How to Become an Online Freelance Writer

Freelance writing is an appealing career. You can write on your own schedule and in your desired environment. The problem is, many people do not realize that becoming a freelance writer takes a lot of work. As you get started in this career, you may realize that if you put a little time and effort into finding freelance gigs online, the more successful you can become.

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to specialize or generalize. It doesn't really matter either way. You can easily change your mind later, but if you have a good idea of what you want to do now, it may be a good idea to go with it. For freelance writers looking for their first gig, you may find that generalizing is the best option for you.

2. Build a resume. It's a good thing to have a resume on hand. Whether it's on your computer or a hard copy, you should always keep your credentials updated and ready for distribution. State any writing experience you may have. Also, it is a good idea to share the fields you've worked in, writing or otherwise. Sometimes the places you've worked before can give you an edge. In place of a resume, you may be asked to provide a client list. Keep a running list of the people you've written for and the work you did.

3. Create samples of your writing. If you have a specialization in mind, you can create a few samples of that writing. You can also provide a variety of writing for a potential client to view. If you are asked to send your writing samples via the internet, make sure you only send the first two or three paragraphs. It is possible for people to steal your work. You need to protect yourself and your writing.

4. Maintain your online presence. Many people get gigs from simply having a website or blog. Have a copy of your resume and a few writing samples on your website to make it easier for employers. These employers can get a good idea of who you are, your writing, and your goals.

5. Manage a blog. Not only have blogs become increasingly popular, but they are a great way to keep people updated on your life and work. You can mention some of the work you are doing and who it's for, if allowed. It's a great tool for advertising your work and maintaining a relationship with your readers. You might have a fan base one day!

6. Get the word out. Let people know that you're available as a freelance writer. Place a few ads on Craigslist. You can get a lot of traffic if you keep an updated advertising campaign. It's not that expensive! In fact, many beginners can get decent advertising for free.

7. Check for jobs on freelance writing websites and job boards. Again, Craigslist has many freelance writing opportunities. You can also check out more established websites for writers like Media Bistro. If you are interested in freelance blogging, you can try websites like ProBlogger.

8. Use websites that accept writing and get paid. As a freelance writer, you may find that down time is common. Don't waste this time when you could be making money. You should submit writing pieces to websites that offer payments like Associated Content and Constant Content. Each website is different and you can choose the websites you like the best.

9. Use PayPal as a form of payment. PayPal is a fast, reliable way to accept payments. Most employers can pay you through PayPal and you can easily transfer the money into your bank account or use a PayPal debit card.

10. Keep in touch with your clients and let them know that you are available for more work. You can start networking from the first client/employer you have. Keep in touch regularly and see if they know of anyone else that is looking for a writer. If they like you enough, you might get regular, ongoing work for years to come.

Tips & Warnings

• Write on a schedule.

• Create a separate and professional email account for your writing services.

• It can take a while to get started as an online freelance writer, but it will happen. Getting the first gig is always the most difficult.

Resources

• Craigslist
• Media Bistro - Job Listings
• Associated Content
• Constant Content
• ProBlogger - Jobs