How to Make Money Writing Memoirs

The opportunities to make money as a freelance writer are nearly endless. Demand for good writers is high, no matter your geographic location. Many people are willing to pay, and pay well, for a freelance writer to meet their writing needs. Memoirs are one way a freelancer can make money. Follow these guidelines and you will be well on your way to writing memoirs and making money.

Instructions

1. Create a portfolio that includes snippets of memoirs. If you have never been paid to write a memoir, simply write a memoir and add it to the portfolio. It can be of a real person or a fictional character you created. Potential clients needn't know you weren’t paid for this work. All they need to know is that you are capable of writing memoirs.

2. Look for ads soliciting memoir writers in newspapers, magazines and other publications. Contact the advertisers and make your sales pitch. Let them know you have writing samples available.

3. Include your ability to write memoirs on your business cards and in your resume. Consider placing an advertisement in newspapers, magazines and other publications. Include your email address and any websites and blogs. This allows potential clients to view your work. Don't forget to take advantage of the Internet. Websites, such as Craigslist, advertise just about anything, including your ability and willingness to write memoirs. Also advertise on your own websites and blogs.

4. Leave your business cards, with permission, at nursing homes. Be careful not to look like an ambulance chaser when you do this. To avoid this perception, add other writing services you offer to your business cards. Many family members and friends of nursing home residents would love to have a written history of their loved one. Also consider leaving your business cards at craft stores, especially those catering to scrapbook-makers.

5. Treat your memoir clients fairly. Set reasonable fees and always meet your deadlines. Never make promises you can't keep. Repeat business and excellent references are a freelancer's bread and butter. Give these clients the type of service that will guarantee they will want you write for them again—and tell others how wonderful the experience was.