Freelance Writing Tips - August 5, 2007
Writer's Resources...
Can You Make a "Real Living" as a Freelance Writer?
If you dream of never punching a time clock again, or asking your boss for time off, the answer to the above question is a resounding "Yes!" Becoming a freelance writer has certain benefits. For starters, writers enjoy the luxury of working from home and setting their own hours. There is also the perk of controlling your income. If you need extra cash for vacation, home improvement, etc. - simply apply for additional freelance opportunities and watch your income increase.
Many successful freelance writers began their career as a part-time writer. Writing may have been a way to supplement their income or payoff credit card debt. Whatever the motivation, it doesn't take long for a part-time writer to realize that he or she can earn their same full-time salary, or more, working less hours. Consider this example, the average freelance writer earns about $20 per hour. If your aim is to make $100 a day, you can achieve this goal in five hours! You can write in the mornings, and have your afternoons free.
Of course, before taking a leap of faith and becoming a full-time freelance writer, you've got to have a game plan.
If you want to make a "real income" as a freelance writer:
1. Write for Magazines: These markets pay substantially more than online markets, and writers can walk from the deal with $500 - $1000 for one article.
2. Work on Multiple Projects: Patrol the online job boards daily and apply for several different opportunities. Avoid unreasonably low-paying jobs. To make a living, look for gigs that pay at least $15 an hour.
3. Become an Expert: You'll occasionally come across a job ad that wants articles on a boring subject. If the project entails a lot of research, some writers will disregard the post and look for projects within their niche. This is perfect for you! You can become an expert is golf, poker, mortgages, real estate, etc. When there's a need for articles in your niche, you can apply for the opportunity and present yourself as an expert in the subject.
4. Be Disciplined: Manage your freelance writing like a real business. Working from home presents a whole new set of challenges. Aside from completing freelance assignments on time, you'll likely juggle housework, errands, cooking, and the children. Come up with a writing schedule, and don't let anything interfere with your work. If necessary, hire a part-time babysitter.
Can You Make a "Real Living" as a Freelance Writer?
If you dream of never punching a time clock again, or asking your boss for time off, the answer to the above question is a resounding "Yes!" Becoming a freelance writer has certain benefits. For starters, writers enjoy the luxury of working from home and setting their own hours. There is also the perk of controlling your income. If you need extra cash for vacation, home improvement, etc. - simply apply for additional freelance opportunities and watch your income increase.
Many successful freelance writers began their career as a part-time writer. Writing may have been a way to supplement their income or payoff credit card debt. Whatever the motivation, it doesn't take long for a part-time writer to realize that he or she can earn their same full-time salary, or more, working less hours. Consider this example, the average freelance writer earns about $20 per hour. If your aim is to make $100 a day, you can achieve this goal in five hours! You can write in the mornings, and have your afternoons free.
Of course, before taking a leap of faith and becoming a full-time freelance writer, you've got to have a game plan.
If you want to make a "real income" as a freelance writer:
1. Write for Magazines: These markets pay substantially more than online markets, and writers can walk from the deal with $500 - $1000 for one article.
2. Work on Multiple Projects: Patrol the online job boards daily and apply for several different opportunities. Avoid unreasonably low-paying jobs. To make a living, look for gigs that pay at least $15 an hour.
3. Become an Expert: You'll occasionally come across a job ad that wants articles on a boring subject. If the project entails a lot of research, some writers will disregard the post and look for projects within their niche. This is perfect for you! You can become an expert is golf, poker, mortgages, real estate, etc. When there's a need for articles in your niche, you can apply for the opportunity and present yourself as an expert in the subject.
4. Be Disciplined: Manage your freelance writing like a real business. Working from home presents a whole new set of challenges. Aside from completing freelance assignments on time, you'll likely juggle housework, errands, cooking, and the children. Come up with a writing schedule, and don't let anything interfere with your work. If necessary, hire a part-time babysitter.
