Studio Blog

The Demand Studios Team would like to introduce the first of a series of guest blog posts from Deb Ng on freelance writing.

I’d like to thank Demand Studios for inviting me to blog here regularly on the topic of making the most of your freelance writing career. Each week we'll discuss ways to diversify and get ahead as a freelance writer. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me via the comments, email or at the DS forum.

If you’re working for Demand Studios, you already have an interest in freelance writing. For some of you, Demand Studios serves your needs and you’re not necessarily hunting up other freelance writing clients. However, I also know many of you have other aspirations and hope to branch out with your clients and pay rate.

I’m happy to help with some suggestions.

When I’m asked of the first steps writers should take when starting to freelance, this is what I tell them:

Research

A common mistake made by many brand new freelance writers is to jump in blind. You may be in a rush to get started, but please slow down. Take some time to research. Learn about the various opportunities and how they pay. Look around the job boards to get an idea of the types of gigs- and  research how to land those jobs.  Read books, articles and blog posts offering tips for pitching, querying , and running a freelance writing business.

Determine the type of writing you wish to do

Determine if you want to continue writing for the web or if you wish to branch out into print. There are so many options. You might even consider writing for businesses as a copywriter or technical writer.  Something to keep in mind is how the different types of writing require different tones and formatting. One of the reason I enjoy blogging is because of its conversational tone. However, remembering to shut it off for something more business-like for my clients can be a challenge. Always consider whether or not you can set the right tone before you apply for a gig.

Set your rates

If you visit all the freelance writing jobs blogs, you’ll notice how rates discussions incite a lot o f passion.  Some forums and blogs have outright fights over what writers should charge. I can’t tell anyone what to earn, and I'm not going to do it here. I believe It depends on each individual’s personal situation. I can tell you there are factors you need to consider when setting a rate including taxes, overhead,  and hours worked including research, interviews, actual writing, and desired profit. For determining an hourly rate, the Freelance Switch Rate Calculator might help.

Look for work

Ok. So you researched, thought about rates and have a good idea about the types of writing you wish to do. Now it’s time to look for work. This is going to take a big burst of confidence. When I first began writing I doubted my ability and it took me two years of hanging out in the research stage before I gathered enough courage to apply for the first gig. So take a deep breath and just do it. Visit the different job boards and find the work that interests you the most.

Tip: Potential clients tell me  they’re sometimes frustrated by writers who pitch without thoroughly reading their ads. Sometimes there are specific instructions which, if not followed to a T, will cost you the gig. Clients feel that if you can't follow their instructions in your pitch, you probably can't be counted on to pay attention to details for their projects.


Network

Something you’ll hear me say a lot is how everyone is a potential client. The social networks are terrific for sharing ideas, meeting other writers and even landing a gig or two. Building up relationships and trust with your friends and followers can lead to exciting offers.

Offline networking is important as well. Attend conferences, seminars and meetups. Don’t forget to print some business cards so potential clients have a way to contact you.

Rejection

In Stephen King’s book “On Writing” he tells the story of how he hung a railroad spike on the wall next to his writing desk and filled it with rejection letters. I often relay this story because I believe it illustrates how even someone with amazing writing skills will receive rejection notices. This is a normal part of the job and is nothing personal. It can be a blow to the ego, but don’t let it get you down. If you receive a rejection notice, tell yourself you’re in good company.

So? Are you ready to give it a try?  Take some time and think about where you want to take your career. Right now is the best time to be a freelance writer with so many opportunities for the taking.

Freedom of choice is such a beautiful thing.

Questions? Comments?

Tell us how you're managing your freelance writing career. Talk to us in the comments – or share your own tips for getting started!

 

Recommended Resources

Try these blogs and resources to help get you started:

Freelance Writing Jobs  – A blog network and community devoted to everything freelance writing

Freelance Switch: A popular blog devoted to everything freelance

Freelance Folder: Ditto the above.

About Freelance Writing: My friend Anne Wayman has been doing this for a long time. Though she didn’t know it at the time, she was sort of my freelance writing mentor when I was first getting started.

The Renegade Writer Blog: Linda Formicelli, author of “The Renegade Writer” offers tips for writers of all levels.

The Well Fed Writer: Peter Bowerman proves six figure freelancers exist.

PoeWar: Job tips, job leads and served up with a bit of humor by my friend John Hewitt.

Carson Brackney: What will Carson rant about today?