Making Money As a Freelance Writer: Real-World Tips for Turning Your Words into Cash

“The reason why many people struggle to make money from their writing is that they lack the knowledge and experience necessary to take it up as a full-time profession.”

This is what I was told when I first started out as a freelance writer. I mean.. think it through if you are a beginner how will you successfully make money out of writing? It is true that finding success as a freelance writer takes more than just being able to write well-researched content.

In this newsletter, I will explore the practical tips and strategies that aspiring freelance writers can use to make money from their writing. I will cover topics like:

• Finding niche markets that offer the most bang for your buck

• Leveraging social media to increase visibility and land clients

• Crafting a portfolio that stands out from the crowd

• Working with clients to find high-paying opportunities

So buckle up, and let’s start exploring the world of freelance writing, and how to make money out of it!

• Finding niche markets that offer the most bang for your buck

Finding a niche can be overwhelming as there are thousands of different niches out there. A few things I recommend before selecting a niche include:

1. Research the competition and trends in your field.
2. Look closely at the demand for your topic, as this will give you an indication of how much money you can make from it. (Use google analytics & Twitter, to check for trends and to know how many people are talking about the subject).
3. Look for niches that have not been saturated and where you can offer something unique to the market.
4. Lastly, if you are still super confused, just make your hobby your niche.

• Leveraging social media to increase visibility and land clients

I am an INTROVERT! lol, so I know how hard it can be for most introverts to get out there and use social media for business. But trust me, if you want to find success as a freelance writer, you will have to make use of the power of social media.

So here’s how I used the power:

1. Connected with fellow writers. Consider them as your friend rather than your competition. It’s a perfect way to learn and grow together. Just search using keywords like “Freelance Writer”, “B2C Writers”, etc, and start following people who have the same interest.
2. Joined groups and forums related to freelance writing on Facebook Groups, LinkedIn, Twitter, or other platforms (like Mighty Networks).
3. Engaged in conversations to showcase my knowledge. If anybody had any query related to freelance writing or digital marketing, I was always available to answer it.

TIP: Don’t just click, comment, and leave. Try to build relationships with other writers.

• Crafting a portfolio that stands out from the crowd

As a beginner, you will need to put together a portfolio that showcases your writing skills and experience. Here are a few tips to consider when creating an effective portfolio (with NO clients):

1. Write about topics you are passionate about and knowledgeable in.

2. Engage with readers — use visuals, videos, infographics, and stats that can draw the reader in.

3. Showcase your research and data-driven content.

4. Build case studies to demonstrate how you can help your clients.

5. Keep writing consistently with a publishing platform like Medium, Substack, and LinkedIn.

• Working with clients to find high-paying opportunities

To land those high-paying gigs, you will have to prove yourself to the clients. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Take part in pitch competitions — You can find these everywhere, from Twitter to Instagram and LinkedIn.

2. Cold Pitching — Look for potential clients by searching LinkedIn, following their social media accounts, and sending a “personalized message” with showcased samples of your work. One mistake to avoid is copy-pasting the same message to everyone. Not every employer is looking for the same thing, so make sure you research the company and position thoroughly. While you draft the pitch, start with a brief appreciation message on why you like their work and why you’re the perfect fit, introduce yourself, and talk about your experience and how it can benefit the client, before you conclude with a call to action.

Another way to do this is: Go to any of their copy or post or blog and rewrite it with your own words. Mention to them that “this is your version”, “this is what you did differently, and why you did that”.

3. Leverage seasonal gigs — these are the gigs that come around during special times like holidays, birthdays (Father’s Day, Mother’s Day), etc. Most companies hire writers during these times to create special pieces for their customers. Keep your eyes open, use keywords like “looking for writers”, and “hiring freelance writer”, etc on LinkedIn/Twitter/Instagram — and you’ll find plenty of opportunities. Share tips and tricks on Social media about the best ways to write during these times to attract even more clients — Not only will it help you to build your personal brand, but also show potential clients that you are an expert in your field.

4. Upselling services — Once you have established yourself as a reliable writer, start offering other services like SEO, keyword research, etc. to boost your rates and create an even better portfolio.

These are just some of the strategies that I followed to become a successful freelance writer. It takes dedication, hard work, and patience but in the end, the rewards are worth it.

Good luck & Happy Writing :)!

Thank you for reading!

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Hey, my name is Rashi Modi, I started as a crazy fan of social media and now I am a social media marketer and copywriter. In my free time, I like to read books (especially self-help & business), listen to music and podcasts (I am obsessed with One Direction), and of course, learn new things related to social media. I have worked with 20+ brands to help them with their content creation, social media strategy, and marketing funnel ranging from startups, small businesses companies, and personal brands/ consultants. Want to chat about your social media and content strategies? Click here to book a call! Talk Soon :)