How to Money Online as a Freelance Writer

If you have ever tried to break into the freelance writing market, you know that there are many writers vying for the same writing gig. However, because of the declining economy, many companies are willing to outsource their work to freelance writers. The online market has exploded with job seekers and writing employers alike. There are many job opportunities for freelance writers on the Internet, and if you can rise above the competition, you can make a modest living by becoming a freelance writer online.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Writing samples

1. Gather Writing Samples and Apply:
   To apply for any freelance writing job, you will need to submit writing samples. A few short (300-400 word) articles and/or other writing samples should suffice. You will also need a resume that highlights your writing experiences. Don't worry if you do not have an English degree, many accomplished writers do not have a formal education (Although, it does help). If you are a beginning writer looking to break into the field, start small, and write for non paying information sites or blogs. Every writer had to start somewhere, and you will be surprised how quickly your writing portfolio will grow!
   Work at home forums and freelance writing sites have excellent leads for freelance writing jobs that pay well. Design Studios is currently hiring freelance writers. Expect to earn $15/article. One work at home mother stated that she earns $90/day working for Demand Studios on her own schedule, in between play dates and naps.

2. Determine Your Niche:
   Do you have a particular topic or genre that you like to write about? Be sure to focus your creative energy projects that interest you. Write what you know about. For example, do you like to write about bilingual education? If so, look for education writing gigs. When you are passionate about your subject, it will shine through in your finished product.

3. Treat Writing Like a Business:
   Some of the best freelance writers will tell you that they make money because they write on a consistent basis. If you have children and/or work full time, then freelance writing is an excellent career choice. Like anything, it takes time to become an established writing professional in this field, but it is worth it!

Tips & Warnings

• Gather/create writing samples and apply for many different freelance writing gigs
• Consider all types of writing. Web content/SEO writing is currently a growing field
• Gain as much writing experience as possible-start a blog, write for eHow.com
• Join forums and communicate/learn from other writers-become educated on the tricks of the trade
• Don't expect to become rich overnight (or ever)- you can make a modest living as a freelance writer, but it will take time

Resources

• Helping Freelance Writers to Succeed Since 1997
• About Demand Studios
• Secrets of a Freelance Writer, Third Edition: How to Make $100,000 a Year or More

[proudpapa]

on 9/7/2009 Informative stuff, true, but why not use "SPELL-CHECK" in your articles about writing? Almost all of them have errors . Perhaps ask a friend or neighbor to help you proofread if spelling is not one of your strongest skills. It may help you look more professional, which may help create further validity of your article(s). Good luck to you and all the best!

[kianakelly]

on 7/5/2009 Great advice! Thanks for the reminder about Demand Studios.

[writersmark]

on 5/18/2009 I've been freelancing for associatedcontent.com for 3 years,but I've finally decided I want to get out of retail so I'm branching out now. Thank you for your tips!

[FrazzledNanny]

on 4/23/2009 Thanks for the helpful article on making money online as a freelance writer. 5*

[rewrite810]

on 2/28/2009 Nice tips -- it's so hard to find a balance between work and family when working at home!