Going freelance has always been a challenge. Now though, with new blogs and influencers emerging, it seems everyone is writing. It can be both a thrilling and varied job decision though. You can work from home, travel, be self-employed and have bylines in national magazines and newspapers. If you are wondering how to pull a Carrie Bradshaw and start a freelance writing career, here are the principles to keep in mind.
Be professional
You have to present yourself as a professional from day one. Be organised and follow up your pitches with courteous emails. Invest in a website and put a portfolio together. Even if you wouldn’t consider certain pieces professional enough, do not fret, you can use any stories you have. Do you have a blog? Did you write for your university paper? Use all of those clips too.
Network
Having a network of fellow writers is invaluable. Search for local writing groups or use social media to follow writers you love. The writing world tends to be very welcoming, so don’t worry about asking questions. Figure out what your niche will be, if it is fashion then attend the various fashion weeks, if it is travel then read various travel books and maybe contact the author praising them. They will have their own network and if you’re passionate and engaging, they could include you too.
Hone in on your skills
When you have money coming in, start investing in yourself and start treating yourself like a legitimate business. This is a career, not a job for some pocket money. Take a class to become an even better freelancer and pitching courses to get even more work published. Find a mentor, someone who is more experienced and can give you solid career advice.
Read
Becoming a full-time freelancer means becoming a full-time storyteller. Your workday isn’t going to be typical and you won’t be able to compare it to that of your friends. You will need to keep up with the news and everything happening around you. You will also need to know your writers, read a lot and consider joining a book club. For good journalism reads, we recommend Betrayal and Cupcakes and Kalashnikovs: 100 years of the best journalism by women.
Believe in yourself
To boost your confidence as a freelancer, learn how to be assertive. Have the ability to express your feelings and beliefs directly. Stand up for yourself, not only against those who disagree with your views but when it comes to your fee as well. Know your worth and believe in it.
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