Many people dream of living the unfettered life of a freelance writer. Such a life, they believe, offers the opportunity to choose what work you do and when you do it. It releases you from the daily grind of commuting to the office and back.
Much of this is true, but freelance writing is not all about freedom. There are deadlines, bills to pay, meetings to attend, and emails to answer, so most freelance writers work to a schedule, and many work long hours.
Let’s look at what it takes to be a freelance writer.
What to expect
A freelance writer’s typical day
Though days may differ as business and personal needs converge, a typical day for the average freelance writer may look like this.
6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
The day starts with a cup of coffee and a quick look at world and business news. Overnight emails and messages received through other instant messaging apps are next on the agenda. Messages about work requirements and deadlines are transferred onto a running work diary, ensuring that nothing falls between the slats.
8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
It’s time to take a short break for a light, healthy breakfast and another cup of coffee. After breakfast, the research and writing start. Writers develop their approach to how best to do this. This is also a good time to edit work ready for submission, as the brain is fresh and more likely to pick up errors and omissions.
12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
The early afternoon block starts with a light salad lunch or sandwiches washed down with a cold drink. This is also time to sort out personal matters like shopping for dinner or attending to household needs.
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Back to writing. The afternoon block is spent completing the written work of the day.
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Freelance writers deal with customers across the globe, and some require meetings from time to time. This block of time is ideal for meetings with US clients as their morning coincides with the afternoon in Central Europe. This is also an excellent time to tie loose ends and prepare for the day ahead.
Weighing it up
Pros and cons
- Flexibility.
- High demand.
- Uncertainty.
- Low pay for beginners.
Do you qualify?
Skills and education freelance writers need
Unless you can string a few words together, freelance writing is not for you. Whether you’re a copy or content writer, writing your first book, or a journalist, you need a broad vocabulary and a way with words. Though online writing tools can help to perfect your spelling and grammar, you must have above-average grammar skills.
Research and good general knowledge are other essential tools in freelance writing. With a degree of some sort, you will also have specialized knowledge that you can use to write more in-depth content. In the internet world, it helps to understand the technicalities of search engine optimization. Well-written, interesting work will attract an appreciative audience.
As a freelancer, you’re on your own. Some technical aptitude helps if you run into computer or software problems; curiosity will ensure you keep up with new software innovations. If you work for clients in different environments, you may use a mix of software packages, so adaptability and quick-learning skills will keep your work relevant.
Lastly, a freelance worker must have self-discipline. You have client deadlines to meet and bills to pay at the end of the month. You can’t always control the pace of the incoming work, and clients don’t care about the problems you may face in meeting deadlines. Self-motivation and prioritized daily schedules help make the deadlines happen.
Career prospects
Are freelance writers in demand?
As the power of the internet has grown, so has the demand for freelance writing. Every business needs a website, and someone must write the content. Business owners know they need website traffic to grow their businesses. The best way to draw traffic is to publish engaging content to attract the interest of potential customers.
Entrepreneurs often don’t have the time to write the content they need; they have businesses to run. This is where freelance writers can step in and do the necessary work.
Getting started
Is it hard to become a freelance writer?
It isn’t hard to become a freelance writer if you are disciplined and motivated to write for hours. You may find freelancing difficult if you can’t market yourself, and remaining focused without external input is a problem. If you’re an extravert, you may find it challenging to work in isolation. You can relieve the isolation by spending time in public places like coffee shops or hiring desk space in shared offices.
Ready to go?
How to start your freelancing writing career
The first obstacle you’ll face in starting your career as a freelance writer is selling yourself without any experience. The easiest way to overcome this problem is to join an online freelancing site. You’ll have to temper your income expectations in the first months as you build up a clientele and a portfolio.
Social network sites like LinkedIn also offer opportunities for making contacts. Once you develop a reputation as a reliable source who always delivers top-quality work, clients will recommend you to colleagues needing similar services.
In conclusion
Should you consider freelance writing?
If you want to travel the world and still make an income, freelance writing is an excellent choice. All you need is a laptop, an internet connection, and writing skills. You can write from anywhere on Earth whenever you find time, but having a daily schedule will ensure you meet your financial goals.
