Beginner's Guide for a Freelance Writer to Make Money
By- Harneet Kour
Writing has been my passion all along. I started writing for the benefit of my passion and to earn little additional money. Over the years, freelancing has developed into a full-time career. It wasn't as easy a ride as it looks. If you are proficient,willing to be prone to this skill and have patience, then freelancing could just work for you.
There are a few FAQ's you need to read and understand before you go any further. Here they go:
- Can you start making money within days of starting?
It can be a little tricky. As a novice,finding paid work is a challenge. It would be helpful if you had a portfolio for the client. It helps the client to gain an understanding of your skills. You may be refused sometimes due to lack of experience. Do not be disheartened. I would suggest you take paid internships as content writers. You’re going to gain experience and make a little money that way.
- What skills are required to earn money as a freelance content writer?
Be up to date with writing conventions. Try to create original content that will appeal to the readers each time. Nobody will hire you if you switch on to copy and paste shortcuts. Plagiarism is a crime in this business. If you are considering providing copied blog content,your career is over before it begins. Also, as a freelance writer, do not get stuck at #justwriting. Expand your skills like search engine optimisation, content marketing, customer-facing, digital marketing and more. The more expertise you build, the more reach you have in the content industry.
Getting back to the key point: how to make money as a freelance writer. Here are some tips to start your journey.
* Create a Blog.
Once you've decided what nich you want to pursue(make sure it's a very profitable niche), create a blog. Strange it may seem, but you may be making money by setting up blogs. You can get paid to write on your own blog via sponsored articles, affiliate connections and advertising. And on top of that, you can start your own blog in just 10 minutes. What are you waiting for? Start working on your own.
*Pitch a Guest Post.
As a beginner, this is the most common and strongly recommended way to earn cash. Visit the blogs surrounding your niche. Start interacting and commenting on blogs. Read as much as possible and learn their style of writing. Write an article about something that could interest them. Pitch, whether they are interested in hiring an author/blogger to their blogs on a regular basis.
Companies continue to advertise hiring positions for required freelance writers and bloggers. Don't miss any of these posts. Apply in accordance with instructions. If you do not get a response ,follow up by polite email to find out your status.
*Write for a Literary Magazine.
What do you get to write for a literature magazine? Validation. If your work is published in a literature magazine, you should be proud of yourself and your editorial skills. And yes you also get Marketing value. Your name will be out there in the marketplace appealing to the new readers.
Literary magazines include fiction, essays, poetry, literary critique, visual arts, book reviews, author
profiles,letters and interviews. Some of these journals benefit from financial assistance from the government or universities. While others are financially dependent on their subscriptions.
The amount you can earn entirely depends on which literary magazine you get a shot at getting published in. Your pay will also depend on the monetary situation of the magazine.
*Self-Publish Your Own Book on Amazon.
Nothing is more important than writing something that your readers value. Write about a subject that you know immensely and that your readers may find relatable.
You can also write novels or poems for publication. Although printing a book can be one,but time-consuming and costly, you can opt for the E-book edition on Amazon.You may either hire a graphic designer or design the cover book yourself.
Ensure you select the most relevant keywords and categories for your e-Book.
In terms of pricing, remain realistic. Amazon, Flipkart and other companies
charge a small fee. Make sure you optimize the pricing accordingly. Target the masses and keep the e-book pocket friendly for the readers.
* Building Credibility Even If You Are A Beginner.
A lot of time and effort goes into establishing your credibility. However, you need no stress in this regard. Just keep a few important things in your mind and things will be sorted out.
First, value yourself and your content. Set a level for your editorial services that are neither too high nor too low. And by all means, non-negotiable. Changing your pricing will cause customers to suspect a loophole and doubt your skills. Learn how to gain respect from your customers by offering quality content.
Then ask your clients for testimonials. A word from a happy client can be miraculous. It creates professional connections and confidence between you and the client. Furthermore, it leads other customers to try an experience working with you.
If you are not interested in taking up a project for whatever reasons- lack of time, price or demanding client, learn to refuse more politely. It will still keep you in his good books.
I hope the above tips would help you get started with earning money.
All the Best!
Harneet Kour
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