10 FASTEST WAYS TO GET FREELANCE WRITING JOBS

The internet has opened up a world of opportunities for people looking for freelance writing jobs. If you are one of those people, here are 10 ways to land your first freelance job.

This is a popular career choice for those who have a passion for writing and the desire to work from the comfort of their own home. With the help of the internet, you can find work from anywhere in the world.

However, getting started with freelance writing can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the industry. In this post, we’ll explore the fastest ways to get a freelance writing job, from building a portfolio to networking with other writers—and everything in between. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to launching a successful writing career in no time.

This article is not necessarily a tutorial for writing for money but a list of best practices to help you gain traction.

Chances are that you have already started, but as you know, starting is just one step toward the whole picture.

The challenge is:

• How do you get clients?
• How do you know if you are a great writer?
• How do you choose a niche to write on?
• How much will you charge?

Let us now go a bit deep.

Freelance writing is a flexible and rewarding career choice for those who enjoy writing and want to work from home.

If you have started but find it difficult to get clients, there are a few fast and effective ways to get your first writing job.

Here are 10 tips to help you get started:

1. Build a portfolio to showcase your freelance writing skills:

Your portfolio is the most important tool you have as a freelance writer. It showcases your writing skills, experience, and style, and gives potential clients a taste of what you can do. Make sure your portfolio is polished and professional, and include examples of your best work.

If you own a website, as I strongly advise you should, then your site becomes your first portfolio. If you are not yet ready to build a site or blog, then use LinkedIn. It is free and has the potential to land you your first writing job.

But whatever you do, do not spend too much time working out your portfolio. Spend your time in writing several posts and articles, engaging posts, infographics, etc. This will help in demonstrating to the clients that you can write.

2. Utilize job boards:

Job boards are an excellent way to find freelance writing jobs. Look for job boards that cater to writers, such as ProBlogger, Upwork, Contena, freelancer, and Fiverr. Be sure to submit a high-quality application, including a well-written cover letter and a link to your portfolio, for each job you apply for.

By this, you will gain sufficient exposure over the long term. The next thing you do is to reach out to others who do what you do.

3. Network with other writers:

Joining writing communities and networking with other writers is a great way to get your foot in the door so to speak.

You can participate in online writing forums, join writing groups on social media, and attend writing conferences to meet other writers and learn about job opportunities.

My favorite social media as far as writing is concerned is LinkedIn. Although it is a social media, it has an edge over others in freelancing.

At this stage, you should be thinking of how to offer your services to smaller businesses.

4. Offer your services to small businesses:

Small businesses often struggle to produce quality content for their websites and marketing materials. Offer your services to small businesses in your area, and offer to write blog posts, website copy, and other content for them in exchange for payment. When I started, I would offer writing services for free in exchange for an honest review. You too can do the same, it increases your exposure rate

5. Cold-pitch potential clients:

Cold-pitching involves reaching out to potential clients who you think would benefit from your writing services. This can be an effective way to get your first writing job, but it requires a well-written and persuasive pitch and proposals.

Start by researching your potential clients, tailor your pitch to their needs, and follow up regularly to increase your chances of success. You may want to go check out my post on how to write great proposals that stand out.

6. Create a website:

Having a professional website is a must for freelance writers. You may hear people say that you can succeed as a freelancer without owning a website. True! But you are better off with a website to serve as your front office.

Your website serves as an online portfolio and a way for potential clients to find and contact you. Make sure your website includes a portfolio of your writing samples, a clear and concise bio, and a contact form for clients to reach out to you.

If you want us to create your website for you, it is simple, and in less than one week, your site will be up and running.

7. Utilize social media:

Social media is a powerful tool for freelance writers to promote their services and find new clients. Create a social media presence on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram and start building a network of followers.

Share your writing samples, industry news, and insights, and engage with other writers with your content and potential clients.

8. Specialize in a niche:

You cannot serve the whole industry. So, you will have to choose a niche to be good at. Specializing in a particular niche can help you stand out from the competition and attract more clients.

Choose a niche that you’re knowledgeable about and passionate about, and become an expert in that area.

For example, if you’re interested in technology, you could specialize in writing about the latest tech trends and products.

Although as a freelancer, you can write about any topic, as long as you know how to carry out your research and form an opinion on something.

But aside from that, you should endevor to be known for something. In that way, your clients can relate to what you have to offer and if need be, they can make recommendations on your behalf.

9. Offer free samples of your freelance writing jobs:

Offering free samples of your writing can help you attract new clients and showcase your writing skills. You may choose to write a blog post, article, or other pieces of content for a potential client in exchange for the opportunity to add it to your portfolio and promote your services.

When done right, this will get you well exposed to other potential clients.

10. Keep learning all you can about freelance writing:

As a freelance writer, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest writing techniques and trends. Do not limit yourself to what you may already have known. Read books and articles on writing, attend writing workshops and conferences, and continue to develop your writing skills.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to finding freelance writing jobs and building a successful writing career. Remember to be patient and persistent, and to always put your best foot forward. Success in your effort!

Use the space below to tell me what your challenges are. What has been holding you back from either starting as a freelancer or making your first sales? Feel free to tell me in the comment section and I promise to answer back.