The demand for freelance writing services in 2024 is incredibly high. This in turn creates stiff competition amongst the growing numbers of freelance writers.
To get the best freelance writing jobs you need to stand out from the crowd. Read on to find out how to go about finding clients and landing jobs as freelance writers in 2024.
Tips to finding freelance writing jobs online
Before we dive in, remember finding clients is only a part of the equation. You must commit to delivering high-quality work on time and always be professional with clients.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding and keeping great freelance writing clients.
Build a strong online presence
An online presence can connect you with new freelance writing opportunities and communities of writers. It will not only assist you in finding freelance writing jobs but also help you learn new things and build important networks.
You can build your online presence through websites, job boards, writer directories, and social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter.
Other ways to improve your online presence are:
- Start a blog and post regularly
- Connect with other bloggers and share content
- Join online communities and groups for freelance writers
- Create a strong social media presence, including a professional profile and relevant posts
- Stay up to date with trends in the writing industry
- Offer free tips or resources to help others in their writing careers
Develop a niche and become an expert in that field
Choosing a writing niche and developing an expertise is one way to stand out from the crowd in this incredibly competitive market, even as a new writer.
When you focus on a specific topic, it becomes easier to target your ideal clients, develop strong relationships with them, and find premium freelance writing work.
Here are a few steps to help you choose a niche and find online writing jobs:
Define your areas of expertise
What are you good at writing? Do you have an experience in a particular industry? These are the topics that you should consider when choosing your niche.
Consider your target market
Who do you want to write for? You probably want to write for clients in a particular industry. When you determine who your target market is, it will be easier to choose a niche that appeals to them.
Test your niche
Once you’ve chosen your new niche, it’s time to showcase your writing skills! Test out different approaches and strategies until you find one that works.
Keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies
Remember that the freelance writing industry is constantly evolving, and so are the ways of looking for freelance writing jobs.
Every successful freelance writer must learn to adapt as new technologies emerge to stay ahead of the curve. Here are some of the latest trends and technologies that every newbie freelance writer should be aware of:
Social media
Social media platforms are increasingly important for promoting your work and connecting with potential clients. You must learn how to leverage social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to find freelance writing gigs.
Blogging
Sharing your work through blog writing is a great way to get your work out there. Either start your own blog or write for others – there are now more platforms and services available than ever before.
Digital tools
Many successful freelance writers already use AI-powered writing tools like Jasper and Surfer SEO. If you’re not already using one of these tools, now is the time to start!
You’ll be well-positioned to find freelance writing jobs online by keeping up with the latest trends and technologies.
Network with other writers and professionals in your industry
Networking offers opportunities to learn from those who have more experience in the industry and meet people with similar writing goals and interests.
This can help to build a supportive community that can offer job leads, advice, and lifelong friendships. In addition, attending writers’ conferences and workshops can also help to connect with other professionals and learn more about the industry.
Start cold pitching to get freelance writing jobs
As a new freelance writer, cold pitching can be daunting. However, if you are willing to put in the effort, cold pitching can be one of the most rewarding ways to find writing jobs.
The key is to be prepared and find ways to create a pitch targeted to a specific client. Do your research on the company or client you are targeting, and ensure you have a pitch tailored to their needs. Be clear and concise in your email, and follow up in a few days if you don’t hear back.
Remember, persistence is key to finding success in your job search. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away – keep reaching out until you find a client that’s a good fit for you.
Use job boards and freelance writer directories
Below are some tips on using job boards to find freelance writing job opportunities.
Create a strong profile
Present your skills to freelance writing clients through your profile. Include writing samples, links to your online portfolio, website, or blog, and brief information about yourself.
Be sure to proofread your profile carefully – you are offering your writing services, so you want to make a good impression on prospective clients!
Search job boards for writing opportunities
Spend time searching the job sites for writing jobs matching your skills and interests.
Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs slightly out of your comfort zone – you never know what you might be able to land! Some of the freelance jobs you can find on job boards include:
- Copywriting jobs
- Creative writing
- Article writing/content writing
- Technical writing
- Freelance resume writer
Stay organized
Keep track of your job applications. Keep a spreadsheet or a folder where you can store all of your applications, so you can easily follow up if you haven’t heard back from a client.
Platforms for freelance writing opportunities
Upwork
A quick search on the platform generates more than 6000 jobs found for the keyword ‘blog writing’ alone.
With thousands of jobs posted each day, you’ll be able to find work that matches your skills and experience. Upwork is an easy-to-use platform and makes setting up your profile and bidding on projects simple.
Fiverr
Fiverr is the perfect solution for new freelance writers, as many people and businesses are hiring freelancers on Fiverr, so you’re sure to find something that fits your skills and interests.
Surfer SEO Writer Directory
Surfer SEO has grown from nothing to a $7 million SaaS company as of the first quarter of 2022.
As a content writer looking to get more clients, spending the time to get listed in the Surfer SEO writer directory will give you access to a large pool of potential clients.
Creating a profile and marketing your skills on LinkedIn allows you to connect with potential clients and find opportunities that fit your talents.
Wrap-up
Starting a freelance writing career can be daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. Getting your first freelance writing client can feel impossible, but it’s doable with the right tips and strategies.
We’ve presented actionable steps to help you find clients and start your successful freelance writing career.
