How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

A freelance writing career can be a dream job. You can set your own hours, work in your pajamas and set up your office in a corner of your home or apartment. However, one of the necessities of a freelance career is to constantly be looking for new jobs. You never know when a client is going to leave or fold up shop. Here's how to find freelance writing jobs.

Instructions

1. Read "Writer's Market." The premiere resource for freelancers, this publication may be found online (for a small subscription), in hardcover or at the library. It lists magazines, online publications, book publishers and writers' agents--all with links to writing guidelines, pay scales and contact information; a truly invaluable book.

2. Scour the online job listings. Dozens of websites list writing jobs. Some of the best of these are regional CraigsList sites (although read the terms of the job offers carefully), Freelancewriting.com, Freelance Writing Jobs and the ProBlogger Job Board. (See Resources below.)

3. Network. Some of the best writing jobs never hit the classifieds. Become friends with other writers in your specialty. Many employers hire multiple writers and your writing friends are likely to share this information. Remember to return the favor.

4. Ask clients for more work and recommendations. If a client is pleased with your work, they can be your best advocate. Ask them periodically if they have any colleagues or friends that need copy material or articles.

5. Spend a day at the library. The local library is a great source of information for writers looking for work. Magazine mastheads hold contact information, as do regional newspapers. In addition, most library stacks include dozens of resource materials for freelancers.

Resources

• Find out more about Writer's Market.
• Scan the Freelance Writing job board.
• Look for jobs at Writers' Row.
• Check the ProBlogger job board.