Freelance Writing Rules: A Brief Introduction

So you want to be a freelance writer? Working from any location and on your own schedule holds a huge appeal to, well, most everyone. Unfortunately, it's not all fun and games, especially when you are first starting out in the freelance writing world. However, there are some rules to keep in mind that will help put you on the right path to a lucrative career.

Rule # 1 ~ Know Your Strengths

When you first start out as a freelance writer, you will want to stick to what you know. If you are great at writing in a particular topic or niche, then pursue those writing jobs to help build up your writers' resume and gain some experience. Writing articles and blog posts from topics you have experience with will shine through in your work and make your job a lot easier.

Rule # 2 ~ Hone Your Abilities

Gaining work through your strengths is a great way to start out, but eventually you will need to hone your abilities. This includes getting proficient at researching out facts and turning them into engaging articles or writing in different tones and styles to meet the client's needs. Strengthening the areas you are weaker in will pay off by opening up new job opportunities.

Rule # 3 ~ Learn to Pitch

A part of being a freelance writer is seeking out avenues to write in. In order to do this, you will need to learn the proper way to pitch your ideas and yourself. This skill can mean the difference between writing for a well-known publication or just scratching at the surface for any job you can find.

Rule # 4 ~ Feast or Famine

The life of a freelancer is usually one of "feast or famine." There will be times that you have so much work you will wonder how you will ever get it all finished, then other times you will be wondering where all the clients have gone. Be prepared for these ups and downs of the industry.

Rule # 5 ~ Persistence

Perhaps the most important rule of freelancing is being persistent. This business can be very frustrating and stressful, but if you stick it out, you will meet your goals. Use your down times from paying jobs to hone your abilities and do some cold-calling to publications or businesses you want to work for. Using your time wisely and staying focused will always pay off in the end.