How To Start Freelance Writing In 2023: Beginners Guide

How do I get started as a freelance writer? What skills do you need to be a freelance writer? These are common questions, and there’s an easy answer. Let’s dive in!

Who is a freelancer

Freelancers are self-employed individuals who work on project-based assignments. They are not constrained by the number of hours in the day, as they can work as many or as few as they desire.

Freelance writers are great for those interested in writing and don’t mind taking the time to learn how to grow their skillset. Freelancing is also great for those with experience in other fields who may want to try something new without committing and risking failure. 

The best way to start freelancing is by signing up for a freelance website that connects employers with qualified professionals looking for jobs. It’s also important to stay connected – it’s worth joining Facebook groups where you can post your CV and connect with other freelancers.

Defining freelance writing

Freelance writers are people who write articles, papers, books, blogs, or other texts for clients. They don’t work for one company but many different clients. 

Freelance writers typically do not have an office and can work from any place with internet access. What skills do you need to be a freelance writer? Some of the most important things freelance writers need to succeed are time management, creativity, research and analytical skills, excellent communication skills (both written and verbal), and the ability to meet deadlines. 

How do I get started as a freelance writer? Research what your client’s needs are. The more information you can find out about their needs ahead of time, the better off both of you will be during the process(more on this later).

The Pros and Cons

Freelancing is an exciting way to make money while retaining the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss. You can set your hours, take on projects that interest you, and explore different types of work. 

However, as with any job, some challenges come with being self-employed. As with any job, some challenges come with being self-employed. 

In this session, we’ll explore the pros and cons of freelancing so you can decide if it’s for you! The first pro is pay. If you’re good at what you do, you can earn upwards of $100 per hour in some cases (plus get health insurance). 

Writers who charge per word get paid according to how many words they write or how much time they spend editing/researching/editing their content. They also have more control over when and where they work than someone who works a traditional 9-5 job. 

Writers seeking employment through job boards will often be assigned articles to cover certain topics. Still, once they establish themselves, they might have more flexibility in choosing what type of topics they want to cover. 

However, working from home means you don’t get the benefits employers offer, such as vacation days, sick days, medical coverage, and dental coverage. Which could lead to higher expenses if not accounted for. 

Cons

One major downside of freelancing is that some companies require potential employees to pass exams before being considered qualified. These tests may focus on skills you didn’t learn in school, like coding or accounting.

Finding enough time to study and prepare for these exams can be hard because freelance writers often have other responsibilities like childcare or caring for elderly relatives.

And finally, the risk of unemployment is always looming because freelancers aren’t guaranteed a paycheck every week (even though they may make a decent amount each month).

The Best Platforms for Freelance Writers

Freelance writers have a variety of options for finding work. Some will post their own job listings, while others may use online platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Expaat to find clients. 

Suppose you’re just starting and have limited experience in the field. In that case, online platforms are your best bet because they’ll give you an opportunity to build up your portfolio before taking on bigger projects. 

One of the most popular emerging websites for getting Africa’s top talent is Expaat. which offers a range of positions, including academic research, data entry, graphic design, programming development, and sales. 

These sites also allow users to review freelancers’ profiles or portfolios before hiring them; if you want to keep your rates high, you must showcase only your best work.

Tips for Getting Started with Freelancing

Freelancing is an excellent way for students and professionals looking for supplemental income. If you’re already familiar with your work, it’s easy to see if there are any opportunities out there. 

You can then apply directly or through a freelancing website that offers online article-writing jobs for students or professionals. Once you find the right job, checking out the requirements and deadlines before accepting it is important.

Keep in mind the level of quality required for each project; this will help you determine how much time you’ll need to accomplish it.