On Being a Freelance Writer

To be truthful, I accidentally became a freelancer. I was in between jobs after a layoff, actively looking for another full-time position, when a previous co-worker asked if I could write copy for her construction business. Once the project was completed, she recommended me to another person who needed their website updated. Four and half months later, it occurred to me that perhaps I was officially in the business of freelancing. And I better figure some things out.

Start with You

Take stock of who you are as a writer: don’t be shy about identifying your strengths, interests and goals. Would ghost writing be something you’d be good at? Will you focus on non-fiction, fiction, corporate websites or marketing? Having an area of specialization will help you stand out in the crowd. Define exactly what services you will offer – SEO optimization, editing, proofreading, ad copy, brochures?

You need a website, business-oriented blog, or social media page – some way to get noticed. If you can’t afford a domain, consider free options like Wordpress or Wix.

Be on time for meetings; practice good phone etiquette; meet deadlines promptly; and present yourself to your best advantage – first impressions really do count.

Know What to Charge

As a new freelancer, knowing what to charge for individual projects was my biggest stumbling block. I typically ended up undercharging. I love writing, so when I landed a project, I wrote. Don’t do that! Before starting an assignment, figure out how much time is involved for researching, writing and editing and then charge accordingly. What you charge should be based on what you need to pay for monthly expenses, etc.

Business Plan

It’s important to develop a business plan. Itemize the services you will offer; visualize your target market and determine how you will reach them; list monthly expenses and other financial requirements (entertainment, savings, etc.); and outline your goals, both short and long term.

Include a backup financial plan (cookie jar slush fund) for those times when clients don’t pay on time or some other money-related emergency occurs before your rent is due. I find that a weekly budget keeps my day-to-day finances on track. If you need guidance with any of the business aspects, there are many resources for freelancers available online.

Networking

I can’t say enough about connections and connecting to others in the freelancing business. Effectively utilize social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn and Pinterest to your best advantage. Join online groups that will help you navigate the unpredictable waters of freelancing. Don’t forget about in person, face to face networking. Join a local group for small business professionals and entrepreneurs. Don’t go anywhere without business cards. Have an introductory spiel prepared in case you’re asked who are and what you do.

Personal Time Management Plan

While the one thing I enjoy the most about freelancing is the ability to structure my day the way I want, I can very easily get distracted or become unproductive. Have a personal time management plan and make a schedule. Prioritize projects with deadlines and outline daily tasks. Because a freelancer can feel like they’re always working, don’t forget to include some quality “me” time.

You Should Still be Working

Don’t have any projects or deadlines for the first week of July? It doesn’t matter – you should still be “working.” Take this opportunity to do more networking, revamp your website or develop a general business proposal that you can send to prospective clients or companies you would like to write for.

#copywriting #freelancing #writers