Working as a freelance writer has many pro’s and con’s—as does any field of writing. It is a great field of work for people who excel at writing, self-management, communication, and perseverance. With these skills and dedication to success, you will surely be a happily working freelancer in no time. We have provided a brief introduction as to how to become a freelancer for those interested.
When you want to work as a writer it is important to practice your craft, just like any other creative occupation. Experiment with different types of writing and find your niche. This will not only help you strengthen weaker writing skills, but also gain new ones and discover ones you didn’t even know you had. The tried and true statements still rings, well, true—practice does make perfect! Or as close to perfect a freelancer can come.
Not only does practicing strengthen and build skills, it also builds your portfolio. Use strong pieces of writing you produce to put on file in your portfolio. The portfolio speaks to your work and can be used in meetings, pitches, and for your own personal regard. The portfolio will be a way you can secure and lock in prospective clients.
With your practice and your portfolio, you will be ready to network. Any social opportunity is a chance to meet your next collaborator. Now, do not overwhelm people always thinking work, but also do not miss available networking opportunities. As a freelancer you will work for as many clients as you are comfortable with, and these people can be easily found in your regular life.
Strong communications is another way to succeed as a freelancer. Make sure that you are clear, prompt, and punctual. You will most likely be working remotely so it is important that you are able to manage yourself, and maintain professionalism simultaneously. Despite working remotely, you will have the same responsibility of delivering on time.
One more way to be a better freelancer is by workshopping your work. You can only strengthen your skills so much individually—so seeking the opinions of other cans be very useful. Look to other to get constructive criticism on ways to better your craft. This will take you above and beyond, as your writing will appeal to a wider variety of audiences.