Discovering the optimal platforms for freelancers can prove to be a difficult task, and establishing a steady profession in the realm of freelance writing is highly demanding. Unlike stable occupations in corporations that provide a predetermined income each month, freelance writers do not necessarily reap the same benefits. This is predominantly due to the uncertain characteristics of the profession, particularly when one is embarking on a career as a freelance writer.
Tips to land a freelance writing gig through freelance sites
If you have experience, you may have a portfolio with plenty of samples. However, if you are new to freelance writing, it can be overwhelming as many clients prefer writers with previous experience. Nevertheless, there is still good news for beginners in that you can make a good amount of money in freelance writing.
If you want to increase your chances of getting your ideal clients, keep in mind these crucial tips before applying for freelance writing projects on various freelance writing platforms.
1. Work on your portfolio
Regardless of the platform you choose, it is necessary to present your writing portfolio to the client when applying for any writing job. Your portfolio should include all your previous writing samples or work, which clients can review to assess your writing abilities. A well-maintained portfolio signifies that you are a skilled and experienced writer. It is important to regularly update your portfolio with new content.
When creating a portfolio, it is important to be meticulous and selective. Including only your finest writing samples is vital. If you have published content under your name, it is advisable to include it in order to enhance your credibility as a writer and demonstrate your previous writing experience. Even if you are a novice, you can still include your top writing samples in your portfolio.
If you are new to working with clients, you can include your best writing samples, even if they were not created for a client. The important thing is that your writing style and the quality of your content are evident in your samples.
2. Niche down
Instead of trying to work in all areas, it is more beneficial to specialize and focus on a specific niche when working as a freelance writer. Clients tend to prefer freelance writers who have experience and expertise in a particular niche, rather than those who write about all subjects. If you are new to freelance writing, it may be helpful to explore various niches and determine which one interests you the most. Once you have made your decision, you can then concentrate on learning and developing your skills in that particular niche.
3. Personalize your pitch
Instead of using the same pitch for each client, take the time to create individualized pitches that highlight how you can assist them. Many writers often make the error of focusing on their own accomplishments and what they have achieved as a writer when pitching to clients.
In order to reveal the truth, your client desires to hear about the potential assistance and added value you can provide to their work. Dedicate some time to refining your pitch and thoroughly understanding their background and the type of work they anticipate.
4. Focus on networking and building a personal brand
In the digital age, the impact of social presence and networking is remarkable. Improve your social media profile and connect with individuals in your industry. By prioritizing the development of your personal brand, you can attract opportunities effortlessly, without having to exert extra effort to acquire clients.
Begin by joining social media platforms and spreading your experience to a wider audience. Although progress may be gradual at first, gaining approval from users will allow you to establish a dependable persona that will draw individuals in.
To establish yourself as an expert, begin by utilizing various social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. It is important to note that clients will often evaluate your online presence, so it is crucial to make a positive impression.
5. Offer GuestPosts
One of the best strategies to guarantee a strong portfolio is by offering guest posts. This is particularly beneficial for beginners. By writing brief guest posts and proposing to clients to write for them at no cost, you can obtain valuable evidence of your writing abilities. The advantage? You can utilize these as genuine proof of your writing skills.
Now that you have a clear understanding of the necessary steps for pitching a client and finding work, you are inching closer towards securing your writing gig. Let’s examine these freelance writing websites for further insight.
1. Writers work
Writers Work is an all-in-one platform for freelancers, serving as both a jobs board and a resource hub. It brings together writing opportunities from various websites onto a single dashboard, allowing users to conveniently apply for appropriate gigs and effectively manage their submissions.
We discovered freelance writing opportunities in various fields such as copywriting, ghostwriting, content writing, journalism, and others. To access these opportunities, you will be required to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee. This service is beneficial for new freelance writers as it saves time, and the fee charged is low. Nevertheless, if you have already obtained sufficient suitable job prospects, you can opt to cancel your subscription.
2. Blogging pro
Blogging Pro stands out from other freelance writing platforms on this list, as it offers a wide range of job opportunities beyond just content writing. Individuals seek various positions such as:
- Journalism
- Editing
- Copywriting
- And magazine writing.
If you are interested in branching out from content writing to pursue another field, this is an excellent choice. The Blogging Pro job board offers numerous popular niches.
- Social media content writing
- Stock market writing
- Poker news writing
- And celeb writing.
If you are a freelance writer with a busy schedule and multiple clients, this job site is ideal for you. They inform you within 24 to 48 hours of your application if you are approved. Additionally, they have a blog that offers assistance to freelance writers in various aspects, such as acquiring more clients, writing articles, and requesting referrals from current clients. Therefore, if you are new to the freelance writing field, Blogging Pro can be extremely beneficial.
3. Freelance writing job board
This website that offers freelance writing services has been around since 1997, making it one of the older ones on the list.
This job board stands out from others as it includes job listings from other sites such as Indeed and LinkedIn. Nevertheless, if you prefer not to visit other platforms to apply for jobs, you have the option to filter out listings that are not related to Freelance Writing.
4. Contently
Unlike other freelance writing sites, Contently goes a step further by actively facilitating connections between writers and prominent international companies like Coca-Cola, GM, Walmart, and Google. This presents a great opportunity as it allows writers to earn more by collaborating with well-known brands and proudly showcase their work on their portfolio website, which can attract more clients in the long run.
