How To Write Articles For Freelancing

Introduction.

If you’re thinking about diving into the world of freelancing as a writer, you’re in the right place. The idea of writing articles for a living can sound exciting, but figuring out how to actually make it happen can be a bit overwhelming.

The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need a fancy degree or years of experience to get started.

With the right approach, you can start writing articles that not only pay well but also help you build a sustainable freelance career.

Writing articles for freelancing is about more than just putting words on a page. It’s about understanding what clients want, learning how to craft content that stands out, and mastering the art of meeting deadlines and expectations.

The great thing about freelancing is the freedom to choose your projects, set your rates, and work from anywhere. But to succeed, you need to know how to write content that people want to read.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about writing articles for freelancing. From the basics of getting started to tips for improving your writing and finding clients, I’ve got you covered.

How Do I Write Articles For Freelancing?

1. Understanding the Freelance Writing Landscape

Before you start writing, it’s important to know the world you’re stepping into. Freelance writing is a huge industry, and it’s only growing.

According to the Freelance Forward Report by Upwork, over 59 million Americans freelanced in 2020, contributing $1.2 trillion to the economy. That’s a pretty big market! But it also means that the competition can be tough.

To stand out, you need to understand the different types of freelance writing. As an article writer, you’ll likely focus on content like blog posts, news articles, product descriptions, or how-to guides. But depending on the niche, the style and tone of your writing may change.

For example, a tech blog may require a more formal, informative style, while a lifestyle blog might have a casual, conversational tone.

2. Getting Your First Freelance Writing Gig

So, how do you land your first freelance writing job? It all starts with putting yourself out there. The best way to begin is by building an online presence.

Create a profile on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. These websites let clients post writing jobs, and you can submit proposals to them. But just having a profile isn’t enough.

To make sure potential clients choose you, you need to showcase your writing skills. Create a portfolio with samples of your work, even if it’s just a few blog posts or articles you’ve written on your own.

Don’t worry if you don’t have any paid writing experience yet—just show what you can do. If you’re just starting, consider writing for free or at a lower rate to build your portfolio.

3. Nailing the Writing Process.

Once you get your first gig, it’s time to dive into the writing process. The best way to approach any article is to break it down into manageable steps:

• Understand the Assignment: The first step is making sure you understand what the client wants. Read the instructions carefully, and if you have any questions, ask before you start. Sometimes, clients will give you a specific topic or keywords to focus on, so it’s important to be clear from the beginning.
• Do Your Research: No matter what the topic is, you’ll likely need to do some research. Even if you’re already familiar with the subject, a little extra digging will help ensure your article is accurate and up-to-date. Use reliable sources like reputable websites, academic journals, or news outlets.
• Create an Outline: Before you start writing, outline your article. This helps organize your thoughts and ensures you don’t miss any important points. Break your article into sections with headings and subheadings to make it easier to follow.
• Write the Draft: Now it’s time to get those words down. Don’t worry about making it perfect at first—just focus on getting your ideas on paper. You can always revise and refine later.
• Edit and Proofread: After you’ve finished the draft, take time to go through it and make sure it flows well. Check for grammar and spelling mistakes, and make sure your article is easy to read. Tools like Grammarly can be helpful for catching errors.
• Submit Your Work: Once you’ve polished your article, send it off to the client. Don’t forget to double-check any formatting or specific requirements they’ve asked for. If the client requests revisions, be open to feedback and make the necessary changes.

4. Improving Your Writing Skills.

One of the best things about freelancing is that you can continuously improve your craft. The more you write, the better you’ll get. Here are a few tips to help you improve your writing:

• Read Regularly: Reading articles, books, and blogs in your niche will help you stay updated on trends and improve your writing style. Pay attention to how other writers structure their articles and use language.
• Write Every Day: The more you write, the more you’ll improve. Try to set aside time each day to write, even if it’s just for fun. Writing consistently will help you develop your voice and refine your skills.
• Seek Feedback: Ask clients or fellow writers for feedback on your work. Constructive criticism can help you see where you can improve, whether it’s in your writing style or the way you research topics.

5. Setting Your Rates and Managing Your Time.

As a freelancer, setting your rates can be tricky. You want to make sure you’re being paid what you’re worth, but you also want to land gigs, especially when you’re starting out. Here’s a rough guide:

• Starting Rates: When you’re just getting started, it’s okay to charge lower rates to build your portfolio. Rates for beginner freelancers usually range from $0.03 to $0.10 per word.
• Experienced Rates: As you gain experience and build your portfolio, you can gradually raise your rates. Established freelance writers typically charge between $0.10 and $1 per word, or more, depending on the niche and complexity of the writing.

In addition to rates, you also need to manage your time well. Freelancing means you’re responsible for everything—finding clients, writing, invoicing, etc. Use time-management tools like Trello or Google Calendar to keep track of deadlines and tasks.

6. Finding Clients and Building Relationships.

One of the keys to long-term success as a freelancer is building strong relationships with clients. Don’t just treat it as a one-off transaction—try to create repeat business. Here’s how:

• Be Professional: Always meet deadlines and communicate clearly with clients. Respond to emails promptly and be polite in your interactions.
• Deliver Quality Work: If you consistently provide high-quality content, clients will keep coming back. Make sure you’re always improving your writing and delivering what’s promised.
• Ask for Referrals: Don’t be afraid to ask satisfied clients for referrals or testimonials. A positive review can help you land more work and build your reputation.

FAQs

How do I get my first freelancing writing job?

Getting your first gig might take some time, but you can start by creating profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Make sure to showcase a few writing samples, even if they’re from personal projects.

How much should I charge for my writing?

As a beginner, you might charge around $0.03 to $0.10 per word. As you gain experience and build your portfolio, you can raise your rates.

Remember to factor in the complexity of the topic, your experience, and the client’s budget when setting your prices.

How do I improve my writing?

Improving your writing comes with practice. Read articles, write regularly, and seek feedback from others. The more you write, the better you’ll get.

Conclusion

Freelance writing can be a rewarding career if you’re passionate about writing and willing to put in the work.

With the right mindset and approach, you can build a steady stream of clients and create a freelance career that gives you the freedom to work on your terms.

So, are you ready to start your journey into freelance writing? What’s the first step you’re going to take today?