As a beginner in the field of freelance writing, there is one thing you must have figured out – finding work is not the problem; finding high-paying work is. So what have you done about it? Are you working jobs that pay peanuts simply because you thought that’s all you could make as a freelance writer?
You couldn’t be further away from the truth. It is very much possible to have a lucrative career as a freelance writer – even with all the competition. What you need do is pay close attention to a few basics.
1. Start Blogging
Yes, it is hard work. Yes, you have to keep it updated and ensure its quality. But starting your own blog will help your build brand and spread awareness about your services like nothing else can. Also, try to get yourself a professional blog with a premium domain name. Bear in mind that xyz.com makes a greater impact on your potential clients than xyz.wordpress.com or xyz.blogspot.com.
Design a “hire me” page meant to scare away low-budget employers. This may sound almost arrogant, but it will go a long way towards ensuring that you only attract clients that can pay you what you are worth.
2. Identify your services
Your potential employers are not looking for ‘freelance writers’. However, they are looking for ‘content marketers’, ‘copywriters’, or ‘technical writers’. Your clients think about their goals, not your process. If they need a professional white paper written, for instance, they will contact a professional white paper writer rather than a ‘freelance writer’ who writes about everything.
By assuming the generic label of a ‘freelance writer’, you may well be denying yourself some high-paying offers. Identify your area of interest and expertise and start advertizing for those particular areas – such as posting articles relevant to these areas on your blog.
3. Research potential big clients
You will have absolutely no trouble seeking out clients on content aggregator sites. However, the time and effort saved on research is used up in writing scores of articles that ultimately pay you much lower than what you could potentially earn by pitching directly to high-paying clients. The smart move, thus, is to quit hopping around bidding sites and freelance job
The smart move, thus, is to quit hopping around bidding sites and freelance job boards and instead invest your time and energy in finding your own markets.
4. Market yourself
Remember the golden rule: freelance writing is more about marketing than about writing. You may have a flair for writing, but without effective marketing, you will not receive your fair share of payment. Social media has today emerged as a key marketing tool for businesses and services big and small. Maintain a good online presence on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. Post regularly, share relevant
Maintain a good online presence on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. Post regularly, share relevant material and link to all your published work. Good marketing is key to attracting clients in greater numbers – which allows you the luxury of choosing high-paying ones.
5. Do not rely on a single assignment source
Already have your first client? Great! But remember to keep aggressively marketing yourself. This not only ensures you have a safety net but also keeps you informed about the availability or lack thereof of higher paying opportunities.
It may take months, sometimes close to a year to find a niche as a high-paid writer. The research and target-pitching route is indeed slower. But it is most definitely more lucrative.
Would you rather be rummaging around among the low-hanging fruit just waiting to be snatched up by anyone with a keyboard or would you patiently wait to reap the higher rewards?