There are many opportunities in the world of freelance writing, if you know where to look. Finding freelance copywriting jobs can be a challenge, despite the abundance of online sources promising lucrative work. For those seeking to break into the lucrative world of freelance copywriting, here are some tips on how to find the best possible work for your skills and interests.
Start A Blog
Blogs are an excellent way to build an audience and gain credibility as a writer, particularly if you can tie your blog to either a news platform or a brand. If you can combine the two, even better. As a writer for hire, you’ll be able to engage with and provide valuable content to potential clients on a regular basis.
When establishing your blog, make sure that you choose a niche and an appropriate name. For instance, if you are a travel blogger, consider using a travel-related niche name for your blog (such as menswear fashion blog named Mephisto or food blog named Four Seasons). If you are starting a personal finance blog, consider using a financial jargon-laced name (like moneyblogger.com or problogger.net).
Join A Society
Writing societies provide a great way to establish yourself as a professional writer, as well as to meet other writers and editors who can assist you in your quest for freelance copywriting work. Joining a writing society will also allow you to attend various events and meetings, as well as gain access to a wealth of publications (both print and digital) that can help you get started.
Find A Mentor
Mentors are great for helping navigate the freelance writing world, particularly in your early stages. Just remember that a mentor’s role shouldn’t be to give advice on how to write (although they may do so), but rather to teach you the ropes of the industry so that you can succeed as a freelance writer. A good mentor will help you identify your skills and interests, as well as provide valuable guidance on how to develop your copywriting career.
Get Some Clients
With a little bit of luck, motivation, and copywriting prowess, you can land yourself a few clients, which in turn, will greatly expand your freelance copywriting portfolio. Your first few clients will hopefully be small and medium-sized businesses seeking to expand their reach via online marketing or social media, or the like. As a rule of thumb, a good freelancer will typically take on one or two projects at a time, so that he or she doesn’t overextend themselves and end up burning out.
Don’t Expect To Get Paid Dearly
This is a big one. Not every piece of copy you write will result in a paycheck, particularly in your early stages. Instead, you will need to treat your copywriting job as a part-time gig, while you develop your skills and build your portfolio. You will eventually be able to negotiate higher rates for larger projects, but until then, you should expect to make approximately $1,000 to $2,000 per month, just for breaking even.
Look For Opportunities In Print Media
With the notable exception of Craigslist, the world of online classified advertising is still relatively small, particularly when compared to the traditional magazine and newspaper readership. Magazines and newspapers often seek emerging and established writers to contribute articles, particularly in the areas of lifestyle, health, and science. These are excellent opportunities to gain experience and build your portfolio.
To find print media opportunities, first consider looking at publications that have a digital presence as well (such as Buzzfeed, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal), as well as traditional print publications that have embraced online distribution. If you can, take a look at the publications they choose for their digital listings as well (e.g., the New York Times “Opinion” blog or the Wall Street Journal “Marketwatch” blog).
Check Out DontPayFull.com
DontPayFull.com is a fantastic resource for finding discount coupons, deals, and savings of all kinds, whether you’re looking for a laptop, TV, clothing, or travel. Additionally, the site is home to many professional writers who are looking for freelance copywriting opportunities, so you can apply with confidence.
Watch Your Back
Just like any other hustler in a city full of wolves, copywriting is an industry that is fraught with danger. Make sure that you are aware of potential rip-offs and con artists, particularly those who seek to prey on new or inexperienced writers. Many scams and tricksters masquerade as freelance writers, looking to steal your work and/or identity. Make sure that you are not being approached by strangers claiming to be affiliated with a media company.
If you follow the above tips, seeking freelancing work will be both fruitful and profitable. With a little bit of luck, motivation, and copywriting prowess, you can land yourself a few clients, which in turn, will greatly expand your solo copywriting portfolio. If you are seeking to break into the lucrative world of freelancing, then start a blog and begin establishing yourself as a professional writer. Don’t expect to get paid Dearly for your copywriting efforts, as there are many opportunities out there for freelancers, just waiting to be seized.