Tips for Making a Living as a Freelance Writer: Freelance Writing as a Career

Many freelance writers make substantial income from their work, even though a new freelance writer often struggles to earn a living, as well as mastering the art of freelance writing. At times, it seems as if there are no easy answers. 

The article, “Freelance writing career, job opportunities and career resources” shows ways you can “actually make money as a freelance writer”.

Every freelance writer has to start somewhere when it comes to making a living. Are you developing your writing skills? If you are serious about pursuing freelance writing as a career, you could be among those who are successful.

Consider the following tips: 

Become proactive with respect to freelance writing:

When you make the decision to become proactive with respect to being a freelance writer, you will experience new motivation. Focus on your freelance writing career and set definite writing goals. 

Learn what motivates you to write:

What is your primary motivation? In other words, what triggers your desire to write? Perhaps you simply love writing. If your goal is primarily money-oriented, you may become extremely frustrated, particularly if your writing does not sell immediately. Your motivation will be apparent in your writing and may prove to be a major factor in your sales.   

Set up an appropriate location to write:

Every freelance writer needs an appropriate location to write, although serious writers write almost anywhere. Most freelance writers prefer writing in a relatively quiet place where interruptions are minimal. If you are planning to do freelance writing as your career, it becomes a business venture for you and setting up a business office is appropriate.   

Begin to write every day:

See each day as a brand new day, one that is a potential inspired writer’s day. Make a habit of writing something daily and gradually increase the volume of what you write. Ask others, preferably those you trust, to read and criticize what you have written. Remember that criticism and rejection are the most difficult part of a freelance writing career, but you can get past that. Take their comments or criticisms seriously, but follow your muse, not theirs.

Start to write about what you know:

Initially, if you write about what you know, you will find that freelance writing comes more easily to you. Gradually begin to write about things that you are not familiar with, but be aware that you will need to do research which can either excite or discourage you. As you are researching, make certain that you use reliable sources and document them appropriately.

Explore different genres of writing:

Become familiar with different genres of writing, as some genres are easier to write when you are just beginning your career as a freelance writer. It is fun and exciting to explore different realms of inquiry, especially when you realize the power of words.   

Learn how to write as a professional freelance writer:

Professional writing is more marketable than non-professional writing, so learning how to be a professional writer is important. Creative writing courses may prove beneficial. Consider taking computer courses like web design, photography or graphics to compliment your writing. You may want to set up a blog or establish your own domain.     

Network with other freelance writers: 

Even if you plan to be an independent freelance writer, establish an interactive network with other freelance writers, as soon as possible. They can help you get over major hurdles like the frustration of writing, the stress of meeting deadlines and discouragement related to writer’s block, etc. They may also help you find appropriate publication sites and potential markets for your writing projects.

Learn how other freelance writers earn a living as freelance writers:

Many freelance writers are successful and able to offer positive, constructive suggestions with respect to writing, publishing and marketing freelance writing. Remember that initially most writers are writers, not marketers, so networking with literary agents who specialize in marketing can prove beneficial.  

Create a writing portfolio and platform:

Creating your own writing portfolio and setting up a freelance writer’s platform will help you and others to recognize the seriousness of your freelance writing career. How do you want readers to see and know you? 

This decision is yours to make; it is up to you to act upon it as an entrepreneur.   

Following these tips will help you to establish your career as a freelance writer. You will also find that your motivation and skills increase, as you continue to write and that you are able to make a substantial living as a freelance writer.