RETURN TO WRITING STRATEGIES

Making a Living at Freelance Writing
By Terri Mrosko

How do you make a living freelance writing? After devoting a year and half to the business, I've concluded the best way to make money is to diversify.

When just starting out, you may need to field a broad range of projects, just to make ends meet and get a name for yourself. For instance, in addition to writing articles for newspapers, magazines, trade publications and online sites and ezines, I am establishing a strong presence in my community as a writer and desktop publisher.

Other Sources of Income

I write newsletters for clients and create marketing brochures. One client's newsletter led to my being contacted to write a resume. I've done advertising write-ups for a real estate agent. I've done proofreading for a graphic design company. I've provided content for Web sites and program guides. I can create an event flyer and write proposals. I can write a business plan to help a client solicit seed money for their business.

The list is endless and will continue to grow as the word of my skills continues to expand. I am considering other writing-related projects such as campaign literature and working as the part-time communications director for a mid-sized downtown company. I always keep my options open and look for new ways to sell my services.

Join the Chamber of Commerce

I recommend freelance writers join their local chamber of commerce. You will interact with other business owners on a regular basis and build ongoing relationships. I established myself as an interested and eager participant in all chamber matters, and never missed an opportunity to distribute a copy of my own newsletter as a marketing tool.

After a year of attending monthly breakfast, luncheon and after-hours meetings, I was asked to submit a proposal to create and manage the chamber's monthly newsletters. I also count quite a few members as regular clients who continuously refer me to others.

Growth Potential

A good source for freelance writers looking to expand on their skill base is "The Well-Fed Writer" by Peter Bowerman. This Atlanta-based writer established a lucrative career in freelance commercial writing with little previous writing experience. Of course he had talent, but it's his persistence and marketing savvy that made the difference in his success.

The other strong word of advice I can offer is to maintain a professional image and follow-up, keep promises and always meet or beat deadlines. I am establishing a steady client base due to the fact I am adamant about my work ethic. My clients and editors know they can count on me to deliver, and they continue to pass the word on about my reliability.

My workload is now growing at a strong and healthy pace. This means strong organization skills are necessary to keep on top of the business. Know how to prioritize and keep track of the time it takes to do your projects. This will aid you in bidding out new jobs and optimizing your time.

Freelance writers need to have discipline, persistence, fortitude, business sense, marketing skills, flexibility and adaptability. Adding diversity to the mix will help push your career along and gain you more writing assignments.

Freelancing isn't easy, but it is a fantastic opportunity and a way of life that up until now I've only dreamed about.

© Terri Mrosko. If you are interested in this article or commissioning a feature article for your company newsletter or other publication, contact us.