What Is a Freelance Writer?
Freelance writers work for an individual, a company, or a business on an assignment basis, usually without a contract. A freelance writer will be hired to write a piece on a certain subject or person that will have a specific due date. When that task is completed, a freelance writer will move on and look for more and other work.
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Types
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There are different types of freelance writers. Some writers will write for a newspaper, a magazine, an online website or a blog. Some will have on-going projects while others will simply write one piece. Freelance writers also work for charitable and non-profit organizations writing grants and proposals. Resume writing is another venue.
Benefits
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Freelance writers enjoy the freedom and flexibility that many office workers crave. Work schedules and subject matter vary, offering variety and the opportunity to learn and explore. They also build up a vast and varied network of clients and contacts.
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Drawbacks
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The most significant drawback is the erratic nature of the work. This makes for a vague steady income. Also, there are no company-paid luxuries such as health and dental insurance, pensions, 401k, paid vacations or bonuses. A freelance writer must also be responsible for her own business materials, functions and paperwork. Just as some days the work and the hours might be light, some days the work, the hours, and even the stress may be high.
Ghost Writers
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A ghost writer is a writer who gives the credit for his work to someone else. A ghost writer's work will appear without his name under the title. In other words, the real writer will not be recognized for his work. This type of work is most usual in books.
Where To Find Work
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The Internet has opened many doors up for freelance writers. In addition to the various job boards and sites, many freelancers now make a living writing a blog (a personal or corporate website). A blogger keeps the blog up to date. A blog is similar to writing and keeping a journal. Two sites for different types of work are JournalismJobs.com and FreelanceWritingGigs.com (see link in Resources).
Fun Fact
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The term "freelance" was first used by Sir Walter Scott in his historical romance "Ivanhoe" to describe a "medieval mercenary warrior." This person or knight was willing to outsource his services to anyone who would pay for his services; therefore, he was referred to as a free-lance.
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