60 Tips for Getting Started in Your Freelance Writing Career

Every day new freelance writers visit FWJ seeking tips for getting started. We hope to answer them all, but we can’t always respond. Instead, I enlisted the help of some friends and compiled the best tips for beginning freelance writers. Feel free to add yours in the comments.

60 Tips for Getting Started in Your Freelance Writing Career

1. Research the types of freelance writing jobs: It’s important to learn about the different types of writing and think about the tasks that suit you best. For instance, there are different writing styles applied to web content, blogs, copywriting, newspapers and magazines. Knowing the difference between all of these are important before you begin so you don’t promise something you can’t deliver. My number one tip is always to research.
2. Research freelance writing rates: How will you know what to charge without knowing something about rates? If you look at some webmaster forums, you might think $3 for a 500 word article is the norm. However, further research will show you most freelancers agree this is way too low. Learn as much as possible about rates and then…
3. Set your base rate: Set your base rate before you begin. Mind you, it’s OK to adjust from time to time for various projects or clients, but give yourself a starting point and stick to it. If you only look for jobs paying that amount or more, you’ll never fall into a low paying rut. Moreover, if you’re asked for a rate quote, you can offer one with confidence.
4. Build up your freelance writing portfolio: You’re going to need writing samples to show your potential clients. This is easier said than done when you’re starting out, especially if you haven’t written for any clients yet. However, you can still create samples of your own. Write a series of informative articles on your favorite topics and use these for your portfolio, at least until you have more published clips.
5. Make a list of things you’re good at: Get nichey. Make a list of all of your areas of expertise. This will give you a place to start when looking for work. Perhaps you’re an expert in green matters or maybe you know everything there is to know about automobiles. Use your knowledge to establish your expertise and make a name for yourself in that genre.
6. Browse the freelance writing forums: Freelance forums are the best places to learn about freelance writing. The regulars share ideas, tips and advice all the time. You’ll find no better way to network online and learn from your peers.
7. Browse the freelance writing blogs and websites: Plenty of your fellow freelance writers have writing blogs or websites. Read as many of these as you can, especially when just starting out. Everyone has stories to share about this business and the advice is invaluable.
8. Find other writers to follow on Twitter: Do a search for other freelance writers on Twitter. Follow and network. Share ideas and links. By following others you’ll learn – and discover the places hiring writers.
9. Check out the job boards: Even before you’re ready to start writing, you should be reading the job boards every day. This gives you an idea of what is out there and the various pay rates. You’ll also be able to identify a legitimate job ad against the spammy stuff. Find the best places to find freelance writing jobs.
10. Determine how you’re going to find time to write every day: Think you can just sit down and write each day? Mmm hmm. So did we. Didn’t turn out that way though. Most freelancers have the best of intentions but find a different reality. Determine your business hours. Find blocks of time you can work undisturbed. You’ll thank me for this one.
11. Find a spot for writing: Not everyone has an office, but finding a specific spot to work is a big help. Before my husband converted a small bedroom into an office I used the kitchen table and then a small table in a corner of the dining room. Having a spot to call yours will help to put you in the right frame of mind, and will show others your not just some hobbyist.
12. Network: Find the places to meet other writers and potential clients both online and off. Join some professional groups and attend conferences. Face to face networking is still the best way to build your business.
13. Research cover letters: Before applying to some freelance writing jobs, find a few cover letter samples and tailor them to suit your needs. When it comes to first impressions, you don’t want to wing it.
14. Research resumes: How do other freelance writers set up their resumes? Do they list past employers or just the freelance gigs? If the funds are there, consult with a resume professional to put together the best resume and cover letter package you can.
15. Research writers agreements or contracts: A contract will save you from getting ripped off by a spammy client. It will also set up the terms before the job begins and show good faith between both parties. Agreements also allow you raise your rates if the client starts adding work. Find some sample writing agreements here.
16. Set up a PayPal account: Most web based clients now pay via PayPal. Some old school writers and a few newbies are hesitant to trust PayPal, but it’s very secure. Just about every freelancer who writes for the web has a PayPal account. Set yours up before you begin.
17. Create a marketing program: How are you going to market your service? What will you do to let potential clients know you’re in business? Develop a plan prior to getting started.
18. Develop a blog or website showcasing your writing: Most clients prefer links to online published works than to receive email attachments. A website or blog showcasing your work will allow them to see everything you do with a simple click.
19. Make a list of the types of clients you’d like to work for: Who do you wish to work for? Make a list and  research how to land these types of clients.
20. Take some grammar and usage refreshers: This tip comes from @WOTV on Twitter: “Best tip: Refresh grammar and spelling skills. Nothing says unprofessional writer like misspellings or awkward sentence structure.”
21. Research taxes: Freelancers need to file quarterly. Research how you will pay taxes and deductible items. The rules for freelancers aren’t the same rules that apply to Joe OfficeWorker.
22. Eliminate distractions: Think of all of the things that will cause you to procrastinate and work on eliminating them from your working environment. Move your desk away from the fridge and out of the same room as the television. If you can find a space where you can close the door and work undisturbed, all the better.
23. Get your own laptop: Even though having your own office or work space is best, there are times when you’ll want to take it on the road. You may need to work while your child is taking piano lessons, or take your laptop into the family play area. You’ll also be able to work while on vacation, at conferences or visiting relatives.
24. Research Bookkeeping programs: Thursday Bram contributed this tip via Twitter:”Get an easy bookkeeping option in place — you don’t want to try to be figuring out invoicing after you’re already in business.” Plus you’ll want to keep track of your earnings in order to adjust your hourly rate and make sure the end justifies the  means.
25. Set goals: What do you hope to accomplish as a freelance writer? Perhaps you want to see your name in a particular magazine, or maybe your goal is a monetary one. Setting goals keeps you productive and on track.
26. Do your best to stay away from really low paying work: Set the standard BEFORE you begin. Everyone has to start somewhere, but settling for less than minimum wage before you begin just leads to bad habits. Once you accept that first easy $3 gig, it’s hard to get out of the low paying rut. Nip it in the bud before it happens.
27. Prepare for rejection: I have news for you.  Rejection is going to happen. Maybe a lot. Welcome to the club. All writers, even the best writers, receive “thanks but no thanks” emails. Don’t take it personally, consider it a rite of passage.
28. Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask your favorite bloggers, Ask in forums. Ask on Twitter. You’ll find other freelance writers are very helpful.
29. Create a kickass bio: Your clients are going to Google you. No, really. And those people you hand out business cards to at neworking events? They’re going to Google you too. So are people you meet online, people who read your writing and even people who you know as friends and family. Give them something to read. Create a killer bio so they know you’re a winner.
30. Practice with writing prompts: Do a search for writing prompts and use them to keep those creative juices going  between jobs.
31. Brush up on the rules: This Twitter tip comes from B.Allen Wilkins via Twitter: “Freelancers who plan to do anything with advertising, endorsements, or testimonials should read up on FTC regulations”.
32. Learn where to find free, legal images: Did you know it’s illegal to use someone’s image without permission? Find the best places to find free, legal images.
33. Learn the rules regarding copyright and plagiarism: You can’t just post another writer’s work on your blog or in your article. Learn the legalities of using someone else’s work. (Hint: If you don’t have permission, pass.)
34. Join various freelance writing groups: Social networks, writing websites, forums, schools and local organizations all sponsor writing groups. Find the ones that appeal to you and join to learn and network.
35. Scope out where to find free WiFi hot spots in your area: If you’re alone at home all day you’re going to get lonely. Find out who is rocking the WiFi and take your show on the road. Work from coffee shops, libraries or parks to be around others. Become a regular and make friends.
36. Research scams: Don’t allow yourself to get taken. Research the various writing scams.
37. Know you should never have to pay to find work: Here’s how it works: you write, you get paid. It’s never the other way around. Reading fees, application fees, entry fees…they’re all bogus. You should never have to pay a client to hire you.
38. Know that it’s ok to turn down work: Not every job is for you. Perhaps it’s not a good fit or maybe you have too much on your plate. It’s ok if you have to say “no” once in a while. Do what you can not to burn bridges. It will put you in your client’s good graces to recommend a writer to take your place.
39. Try not to go too far outside of your comfort zone: We all take jobs we don’t particularly like. There’s no shame in getting the bills paid, after all. Do your best not to stray too far from the jobs you enjoy most. Getting outside of your element can lead to a situation where you’re not doing your best – and that can result in the loss of a client.
40. Brush up on SEO: If you’re writing for the web, your clients will expect you to know basic SEO or Search Engine Optimization.
41. Consider an editorial calendar: Editorial calendars help you keep track of jobs and plan in advance. They will also remind you of upcoming deadlines. Options for editorial calendars include Outlook, Google Calendar, a whiteboard and even a regular wall calendar.
42. Assess your abilities: This tip comes via Twitter from Kristen Fischer: “Assess your writing abilities and what you’re good at/need help with. decide if you want to do mag/business writing.” Figure out what types of writing are most suitable before you begin.
43. Practice cold calling: Not many freelancers enjoy cold calling, but those of us who have done it will tell you we landed some lucrative gigs as a result. Practice. Make a script. Ask others what they think.
44. Know writing is a small part of the job: Freelance writers have to be bookkeepers, administrative assistants, marketing professionals and more. Writing is just a small part of the job. Most of your time will be taken up with finding work, networking and marketing your business.
45. Know you’re a person not a machine: No you can’t write 50 articles in a day. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.
46. Know you don’t have to write for free or “exposure”: Please. Some random web guy won’t do much for your career.
47. Look for markets beyond the usual job boards: Many of the best opportunities aren’t on your favorite freelance writing boards. Create your own opportunities and you’ll find you’re earning the big bucks.
48. Try to stay away from topics you know nothing about:  If you write about repairing the engine on a garbage truck, and you know nothing about a garbage truck, it will show in your writing. The web is filled with bad information because writers will take any job to earn a few bucks. Don’t write crap. Write what you know, or at the very least, don’t write stuff you have no business writing.
49. Know the difference between “writing” and “rewriting”: Writing is creating unique content using your own words, knowledge and research. Rewriting is Googling someone else’s work and changing the words around. Unique content rocks. Rewriting isn’t writing.
50. Make sure family and friends know this is a job: One frustration freelancers share is how disrespectful family and friends are of our time. They mean well but they feel that because we’re home, our time isn’t as valuable. Set the ground rules from the very beginning.
51. Know it’s OK to negotiate: Your base rate is exactly that, a base. It’s OK to negotiate with clients. It’s also fine to offer discounts or raise rates for extra work.
52. Know it’s OK to adjust prices for different clients: If Client B doesn’t have the same budget as Client A they don’t have to pay the same rate. Client B. may be so impressed with your willingness to work with him, he’ll recommend you to other potential clients and maybe even raise your pay rate as soon as he receives more funding.
53. Think about health insurance: Someone in your family is going to have to pay the medical bills. If your spouse isn’t working, or if you’re single, you’ll want to research affordable health insurance. There are some decent options available for freelancers and small business owners.
54. Decide whether to use your own name or a pseudonym: Some writers prefer a pen name so their personal life doesn’t collide with their professional life. It’s a matter of preference and works either way.
55. Determine whether or not you should incorporate, become a sole proprieter, an LLC or…? There are pros and cons for each. Determine which works best for you.
56. Spread the word: From Jenn Escalona via Twitter “Tell everybody you know that you are freelance writing. No one will know to pass writing work your way unless you put the word out!” Get some business cards and spread the joy.
57. Don’t quit your day job: Make sure you will be able to pay the bills. Don’t quit your day job unless you have several months salary in the bank or your spouse is in a position to help support the family while you build up your business.
58. Go with your gut – Go ahead and read the various freelance writing experts, but make the choices that are best for you. We have suggestions and we know what worked with us, but all freelancers are different. Trust your instincts.
59. Know it’s very difficult to work at home with kids: Your kids are going to want your attention every time you sit down to work. You may think it’ll be easy to work at home with kids playing but you’re in for a rude awakening. Most freelancers will tell you it’s better to find time to work without the kids, rather then when they’re home or awake.
60. Just do it: The only one holding you back  is you.