A writer can make bank with affiliate sales, shows, crowdfunding, and more.
The world of freelance writing is wonderfully diverse, and it can offer a variety of rewarding opportunities to writers. Whether you envision yourself as a full-time author or a creative content contributor, you can make a living from writing. There are many lucrative niches within the field, such as business writing, copywriting, website content, and more.
The Rise of the Platform Companies
The rise of the ‘platform companies’ has significantly altered the landscape of freelance writing. Companies like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Demand Media are the platforms which connect the demand for content with the supply of talented writers.
These companies make it easy for businesses to find the content they need, no matter the niche or subject matter. The content is typically not vetted or guaranteed to be of the highest quality, but given the demand for certain content, quality is rarely an issue.
Why Should One Consider a Career in Writing?
If you’ve ever thought about pursuing a career in writing, then you’ve probably asked yourself the same question I did: “How much money can I really make as a writer?” Let’s dive into the numbers to find out the real answer.
The Median Salary for Freelance Writers
A 2016 PayScale report estimates the median salary for a freelance writer is $24,000 per year. Although this figure may seem like a decent wage, keep in mind that it doesn’t account for inflation. In reality, since 2016, the cost of living has increased, and thus, the amount of money a freelancer needs to make is more than what the job pays.
According to the same report, about 45% of the surveyed freelancers say they’re unable to cover their basic living costs. This figure might be slightly higher for writers whose speciality is fiction, as the job doesn’t seem to provide many opportunities for those seeking to make a living from creative writing. But even for those pursuing journalism or non-fiction, this figure is worrying.
One of the main reasons why so many people are turning to freelancing is because it provides flexibility. Nearly 90% of the respondents in the same report said they enjoy the ability to work remotely.
Another popular freelancing perk is gaining experience. About 73% of the respondents said they’re looking to gain experience, despite having been in the industry for a while. This could be because there’s a perception that, with more exposure, your career will flourish. It’s a win-win situation – you can enjoy flexibility and gain valuable experience which might even land you a full-time gig. Sound good? It’s not difficult to see why so many people are attracted to this route.
The Future of Freelancing and Platforms
The future of freelance writing and the platforms that connect content creators and consumers together seems to be promising. The industry has adapted to changing times, and as a result, freelance writers are experiencing a renaissance.
In the next few years, a significant rise in the number of available jobs can be expected, especially in the fields of content creation and editing. If you’re looking to enter the field or are already a freelancer, then I’d advise developing a strong skillset in various areas.
Where Can I find Clients?
As a freelancer, the opportunities are virtually endless. You can take your pick of projects from a variety of businesses, ranging from small businesses to well-known brands. You can also develop niche specialisations which will make you stand out from the crowd. It’s a win-win situation for both parties. Businesses get the content they need, and you get to utilize your specialised knowledge.
Wherever you look, there will be businesses in need of content, and you’ll be able to point them in the right direction.
The Evolving Landscape of Freelancing
The landscape of freelance writing is changing, and so is your ability to make a living from it. Technology has provided us with numerous opportunities to flourish as a freelancer, and with the right knowledge and strong skills, you have every chance of achieving financial stability.
Looking for more information? I’d advise you to keep an eye on the trends, as more and more businesses are turning to digital marketing and content creation to grow their brands. Develop an expertise in SEO, content strategy, and optimisation, and you’ll be able to cash in on the trend while providing value to your customers.
There are many different routes to take in order to make a living as a writer. Whether you decide to pursue traditional freelance writing or opt for an alternative route, such as copywriting, web content, or editing, you can be sure of one thing – the opportunities are good and the money is waiting.