If you’re looking to make money online, you’ve probably considered the lucrative world of freelance copywriting, blogging, or social media marketing. But how much can you really make? What are the typical terms and conditions of these gigs? How does one go about getting started?
Let’s look at the facts. According to the American Institute of Stress, freelancing is the second-largest occupation in the United States. More and more people are utilizing the internet to find freelance writing gigs, and the demand for content creators is expected to grow by 20% in the next five years.
If you’re looking to enter this field, it’s arguably a good idea to know what you’re getting into. Just like any other job, there are both pros and cons to being a freelancer. Here are just a few of them.
The Pros
As a freelancer, you will likely be required to come up with new content regularly. There are lots of resources available to help you with this, from scratch blogging to converting your own books into e-learning courses. The demand for content is endless, especially now that businesses are opening up online marketplaces where they can buy content they need.
Freelance copywriting is also a great way to build your reputation as a writer. By establishing yourself as an expert in your field, you can command high-paying freelance writing jobs. And if you have the opportunity to pitch and write for magazines, newspapers, and other websites, the exposure is invaluable.
The Cons
As much as we’d all love it if everything in life were perfect, it doesn’t work that way. The cons to being a freelancer are numerous and can really put a damper on your otherwise optimistic outlook on life. Since you’re not attached to any one employer, you have the potential to miss out on crucial deadlines and be reprimanded for lateness.
When you are self-employed, you also have the option to work when you want. There are no set hours in this line of work, so you have the freedom to choose your own schedule. While this may be ideal for getting some much-needed peace and relaxation, it can also mean that you will have to spend more time marketing yourself than actually producing content.
How Much Can You Make As A Freelancer?
If you’re wondering how much you can make as a freelancer, there are a number of variables that you need to consider. While it varies from person to person, the average Joe Blogger, copywriter, and social media marketer can expect to earn around $16,000 per month. Of course, you can sign up for a free blog and start writing. You’ll need to build up a portfolio of some content to show prospective clients. It’s also a good idea to join online communities of writers to develop connections and get started on your career. You can take this a step further and join forums where you can talk about writing. By participating in these online forums, you will get the opportunity to gain some invaluable insight into how to become a better writer. You’ll also have the chance to network and make connections that can further your career.
Is This A Legitimate Career Choice?
This is a legitimate career choice, but it certainly isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re looking for a steady paycheck and don’t mind the hustle, you could make a living as a freelance copywriter. But if you’re looking for a creative outlet and want to work with others, you might want to consider another option.