How to Become a Freelance Writer

Do you have a desire to become a freelance writer? If you enjoy writing blogs and articles….then why not get paid a set hourly rate (or per project) to do it? The following article will explore a sound avenue for the beginning steps of your freelance career.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Access
• Computer
• Pay Pal or Checking/Savings account for your money to be deposited

1. 
    

   Where?
   
   So, you want to become a freelance writer. Where do you start? There are a couple of reputable and free sites on the web. The two I recommend the most are Odesk and Elance. In that order. However, you can join any website with average-good reviews. My advice is to stick with the companies that have a BBB seal posted on their main/home page.

2. 
    

   How?
   
   Go to the freelance website of your choice and join. Be sure to create a detailed profile. Include a portfolio or a few examples of your work. For instance, attach a link to one of your blogs. Add a picture of yourself for extra response. However, if you look like Shrek avoid putting your picture up……as it will only discourage communication from potential employers.

3. 
    

   Apply
   
   - Start applying for listed jobs in areas that you feel QUALIFIED. Specifically, do not apply for a job to be a computer programmer/technical writer if you think that “Windows” are only something you jump out of. Most writers and authors tend to stick to searching in job categories such as blog and/or article writer.
   
   - Read and decide on the options of pay rate. Do you want a safe hourly rate or do you prefer a set fixed rate for completion of a set of articles? I prefer hourly on Odesk, because it is guaranteed payment. Whereas, fixed payments are not.
   
   - Apply to AT LEAST 10-15 jobs if you hope to receive job offers within a few days or less.
   
   - Make sure to write a good cover letter and attach a sample link of your writing to that e-mail.
   
   - Most importantly, BID LOW. (especially for beginners) I did not start getting 5-6 responses for interviews each week, until I dramatically lowered my bids. For example, I started my hourly rate at approximately $7.50 an hour. I did not catch the employers’ attention until I dropped that rate to about $4.25 an hour. Keep in mind that you are in competition with American and foreign workers (often from India) . Many of your fellow applicants will often underbid you. I assume that there is some rule that on a website, minimum wage does not apply?

4. 
    

   More
   
   - Check your e-mail and promptly follow-up when a company requests for an e-mail interview and/or more writing samples.
   
   - Fill out a W-9 form and fax it in to your new online workplace (I.e., Odesk, Elance, etc.)
   
   - Be sure that you download the required work program to your computer (ex: Odesk Team). This is how you get paid! It should be turned on at all times so that your new boss can view snapshots of your logged work and progress.
   
   - Take a look around in the community forums. These should help you with any questions that arise.

[meowysmiling]

on 8/31/2009 Thank you for sharing your tips! 5*

[xivyisazombiex]

on 8/26/2009 This is something i would love to do.

[surly-mac]

on 8/25/2009 Thanks for good, well written advice on how to become a freelance writer. I'll put it in my favorites and check out Odesk (although I do look a little "Shrek-ish"...)

[kidsleepinfo]

on 8/16/2009 Love the picture of Stonehenge. Great article too.

[ladybella]

on 7/30/2009 Great articles and the pictures are perfect.