takes diligence and patience when you first get started. To set yourself up for success, work on researching the industry, identifying a niche, and creating a killer portfolio. Before you know it, you’ll be freelance writing like a pro.

You might also enjoy this content

All Things Freelance Writing

Real writers, real advice

How to Start Freelance Writing: Complete Guide with 12 Steps

By jessica walrack.

Are you wondering how to start freelance writing? You’ve come to the right place! As a freelance writer of 11 years , I can confirm — it can be a lucrative career that lets you live a comfortable life with a lot of freedom. But, it’s not typically a get-rich-quick kind of thing. More often, it will require some serious effort, time, and persistence.

So what’s all involved and how do you get started? Here are the 12 steps I recommend.

Table of Contents

• Decide what you want to write
• Identify your target client
• Set up your business
• Set your rates
• Plan your brand strategy
• Prepare stellar samples
• Get freelance writing clients
• Onboard new clients
• Collect testimonials
• Manage your workload
• Continuously optimize

Freelance writing definition

A freelance writer is a person who is hired to write something on a contract basis. They are self-employed business owners who provide writing services to clients. As a freelance writer, you determine how you work, when you work, and how much you get paid (at least you’re supposed to).

As for what you write, it can technically be anything; speeches, letters, grant proposals, books, resumes, and the list goes on. However, today, there’s a huge demand for freelance writers who write articles for online publications and content or copy for businesses (more on these below).

How to start freelance writing in 12 steps

Freelance writing can be awesome, but where do you start? Here are the 12 steps I recommend.

I’ve also included affiliate links to some of the products/services I recommend.

1. Decide what you want to write

A good first step is to research the different types of things you can get paid to write. The more in-demand a type of writing is, the easier it’s going to be to make money writing it. So, here are some of the most in-demand types of writing in 2023.

Copy and content

Digital marketing has gained steam in recent years (especially since the pandemic), so most businesses are trying to reach their target audiences online. They do so through websites, blogs, emails, social media posts, ebooks, ads, and more. All of the above require writing, and not just any writing — quality writing that speaks to the audience in the right voice, at the right time, with the right message.

Copy and content require quality writing that speaks to the audience in the right voice, at the right time, with the right message.

Every channel, and even the platforms within channels, have different requirements for writers. For example, the best practices for writing emails are very different than those for writing SEO blogs or social posts. Further, the way you write on LinkedIn will be different than how you write for Reddit, Facebook, or Instagram.

There’s a lot more to writing than meets the eye—and businesses are willing to pay good money for knowledgeable and skilled pros.

Stories for publications

Next, many online publications like The Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, and Scary Mommy are looking for a constant stream of stories (aka articles). They all want the next big headline that’s going to entice their audience to stop and click. Hundreds, if not thousands, of online publishers exist, and many of them are paying freelance writers for stories.

Which is best for you?

I encourage you to explore different types of writing to see what interests you. Some writers start out as generalists who offer anything and everything. I did and remember clients would ask me to write things and I’d have to Google what they were…like “what is a whitepaper” or “what is an SEO blog post?”

Starting out as a generalist lets you try out different things which can help you see what you like and what’s most profitable. You’ll also have a much broader audience to target. However, it can make it harder to get jobs as you’ll often be competing against specialists.

A lesson I learned later than I would’ve preferred is that becoming an expert in a writing type for a specific industry (aka niching down ) can help you attract more clients, command higher rates, and receive fewer objections. That said, all niches aren’t equal so it’s important to gauge the market (more on that below) before going narrow.

Want to learn more about a particular type of writing? Check out the guides below:

• SEO content writing
• Social media writing
• Email writing
• Website copywriting

2. Identify your target client

The next step is to decide who you want to write for — who will your ideal client be? Will they work in a certain industry such as healthcare, the outdoors , tech, or pet care? Additionally, what type of organization will it be? For example, will you target solopreneurs, small businesses, medium-sized businesses, enterprises, publishing companies, or Fortune 500s?

If you’re thinking, I have no idea…here are a few things to consider.

What’s your background?

Do you have experience in a certain industry? Your background knowledge and experience could be an asset to you as a freelance writer. For example, if you have a background in marketing, you may be able to write about marketing for marketing agencies. If you have a background in teaching, perhaps you could write about education.

Bringing expertise to the table can help you get a jumpstart as a freelance writer. It gives clients an extra reason to choose you and can help to warrant higher rates.

What industries are growing?

Another factor to consider is the growth trends of industries. When an industry is growing, the businesses within it are more likely to be growing. This has a trickle-down effect that impacts the financial health of businesses and what they are able to invest in marketing. So, it’s wise to investigate which industries are currently doing well and trending up.

SmartBlogger recently released an article on the best writing niches for 2023 and named the following as the most profitable:

• Crypto/blockchain
• Tech writing
• Digital marketing
• Software-as-a-service (SaaS)
• Alternative health
• Real estate

I’ve seen writers thriving in all of these niches recently but especially finance, SaaS, crypto, and digital marketing.

What do you want to write about?

Another important factor to consider is what you enjoy. If you don’t like what you’re writing about, you’re going to be pretty miserable which isn’t good for you or your clients. So along with the above two factors, I’d recommend thinking or experimenting a bit to find out what you enjoy.

Warning: It may not be what you think! I thought I’d like to write about travel and ended up enjoying personal and business finance more. Never would’ve guessed!

What type of businesses do you want to write for?

The type of business you decide to write for is going to determine who you’re working with and what that process is like. For example, if you’re writing for:

• Solopreneurs, like coaches or consultants, you’ll likely work directly with them.
• Startups , you’ll likely be on a tight-knit team with the founder, developers, designers, and more.
• Established businesses , you’ll likely work with a representative from the marketing department like a content editor or marketing manager.
• Publications , you’ll typically be pitching to editors.

In most cases, larger companies will have more systems and processes in place. This can mean more predictability but less freedom in your work and operations. When prospecting, it can also be a bit more difficult to find the right person who hires writers at larger operations.

On the other hand, when businesses are less established, there is often more flexibility and freedom, but sometimes the systems can be lacking which can result in slower payments, less-detailed briefs, missing style guides, etc. All have their pros and cons.

Still not sure who you want to write for? That’s okay

Now, if you’ve asked yourself all of these questions but still aren’t sure who you want to write for, or even what you want to write, that’s okay. It can be a lot when you’re fresh on the scene. What you can do to gain a better understanding is target digital marketing agencies.

Digital marketing agencies typically help clients grow through strategies that involve lots of content and copy. As a result, they have an ongoing demand for writing and often turn to freelancers.

If you can get hired by an agency or two, it’s a great way to get familiar with freelance writing overall. The agency goes through the trouble of getting the clients, onboarding them, and prepping the strategy. You can then get assigned different types of writing assignments for different clients in various industries.

I went this route and it helped me to understand my options, gain experience, and figure out what I liked to write best. You also get a behind-the-scenes look at how an experienced individual runs writing projects and manages clients.

3. Set up your business

Okay, if you’ve made it this far and still want to be a freelance writer, it’s time to set up your business. There are a few routes you can take on this front. Here’s a quick rundown of the popular options in the U.S.

Sole proprietorship

If you don’t set up any business structure, your business will be a sole proprietorship by default. As a sole proprietor, you are your business and your business is you — there is no separation. While easy when it comes to the set-up because you don’t have to do anything, the downside is that you’ll be personally liable for any lawsuits brought against your business and any business debts. It also lacks some of the tax advantages you can get with other structures.

Limited liability corporation (LLC)

An LLC is a business structure that separates you from your business, offering protection from debts and liabilities. To set it up, you’ll need to file Articles of Incorporation with your state. You’ll have to research the laws in your state for details. Typically, the profits and losses are passed down to the owners to report on their personal tax returns. However, you can also opt to set it up as a corporation.

An S Corp is a type of corporation that passes down the profits and losses to its shareholders. You can set this up to gain protection from liabilities and debts, and some tax benefits (some of your profits can be distributions). To do so, you’ll go through your chosen state’s process. However, it can be an involved process with various fees.

My take? I think it can make sense to start out as a sole proprietor (possibly with business insurance) when testing the waters and getting established. Then, it can be helpful to set up an LLC or establish an S-Corp once you’ve found your footing and are earning more than the average salary for a freelance writer. But it’s best to consult a tax advisor and do your research before making a decision.

If you live outside the U.S., refer to your government’s website to review your options.

While an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is not required if you don’t have employees and don’t file any pension plan or excise tax, you can get one if you’d like to use your EIN (instead of your social security number) for business accounts or to build credit.

Business insurance

Business insurance can help to protect you against potential claims. For example, if you write something and are sued for some reason, it could help to cover the costs. While not a bad idea for any writer, it becomes more important as your content is reaching larger audiences. Thimble provides some flexible plans that are great for freelancers!

Business bank account

Next, open up a business bank account. Doing so will enable you to keep your business and personal finances separate. If you are happy with your existing bank, you can contact it about a business account. Alternatively, if you want an online account that is convenient, affordable, global, and freelancer-friendly, I highly recommend Wise .

Payment processing service

You’ll also need to decide how you are going to accept payments. The main options are:

• Payment processing company (PayPal, Payoneer, etc.)
• ACH/direct deposit to bank (often the cheapest route)
• Physical check (slow and outdated)
• Credit card payments (PayPal, Stripe, Square)
• Invoicing software (Wave, Bonsai, FreshBooks, HoneyBook)

I’d recommend considering the fees, processing time, and user experience of a payment solution to find the best fit.

As a freelance writer, you’ll often need to create invoices and send them to your clients. You can do so manually with an invoice template , through a payment processing service, or via a business management software program.

I use PayPal’s free invoicing tool. If you don’t want clients to pay through PayPal, you can save the invoice as a PDF and send it via email. However, I’ve heard and seen writers use programs like Wave and Bonsai, and love them.

Project management

As you begin to get projects, it becomes very important to keep track of them all. You’ll need a way to document projects, who they are for, when they are due, how much you’re getting paid, and more.

Many project management software programs exist that can help such as Asana, Monday, Trello, and ClickUp. While these programs can be very convenient, they often do come at a cost. If you’re on a tight budget, Google Sheets can also work well.

Business email address

In many cases, clients will want to communicate with you via email. If possible, I recommend that you purchase an on-brand domain name for your writing business and set up an email with that domain.

For example, my domain is jessicawalrack.com, so my email could be [email protected].

I have purchased domains and set up email accounts through both GoDaddy and Bluehost .

If you’re not ready to purchase a domain yet, you can use a free email address through Gmail or another provider. I did this for many years and never had any negative reactions to it (that I know of). But an email addy with an owned domain is typically a small investment that can help to make a positive impression so I’d recommend it.

Writing contracts

Next up, writing contracts. Writing contracts outline the terms and conditions of your writing service. In many cases, clients provide their own contracts to protect their interests. They often include clauses for non-disclosure, the transfer of intellectual property, non-employment, the release of liability, payments, termination, and more.

Warning: Watch out for non-compete clauses! I do not recommend agreeing to these as a freelancer, and most won’t ask you to.

Even if a client provides a contract, I recommend you provide one, too. It can help to establish your boundaries, protect your interests, and set clear expectations. Consider adding clauses regarding payment terms, payment due dates, late fees, communication deadlines, revision terms, project deadlines, project scope, and the costs for requests beyond the scope.

Why is it important? Things go wrong sometimes. For example, a client may pay you a retainer for a month’s worth of work, but then not assign you enough work. Do you refund the unused balance? Is it use it or lose it? These details should be outlined in writing and agreed upon.

Not sure where to start? If you want to DIY, I like this Freelance Contract Template from Pandadoc . If you’d like professional legal advice, LegalZoom can be an affordable way to get it online.

4. Set your rates

Alright, time for some money matters. Of course, the reason you’re getting into freelance writing is to make that money honey! Sure, you may have other goals, but money is important. So the big question is — how much should you charge?

There are typically three approaches to writing rates:

• Hourly : You get paid based on the hours it takes you to finish projects (common in editing projects).
• Pay per word : You get paid based on the number of words you write (common in blog and article writing).
• Fixed rate : You give clients a fixed price for a defined project (most common for copy and content writing projects).

As the business owner, you get to decide when, what, and how to charge. It can be helpful to research the average rates in the market for different types of writing, and certain factors that allow some writers to charge more (e.g. case studies, big bylines, weighty endorsements, strong branding, etc.).

If you come out of the gate charging top dollar and don’t have anything to prove your work is going to be worth it, you can hit a brick wall (aka lots of nos). On the flip side, you don’t want to undercharge and suffer unnecessarily. It’s important to understand common rate ranges, what builds a writer’s value in the eyes of clients, and where you stand.

Wondering what rates are common in the industry? Check out the results from our 2023 survey of 346 freelance writers!

You can also find more solid pricing advice through the following links:

• The American Writer’s and Arts Institute’s (AWAI) Pricing Guide
• The American Writer’s and Arts Institute’s (AWAI), State of the Industry Report on Copywriter Rates and Top Performing Marketing Methods .
• Upwork’s guide to writing rates.

5. Plan your brand strategy

Next, consider how you want your writing business to be perceived in the market. What makes you stand out? Who are you talking to and what’s your brand voice ? What are your values and how do you operate?

By taking time to define who you are as a service provider, you can build a strong foundation that enables a cohesive presence both on and offline.

You can work through the process yourself with tools like this ebook ( How To Win Over Readers, Clients And Customers: A Guide To Personal Branding For Bloggers And Solopreneurs ), or you can hire a brand strategist to help you.

6. Prepare stellar samples

The good news about being a freelance writer is that you don’t need a ton of experience, a degree, or an impressive resume. So, what’s the catch? You need reallllly good samples. Every client I’ve ever had has asked to see my samples. Solid samples will close a deal, while weak ones will cause you to lose it (sorry, but it’s true).

So how do you make sure your samples are helping not hurting you?

First, samples work best if they demonstrate the type of work that a client is requesting. So, think about what you want to create for clients and select a sample accordingly. Additionally, it’s important that your sample is the best possible representation of your abilities.

You want to ensure the writing is squeaky clean and that the piece achieves the goal of the particular writing type. For example, if it’s a blog post, it should follow SEO best practices (even better if it ranks well for the primary keyword). If it’s a story for a publication, it’s best if it has an intriguing headline, an interesting story, and a good amount of views/engagements.

Tip: If you don’t have any samples yet, you don’t have to wait for your first job or agree to unpaid writing tests . Blogs or articles can be self-published on your blog, on Medium, or on LinkedIn Articles. You can test out your social media copy or content writing on your own accounts. Other types of content or copy can be created via Google docs, Canva , Figma, etc., and downloaded as PDFs.

7. Get freelance writing clients

Now, you’re ready to get freelance writing clients. So, how do you do that? There are two main approaches; going out and finding clients (outbound) and creating a presence so they come to you (inbound).

Outbound marketing

When first getting started, outbound is often necessary. You have to put in some work to get the ball rolling. The most tried-and-tested way to land clients is through what’s known as cold pitching.

Cold pitching refers to finding people who may be interested in your services and sending them a message offering your solution. It’s called “cold” because it refers to reaching out to someone you don’t know.

Pitch publications

If you want to pitch publications, you’ll research sites, find the contact details for editors, and send them pitch ideas. For example, say you’ve decided you want to write about pop culture on Buzzfeed. You could head over to BuzzFeed and peruse the articles to get inspiration. Jot down your ideas. Then, poke around looking for editor contact info.

Tip: Amber Petty has a very helpful list of over 250+ publications that accept pitches (complete with rates and editor contact info)!

The more traffic and domain authority a publication has, the more it usually pays. You can check the stats on up to 10 sites per month for free using SEMrush ‘s free plan. That link will also give you an extended 14-day free trial of the platform in case you’re interested in all it can do.

Pitch businesses

If you want to target businesses, research those that could be a good fit and reach out to the person who you’d guess is in charge of the content and copy. In smaller companies, it may be the founder or CMO. In larger companies, it may be a content editor, creative director, or director of demand generation. You can research who to contact on company websites, LinkedIn, and Twitter. In time, you’ll learn who typically handles hiring writers.

Once you have the info, what should your email say? I don’t recommend the “spray and pray” technique. I believe in treating people how you want to be treated. If you’re going to send someone an email, do your homework. Look for an opportunity to help them. Then, send a thoughtful email personalized to them.

If you’re not sure where to start, listen to episode 5 of the ATFW podcast with Maya Capasso. She shares her warm fuzzy approach to cold pitching and an actual pitch that landed her a deal.

Pitch outline

To sum up her approach, she formats her pitch as follows:

?Discuss the client’s current needs ?Give authentic compliments ?Address their pain points in detail ?Provide a tailored solution ?Show proof of your ability to deliver (with links) ?Position the benefits creatively ?End with a call to action (CTA)

In addition to pitching via email, you can join work platforms like Upwork and Problogger and apply for jobs. This route can be easier in that the whole framework is there for you. Clients are ready to hire and the platforms provide escrow, contracts, security, etc. The downside is there’s a lot of competition, it can be hard to break in, and there are various fees.

You can also look for opportunities on job boards (check ours out!), through job email lists, and in FB writer groups. Here’s a look at 28+ legit places to find writing jobs

Inbound marketing

Inbound refers to a marketing approach where you build a presence online to attract your ideal clients to you. This route requires planning messaging that raises awareness of your writing services and moves your ideal clients through the buyer’s journey.

Once the inbound engine is going, it’s honestly fabulous. If you’re doing it right — people will know you, trust you, and reach out excited to work with you. However, it does take strategy, experimentation, putting yourself out there, and consistency.

Where are good places for writers to build a presence in 2023?

• Your website and blog
• LinkedIn (Find profile and engagement tips)
• Freelance writer directories

I recommend a mix of outbound and inbound in the beginning, with the goal of 100% inbound.

8. Onboard new clients

Once you’ve landed your first client, it’s time to bring them on board. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Meet new clients on a 15-min Zoom call (highly recommend to build rapport)
• Collect all the information you need for the project (get the assignment brief )
• Agree on a price
• Discuss allowed revisions
• Set a due date
• Set review deadlines
• Share business hours/response timelines
• Agree on how the piece will be delivered (e.g. Google doc or word doc via email, written in publishing platform, etc.)
• Get all of the above in a contract
• Have both parties sign the contract
• Get at least 50% upfront (highly recommended)
• Get to work!

Once the deal is all set and you have what you need — schedule the project so that you have enough time to finish it by or before the deadline.

Tip: I recommend setting your personal deadline 1-2 days before the client’s deadline. Also, be sure to review the brief right away so you can ask any questions upfront. You don’t want to get to your writing day and find out you need something else.

Once you’ve written the piece, proofread it (Grammarly and HemingwayApp can help), run it through a plagiarism checker like Copyscape , and ensure all of your client’s requirements are met. Then, it’s time to deliver! Be sure to send the piece by or before your client’s deadline and ensure they are notified it’s been sent.

I also recommend that you communicate anything that may be helpful for the client. For example, if you added a section not included in the brief, add a note and explain why you made that decision. If you recommend a link or graphic, let them know.

Further, subtly remind the client that it’s the first draft, you are open to any and all feedback, and you are looking forward to their response. You don’t want them feeling like they’re walking on eggshells or can’t be open about the changes they need.

Speaking of — sometimes feedback can burn. If you take offense to any feedback, I highly recommend stepping away before you respond. Giving writing feedback is an art and many business owners aren’t well-versed in it.

You always want to remain professional and give them the benefit of the doubt. And, if any requests are out of scope, ensure you explain that you’re happy to make the changes but they will come with an additional charge. Revert back to the brief and contract for reference when needed. If it’s not on the brief, it’s extra! It’s all business, not personal.

Learn the 10 must-have freelance writing skills that have nothing to do with writing.

10. Collect testimonials

When you finish a project and your client is happy, that’s the perfect time to ask for a testimonial! You want to capture that positive emotion and satisfaction. If you’re on LinkedIn, I recommend requesting it through the platform’s recommendation function. It’s harder to fake those reviews which can make them more credible to future clients. You can then copy them from LinkedIn and publish them in other places like your website if you’d like.

If you don’t have a LinkedIn yet, you can ask for the testimonial via email or however you communicate with clients.

But how do you ask? You can say something like, “I’m so glad you are happy with the project! When you have a chance, would you mind writing a quick review to share your experience with my service? I’d greatly appreciate it.”

I’ve also heard some writers say they provide specific questions to guide clients. If you want to go that route, Hubspot offers some good testimonial question ideas.

11. Manage your workload

As you begin to get more clients, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. To ensure you don’t overbook, I recommend figuring out how many days and how many hours per day you are willing to work. Then, you can schedule projects and will be able to see how much space you have left.

Tip: Track your work time so you have an accurate idea of how long each assignment takes you.

It’s incredibly important to draw boundaries and keep them. It can be tempting to work all the weekends and late nights to earn more, more, more. But you will burn out eventually. To be at our creative best, I believe humans need rest and downtime. To achieve that, you’ll need to intentionally plan for it. You won’t have a boss forcing you to take breaks!

Diversifying risk

Another important thing to keep in mind? You need to diversify your risk. Running your own business means all your income rides on your clients. If you only have one or two clients, you’ll be walking on thin ice. Further, if you only have leads coming from one or two places, again — you’re at risk.

When I started, I was solely on Elance (which is now Upwork). I had a lot of work coming in and all was just peachy. Then, Elance announced it was acquired by Upwork. Clients left Elance, but Upwork wasn’t up and running yet. I was left high and dry, scrambling for new ways to find clients. My biz barely survived. To protect against a lost lead channel sinking your ship, I recommend you have work coming from at least 4-5 different channels. (I think the risk is higher today due to social platforms being more quick to suspend or cancel accounts.)

Similarly, a few years later, I landed a client who paid really well and had lots of work for me. I was excited and let them account for about 80% of my workload. Unfortunately, they soon began scope creeping, cutting rates, and paying late. All of these are horrible for the health, happiness, and bank account of a freelance writer, but I was pretty stuck.

From that experience, I learned not to let any client consume more than 20% of my time. Then, you’re okay if one bails, pays late, or needs to be cut.

12. Continuously optimize

Lastly, at the end of the month, review all your projects. Assess which were the most profitable, which were the most enjoyable, which were a pain, which weren’t worth it, etc. Use that information to fine-tune the definition of your ideal client and your service offerings.

If something took up too much time or caused a bottleneck, take note and consider new how you can prevent it. As you continue to move toward what’s most enjoyable and profitable, you’ll be on the path to your ideal business!

Frequently asked questions about starting a freelance writing business

Still have questions? Check out these FAQs about starting a freelance writing biz.

How do I start freelance writing with no experience?

Starting a freelance writing business with no experience is possible as long as you can write. A good first step is to research various writing types and niches to decide what you want to write. Then, create samples you can show potential clients. You can publish articles on Medium, LinkedIn, or your own blog. Or, for copywriting, you can create mockups in Canva , Figma, or another program.

Is it hard to get into freelance writing?

Becoming a freelance writer has its challenges but it has a lower barrier to entry than many other businesses. You will need a laptop, internet access, writing skills, and research skills. Further, as with any business, it’ll require branding , marketing, sales, accounting, and admin. You can learn a ton about the lay of the land by reading books on writing from reputable writers who have gone before you.

Can I use AI in my writing?

It depends on your client. Some may forbid the use of AI tools, some may encourage them, and some may not care. However, generally, clients hire human writers for human writing. If AI is used, most don’t want it detectable in the end product, and they may use AI writing detectors to test your work.

Do I need an LLC for freelance writing?

You don’t need an LLC but it can help to reduce your personal responsibility for business debts and liabilities.

How do freelance writers get paid?

Every freelancer is a business owner who can decide how they get paid. Freelancers can get paid upfront, post-project, or a mix. Additionally, they may get paid by the word, hourly, or on a fixed rate basis.

What exactly does a freelance writer do?

Freelance writers are hired on a contract basis to write materials for their clients. The written materials can take many forms from books and articles to case studies, social media posts, letters, speeches, and much more.

Disclaimer: I’d like to point out that there’s not really one official way to build a freelance writing business. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many writers and every single one of them has tread a unique path . However, there are some common threads; I covered them here.

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Jessica Walrack founded All Things Freelance Writing. She's also a finance blog writer of 10+ years. You can find her work featured on Investopedia, CBS News MoneyWatch,, US News and World, and many other financial education sites.

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7 linkedin profile tips for freelance writers, 28 legit ways to find freelance writing work in 2024, how and where to find outdoor writer jobs, 2 thoughts on “how to start freelance writing: complete guide with 12 steps”.

Thank you Jessica. This is of great help to all of us out there who feel their business hasn’t quite launched yet. Keep up the magnificent work.

Thanks so much, Flor! I’m so glad to hear you found it helpful and there’s lots more to come!

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How Much Do Writers Make? Here’s What 346 Freelance Writers Said (Survey Results)

How to check the google rankings and traffic of your writing (to land more clients).

How to Become A Freelance Writer – A Getting Started Guide

Learn how to write people’s stuff for money.

Becoming a freelance writer can be a game-changer for small business owners, online sellers, and those looking to start a side hustle. In this blog post, we will explore the steps necessary to establish your presence in the content creation market and leverage Content at Scale effectively.

First, you’ll learn to identify your niche and research your target market to understand their needs better. We will then delve into developing an effective content strategy that aligns with your goals and audience’s preferences.

Then, we’ll look at the most critical strategies for creating engaging content in everything you write, offering suggestions and a list of pro tips you can take into each job.

Last, we’ll look at incorporating Content at Scale into your workflow. We’ll look at how consistently producing high-quality content while managing multiple projects efficiently is essential.

Writing blog posts? We’ve got some tips on writing blog posts fast that you’ll want to check out.

Identify Your Niche

Finding your niche is the first step in becoming a successful freelance writer. By focusing on a specific area, you can establish yourself as an expert and attract clients looking for specialized content creators. To identify your niche, consider the following factors:

• Passion:  Choose topics that interest you to ensure your work remains engaging and enjoyable.
• Expertise:  Select areas where you have knowledge or experience to provide authoritative content.
• Demand:  Research which industries require freelance writers and what types of content they need (e.g., blog posts, social media updates).

You may want to start by exploring popular niches such as technology, health & wellness, personal finance, or travel. However, don’t be afraid to dive into more unique subjects if it aligns with your interests and expertise – there’s always room for quality content in any field.

To further refine your focus within a chosen niche, think about the target audience: small business owners looking to grow their businesses through e-commerce might appreciate informative articles on online selling strategies; those interested in starting side hustles could benefit from tips on making money online using platforms like Etsy or eBay.

In addition to identifying a primary topic area for your writing services, consider specializing in certain formats, such as long-form blog posts or short-form social media updates. This will help potential clients understand how you can assist them with their content marketing needs while setting yourself apart from other freelance writers offering similar services.

Having identified your niche, you can now research the market and understand what type of content will be most successful in that field. Analyzing the sector with a sharp eye and an extensive comprehension of the business, you can initiate developing a freelance writing venture that both meets customer expectations and financial objectives.

Ready to turn your passion into profit? Become an all-start freelance writer by identifying your niche and specializing in content formats. #freelancewriting #contentmarketing #smallbusiness

Research Your Market

To be successful in the freelance writing industry, it is imperative to comprehend your target audience and pinpoint potential customers. Start by researching industries that require freelance writers, such as e-commerce businesses, digital marketing agencies, or online publications. You can explore niche markets like health and wellness, technology, or finance.

• Identify Potential Clients:  Create a list of companies within your chosen niche that might need freelance writing services. Look for businesses with active blogs or social media accounts regularly publishing content.
• Analyze Competitors:  Examine other freelance copywriters in your industry to determine their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you find gaps in the market where you can offer unique value.
• Determine Client Needs:  Understand what content creation these potential clients seek–blog posts, social media updates, email campaigns. Tailor your offerings accordingly.

In addition to understanding client needs, research the latest trends in content marketing and best practices for creating engaging content that drives results. Keep up-to-date on industry news through resources like  Content Marketing Institute , which offers insights into effective strategies used by successful marketers worldwide.

Beyond identifying opportunities within specific industries or niches, consider how different platforms (e.g., websites vs. podcasts) may present additional avenues for expanding your reach as a writer while diversifying revenue streams from various sources, such as sponsored articles versus paid guest posts.

Lastly, don’t forget to research your niche’s going rates for freelance writing services. Websites like Freelance Writing can help you understand what other writers charge and set competitive prices for your work.

Researching your market is essential to ensure that you are targeting the right audience and providing content they will find valuable. Creating a detailed content plan can help you reach your goals as a freelance writer.

Develop a Content Strategy

Creating an effective content strategy is critical for the success of your freelance writing venture. It should be formulated with careful consideration given to achieving goals, targeting audiences, and crafting engaging material. A content strategy that is properly planned out can help you reach the objectives you have set, interact with your target market, and produce material that appeals to them. To develop an effective content strategy, consider the following steps:

• Define Your Goals : Identity what you want to achieve with your content-generating leads, increasing brand awareness, or establishing yourself as an expert in your niche.
• Analyze Your Target Audience : Research their demographics, interests, and pain points to understand who you’re trying to reach. This will enable you to tailor your content accordingly.
• Create a Content Calendar : Plan when and how often you’ll publish new content, such as blog posts or social media updates.
• Determine Topics & Formats : Decide which topics are most important for your target audience and select the best formats to communicate them effectively.

Incorporating tools like Content at Scale into this process can be highly beneficial for generating quality, accurate copy using AI technology. By utilizing these advanced resources with traditional methods like keyword research and competitor analysis, freelance writers can streamline their workflow while maintaining high-quality control standards throughout all creative process stages.

By developing a comprehensive content strategy, freelance writers can ensure they are producing valuable and engaging material that meets the needs of their clients. This helps establish trust with potential customers and sets the foundation for long-term success in the competitive world of content marketing.

Forbes offers additional tips on creating a successful small business content marketing strategy.

As a successful freelance writer, you must develop a content strategy. To maximize the productivity of your writing business, creating a content strategy that incorporates scaling up output is necessary.

Creating quality content is essential if you’re a small business owner looking to grow your online presence or an e-commerce seller trying to increase sales. However, producing enough content consistently can be challenging and time-consuming.

The Benefits of Using Content at Scale

• Save Time:  Instead of spending hours researching and writing the content or hiring full-time staff members, you can outsource it quickly and easily through Content at Scale.
• Get Quality Work:  The platform vets all its writers carefully so that you get top-notch work every time. You’ll have access to experienced professionals who can create engaging copy that resonates with your audience.
• Increase Productivity:  With the help of freelancers from Content at Scale handling your content creation needs, you’ll free up valuable time for other tasks, such as marketing campaigns or product development.
• Budget-Friendly:  Hiring freelance writers through this platform can be much cheaper than hiring full-time employees since there are no overhead costs like benefits packages or office space rental fees involved.

Outsourcing your content creation needs using platforms like Content at Scale allows you to focus on growing your business while consistently delivering high-quality work without breaking the bank!

Create Quality Content

Producing content that resonates with your target audience and addresses their needs is essential for success in freelance writing. This involves understanding their pain points and interests and crafting engaging, informative articles that keep them coming back for more.

Write Engaging Headlines

Your headline is the first thing potential readers see when they see your content. Craft compelling headlines that pique curiosity and promise value to grab their attention.

Use Relevant Keywords Strategically

Incorporate relevant SEO keywords like “freelance writers,” “content creation,” and “social media” naturally throughout your blog posts to improve search engine rankings without compromising readability. Tools like  Ahrefs’ Keyword Explorer  can help you identify the right keywords for your niche.

Provide Valuable Information with a Unique Voice

Your writing should offer valuable insights while showcasing your unique writing voice. This will set you apart from other freelance copywriters in the market. Be sure to include well-researched data or personal anecdotes where appropriate to support claims made within each piece of content.

Demonstrate Expertise Through In-Depth Research

• Use reputable sources:  Cite credible sources such as industry reports, research studies, or expert opinions when referencing facts or statistics.
• Create comprehensive guides:  Offer detailed how-to guides on topics related to your niche, providing actionable steps for readers to follow.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends:  Regularly read relevant blogs and news articles to stay informed about the latest developments in your field.

Edit and Proofread Thoroughly

Prioritize editing and proofreading before submitting any piece of content. This ensures that your work is free from grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies, which can detract from its overall quality. Utilize tools like Grammarly or enlist a trusted peer to review your work before publishing it online.

Creating quality content is the foundation for any successful freelance writer. Advertising your material adeptly is vital to achieving a wider viewership and enhancing visibility to ensure prosperity.

Key Takeaway: to succeed as a freelance writer, consistently produce high-quality content that meets the needs of your target audience. Write engaging headlines, use relevant keywords strategically, and provide valuable information with a unique voice. Demonstrate expertise through in-depth research and edit and proofread thoroughly before submitting any content to ensure its overall quality.

Promote Your Content

Promoting your content effectively is essential to growing your reach as a freelance writer. By leveraging various marketing strategies and channels, you can reach more potential clients and showcase the value of your quality content. Here are some ways to get started:

Utilize Social Media Platforms

Social media platforms  like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram offer excellent opportunities for promoting your blog posts and other written content. Share snippets or quotes from your work with eye-catching visuals to engage users and encourage them to click through to read more.

Engage in Online Communities

Join relevant online communities such as forums or discussion groups where small business owners or e-commerce sellers congregate. Participate actively by answering questions related to  freelance writers , offering valuable insights about  content creation , and sharing links to your latest blog post when appropriate.

Build an Email List

An email list is a powerful tool for contacting potential clients interested in hiring freelance copywriters. Create a newsletter that showcases recent projects and helpful tips on topics like content marketing. Encourage subscribers to share your content with their networks, further expanding your reach.

Guest Post on Relevant Websites

Reach out to websites in your niche and offer to write guest blog posts that provide valuable information for their audience. This helps you showcase your expertise as a freelance writer and drives traffic back to your website or portfolio through the author bio section.

Optimize Your Content for Search Engines

To increase organic visibility, ensure that all of your content is optimized for search engines by using relevant keywords such as  freelance writers ,  freelance writing business ,  hire freelance writers ,  freelance writing services ,  content creation ,  quality content ,  content marketing ,  content writers ,  create content ,  blog posts ,  blog post , and  social media  throughout the text and meta tags of each page on your website.

Promoting quality content effectively will help attract more clients and grow your income as a freelance writer. Remember, consistency is vital–continue refining and adapting these strategies over time for optimal results.

Key Takeaway: promoting your content effectively is essential to growing as a freelance writer . Utilize social media platforms, engage in online communities, build an email list, guest post on relevant websites, and optimize your content for search engines by using relevant keywords throughout each page’s text and meta tags. Consistency is key – continue refining and adapting these strategies over time for optimal results.

Freelance Writer FAQs

How do i grow as a freelance writer.

To grow as a freelance writer, focus on improving efficiency and increasing output. Develop a content strategy, streamline your workflow using tools like Content at Scale, outsource tasks when necessary, and continuously hone your skills to produce quality work faster.

How Do I Start Writing Articles as a Freelancer?

Begin by identifying your niche and researching the market. Create samples of your work to showcase in an online portfolio. Network with other professionals through social media platforms like LinkedIn or join freelancing websites like Upwork. Pitch ideas to potential clients or respond to job postings.

How Do I Market Myself as a Freelance Content Writer?

Create an online presence with a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services offered, testimonials from satisfied clients, and contact information. Use social media platforms for networking and promoting yourself within relevant communities. Attend industry events or webinars for networking opportunities.

How Much Do Beginner Freelance Writers Make Per Article?

The rates for beginner freelance writers vary depending on factors such as experience level, niche expertise, and word count required by the client’s project scope. On average, beginners can expect between $25-$100 per article or more; however, this amount may increase over time based on skill improvement.

Following these steps, you can craft a comprehensive plan to foster your business and entice customers.

Remember that creating high-quality content is vital to building trust with potential clients. Producing helpful material regularly will help to set you apart as an authority in your area and enhance the chances of bringing in new customers.

Further Reading

• What Is UPS Hundredweight? A Comprehensive Guide
• What is LLC Foreign Qualification?
• How to Create a Wholesale Price List for Your Products
• How to Create a Vision Statement for Your Business
• Do I Need an EIN? A Clear Guide to Understanding Employer Identification Numbers

Special Thanks – Some featured and stock photos courtesy of the generous folks at Depositphotos .

Johnathan is a Seattle-based software developer and serial entrepreneur. With a passion for casting lines, coding algorithms, and conquering virtual realms, Johnathan embodies the perfect blend of tech-savvy and outdoor enthusiast. Since 2019, they've been crafting success stories with three thriving small businesses while sharing their journey through blogging since 2014. Whether reeling in the catch of the day or crafting cutting-edge software solutions, he is always up for an adventure, online or offline. Explore their entrepreneurial insights and outdoor escapades right here!

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• How To Become A Freelancer

Do You Need a Degree to Be a Freelance Writer?

• By  Joel Witherington
• Sep 18, 2023
• Freelance Tips
• Skills and Experience

Share this article:

A common question many aspiring writers ask themselves is “do you need a degree to be a freelance writer?” The short answer is no, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do, and skills you can hone, to improve your chances of success in this exciting freelance career.

This post will:

• Explain what freelance writing is
• Show how much you could earn as a freelance writer
• Illustrate how a degree can be helpful, but not at all necessary
• Describe some skills and methods for starting out
• Provide you with an exciting way to get started

What is Freelance Writing?

You may wonder what a freelance writer does . Fortunately, the task of a freelance writer is quite self-explanatory. In short, you write content on a freelance (self-employed) basis.

That means that instead of working for one employer or company, you have various clients. Common examples of things you might write include:

• Blog posts and articles
• Marketing material (e.g., social media content and website copy)
• Product descriptions
• Business reports
• White papers

Because you are a freelancer, you can write anywhere that suits you: at home, in a coworking space , at a cafe, while traveling, etc.

How Much Do Freelance Writers Earn?

As a freelancer, the amount of money you earn can vary significantly. It will depend on what type of work you are doing, how many clients you have, and how much you charge.

Freelance writers can charge per word, per project, or per hour, and how you decide to charge may be based on your experience or the type of clients you have.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , writers can earn around $73,000 USD per year or $35 USD per hour on average.

Can You Be a Freelance Writer without a Degree?

The good news is that you don’t need a degree to be a freelance writer. But that doesn’t mean a degree can’t be helpful.

Studying English, journalism, communications, or creative writing can all be helpful when starting a career as a freelance writer. In fact, almost any humanities studies can help your writing skills because they will help with your mastery of language in general.

However, what is more important than a degree is gaining experience and having the right skills . To be successful, you will need:

• A passion for writing
• A desire to learn about different topics
• Knowledge of relevant writing tools and software (e.g., Google Docs and Microsoft Word
• Strong communication skills
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Resilience and courage (finding your own clients and running a business is no mean feat!)

And if you plan to write in a specific niche , you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary knowledge about your chosen subject and are familiar with the expectations in that field.

How to Become a Freelance Writer with No Experience

Earning a living wage as a freelance writer can be difficult if you don’t have experience. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be difficult to get the experience you need. There are a few things you can do to help you get started.

Write for Friends, Family, and Other Associates

Start by writing for people you know – that way it won’t be so intimidating! Choose people who can provide you with good feedback so you can improve the quality of your writing while also gaining experience.

If you are currently employed, you could start by asking your boss or coworkers if they have any writing you can help them with.

You can also reach out to friends and family to see if they need some writing done. If you don’t find opportunities there, you could try contacting charities or other local organizations and see if they need any work done.

Create Samples to Show Prospective Clients

When getting started, it is extremely important to put together a portfolio of your written work. This can include any and all types of writing you have done, but it is wise to include some samples that are of a similar format to the type of writing job you want.

Start a Blog

A great way to show off your writing is to start a blog. Starting a blog isn’t difficult, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

People create blogs on a variety of topics. You could write about your family life, personal interests, travel, skill training, or anything else you are passionate about. When finished, you can link your blog to your social media accounts or LinkedIn, which will help you get more exposure.

If you don’t feel like starting your own, you can try guest writing on someone else’s blog.

Work with a Writing Agency

If you find you’re having real difficulty getting started as a freelancer, you can use a writing agency . In doing so, you will have help getting your first assignments and be able to build your portfolio without the initial stress of finding your own clients.

Network with Other Writers

If you can build a network of like-minded writers, you can help each other find clients. Perhaps someone you know has been offered a job they don’t have the time to do; they could pass that client on to you.

Another great opportunity if you are just starting out is to find a freelance mentor . A mentor can give you advice on how to overcome any obstacles you are facing. They could also help you connect to other writers or prospective clients.

The wider you cast your net, the more likely you are to catch a great writing opportunity.

Once you have some experience, you can prove to potential clients you have what it takes to complete their assignments. Then, you can work on improving your speed and attracting even more clients.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

Are you interested in a freelance writing career? Remember, you don’t need a degree to get started.

Consider signing up for our Becoming A Freelance Writer course . It’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting started.

As explained above, having a portfolio is an important way to get started, and with our work guarantee, you could gain three professionally edited pieces of work after completion of the course.

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Last updated on May 02, 2022

How to Become a Writer: 7 Practical Steps

If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for writing into a full-time career, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll go through a series of actionable steps that you can take to start writing professionally. 

Here are 7 steps to help you become a writer:

1. Create a solid writing routine 

Here are a few tips for establishing a writing habit:

Make writing a priority. If you want to be a professional writer, set non-negotiable time in your calendar for writing and arrange your other commitments around it. 

Define your writing goals. Whether it’s a daily number of words or completing a task in a set number of days, goals help break larger projects into manageable chunks — so you’ll be less overwhelmed and more likely to knuckle down and write.

Identify your ideal writing times . Do you tend to get the most done right after waking up in the morning, or during the quiet hours of the evening? Figure out your windows of productivity and capitalize on them.  

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However, no matter how watertight your writing routines are, every author can benefit from a helping hand to perform at their best and become an even better writer. Thankfully, there are some apps for that.

2. Use writing tools to improve your output 

Different tools can impact your output in different ways: for example, online whiteboards like Miro can help you visually sketch out your book’s outline and character bios, and help you define the mood of your world-building. Tools like Grammarly can identify and fix typos and grammatical errors, whereas browser blockers like Cold Turkey can help to minimize distractions and stay productive. 

When it comes to using professional writing software, you could use tools like Reedsy Studio to enjoy smooth collaborative editing, keep track of your word count goals, and format your book for distribution. 

Which writing app is right for you?

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Finally, workspace tools like ergonomic chairs and standing desks can also largely influence the quality and proficiency of your writing (we also hear that houseplants can boost creativity, but don’t quote us on that).

But, before you get too comfortable in your writing nook surrounded by all your lovely tools, you may want to consider going back to class…

3. Take classes to pick up credentials

• Journalist — write for newspapers and magazines. Requires top-notch research skills, the ability to be objective, and to meet strict deadlines.
• Columnist — write for newspapers and magazines. Unlike journalists, columnists offer their subjective opinion and insight on current events.
• Travel writer —  chronicle your adventures across the globe to give advice and inspiration to other travelers.
• Copywriter — write marketing copy for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Technical writer — turn complex jargon into concise information that users of a product or clients of a company can clearly understand.
• Web content writer — write online blog posts and articles for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Ghostwriter — write content on behalf of other people or organizations. Learn more about becoming a ghostwriter here!
• Grant writer — write documents to help organizations seeking grants.

The options are plentiful. But if you think you’ll need academic credentials, let's take a look at your choices in closer detail. 

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You needn't look too hard to find authors who emerged from MFA programs to establish glittering literary careers. For example, both Flannery O’Connor and Rachel Kushner are MFA babies.

Then again, you can find just as many authors who didn’t study anything related to writing and worked in completely unrelated industries before becoming bestsellers  — like Charles Bukowski (a postman), Haruki Murakami (a jazz club manager), and even Harper Lee (an airline ticket clerk). After all, life experience is a key ingredient of any good fiction.

Becoming a novelist doesn’t require any specific credentials beyond the ability to write (and market) a great story. Pursuing an MFA can certainly help you develop your craft , network with established and aspiring writers, or lead you to some creative writing gigs, but it’s not a shortcut to success. In addition, the majority of MFA programs focus on literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. So if you want to become a genre fiction writer rather than express yourself in verse , an MFA is likely not a necessary stepping stone for you.

Bachelor’s Degree (BA)

While higher education is not a required credential for becoming a novelist, academic qualifications can be more important for nonfiction writers. In many cases, success as a nonfiction author relies upon your subject authority and often necessitates the relevant credentials as proof. That might include a degree or other relevant experience in the field. Imagine yourself picking up a nonfiction book and turning it over to read the author's bio: what kind of credentials would assure you this is someone who knows what they’re talking about?

In terms of journalism, most news outlets will require applicants to have completed a Bachelor’s degree before adding them to the payroll. While majoring in journalism is certainly a sound option, many news outlets require a literature degree or similar, as you’ll have many of the same skills but no biases in your journalistic practices. It's also typical to double-major or major-minor in a combination of journalism and the field you’re interested in writing about.

Doctorate (Ph.D.) 

A Ph.D. in literature or creative writing is often preferred by people who want to teach literature or writing at college or university levels. Overall, a doctorate may also be appropriate if your writing draws extensively from academic research or scientific findings — as it will give you more subject-matter authority. 

Associate Degree

An associate degree typically lasts two years and can be more industry-focused than a BA. If you’re hoping to become a copywriter or web content writer, pursuing an associate degree in media, marketing, or writing might be a good way to lay the foundation for your career.

Certificate

Certificates are short-term programs that provide foundational education and skills-based training. They typically last a few weeks to a few months, and, as with the associate degree, it’s a good option if you want to get paid for your texts .

4. Seek opportunities to publish your work

If you’re an aspiring fiction writer, follow the likes of Ursula K. Le Guin and Ernest Hemingway, and get your foot in the door by submitting your short stories to magazines and contests. Here are a few places where you can do just that:

• Literary magazines accepting submissions: here
• Vetted writing contests and their deadlines: here
• Reedsy’s own weekly short story contest: here
• Publications accepting short story submissions: here

To ensure your t’s and i's are all properly crossed and dotted, here is a submissions checklist that’s sure to keep you straight!

Make the process of writing your first novel easier by using a story template like the one below.

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Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

Nonfiction writers have ample opportunity to get their byline out in the world too. If there’s a particular niche you’re interested in, start by putting together a list of relevant publications. Most websites will have a submission section with guidelines for submitting a piece. 

Follow specific editors on Twitter to keep up with when magazines are accepting pitches. They will usually tweet when their inbox is open (and what they’re looking for in a pitch) — plus many of them are open to questions. If you don't know where to find them, look for names via magazine websites, the publication’s LinkedIn page, or simply use the Twitter search function. Editors of magazines usually tell you who they are in their Twitter bio!

Put your pitches and deadlines in a calendar

Next, get your ‘pitching calendar’ organized by listing the outlets you want to write for, your premise for each pitch, and any deadlines to keep in mind. You might also want to make note of any feedback you receive. For instance, an outlet might let you know that your piece wasn’t right for them “at this time,” or they might clarify what they’re looking for in more specific terms. 

Here are a few resources that connect writers with publications looking for submissions:

• Authors Publish Newsletter
• NewPages Classifications
• Funds for Writers Newsletter

Consider self-publishing

If you have a book idea you can’t stop thinking about (or are searching for inspiration ) and your goal is to see it materialized, then you might want to consider self-publishing. Getting your book out into the world is easier than it’s ever been, and we’ve detailed the whole process in another guide. Plus, you can do it in your own time. 

Though some traditionally published household names nab hundreds of thousands in advances, those are the outliers. Many more self-published authors make a living from their writing than their traditionally published counterparts: this report found that the number of indie authors earning five to six figures per year from book sales was much higher than the number of Big 5 authors earning the same. 

If you’re still on the fence about which publishing route to take, why not take this one-minute quiz to find out for sure which option is the most viable for you?

Is self-publishing or traditional publishing right for you?

Takes one minute!

Once you start to get a few publications under your belt, it’s time to put them together in a nicely bundled portfolio that shows the world (and potential clients) what you’re capable of. 

5. Create a strong portfolio 

Create a website

To create your own website, you must first register a domain name on services like GoDaddy or Namecheap (e.g. authorname.com), or sign up for a free site with services like WordPress, Wix, or SquareSpace (e.g. authorname.wordpress.com) 一 although the first option is more professional. If you're not too confident in your tech skills, consider hiring a professional web designer who can help you build a website that stands out.

Use a portfolio site

If you don’t want to spend too much time designing a website, you can always turn to a trusted portfolio site. All you need to do is create an account with them and input your personal information. Here are a few popular options:

• MuckRack: a popular platform for journalists and PR professionals.
• Contently: a useful site for content writers.
• Clippings.me: provides a clean-cut design for every kind of writer.

Perfect your website

Your author website should reflect your personality, list your credentials, and most importantly — show your work. 

There are different ways to present your portfolio: you could divide your writing into different niches like Jennifer Fernandez , or you could go for a concise bio that packs a punch in terms of insight into your professional background as in Alice Driver ’s portfolio. For author websites, it’s key to give visitors a clear route to buying any books you’ve published (check Austin Kleon ’s example). 

Once your website is live, it might take a while for word of mouth to spread and for job opportunities to come your way. So, while you get the ball rolling, consider reaching out to organizations that could help you support your dream (read: paying the bills!).

6. Apply for writing grants 

Here’s a reliable list of grants for you to peruse — some will have no stipulations regarding what the money is spent on, and others will be for specific reasons, like traveling to a writers’ retreat or conference. There are also many grants specifically intended to help marginalized communities get a leg up in the industry. Make sure you check out our video guide for some helpful advice on making a successful application.

Whether or not your career will benefit from scoring a grant, you’ll soon learn that if you want to reach new literary heights and establish yourself as a writer, you’ll need the help of other professionals in the space.

7. Collaborate with professional editors

An editor’s bread and butter is to revise your work so that it’s ready for the big stage, from spotting plot holes, improving text quality, and examining your manuscript for inconsistencies before its release. More than that, working with an editor will teach you about the ins and outs of the publishing industry — including the all-important standards and best practices of the literary world. 

Finding a good editor is always a type of collaboration worth investing in if you want to speed up your development and make a leap forward in your journey to become a professional writer.

Hopefully, this post has shown you how to get things going so that you can make writing a financially viable career. To wrap things up, there’s nothing quite as inspiring for budding writers as words of wisdom from those who have achieved writerly acclaim. So tuck into these brilliant books about writing, and then pick up your pen and get going. We look forward to seeing your name in print!

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Freelance Writing Qualifications: Do You Really Need Them?

posted on 15 February 2023

Training courses might look great on paper, but are they necessary to become a successful freelance writer?

Spending money and effort on training courses can delay you from actually doing the thing you get paid for–writing. And when they’re not essential, it’s a waste of your time and can get in the way of earning. 

Having said that, you’re running a business. That involves having different freelance writing skills under your belt. It’s essential to understand the whole she-bang of freelance writing, whether that’s needing to upskill some of your existing skills or not. 

Whether you’re thinking about handing in your resignation letter to start a career as a freelance writer, or have been freelancing for a while and wondering why you’re not getting new clients, this article will provide the answer. 

We will share some of the most important requirements you need for a thriving freelance writing business. Discover whether qualifications are a must-have for freelance writers and decide for yourself. 

Do you need any qualifications to start freelance writing?

If you’re brand new to writing, you’ll want to learn as much as you can as quickly as possible. New freelancers aren’t gonna be able to charge as much as someone with more experience.

What’s more, the competition for a great freelance writer will increase. The number of freelancers in the US is predicted to reach almost 80 million by 2025 . 

You need the right skills to stand out from the competition and navigate the highs and lows of freelancing. You’ll experience working with some great clients, but you will also come across red-flag clients too. 

So do you need freelance writing qualifications to have a slice of the market and land freelance writing jobs? The answer depends on who you’re talking to.

Shweta Choudhary , a freelance content writer, says “There is no perfect answer to this. It depends on your interest area. But most niches have low barrier entry.”

One of the reasons why you would need freelance qualifications is the requirement for specialized knowledge. 

Let’s take freelance medical writing, for instance. Some freelancers start off health writing with a scientific background or some other background and academic qualifications. According to Zippia , 56.8% of freelance medical writers have a bachelor’s degree. As you would expect, established and qualified medical professionals turned freelance writers make more money. 

A health-related profession is useful and adds some authority–showing potential clients you have the proper background knowledge.

Having qualifications in your niche is a huge bonus, but not required. That first-hand experience working as a nurse, accountant, or engineer, combined with an encyclopedic knowledge in your field, means you can command premium rates. Clients will rely on you as the subject matter expert, as well as the writer. Providing these two roles means the client doesn’t have to rely on their in-house experts to fact check your work; which can slow down things on their end. Melissa , Freelance CPA Writer

Plus, increasing brand awareness is a task freelance writers undertake. Google’s EAT algorithm (expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness) proves to Google that you’re an expert on the topic, and therefore rank higher in search engines than someone who doesn’t.

The algorithm takes into consideration how knowledgeable the site owner is on the subject matter, how credible the content is and how trustworthy the website hosting the material is. Being a subject matter expert (SME) or having a recognized qualification will support the algorithm. And when your clients have a better chance of ranking in search engines, the happier they’ll be. 

That said, you don’t need to have formal qualifications to have a successful freelance writing career. There are many other important credentials that you need.

Freelance writer Astley Cervania explains, “I was able to land clients without any freelance writing experience or formal qualifications. What’s more important than a qualification is if you can actually help your clients get results.”

And that’s a similar view from Kiran Shahid , B2B SaaS content writer, who says: “I don’t necessarily think you need hard qualifications like a Master’s degree or specific certifications to start freelance writing.

“However, courses on copywriting, strategy, SEO, and other related topics can help you gain important skills and knowledge that can help you succeed as a freelance writer. Industry experience and good business sense can also help you develop a strong understanding of what clients are looking for and how to position your writing services to appeal to them.”

With the general consensus being that freelance writing qualifications aren’t essential, let’s take a look at some of the most important soft skills you need to run a successful freelance business.

Resilience 

Successful freelance writers need strong skills in boundary setting . Given the fact that freelancers have a higher risk of burnout than those who are in paid employment, having skills in setting your own limits is critical. Long hours, the inability to say no to work, especially during those first few months, and not switching off are just some of the common risks freelancers face. 

Freelance writers with good resilience skills seize problems and obstacles by learning from them. They turn difficulties into lessons that improve their business. Resilience skills are needed for growth–adapting to challenges that may come up in any situation, now and in the future.

It takes courage to go it alone. You have to make some serious decisions that will affect your success and need faith in yourself. 

It can be challenging to have a voice and speak up for yourself, especially if you’re more of an introvert. Sometimes, freelance writers need to be assertive, and if you’re not comfortable with standing your ground with something you firmly believe in, then that can be a problem. 

Courage allows freelancers to be firm with their availability for client meetings or chase up unpaid invoices with tenacity and confidence. 

High-energy

Freelance schedules are physically and mentally draining at times.

Having high energy is essential to maintaining health , and productivity, and creating high-value pieces for your clients. Having said that, we all have times when we are unmotivated and unproductive. Freelance writers need to maintain levels of energy and enthusiasm in order to achieve deadlines. 

Freelance life can be lonely.

If you’re used to working in a busy office or having a manager direct your workload, then it can be difficult to stay motivated as a freelance writer. Structuring your day, for example, can help prioritize tasks and prevent work from stacking up–which can be demotivating. 

Freelance writers need skills in managing their energy to complete tasks when they lack motivation. Otherwise, they end up stressed, burnt out , and missing client deadlines.

Curiosity can often get overlooked, but when it comes to developing writing skills, exploring, and reflecting are vital to finding the best solution to problems.

Curious freelance writers enquire about a client’s target audience or budget. They need skills in asking open questions and getting the answers they need to create compelling content.

A lack of curiosity can result in not fully understanding a client brief. Curious freelance writers don’t assume anything. They ask. If they didn’t ask questions to confirm information such as a target audience or deadline, they risk creating content that doesn’t fit with their client’s expectations. Not asking the right questions leads to mistakes and your client not giving you more work. The knock-on effect is a blow to your confidence and zero work.

Great freelance writers use their curiosity to think outside the box and upskill. They actively seek out new learning opportunities such as:

• Listening to freelance writing podcasts . Curiosity leads to a strong desire to hear how other freelance writers overcome barriers. Qualifications certainly won’t offer the answers you need about how to onboard new clients , send an overdue invoice email, or set up your own processes. 
• Developing writing skills. Freelance writers get the most out of their relationships by asking questions– building relationships with editors , developing writing skills, and ultimately, getting more work.
• Running a freelance business. Curious freelancers keep an open mind. They get the results they want to grow their businesses. The Creative Class course helps freelance writers change their mindset from freelancers to business owners with actionable tips, tools, and templates. 

Staying curious is the key to sustaining a successful freelance career. Find creative solutions to problems through exploration, evaluation, and learning.

Having a passion for what you do in your personal and professional life is key to success.

Given the fact that freelancers work an average of between 20 to 30 hours per week , you want to be happy with what you’re doing, right? 

If you’re not excited about the topic you’re writing about or working with a new client, you’re not going to be happy in the career you’ve chosen and it’ll show in your writing.

Plus, if you’ve ever experienced the ‘Sunday Scaries’, you’ll know how stressful it can be to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the working week ahead. A passion for writing can be the difference between enjoying what you do and getting that job done well. 

Feeling positive isn’t just about being cheerful all the time or overly enthusiastic about the future. It’s about not having unrealistic expectations.

Taking a vacation, for example, can cause freelance writers a real headache. With no paid time off, nine in ten US freelancers say they must work during their “vacations.” Having the confidence that it’s OK not to continually check emails allows freelancers to rest and recharge, without overly worrying about work. 

Plus, 30% of freelance writers make just under $10 per hour during their first year.

However, there are some qualifications that will stand you in good stead for commanding higher rates. According to Forbes , a freelancer can command higher rates for specialized roles, with software developers earning up to $1,000 USD/hr.

Feeling positive about the future and the fact your rates can improve will stand you in good stead.

⚡️ Check out our freelance rates data to get more insights into what writers charge. 

As you can see, there are essential soft skills that freelance writers must have to excel. However, there are some qualifications or learning you can do that will help you become a top-notch writer and stand out.

Freelance writing qualifications that matter most

Clearly, the most important skill you need is writing. Why? Because freelance writing isn’t just about putting pen to paper. There are a heap of other skills you need to become successful.

Not only that, as you progress, you’ll want to be continually evaluating and planning your progress, ironing out any problems that might arise. It’s why two-thirds of full-time freelance workers update their skills regularly–making sure they stay competitive as the markets expand.

There are, however, a few other qualifications and skills that’ll set you up for success.

The nine qualifications below will help you navigate the world of content writing by increasing your confidence, and scaling up your business whilst showcasing your expertise to potential clients.

• Business management
• Time management
• Organizational skills
• Marketing skills
• Communication skills
• Research ability
• Writing skills

1. Accounting

Planning, budgeting, and forecasting are all part of running a successful freelance writing business. Having some understanding of these things will help you make better decisions.

This means:

• Optimizing your resources so it gives you the desired outcome. Choosing to invest in a productivity tool can help you streamline processes in the long run.
• Keeping accurate records. All business transactions need to be recorded somewhere. Track income and expenditure using freelance accounting software so you know how much you’ve earned and how much you have spent. 
• Filing your taxes. Have accurate and up-to-date records for year-end accounts. Don’t face hefty penalties for late submissions, let alone having sleepless nights!
• Better business planning. The right account information helps you forward plan. Have information at your fingertips and understand how best to grow your business with the resources available.

Accounting knowledge will help keep track of your money by tracking income and expenditure–giving a clear view of your business.

2. Business management

Understanding pricing, finding clients , getting paid, managing revisions, developing processes, and improving your workload (should we carry on?) are all business management tasks that run in the background. 

Not getting paid on time can have serious consequences.

You’ve chosen a career in freelance writing to earn a living and you need to be paid for the work you have done. That said, a recent report highlighted that 72% of freelancers have unpaid invoices. And a staggering 59% are owed $50,000 or more for already completed work.

Failing to set accurate timescales and the right rate will result in you losing serious amounts of money. Business management skills give you the ability to estimate project timescales with reasonable accuracy.

Good business management skills will allow you to create watertight contracts that protect you and your work. 

3. Time management

As much as freelancing gives you the freedom to choose your working hours and pattern, it does come with some consequences.

Aside from the fact that only 18% of people have a proper time management system, bad time management skills can have a damaging impact on your business. You run the risk of damaging customer relationships by missing a deadline–damaging your reputation. 

Secondly, poor time management skills are unproductive . It can lead to sleep problems , and lower levels of energy and motivation, putting more pressure on you to counteract the problem and come up with better solutions.

Let’s say you have an ever-ending to-do list that continues to grow. Without focus and the right tools in place that list is likely to become even longer–ending up with feeling more stressed and overwhelmed. Freelance writers with good time management skills make a list and audit how long a particular task takes.

Get organized by reducing the amount of time it takes for those freelance administrative functions. Focus on the work you’re paid to do with a software solution from Harlow .

4. Organizational skills

Do you have bits of paper scattered around? Or lots of unread bookmarked web pages? Perhaps five different notepads on your desk? 

Disorganisation hampers the ability to achieve goals, personally and professionally. It costs time and money, and can even negatively affect your mental health . What’s more, poor organizational skills make you less efficient–a skill that doesn’t bode well with clients.

Freelance writers need to have good organizational skills. They need to stay focused and attentive to manage their own time, client deadlines, and all the stuff in between! 

5. Marketing skills

Marketing and advertising knowledge make it easier to run a business because freelance writers need to engage and communicate with clients, whilst promoting their brand. 

That said, some 27% of small businesses still don’t have a website. It’s pretty impossible to run a successful freelance writing business without any content marketing knowledge and advertising your services.

Marketing skills can raise your profile. Clients will know what you offer and you won’t end up wasting money and effort with advertising on the wrong platform (or not advertising at all.) 

Freelance writers need some marketing knowledge to be able to use their resources efficiently.  For example, understanding where your target audience hangs out will prioritize efforts. Positioning your brand on LinkedIn when your audience is on Instagram isn’t going to increase brand awareness or land new clients.

Freelance writers with great marketing skills can:

• Explain their brand and demonstrate you are a business
• Promote their business in the right places to land new clients
• Analyze metrics to see what marketing campaigns do well
• Use critical thinking skills to create more writing opportunities

Great writers aren’t shy about promoting their freelance businesses. Marketing skills offer the knowledge and confidence to focus on the end result–understanding your client base and delivering an amazing service.

6. Networking skills

According to the Freelancer Loneliness Survey , 55% of freelancers said that they’ve experienced depression as a result of their job. 

Building and maintaining a strong network is a surefire way to stay connected with other freelancers and make new relationships with potential clients. Being passionate about helping other people will stand you in good stead.

Successful freelancers build their networks by:

• Maintaining relationships with people they already know
• Attending networking events or meet-ups with other freelancers
• Building a social media presence by giving more value than they take
• Sending a DM to other freelancers commenting about what they like about a particular post
• Having courage and a sense of humor. Great freelancers put themselves out there, even if it feels uncomfortable, and are able to laugh (often at their own expense!)

Networking with potential clients is a key skill.

Commenting on their social media posts or sending them a quick introductory email can build relationships. When they share a post about a freelancing opportunity, your name will be recognizable when you hit send that reply.

7. Communication skills

Some 70% of freelancers say that communication skills are key. What’s more, an astonishing 86% of clients stop doing business with their customers when communication affects relationships.

Good communication skills will help prevent any misunderstandings.

Reduce the risk of failing to understand a proposal or outline by reading more information or talking to your client. When a  client asks you to include information you don’t understand, good communication skills will enable you to ask for more clarity. Perhaps, there are abbreviations you don’t understand or even some technical terms. 

Plus, you don’t want to submit a finished piece and get told it’s completely off the mark as to what the client was expecting. 

A client may be expecting additional services or work within a particular time frame. And when that doesn’t happen (for whatever reason), open and transparent communication is a must-have to be able to agree on a way forward.

Good communication is essential for feeling confident in a project you’ve taken on as well as making a good impression.

The most important skill for a freelancer is to differentiate yourself from others in the field or your niche. Because there are no “hard qualifications” for becoming a writer (anyone can hang out their shingle and say they’re a content writer), you’ll need a unique selling proposition. You might be the best writer in the universe. But if you can’t communicate what makes you different from the other thousands of writers, it’ll be tough. Melissa , freelance CPA writer

8. Research skills

Strong research skills can differentiate you from other freelance writers. Those without research skills can produce content that is outdated, inaccurate, and misleading.

Creating a round-up article about the best productivity software, for example, needs to detail the latest tech developments. It’s pretty pointless writing about software solutions that are years old when advanced solutions are readily available.

You also need to research topics of interest and find the right sources of information that can help you craft high-quality content. Kiran Shahid , B2B SaaS content writer

Being able to find statistics, case studies, or other data sources will make your writing stand out–and not be another regurgitated article already on the internet.

Fact-checking information, such as dates, the spelling of a brand’s name, or links to a source is a skill that you can master.  

9. Writing skills

Not everyone has the creative writing skills to make a living out of freelance writing.

While you don’t need to be a master of everything to succeed as a freelance writer, the most important skill you must have is great writing ability. 

You can learn the other skills we mentioned earlier to become successful, but you must be competent in all aspects of the type of content you’re creating, including punctuation, grammar, and be able to follow a brand’s style guide.

All things considered, not everyone has the writing skills or grammatical knowledge to thrive as a freelance writer. If your clients have to spend extensive time editing your work because you haven’t followed their style guide or your sentence structure doesn’t make sense, they’ll end up frustrated and won’t give you any more work.

Our best-in-class crash course in writing is the perfect solution to learning how to create well-written, engaging, and impressive content.

Freelance writer responsibilities 

What do freelance writers have to do day to day to run a business? That’s a great question and one that needs more detailed information that we can share in this one article!

Our step-by-step guide to becoming a freelance writer will help you build a website, find your first client, and make sure you get paid for your work.

Having said that, we’ve condensed a few of the main responsibilities next. Freelance work involves:

• Networking with other freelancers and potential clients
• Scheduling calls with clients to discuss a proposal or contract
• Sourcing and interview subject matter experts for quotes 
• Researching and analyze data and statistics
• Understanding search engine optimization (SEO) and digital marketing concepts
• Making edits and revisions to their content following feedback from clients
• Sending invoices (and chasing payments)
• Maintaining accurate accounts for tax purposes
• Evaluating their own processes to become a better writer , through blogging or creating articles with or without their byline

Freelance writer requirements

The soft skills and qualifications we’ve listed here are just some of the things you need to succeed as a freelance writer. However, there are a few other things to mention too. 

Firstly, freelance writers build a writing portfolio showcasing their work. We especially love Authory which is a portfolio-building tool that self-updates by finding everything you’ve ever created–saving you hours of manual work each month automating all the tasks that are important after your content has been published. View writing samples easily and efficiently.

Secondly, having an interest in some expertise in your freelance writing niche is sure to help you create quality content by finding the right clients and concentrating your marketing efforts.

Thirdly, you need a passion for learning. Freelance writers actively seek out new learning opportunities and update their skills. Not only that, you’ll have Improved self-confidence by becoming more knowledgeable or skilled, affecting your personal and professional lives.

Fourth? Freelance writers need to be able to take on board and act on feedback. Whether an editor makes some suggestions on your writing, or a client recommends some improvements to your website, you must be willing to acknowledge this and take the necessary actions. 

Lastly, you must be likable. People in your industry and networks enjoy being around you. You’ll get more opportunities when you are genuine and your authentic self–let’s face it, clients prefer to give opportunities to people they like.

Prepare for a successful freelance writing career

Freelancing may be your main day job or a side hustle. Qualifications are not the only thing you need to excel at freelance writing. There are a boatload of other skills that are required to have a rewarding and profitable writing business.

Soft skills are essential for finding new clients, negotiating rates, and navigating the highs and lows of freelance writing.

Get the support you need to develop and grow your freelance writing business with Peak Freelance. Become an All Access member and get access to:

• A private Slack community to make friends and network.
• Expert interviews with content managers and successful freelancers like Fara Rosenzweig, Kat Boogaard, Kaleigh Moore, and Joel Klettke.
• Monthly Zoom calls with other freelance writers.
• A bi-weekly members podcast sharing unGoogleable tips for scaling a freelance writing business.
• Pro courses, templates, and worksheets to make your business more efficient.

About Tracy Rawlinson

Tracy Rawlinson is a freelance writer at Rawlinson Writes . Follow her on Twitter .

Freelance community and resources ⚡️

So you’re wondering how to become a writer. The short answer is: anyone who writes is a writer. However, becoming a writer who’s serious about their professional career requires lots of work, and if you’re wondering how to become a professional writer, you’re here to start your journey towards a productive and successful literary career.

How do you become a writer? You don’t need a degree to be a writer, nor do you need to be a certain age. Becoming a writer simply requires an admiration for—and a longing to create with—language. So, don’t worry about becoming a writer later in life or lacking a formal education. (That’s what Writers.com is here for!)

No one can teach you how to admire the written word, but the instructors at Writers.com are experts at turning longing into language. That’s why this article covers everything you need on how to become a writer. From the personal to the professional, let’s dive into everything writers need to build a successful literary career.

How to Become a Writer: Contents

How to Become a Writer: Anyone Can Become One

It’s never too late to become a writer, how to become a writer: where to begin your writing journey, how to become a professional writer: what “professional” means, how to become a writer: resources for becoming a professional writer, how to become a writer: developing a writing habit.

Even today, there’s a persistent myth that writers are elite, born-with-it Ivory Tower folks who possess some ineffable gift of the Muses. Yes, some great writers were born with greatness (and plenty were born with wealth and privilege), but anyone who calls themselves a writer does so because they labor with the written word.

Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language.

In others words, you don’t need an MFA from the University of Iowa to call yourself a writer. Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language. If we had to boil a writer down to three requirements, it wouldn’t involve age or degree. The 4 traits for becoming a writer are:

• Passion for the written word,
• Desire to expand the boundaries and possibilities of language,
• Persistence and patience, bordering on stubbornness, and
• Willingness to grow and learn continuously.

Many writers who have these traits stop themselves from writing, maybe because they’re wondering how to become a writer without a degree, or simply because they don’t believe in themselves without the privilege and connections writers seem to have. Now, writers certainly benefit from a university education or a family legacy in literature, but countless writers have acquired respect and success without a degree or name recognition.

Ernest Hemingway never went to college, but he still won a Pulitzer and Nobel Prize; neither did Maya Angelou attend university, yet she’s celebrated as the “black woman’s poet laureate” and later accepted a professorship with Wake Forest University. Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Becoming a writer has no age restriction; the act of writing is rated G for the General Public, and those aforementioned traits are found in writers from ages 2 to 99+.

Many writers discover their writing talents in their later years. Why, exactly? Neurology reveals there are two types of intelligence : fluid intelligence and crystallized intelligence. “Fluid” refers to creative and adaptive thinking, including activities like writing and problem solving. “Crystallized” refers to the solidified body of knowledge people draw from—all the words, definitions, and experiences that build a foundation for the world.

Generally, younger adults have more fluid intelligence, whereas life experience builds one’s crystallized intelligence over time. The two intelligences tend to converge in a person’s 40s, since this is an age where the faculties for fluid intelligence haven’t declined, and crystallized intelligence abounds. Not-so-coincidentally, many writers see their careers flourish in their 40s and 50s!

Many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later.

In fact, many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later. Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t start writing until her 40s, and her Little House series didn’t start printing until she was 65. Likewise, Most of Wallace Stevens’ work was published after he turned 50; despite being a poet, he worked at an insurance company, and most of his coworkers were shocked when he won a Pulitzer at 75. Nobody knew that he wrote!

Finally, many university students return for a writing degree after establishing a career elsewhere. BFA and MFA programs around the world educate students in their 30s and beyond; in 2017, the average age of a low-residency MFA student in the U.S. was 35.4, according to LitHub and AWP .

Whether you’re 19 or 90, you’re never too old to write. The best time to write is yesterday; the second-best time is today.

Rather than an If-Then structure, the writing profession follows a Became-Because structure.

How do you become a writer? Where do you begin? The writing profession is unlike most professions, which follow an If-Then structure. If you get a bachelor’s degree, Then you can work as a nurse, computer scientist, or accountant; If you join a worker’s guild or apprenticeship program, Then you can find work in a number of trade jobs.

The writing profession follows a Became-Because structure. Zora Neale Hurston became a writer because she obtained degrees from Howard University and Barnard College, encouraging her to dissect the African American experience through a literary and anthropological lens.

Conversely, Haruki Murakami became a writer because of a baseball game .

The qualifications for becoming a writer are unique to the individual, and every writer is formed by personal interests and experiences. As a result, no one can tell you where to begin your writing journey; however, if you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

If you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

One distinction to help you think about your writing journey is the difference between amateur and professional writers. If you’re not sure what you want to become, start with the following question: what does “professional” mean?

There are, generally, two classes of writers: amateurs and professionals. Before describing the professional writer, let’s be clear: “amateur” is not derogatory, and professional writers are not “better” than amateurs. Amateur comes from the Latin amator , “lover.” An amateur writer loves the written word just as much, sometimes even more, than the professional; amateurs simply have less pressure, deadlines, and financial dependence on writing. It’s a pastime, not a career.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer. Professional writers have to approach their writing as a business, building a literary audience and keeping a regular writing schedule. Professional writers need to understand the ins and outs of the publishing industry—which they often learn through obtaining a university degree—and it also helps to have formal training in the publishing world and experience operating literary magazines.

How do you start to work toward becoming a professional writer? Below are resources to get you started.

At some point, the professional writer needs to know the ins and outs of writing as a business. This list covers the essentials of how to become a professional writer.

How to make money as a writer

• Explore freelance writing opportunities (updated weekdays at F.W.G.)
• 6 writers explain how they make money (NY Mag)
• Self-publishing versus traditional publishing (Self-Publishing School)
• Writing to market (Funds For Writers)

Taxes as a self-employed creative

• Taxes on freelance writing and royalties (TurboTax)
• Tax tips and unique situations (The Balance Careers)

Resources on publishing

• Poetry journals
• Fiction journals
• Creative nonfiction journals
• How to get published in a literary journal (Reader’s Digest)
• Book: What Editors Do by Peter Ginna ($25 at UChicago Press)

Becoming a writer online

• Basic guide to each social media platform (Kindlepreneur)
• Building an author’s website (The Write Practice)
• Free website template for authors (Copyfolio)
• Running a mailing list (Your Writer Platform)

Things to know before taking writing classes

• Poetry courses
• Fiction courses
• Creative nonfiction courses
• Why take a writing course?

Additional resources for learning how to become a writer

• Setting SMART goals
• Reading like a writer
• The golden rule: show, don’t tell
• Overcoming writer’s block
• Becoming a poet
• 8 tips on learning how to write
• Best online creative writing classes

How do professional writers spend their workdays? Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit. For example, Haruki Murakami runs a 10K every morning to support his writing, and Charles Dickens wrote (and slept) facing north to improve his creativity.

Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit.

What works for one person rarely works for another, so experiment with writing habits—and when you find one that works, stick with it.

Generally, you can parse the writing business into 3 separate components:

• The writing life—putting pen to paper at regular intervals.
• Scheduled time for “the business of writing”—literary submissions, applying for grants, etc.
• An active media/marketing presence—blogging, tweeting, emailing, etc.

You’ll want to schedule time for each of these elements in your daily writing habit. Of course, this is easier said than done. Budding writers often overestimate their ability to work: they think they can spend 3 hours writing, 2 hours replying to emails, and 2 hours submitting work to journals. Then they spend the afternoon watching reruns of BBC quiz shows. (Yes! I did do this recently.)

That’s why forging a consistent writing habit is essential—for amateur writers as well as professionals. Writing at the same place at the same time encourages your brain to write every day. And, if you can’t keep yourself focused on writing, try experimenting with different writing rituals. If a 10K helps Murakami write, something equally unique could help you, too.

How to Become a Writer: Take Your Next Step with Writers.com!

The classes we’ve curated in our upcoming schedule will take your writing life to the next level. Whether learning a new writing style or mastering the business of writing, becoming a writer feels a whole lot simpler with Writers.com.

Sean Glatch

12 comments.

Brilliant review Misty

I hope, I can be a better writer with your support.

Yeah. Same thing as with all other fields. Practice, practice, and once again, practice! It’s like a sport, you should always find new ways to practice.

This really helped me out. Thank you so much!

I’m 14 and i hope to become a writer someday. Thank you so much for the info.

Thank you for the information About to start my writing journey and thus really helped.

I’m a senior that would like to turn my love of writing into a profession. The information you have presented here has inspired me to continue moving towards that goal.

I live in a rural area of Uganda with very little education but always aspired to write a book on families. I am much encouraged. started it but got stuck ..

I love writing and thank you for information you have given meand am obliged to say thank.

i am very eager to become a writer be that script know how or fiction. i am a sponge for knowledge so i learn as i work. i treat everyday as a school day. i want to learn every single part of the writing career-be that if the editor drinks tea or coffee and how they like there papers folded. i soak information as i do a task. i love to build the bullet points for a story because everything needs a beginning. if you are baking a cake the eggs and flour are needed before you think about putting anything in the oven. to prepare a cake you need a tray to put it in-before you build a story you need a starting and then ingredients to put in along the way. i really love to build a story from different snippets of things. i have a thirst for many different aspects of life having spent a majority of time in hospitals and then being taken advantage of my my family because of my brain injury. so i know more than most in a lot of different subjects and matters in life, i have lost more than most in life but i am here telling my version of it to the big bright world. 0874762400 is my contact number

Discovering the path to becoming a writer is both exhilarating and daunting. It requires a blend of passion, persistence, and honing one’s craft. From mastering the art of storytelling to navigating the intricacies of the publishing world, the journey demands dedication and resilience. Embrace every word written, every rejection faced, for they are stepping stones on the road to literary success.

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How to become a writer

CareerExplorer’s step-by-step guide on how to become a writer.

Is becoming a writer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Still unsure if becoming a writer is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a writer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

High School

For high school students aspiring to become writers, there are several courses that can help develop essential skills and knowledge in writing, literature, and language arts. Here are some recommended courses:

• English Language Arts: English Language Arts courses are fundamental for aspiring writers as they provide a solid foundation in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literary analysis. These courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including literature appreciation, creative writing, essay composition, and critical thinking skills.
• Creative Writing: Creative Writing courses offer opportunities for students to explore different forms of creative expression, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama. These courses often include writing workshops, where students receive feedback on their work and learn techniques to improve their writing style, voice, and storytelling abilities.
• Literature: Literature courses expose students to a variety of literary genres, periods, and authors, helping them develop an appreciation for literature and expand their literary knowledge. Studying literature can inspire aspiring writers by introducing them to diverse writing styles, themes, and techniques used by accomplished authors throughout history.
• Journalism: Journalism courses teach students the principles and practices of journalistic writing, including news reporting, feature writing, interviewing, and ethics. These courses help students develop research, interviewing, and writing skills essential for careers in journalism, media, or non-fiction writing.
• Public Speaking or Debate: Public Speaking or Debate courses help students develop communication skills, confidence, and persuasive writing abilities. These courses teach students how to articulate their ideas effectively, engage with audiences, and present their arguments coherently and persuasively, valuable skills for writers who may need to promote their work or speak publicly about their writing.
• Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature and Composition: AP English Literature and Composition courses are rigorous, college-level courses that prepare students for advanced literary analysis, critical thinking, and writing skills. These courses may offer opportunities for students to earn college credit by taking the AP exam and demonstrate their proficiency in English literature and composition.

Educational Paths

Aspiring writers have various educational paths to pursue to develop their craft and advance their careers. Here are some common educational options for writers:

• Bachelor's Degree in English, Creative Writing, or Journalism: Many colleges and universities offer Bachelor's Degrees in English , Creative Writing , Journalism , or related fields. These programs provide students with a comprehensive education in writing, literature, language arts, and communication skills. Students may have the opportunity to study various genres of writing, participate in writing workshops, and gain hands-on experience through internships or campus publications.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing: For writers seeking advanced training and mentorship in creative writing, pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree can be beneficial. MFA programs typically offer focused instruction in writing fiction, poetry, nonfiction, or screenwriting, along with opportunities to workshop manuscripts, receive feedback from faculty and peers, and develop a portfolio of writing. Many MFA programs also offer teaching assistantships or fellowships to help students fund their education while gaining teaching experience.
• Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition: Some writers may choose to pursue a Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition to deepen their understanding of literary history, theory, and criticism. These programs offer opportunities to study classic and contemporary literature, literary analysis, and scholarly research methods, which can enrich a writer's knowledge and inform their writing practice. Students may also have the option to focus on creative writing within a literature or composition program.
• Certificate Programs and Workshops: Writers looking for shorter, more specialized training may consider certificate programs or workshops offered by universities, writing centers, or literary organizations. These programs often focus on specific genres, topics, or aspects of writing, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, memoir, or professional writing. Certificate programs and workshops provide opportunities for intensive study, skill development, and networking with other writers and industry professionals.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development: Even after completing formal education, writers can continue to hone their craft and stay current in the industry through continuing education courses, conferences, seminars, and online workshops. Many organizations, such as writing associations, literary festivals, and writing retreats, offer opportunities for writers to further their skills, connect with fellow writers, and gain inspiration from established authors.

Writing Workshops and Conferences

There are numerous writing workshops and conferences that offer valuable opportunities for writers to improve their craft, connect with fellow writers, and learn from industry professionals. Here are some popular options:

• The Writing Excuses Workshop and Retreat: Organized by the hosts of the Writing Excuses podcast, this workshop offers intensive writing sessions, critiques, and discussions on craft and career development. It takes place in different locations each year and focuses on various aspects of writing, such as worldbuilding, character development, and story structure.
• The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference: Held annually at Middlebury College in Vermont, the Bread Loaf Writers' Conference brings together writers of all genres for workshops, lectures, readings, and networking opportunities. It features faculty members who are established authors, editors, and literary agents, providing valuable mentorship and feedback to participants.
• The Tin House Summer Workshop: Hosted by Tin House magazine, this workshop offers week-long intensives in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with acclaimed authors, attend craft seminars, and participate in readings and discussions. The workshop takes place in Portland, Oregon, and welcomes writers at all stages of their careers.
• AWP Conference & Bookfair: The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) hosts an annual conference and bookfair that brings together thousands of writers, editors, publishers, and literary professionals from around the world. The conference features panel discussions, readings, book signings, and networking events, making it a valuable resource for writers looking to connect with the literary community and learn about the latest trends in publishing and writing.
• GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace: Held in Boston, Massachusetts, GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace conference offers workshops, seminars, and one-on-one manuscript consultations for writers of all genres. It also features keynote presentations by bestselling authors, literary agents, and editors, as well as networking opportunities with fellow writers and industry professionals.
• The Writers' Digest Annual Conference: Organized by Writers' Digest magazine, this conference offers workshops, panels, and pitch sessions with literary agents and editors. It covers a wide range of topics, including writing craft, publishing, marketing, and author platform development, making it a comprehensive resource for writers looking to further their careers.

Build a Strong Portfolio

Building a strong portfolio as a writer is essential for showcasing your skills, experience, and versatility to potential clients, publishers, or employers. Here are some steps to help you create a compelling writing portfolio:

• Select Your Best Work: Start by reviewing your past writing projects and identifying pieces that demonstrate your strengths, creativity, and expertise. Choose a variety of samples that showcase your range as a writer, including different genres, styles, and formats.
• Tailor Your Portfolio to Your Audience: Consider who will be viewing your portfolio and tailor your selection of samples accordingly. If you're applying for a specific job or freelance project, include samples that are relevant to the position or industry. For example, if you're applying for a content marketing role, include samples of blog posts, articles, or social media content.
• Showcase Diversity: Include samples of different types of writing, such as articles, blog posts, essays, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, copywriting, technical writing, or scripts. This demonstrates your versatility as a writer and your ability to adapt your writing style to different audiences and purposes.
• Provide Context: For each sample in your portfolio, provide a brief introduction or explanation that gives context to the piece. Include information about the purpose of the writing, the target audience, any relevant research or interviews conducted, and the results or impact of the piece if applicable.
• Polish Your Work: Before adding samples to your portfolio, review and revise them to ensure they are polished, error-free, and representative of your best work. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, spelling, and overall clarity. Consider seeking feedback from peers, mentors, or editors to help refine your writing.
• Create a Professional Presentation: Present your portfolio in a professional and visually appealing format. You can create a digital portfolio using a website, blog, or online portfolio platform, or compile a physical portfolio using printed samples or a PDF document. Choose a clean, organized layout that highlights your writing samples and makes them easy to read and navigate.
• Update Regularly: Keep your portfolio up-to-date with your latest and best work. As you complete new writing projects, add them to your portfolio to showcase your ongoing growth and development as a writer. Consider periodically reviewing and refreshing your portfolio to ensure it remains relevant and engaging to your audience.

Employment Opportunities

Writers have a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries and sectors. Here are some common employment options for writers:

• Publishing: Writers may work for publishing houses, literary magazines, or online publications as staff writers, contributing writers, or freelance writers. They may write articles, essays, reviews, or features for print or digital publications, covering topics such as news, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, or specialized fields like science, technology, or finance.
• Advertising and Marketing: Writers can pursue careers in advertising agencies, marketing firms, or corporate marketing departments, creating content for advertising campaigns, promotional materials, websites, social media, and other marketing channels. They may write copy for advertisements, slogans, product descriptions, email campaigns, press releases, or branded content.
• Content Creation: With the rise of digital media and online platforms, there is a growing demand for writers to create content for websites, blogs, podcasts, videos, and social media channels. Writers may work for media companies, digital agencies, content marketing firms, or as independent freelancers, producing articles, blog posts, videos, infographics, or other multimedia content.
• Journalism: Writers can pursue careers in journalism, working for newspapers, magazines, online news outlets, or broadcast media organizations as reporters, correspondents, editors, or columnists. They may cover local, national, or international news, investigative reporting, feature stories, opinion pieces, or specialized beats such as politics, business, sports, or arts and culture.
• Technical Writing: Technical writers specialize in creating documentation and instructional materials for technical or specialized audiences. They may work for technology companies, engineering firms, healthcare organizations, government agencies, or software companies, writing user manuals, product guides, technical specifications, training materials, or software documentation.
• Publishing and Editorial: Writers may work in publishing and editorial roles, such as editors, copywriters, proofreaders, or literary agents. They may review and edit manuscripts, provide feedback to authors, develop publishing strategies, or negotiate book deals. Some writers may also pursue careers as literary translators or ghostwriters, helping others bring their ideas to life.
• Education: Writers with expertise in writing, literature, or language arts may pursue careers in education as teachers, professors, or writing instructors. They may teach writing workshops, literature classes, composition courses, or creative writing programs at schools, colleges, universities, or community organizations.

Certifications

Unlike some professions that require specific certifications or licenses, writing as a profession typically does not have mandatory certifications. However, there are several optional certifications and credentials that writers can pursue to enhance their skills, credibility, and career opportunities. Here are a few examples:

• Certified Professional Writer (CPW): Offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC), the CPW certification is designed for professionals who specialize in resume writing, business communication, and other forms of professional writing. This certification demonstrates expertise in writing effective resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and other career documents.
• Grant Writing Certification: Many organizations and institutions offer certification programs or courses in grant writing, which can be valuable for writers interested in pursuing careers in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or fundraising. These programs typically cover grant research, proposal writing, budgeting, and grant management.
• Technical Writing Certification: The Society for Technical Communication (STC) offers a Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) certification for technical writers. This certification demonstrates proficiency in technical writing, editing, and communication skills, as well as knowledge of industry standards and best practices.
• Editorial Certifications: Editors may pursue certifications such as the Certified Professional Editor (CPE) credential offered by the Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) or the Certified Copyeditor credential offered by the American Copy Editors Society (ACES). These certifications demonstrate proficiency in editing skills, grammar, style, and publishing standards.
• Project Management Certification: While not specific to writing, project management certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) can be beneficial for writers who work on large-scale writing projects or in project-based environments.
• Creative Writing Programs: While not certifications in the traditional sense, completing a creative writing program or obtaining a degree in creative writing from a reputable institution can provide writers with valuable training, feedback, and mentorship from experienced authors and faculty members.

Associations and Organizations

There are several professional associations and organizations that cater to writers, providing resources, support, networking opportunities, and advocacy for their members. Here are some notable associations for writers:

• The Authors Guild: Founded in 1912, The Authors Guild is the oldest and largest professional organization for writers in the United States. It provides legal assistance, advocacy on issues affecting authors' rights, contract advice, and resources for professional development.
• The National Writers Union (NWU): The NWU is a trade union representing freelance writers in all genres and fields, including journalists, authors, poets, and technical writers. It offers contract advice, grievance assistance, health insurance, and other benefits to its members.
• The American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA): ASJA is a professional organization for nonfiction writers, including freelance journalists, authors, and content creators. It offers networking events, professional development opportunities, and resources on topics such as contract negotiation and copyright.
• The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA): SFWA is an organization for writers of science fiction and fantasy literature. It provides advocacy, networking, and resources for its members, including access to professional guidelines, legal assistance, and health insurance options.
• The Mystery Writers of America (MWA): MWA is a professional organization for writers of mystery fiction, including authors, editors, publishers, and agents. It offers networking events, awards programs, and resources on writing craft and industry trends.
• The Romance Writers of America (RWA): RWA is a professional association for writers of romance fiction. It provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and advocacy on behalf of its members, including support for diversity and inclusion in the romance genre.
• The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): AWP is an organization for writers, teachers, and students of creative writing. It hosts an annual conference, publishes a literary magazine, and provides resources on writing education, publishing, and literary events.
• The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI): SCBWI is a professional organization for writers and illustrators of children's literature. It offers networking events, conferences, workshops, and resources on writing and publishing for children and young adults.

14 Freelance Writing Skills You Need to Succeed

When I started freelance writing, I made a ton of mistakes, doubted my ability and had imposter syndrome.

And I know any potential client I was negotiating with could feel my uncertainty.

Yup! I had it all, yet I stuck with it, improved my writing, landed online freelance writing jobs and am now helping others become a freelance writer!

So, I wanted to go back to that time when I was new and learning freelance writing skills so that I could wow my clients.

But, you want to know something?

It takes a lot more than just some snazzy freelance writing skills to impress the pants off of your clients.

While you might catch their eye with your quirky cover letter or impressive skills on your resume, becoming and staying a successful freelance writer involves so much more.

And to help you, I’ve rounded up fourteen freelance writing skills to take your game from “me,” to unstoppable.

So, keep on reading for all the juicy tidbits!

Freelance Writing Skills You Need

As a new freelance writer, you might be thinking that all you really need to be great at is writing.

Well, you’re wrong! From editing, to researching, to marketing and more, to have a sustainable freelance career and recurring online jobs , you need these specific freelance writing skills  in your arsenal.

Simply by learning these critical skills, you can command better freelance writing rates , helping you work less hours but make more money.

But, do you want to know the most critical freelance writing skills?

Here’s my Youtube video on it:

1. Continue to Learn

Just as with any other profession, you should always be looking to expand upon your skill set. While you might know a little about a lot, you don’t know everything and there is always room for improvement.

There is always more to learn about the business side of freelance writing, pitching, managing your money and most importantly, your niche. Don’t become stagnant.

I’ve been a digital marketing writer since 2014 and I’m still learning about my niche – new Instagram features, new Pinterest marketing strategies, better content marketing strategies and more.

I’m also learning more about new writing services like email writing as a way to grow my business and make money writing !

2. Incorporate Copywriting Skills

Out of all the freelance writing skills on this list, copywriting skills is by far the most important to learn.

While you’re unlikely to be the next Joe Sugarman, you can certainly learn from the great copywriters of our time .

Unless you’re writing highly technical white papers, press releases, academic lessons and the like, you need to have some decent copywriting skills to keep an audience engaged.

Good copywriting keeps your readers eyes glued to the screen (or paper). It evokes emotion and moves them to action. And just like with many other things in life, there is a formula to success with copywriting.

Here are a few quick tips for writing copy that will have the reader eating out of the palm of your hand.

• Use power words. Words like, risk-free, guarantee , and delighted
• Write in a conversational tone
• Keep ideas simple
• Write to sell – whether it’s a product or idea
• Write for the benefits, not just the features

For more help, check out my Youtube video on copywriting formulas to use as a beginner freelance writer.

3. Learn About SEO and Searcher Intent

What do you do when you need to find a new vacuum that’s good for picking up pet hair?

While you might ask your aunt Helen or the crazy cat lady next door, if you’re like most people born after the 1960’s, you go to Google and type in “best vacuums for pet hair.”

You will then be presented with over 89 million search results, but likely won’t look past the first page – who has time for that, right?

The goal for your client is to get on that first page for whatever search term they are targeting.

Getting on the first page means pageviews which equals subscribers and or sales.

Your goal as a freelance writer is to help get them there. To do that you need to have a solid understanding of search engine optimization and searcher intent.

When your client’s audience Googles “best vacuums for pet hair,” what is the searcher’s intent? My guess is they are looking to purchase a vacuum that will sufficiently pick up pet hair.

Before they do that they might read through a few blog posts containing different vacuum reviews before they make their decision.

The SEO targets the keywords related to the topic while the writer helps to satisfy the searcher’s intent with their content.

To get started with SEO writing, check out my Fast Track to SEO Writing course .

4. Research Skills

Let’s say you landed your first freelance writing client and they assigned you a blog post on the best Marketing Tips for Thought Leaders. This is a topic you know something about – you’ve been reading up on it and are excited to write this post.

So the first thing you do? You gather more information about marketing tips and then about Thought Leaders succeeding in their business. From there you can outline your findings into a helpful article.

Finding credible sources , finding the best information for your content and formatting it to be a unique piece of content takes skill – is a freelance writing skill.

It might be a good idea before you land your first writing gig you start a blog or guest post so you can practice research skills.

5. Translate What a Client Wants into What They Need

When you are working with a client, they might tell you that they want one thing but actually need another.

Getting these details ironed out can be done with a client brief that includes items lines such as a proposed headline, overview of what the client is looking for, target keyword and secondary keywords, searcher intent, success criteria, target influences, word count, main takeaways, competition, and outline.

But how can you tell that your client is asking for something that isn’t realistic or that you can’t provide?

Let’s say your client is asking for an in-depth review post on the best vacuums for pet hair and is only looking for 1,200 words, because they’re on a budget.

Well, every other competitor post from page one is over 3,000 words. While you could certainly provide a 1,200 word post, you need to help them realize that with that short of a post, it’s unlikely that they will make it to page one of the search results.

Therefore, creating a content brief is a perfect way – and a great freelance writing skill to have – to ensure you and your client are on the same page and you are able to provide them the value they are looking for.

6. Follow a Style Guide

The vast majority of the time, clients will have a style guide that you need to follow. If they don’t you can help them to create one to ensure consistency.

Style guides could include specific keywords, type of formatting, ways to cite and link resources, etc.

In order to turn in work that they will be happy to pay you for, you need to adhere to their style guidelines.

But, there will be writing jobs that don’t give you a style guide. So, what do you do? For me, I take a look at their existing blog to see how frequent they publish content, how long each article is and what categories they mostly write about.

I would also make sure I know their audience by reading their mission statement or About Us page. All of this information can help me figure out their style guide.

7. Know Your Niche

To find success as a freelance writer, you need to have a writing niche . While your freelance writing skills might fall into a variety of specializations, you should market yourself to a specific niche.

For example, I market myself as a digital marketing writer but my specialities are content marketing and social media marketing blog content. Of course, if a lead wants email marketing content or a specific ultimate guide on PPC content, I will decide if it’s worth my time.

If you do technical writing as a content writer , the type of freelance writing work you might do are creating instruction manuals, write how-to guides and articles that are easy to read.

This will make it easier to make a writing portfolio and website that caters to your prospective clients and pitch to them.

8. Learn to Effectively Pitch

Next to learning copywriting as a freelance writing skill, learning how to effectively pitch is up there in importance.

Have you ever come across a writing gig or job listing and thought, “this is exactly what I am looking for!” Well pitching allows you to convince the client that you are the freelancer for the job!

You do this by having related writing samples, a writer website that speaks to that client and the right copy in your pitch .

For example, if you are sending a cold pitch to a gardening supply company, a related writing sample to share is something like, “9 Best Gardening Tools for Kids” or for women or for under $30.

9. Professionally Communicate

Being able to professionally communicate with clients from the very beginning not only shows that you are a professional writer but also helps to build those lasting relationships.

This also translates to how available you are. It might seem like a great thing to always be available but be careful. Prospects may expect to reach you at all hours of the day or complain when it takes you longer than 12 hours to reply to their questions.

Every point of contact you have with your clients need to be done in a professional manner, even if they are in the wrong, the scope creeper or are just rude to you.

I know. That last one is hard.

I hear stories from other writers saying they do all this work for a new client and then they drastically change the content or nit-pick every sentence or demand more of them.

I usually tell these writers that this isn’t a client to keep but you need to not burn bridges. Do the work (or don’t say anything) and then drop the client. You need to be professional all the time online .

10. Marketing Skills

While writing the post is only a portion of the freelancing puzzle, you should be familiar with how marketing works.

This helps to provide more value to the client. Rather than just pumping out content, you understand how that content ties into the bigger picture and can formulate that post accordingly.

Learning marketing means understanding how to promote your business as well as how to promote your content and client pieces (this isn’t creative writing here!).

Having a presence on social media can attract better clients.

This was one of the reasons why Walmart hired me for content writing.

11. Blogging Skills

As a freelance writer, you can also offer complementary services to your freelance writing clients. Having blogging skills – writing long form content – is a great way to do this.

This is the preferred writing style multiple clients will ask you to do so make sure to add it as a writing service and on your portfolio.

Perhaps in addition to writing the post, you can also format it within WordPress, write social media posts to correlate with the post, or make an infographic.

All of these add-ons can be additional services are part of your blogging package for potential online freelance jobs. I know for me, I provide clickable headlines, creative common licensed photos , and I offer to share it on my social my social profiles.

12. Spelling and Grammar

It should go without saying that you shouldn’t turn anything into your client that has spelling or grammar mistakes. This will only make your work look sloppy and will decrease your chance of getting any referrals.

I use Grammarly to edit my content and for a while I had a copyeditor to help with my digital marketing long-form content.

13. Editing and Proofreading

Using an editing tool like Grammarly isn’t the only thing you should do before you submit your work to your freelance writing clients.

While your client might have an editor and proofreader on staff, you as the good writer should be able to edit and proofread your work before clicking the submit button

This will help to show that you are detail oriented and care about the client’s results.

14. Understand Online Tools

As an online writer, a freelance writing skill you must learn is how to use online tools. Some examples are:

• Project management tools like Trello
• Image editing tools
• WordPress plugins
• Microsoft Word

While a freelance writing job ad on a job board may not ask you if you know how to use Keyword Surfer or Canva, many clients do ask if you know WordPress, Google docs or Microsoft Word.

In any case, knowing how to use all of these tools just makes you stand out as a better writer and more valuable to your clients (which translates to more money writing ).

How to Show Your Freelance Writing Skills Professionally

Now that you know which freelance writing skills you need to be successful, how do you professionally showcase them?

Through a resume and cover letter of course!

If you are new to freelancing, you might be asking yourself…

Do freelance writers really need resumes ?

You bet they do!

Just look at any freelance job boards and you can see that most of them ask for a resume when applying for a job or gig.

It’s a necessary evil that even freelancers can’t get away from.

But fear not…

Adding freelance work to your resume isn’t much different than adding any other jobs.

You should list the position you held, include accomplishments, and client references.

When talking about accomplishments, be specific in the value you provided to your client.

Are you seeing a trend here yet?

If you wrote an email  sequence for a client that got them a certain number of sales, be sure to include that.

There are so many great templates on Canva for creating a stand out resume.

But what about the cover letter ?

Cover letters are a way to plead your case as to why you are the best candidate. Carefully read through the job or gig listing and include similar language in the cover letter. If the description says something like:

“We are looking for personal, direct, and authentic copy.”

Your cover letter could include something like:

I am a copywriter that specializes in creating authentic copy that is both personal and direct.

See what I did there?

And, the #1 way to showcase your freelance writing skills?

It’s your writer website .

Hands-down the #1 way to look professional and sell your services and value as a legit freelance writer.

Here are writer website examples of Writeto1k students of mine:

By having an online presence that showcases their writing services they look more professional and able to write content for eCommerce companies, small businesses and large brands.

Over to you –

Which freelance writing skill are you lacking?

Share with my in the comments below! I’m here to help!

Remember to pin me!

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• Developing a Unique Voice: Through consistent practice, feedback, and self-reflection.
• Understanding of Literary Techniques: Gained through formal education or self-study of literature and writing craft.
• Exposure to Diverse Perspectives: Encouraged by reading widely and engaging with different cultures and ideas.

Building a Path Forward: Education and Beyond

• Writing Regularly: To refine skills and experiment with different styles and genres.
• Community Engagement: Participating in writing groups, workshops, and literary events to gain feedback and support.
• Professional Development: Attending conferences, pursuing writing residencies, and seeking mentorship from established writers.

The Bottom Line: Diverse Backgrounds, Unified by Passion

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How to Become Freelance Education Writer in 2024?

The changing landscape of the education sector has increased the demand for education writers. While this domain was once primarily reserved for professors and educators, the rise of information has broadened the horizon. With the emergence of new fields of study, a plethora of opportunities awaits freelancers. Dive into our comprehensive guide on how to become a freelance education writer and seize these exciting opportunities.

What is Education Writing?

What are the types of freelance education writing.

There are different categories of writing in education. You may either be writing content courses or perhaps a legal advisory booklet for resolving teacher-student conflicts. The field is wide open. Since the education domain is so diverse, many freelance education writers don one or more hats.

Here are the common categories of educational writers:

Some of the above writing requires extensive knowledge of the subject, while others can be done with research and effort. The field is fertile, and opportunities are endless. Assess your capabilities and choose the niche wisely.

Here’s How to Become a Freelance Education Writer:

1. do your research.

Before stepping into a freelance education writing career, you need these preparations:

From this research, you will know about what the education market demands, who are the clients, and what area you can work and excel in.

2. Earn Required Skills

Freelance education writing differs from general content writing. It requires a particular set of skills and deep knowledge about the domain. If you are interested in pursuing this career long-term, earn the required skills and certifications. You should also gain practical experience and mingle with the people involved in the education sector. This will enhance your perspective and enrich you with practical knowledge. Working in a single area of educational writing may or may not prove to be profitable in the long run. It is wise to learn new skills to get access to a wider selection of work prospects and to make more out of your time.

3. Create a Portfolio

4. look for prospective clients.

Once you showcase yourself online as a freelance education writer, look for potential clients. Search for magazines, blogs, online learning platforms, and other sources that hire freelance writers. One of the best hunting grounds is online job portals like Upwork and Freelancer.com. Create your profile on multiple platforms and bid for jobs that match your skills. Here are the top freelancing websites to begin your search. Starting with these online platforms will boost your confidence and will provide you with solid proof of work to be shared with other clients. Tip: Make your portfolio SEO optimized and ask other people in your circle to link back to your portfolio so it will rank high on searches.

5. Pitch Your Services

6. expand your network, 7. learn, explore, and hunt for big opportunities.

Your learning journey as a freelance education writer never ends. The more skills you gain and develop, the more you will grow in this career. Keep on checking how online courses structure their content, how some video tutorials set out scripts, and how curricula, legislations, and strategies evolve in the education sector. Adapt to these developments. Write in the most updated manner and offer the most recent education writing services to your clients.

Thoughts to Ponder

Most asked questions in the field of education writing, 1. how much do freelance education writers earn.

It depends on what you are writing and for whom. Some education writers earn more than $10K per month and others can hardly make $1000 per month. Curriculum and course material developers earn more than education report writers. Similarly, working directly with clients will earn you more bucks than working on freelance platforms. It’s different for everyone. The effort, time, and networking strategies you apply will eventually pay off. On average, you can easily earn $30 per hour from your education writing services.

2. Education vs. Academics writing, what’s the difference?

Most people usually think they are the same, but they are not. There is still a thin line that separates the two. Academic writing is about writing research articles, essays, personal statements, solving assignments, and backing up information with sources. Whereas education writing is about creating curriculum and course materials. It may also involve reporting and analyzing the current education system.

3. What to consider before leaving your current job?

Freelance education writing can be a fulfilling career that’ll bring in a good sum of money. Education writers normally get paid more than general content writers, but it also requires higher qualification criteria. You need to hone your writing skills and deepen your subject knowledge to embark on this lucrative career. Take the time to study and follow the step-by-step guidelines on how to become a freelance education writer we presented here. Now is the time to kick-start your career in this profession . Next up, you may want to explore a list of the top educational book publishers .

Rafal Reyzer

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

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Home Writing & Editing Gigs Freelance Grant Writing

How to Become a Freelance Grant Writer with No Experience

June 28, 2024

Written by:

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If you love to write and you’re looking to make a difference in the world, it makes sense if you’re considering freelance grant writing. This is a flexible and potentially lucrative side hustle for would-be wordsmiths, and you don’t need any formal credentials to get started with it.

In this article, we’ll discuss all the details you need to know about how to get into freelance grant writing, even if you have no prior experience. Let’s dive in.

01. What is freelance grant writing?

When an organization needs funding for a project, they sometimes get some or all of it from grants . These are a bit like loans, except they aren’t expected to be paid back, making them a kind of financial award.

The word grantor is used to refer to whoever’s providing the grant (which, in many cases, is a foundation or government). Grantee refers to whoever receives it—often a charity or nonprofit.

Grant proposals

The key is that grants don’t just drop out of the sky. Most of the time, it’s necessary to apply for them by submitting a grant proposal , which describes the needs and goals of the project.

That’s where grant writing comes in. A grant writer is someone who drafts these proposals, laying out the grantee’s case for funding. This is called grantsmanship —the art of procuring financial aid via grant writing.

02. Is grant writing a good side hustle?

Grant writing can be an excellent way to make extra money, particularly if you have a way with words and you like the idea of doing your part to help charities and nonprofits make a difference.

Pros of grant writing as a side hustle

In more detail, here’s why it can be worth becoming a grant writer. This side hustle is:

• Flexible: This is perhaps the number one pro of working as a freelancer (of any kind). You can make your own schedule; as long as you meet your client’s needs, your research and writing process are largely up to you.
• Remote-friendly: Similarly, as a grant writer, you can work from essentially anywhere. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection.
• In demand: The job market for freelance writers isn’t particularly strong (AI has damaged it a lot), but grant writing is still in demand. Charities and nonprofits always need funding, and most of them aren’t comfortable outsourcing this job to bots like ChatGPT—at least, not yet.
• Fairly lucrative: Even beginning grant writers can charge $20 per hour. This isn’t a bad rate when you’re breaking into a new industry, and with experience, you can raise it.
• Fulfilling: Lastly, when you practice grantsmanship, you’ll often be working for good causes. This is in contrast to other types of freelance writing, where realistically, you’ll probably sometimes have to work on projects you don’t particularly care about on a personal level.

03. How much money can you make as a freelance grant writer?

In contrast to many freelance writers, who often opt to be paid by the word, grant writers are usually paid on an hourly basis.

Rates vary widely. Novice grant writers often make around $20–$30 per hour , whereas intermediate writers typically earn rates that are closer to $50–$70 per hour .

Experienced, in-demand writers set their prices much higher, at $100–$150 per hour or even more.

How to set your rates

The rates you can get away with charging largely depend on your experience, as well as your reputation. If you establish yourself as a rising star whose grant proposals are usually successful, you’ll be able to hike your prices more quickly.

Your best bet when it comes to setting your initial rates is to conduct a little competitor research. Register on freelance websites like Upwork and have a look at their roster of freelance grant writers .

Try to hone in on ones with comparable experience to you and see what they charge.

04. Who can become a freelance grant writer?

It might surprise you to learn that there aren’t any special criteria you have to meet to become a freelance grant writer. Full-time, in-house positions may require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree, but generally speaking, freelance gigs don’t have any such requirements.

Instead, you’ll get hired based on your actual skills, as well as the strength of your writing portfolio. We’ll go over how you can brush up both of these further on in this article.

Do you need to get certified to be a grant writer?

No, you don’t need any professional certifications to be a freelance grant writer, either. Some grant writers do obtain the Grant Professionals Certified (GPC) credential from the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI) , but it’s rare for clients to require it. You’ll probably find that most don’t even ask about it.

Grant writing courses

There are plenty of grant writing courses you can take, such as the ones offered by LearnGrantWriting.org . (Note that we haven’t interviewed anyone who’s taken this course and we can’t vouch for its quality, but it’s reportedly fairly popular among novice grant writers.)

Quite a few universities also offer courses in this field. You may be able to find affordable in-person courses at a college (or community college) near you.

Again, these courses are optional. In fact, we recommend holding off on taking them (and on getting the GPC certification) until you’ve actually landed and completed a few jobs.

After that, you’ll have a better sense for whether grant writing is actually a side hustle you’re passionate about. If you decide you want to make this a long-term gig, it might be time to pursue certification.

05. How to find freelance grant writing jobs in 5 steps

If grant writing sounds like something you’d like to try your hand at, follow these steps to find work:

1. Practice grant writing and build your portfolio

If you’re new to this side hustle, you should test the waters before trying to land paid work. This will give you a chance to round out your skills and create a decent portfolio, which is absolutely key to landing writing gigs.

Spend a while on grants.gov (one of the best resources for people studying grantsmanship), and pay particular attention to their page on finding grant programs . Search around for grant funding opportunities and write example proposals for them, then create an online portfolio page to host your work.

Popular portfolio websites for writers include:

• JournoPortfolio

Alternatively, you can create a personal website using a service like WordPress.com and host your portfolio there.

Don’t neglect this step; it’s understandable if you’re fired up and you want to cut to the chase and start applying for jobs right away, but if you have a body of work you can show to clients, you’ll have a much easier time of it, even if it consists entirely of sample pieces.

2. Update your LinkedIn

When you create your portfolio or website, it’s also worth creating or updating your LinkedIn profile.

This is worth doing even if you’re generally not a big fan of social media. LinkedIn is one of the most popular professional networking sites out there, and many of your clients’ first moves will be to look you up on it when they receive your pitch.

The more info you can provide about yourself, the more confident your potential clients will feel. Remember, grant writing is a big deal to the charities and nonprofits who rely on it, and when you’re just starting out, you’re a completely unknown quantity. It’s important to do everything you can to set their minds at ease.

3. Create an account on popular freelancing marketplaces

There are many platforms you can use to find freelance work. The biggest names include:

• Freelancer.com

Create an account on at least three of these sites (on all of them, if you have the time for it). Describe your background and your services and include a prominent link to your portfolio and LinkedIn in each of your profiles.

4. Spend at least 30 minutes per day applying to jobs

Now that you’ve established a strong web presence and built up a portfolio, the only thing left is for you to actually put yourself out there and pitch to potential clients.

All of the freelance marketplaces linked above have search functions. Just type in variations on “ grant writing ”, “ grant funding proposal ,” etc., and see what turns up. When you see something that interests you and that you think you’d be qualified to do, write up a pitch and send it.

You probably won’t strike gold the first time you try this, so it’s important to keep at it. Again, spend at least half an hour per day looking for work. Consistency is the key when it comes to getting your start as a freelancer.

Other places to find work

Many freelancers begin on websites like Upwork, but some companies post openings for freelance grant writers elsewhere. You should keep tabs on these job boards:

You can also try cold pitching (i.e., sending unsolicited pitches via email) to companies on USAspending.gov , which lists organizations that have received grant funding in the past.

Some of these might be in the market for writers for their next projects. As mentioned, you’ll probably get more traction with smaller organizations—larger ones are more likely to already have a roster of writers that they prefer to work with.

Lastly, consider joining a professional association such as the American Grant Writers’ Association (AGWA). This can help you get established and stay connected. Organizations like AGWA provide their members with resources for improving their skills and finding jobs.

5. Put everything you have into doing a great job

Once you land your first few clients, you’ll want to put a good deal of focus and energy into maintaining your relationships with them.

It goes without saying that you should always turn in your best work, but make sure you’re also acing the less obvious aspects of maintaining a client-freelancer relationship, such as always responding to your messages promptly (and politely) and doing your best to anticipate their concerns before they have to ask.

If a client likes you and your work, there’s a good chance they’ll keep coming back to you, and they may even recommend you to their friends or affiliates, which is exactly what you need to get your grant writing side hustle off the ground.

Robert Jellison

Managing Editor

Robert is a writer and editor for SideHustles.com. He has 7+ years of experience in freelance writing and previously worked as the in-house editor for Compose.ly, a platform for remote and part-time writers.

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Freelance Content Writer

Discover. Savor. Connect. Welcome to the chef's table.

Cozymeal is the leading global marketplace featuring the best culinary experiences and products, including top-rated cooking classes, private chef experiences, culinary tours, chef-curated cookware, free recipes with step-by-step videos, city guides and much more!

Consumers and companies alike use Cozymeal to discover new ways to connect through classes, food tours, mixology, wine tastings, and other unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether it be for date nights, birthdays, holiday celebrations or team building events, you’re guaranteed a world-class experience. Plus, you can purchase our curated, high-quality cookware as a gift or for use at home.

In addition to providing customers access to world-class culinary experiences, products and content, we also provide a great source of income to our partners that includes chefs, sommeliers, guides and mixologists. For this, we were recognized by the Global Good Fund in 2019.

Serving both customers and our culinary partners is our top-priority and ingrained in our culture and in how we run our business every day. We continuously strive to curate the best culinary experiences and products and to create the best content for the millions of customers visiting our site while providing additional support and business to our partners.

About the Role:

We are looking for a Freelance Content Writer who will be responsible for regularly developing great long-form content for the Cozymeal magazine.

Responsibilities Include:

Write long-form content about food, restaurants, activity ideas, city guides and more

Thoroughly research and fact-check information to inform content

Adhere to the Cozymeal style guide

Meet regular deadlines

Requirements Include:

2+ years of experience as copy writer or journalist

Experience writing long-form content and blog posts

Proven ability to write SEO optimized content for human readers

Strong writing skills

Strong research skills

Creative nature with a deep interest in the food space

Food writing experience (a BIG plus but not required)

Licensed dietitians and nutritionists (a BIG plus but not required)

What We Offer:

Work anywhere in the world (we are 100% remote)

$75/2,000 words for long-form content

Great work environment with a strong and friendly team of co-workers

Flexible schedule

Location: Worldwide. This is a remote role and qualified candidates from anywhere in the world can apply for this role.

If this sounds like you, then Cozymeal just might be the right place for you! Welcome home!

Could this job be the one?

About the company

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