ALT-1 How to get Ahead as a Freelance Writer
Success in freelance writingis more than knowing the perfect words that impress the readers. It requires a lot of confidence, consistency, patience and knowledge which is the reason why failure rates among freelance writers are extremely high.
Most newbie freelance writers quit with their freelance writing careers after just months (or even weeks) of seeing no signs of life. Needless to say, freelance writing is a slow and steady, long-term game. It rewards consistent, smart and restless effort.
The following are several ways to effectively jump start andget ahead as a freelance writer.
Tip 1: Start a website – a home turf where you can sell and promote your work.
A freelance writer’s website serves as the platform from where he can sell and promote his work. A freelance writer’s website should display the writer’s portfolio of works and other sample pieces. It should tell the story of the freelance writer, citing both his achievements and experiences related to freelance writing.
Tip 2: Write for passive income for revenue sharing content websites.
Writing for passive income in sites like Helium, Suite101, Associated Content, Bukisa, Demand Studios and Squidoo is a great way to start your freelance writing career. These sites offer a combination of upfront and residual royalties that can entice newbie freelance writers.
Tip 3: Sell yourself to potential clients. Write cold e-mails to website owners that may be looking for content.
Clients won’t normally go after you. Opportunities don’t come, you have to grab it. Writing cold e-mails certainly take a great deal of courage and confidence and that is why most freelance writers have a hard time looking for private clients.
Look for a content website and directly contact the webmaster to inquire about the website’s writing needs. Don’t get disappointed whenever you’re rejected – chance are you’ll be rejected nine out of ten times.
Tip 4: Establish your web presence. Utilize the power of social media.
Freelance writers must also establish their web presence by utilizing the power of social media. They should join sites like Facebook, Twitter, MySpace and create profiles in professional social networks such as LinkedIn.
Tip 5: Research for bigger markets and better paying work.
Freelance writers should constantly look for bigger and better markets. They should not tie themselves with just one particular site. Successful freelance writers know and reap the value of diversification. In writing, it is important to diversify your portfolio and create different income streams.
