How Freelancers can Stay Busy when they have no Paying Jobs Lined up
One of the biggest draws to the freelance lifestyle is having the freedom to work whenever you want. For this reason, many freelance writers waste their downtime between assignments. While it's nice being able to take a break when you're not working on any paying jobs, it's also smart to reinvest downtime back into your business. Higher rates, better clients and a more comprehensive set of skills can all be yours, if you're willing to make the effort. Even just a few extra hours per week can make a difference in your success, helping you line up more clients or earn money during your downtime. Working harder now means playing harder later, so keep your eye on the prize. Here are some examples of how freelance writers can stay busy when they have no paying jobs.
Update Your Portfolio
Your portfolio is often a client's first look at you as a writer. Seeing your credentials, clips and former clients is often enough to tell someone whether they want to work with you. If the most recent clip in your portfolio is from 2004, it's time to spruce things up. Add links and other information about recent assignments, especially those you're particularly proud of. If you've worked for a high-profile client or been published in a well-known media outlet, make sure to feature that prominently. For writers looking to work in a particular niche, showcase your niche-specific experience.
Of course, updating your portfolio also means having one in the first place. If you don't have a portfolio, now is the perfect time to start one. Even if you're a new writer and don't have much experience under your belt, having a place to refer potential clients is essential. Do some research on setting up a portfolio and writer's resume, as well as registering a domain name and setting up a simple website.
Advertise
Once you've polished up your portfolio, it's time to draw attention to it. Try advertising your freelance writing services to draw in potential clients. Try advertising on sites like Craigslist, or in newspapers or magazines your ideal client is likely to read. Pay-per-click (or PPC) advertising can also drive potential clients to your portfolio, starting at just a few cents per click.
Don't discount advertising your writing services directly. Have some business cards or flyers printed out, and leave them at local businesses potential clients might frequent (such as coffee houses or universities). Attend local job fairs, small business expos, and other networking events where you're likely to meet people in need of professional writing. Some clients prefer to work with people they've met face-to-face, so going this route may put you in front of a whole new crop of clients.
Build Blogs
One way to make your downtime more productive is to build blogs and websites. Not only are these more outlets to add to your portfolio, but they can also make you some additional income. Try building a blog about something you're passionate about, such as a favorite hobby. Between advertising and participation in affiliate marketing programs, your blog could eventually become a nice second income (or even overtake your freelance writing earnings). If you're unsure how to get started blogging for money,ProBloggeris an excellent resource.
Consider Content Writing
Another opportunity to earn money while you're not working for clients is to work for content writing websites. Content writing websites allow you to post articles you've written as a way to earn passive income. Some offer you a portion of their advertising revenue, while others pay you each time your work is viewed. In both cases, these websites can help you earn anything from pocket change to a serious income. To really succeed as a content writer, understanding SEO techniques is an important supplement to your writing skills.
There are dozens of content writing outlets online, with Helium, Associated Content, Bukisa and HubPages being among the most popular. Your income at these websites tends to compound over time, so don't be discouraged if your first few articles aren't big earners. Try building up your writing at multiple sites to really maximize your passive income.
Learning
Last but not least, one of the best ways to stay active between clients is to sharpen your skills. With any job, more skills usually means more income. Improving your writing is the most obvious place to start learning. Look for writing tips for a format you struggle with, or work on your vocabulary. Another easy starting point is filling any gaps in your business understanding, such as accounting or marketing.
Once you have a solid grasp on the principles needed to run your freelance writing business, expand your education. Consider taking some college courses, enrolling in an online degree program, or seeking out professional certifications that can increase your bottom line. If there's a field you'd like to specialize in, look for related training. If you're at a loss for where to start, search online for other freelance writers. Check their portfolios (which can signify their success) against their credentials, and work from there.
As you can see, there are numerous ways to build your business – even when you're not “working.” While none of these is likely to transform your income overnight, a continued investment will make a big difference. Time and effort may be all that are keeping you from the success you seek, so start sooner rather than later.
