Do you dream of finding freelance writing success, but reality has fallen pitifully short of the goal? I’ve been there, too. Back in 2008-9 content writing was booming.
There were several sites hiring people as independent contractors to write for content websites. I jumped on the chance to write for a couple of these companies. I thought it would be great; I was naive about freelance writing at the time. The pay was $10-15 per article.
At first, that sounded better than minimum wage; I could stay home and work while I homeschooled my daughter.
The greatness deflated when I saw how hard it was snatched up titles before other writers did. Then I had to take time to research, writer, and edit. After that, some would get sent back to me for more changes (some editors were very fickle!).
I realized quickly I spend 2- 3 hours on articles sometimes. Other sites let you publish your own articles and have your earn based on views.
Then Google changed the world of content sites when tired of these kinds of sites dominating search results.
Their algorithm changes popped the balloon overnight and 1000’s of content writers lost their income overnight by being let go or sites losing their ranking with Google.
Writers who had been earning $1000-3000 a month from revenue sharing sites lost that income practically overnight.
The Hunt for Freelance Writing Success
The experience burned me out. I thought I’d never want to write again as a profession or business. But let’s avoid making this turning into a pity party (hehe!).
My point is I am just regular mom, like you, who has dealt with some failures and disappointment. I recovered from that feeling when I began learning about blogging.
But still I didn’t understand how to properly market myself in the world of freelance writing. While growing my own blog, I needed (like many do) an income until the blog’s revenue could be my income. Here’s some things I’ve learned in my journey to find freelance writing success.
Let Go of Fear
Fear will keep you from stepping out into new experiences. You’re afraid you can’t write well enough. Or that your client pitches will get rejected.
On and on the worry and negative thoughts will build a wall between you and your ability to get your writing career started. Well, don’t let it.
What’s the worse thing that could happen? A client turns you down. There’s plenty more out there needing help with their content.
After a while, you start to get a few clients and the momentum builds up. You will become a better writer. You will get referrals. You have the confidence to push yourself more, get better pay rates, gain high-end clients.
There are facebook groups especially for freelance writers to support one another.
Invest in Yourself
Invest both time and money in yourself. There are several excellent training programs and memberships online teaching about the freelance writing business.
I recommend choosing one course: Horkey Handbook’s 30 Days To Freelance Writing Success, and go through it step by step.
Within 30 days you can have your own freelance writing business up and running.
Put time aside to work on your writing and learning new things.
You may very well be starting on this journey as a side hustle while working full time. Make time to practice writing, reading learning material and applying what you learn into action steps.
I’m definitely interested in checking out her course. Thanks for sharing.
Gina’s course is great, I highly recommend it! Very helpful post too! 🙂