There’s a freelance writing job market that’s exploding right now. That’s partly thanks to the demand for writers as more and more businesses turn to freelancers to meet their staffing needs. Do you have an excellent vocabulary, an aptitude for explaining technical subjects, or a knack for storytelling? Plenty of brands and organizations will be eager to hire you for your skills and expertise.
This article covers the ins and outs of getting hired as a freelance writer, from why it’s becoming a viable career choice today to tips on landing your first steady gig. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about landing that freelance writing job today.
What is the freelance writing market like?
When we think of freelance writing jobs, we tend to picture a self-employed writer who works with brands as a content marketer, copywriter, or editor. But there’s an option growing in popularity: freelancers who work part-time or on a project basis. This type of work is becoming more common as businesses shift their workload to freelancers. Many companies have found they can save money and time by hiring freelancers rather than full-time in-house writers.
Why is getting a freelance writing job so hard?
The freelance market has grown exponentially over the past few years, with the Philippines being one of the world’s largest. That said, finding clients and getting hired isn’t easy. Many aspiring freelancers must develop the skills necessary to succeed. Sadly, there are also a lot of scams and opportunists, so you need to be extra careful when looking for clients.
Where can I find quality clients?
We highly recommend starting with your existing contacts. Cast a wide net by expanding your gig search to business directories, social media, and networking groups. You can also find gigs on job boards and by connecting with other freelancers. Remember that winning your first client may take time, so you must invest time in networking before seeing results.
What skills do clients look for when hiring writers?
Clients want freelancers who can do various tasks, including research, online publishing, and basic search engine optimization. In other words, clients seek a freelancer with many skills and talents. Of course, the most important of these skills is writing. Clients want writers who can produce quality pieces on time and within budget. You should also be familiar with the types of writing clients may require, such as reports, blog posts, and emails.
How do I get noticed by clients?
The best way to get noticed is by building a professional presence online. Stand out by using blogging or social media platforms popular with your target audiences, such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram. Send out outreach emails and leave comments on blogs. Create a landing page or even an up-to-date website that is easy to navigate. Get creative with your logo and profile images. The most successful freelancers are proactive and reach out to people authentically.
Conclusion
Freelancing can be a very tough proposition. Many people will tell you that they have never needed a writer or don’t have the resources to hire one. Yet, despite their impressive resumes, they fail to leverage their skills and expertise. If you aspire to become a freelance writer, here are some tips to help you get hired.