Do you dream of a career that offers flexibility, freedom to travel, and a better work-life balance?

These are the privileges of being a freelance writer.

The freelance economy was estimated at $455.2 billion in 2023, and writers are a major part of it. 

Whether you are a writer by hobby, a hustler, or an entrepreneur, freelance writing offers a unique opportunity.

It is a chance to develop valuable skills and build a successful full-time writing career.  

This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to get started, even if you have no experience.

So you will no longer need to worry about how to become a freelance writer.    

How to Become a Freelance Writer in 2024: Summary 

Here’s the best way to get started as a freelance writer:

1. Research the Industry 

Learn about the field and freelance jobs through online resources and job boards.

2. Pick a Niche

Develop expertise in a topic of interest. This will help you stand out and attract targeted clients.

3. Create a Portfolio

Showcase the best samples that are relevant to your niche. Keep it concise and organized for recruiters. 

4. Understand SEO Basics

Learn how to optimize content with keywords to improve SERP rankings and visibility.

5. Find ideal Clients

Research companies and websites within your niche. Analyze their content and compile a list of promising leads with relevant information. 

6. Build Online Presence

Create a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting your freelance writing services and expertise.

7. Start Finding Work

Use platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr and other online communities to find freelance writing gigs. 

What is Freelance Writing? 

Freelance writing is the process of producing written content as an independent or self-employed writer.

This means that instead of working for a particular company, you can work with multiple clients at a time.

Like freelance creative designing, web development, and marketing, writing is a diverse field that spans different niches and industries. 

Businesses and organizations from all sectors hire freelance writers to create a variety of content.

This can include articles, blogs, ad copy, web content, press releases, brochures, and more.

The main purpose of this content is to explain products/services, educate the audience, and drive sales. 

Freelance writing gives you more control over your work hours, service rates, and clients.

You don’t have to work on a location and can easily communicate with clients through phone, email, or video calls. 

That said, it also comes with the responsibility of managing your finances and finding your own clients for a stable income.  

Is Freelance Writing Worth Trying in 2024? 

The freelance writing market is highly saturated! 

You can never make a decent living with online writing! 

With so many AI applications, nobody is going to hire writers anymore! 

You have definitely heard these before.

These are some of the most popular myths regarding freelance writing, but are they factually correct? The answer is NO. Let's debunk them one by one. 

As a writer most of your clients will be businesses that need high quality content. This content creates awareness, builds authority and improves lead generation.

While there are 1.57 billion freelancers in the world, there are also 333.34 million businesses. Research shows that writing makes up 17% of all freelancing services. 

This highlights a clear gap in the market for writers who can bridge this communication gap for businesses.

Bar graph showing the nature of freelance work

Source: Wonder.com

When it comes to making money, freelance writing is one of the most popular occupations.

On average, a freelance writer can earn between $15 to $80 per hour on freelancing platforms.

Assuming a 40-hour work week, a freelancer could earn between $24,00 to $12,800 per month. 

Line graph showing the minimum and maximum hourly rates for different freelance niches.

Source: First Site Guide

As for AI tools, they are here to make your jobs easier, not to replace you. 

There is a massive surge in the use of AI tools for content creation between 2023-2024.

Businesses are using them for brainstorming, generating ideas, and assisting in content creation.

Studies show that 43.8% of businesses that use AI content generation tools, experienced a very successful content strategy. 

Graph showing the surge in the use of AI tools between 2023 to 2024

Source: Siege Media

If you are still wondering if freelance writing is worth it in 2024, the answer is yes! There is plenty of room for skilled writers who know how to produce valuable content for their clients. 

Different Types of Freelance Writing

There are different types of content writing, and each one needs different skills.

For example, some writers create engaging blog posts, while others excel at writing technical manuals.

Before getting started as a freelance writer, explore these niches to pick the best writing path.  

1. Content Writing

This is what most people think when they imagine content writing. This includes articles, blog posts, how-to guides, ebooks, even YouTube scripts and leadership articles.

Content can be as short as a news snippet to in-depth, lengthy pieces (1000- 3000 words).  

The writer is usually provided with a title or a detailed brief. Their job is to turn this into a compelling and informative piece with in-depth research.

Businesses use content writing to educate their audience and establish themselves as experts. 

2. Copywriting

Copywriting or marketing writing is the art of creating persuasive marketing messages.

Think of it as clever sales pitches. This could be anything from an engaging story in an ad to a clear message on a landing page. 

Copywriters usually work on content like sales copy, ad copy, social media posts, or landing pages.

To excel in copywriting, you need strong research skills, knowledge of sales techniques, and an understanding of the specific brand voice.  

3. Creative Writing 

Creative writing is the use of poetic ideas or literary expressions to express thoughts and emotions.

It could be anything from novels, scripts, or personal essays. Unlike content writing, creative writing uses a more artistic approach. 

Freelance creative writers get hired to write screenplays, novels, or fictional content in different genres.

It can also include children’s books, video game narratives or song lyrics, offering different creative outlets.  

4. Technical Writing

Technical writing is the translation of complex concepts and topics into simple layman’s terminologies.

All the user manuals, software tutorials or assembly instructions we use are technical writing. A technical writer takes intricate concepts and breaks them into clear and easy to understand language.

It needs a special skill: explaining complex products and processes in a simple way.

As a technical writer, you need detailed knowledge of the subject matter and the ability to switch between technical and plain language.

5. Press Releases 

Press releases are another popular niche for freelance writers. These are official announcements from companies or organizations about important news or information.

Think of it as a business’s way of sharing new developments, such as product launches or partnership deals. 

Businesses who don’t have an in-house team often hire freelancers for writing press releases.

Press releases often follow a specific structure with attention-grabbing headlines and easy to understand text. 

6. Business Writing

Business writing is the backbone of clear communication within companies.

Even in this digital age, well-written professional messages are essential for building trust.

Business writers create documents like case studies, white papers, newsletters, or business proposals. 

Effective business writing requires you to understand the business, your target audience and how to create messages that resonate with them.  

7. Ghost Writing 

Ghostwriting is a unique niche in freelancing where you create content on someone else’s behalf. For example, writing a memoir for a retired athlete or creating insightful articles for busy entrepreneurs.

While it is the ghostwriters who utilize their skills and expertise, the content is published under the intended person’s name. 

This means ghostwriters don’t receive public recognition for their work and don't include it in their portfolio.

It can be a beneficial career path for those who enjoy creating content while maintaining their confidentiality.

Required Skills and Qualifications for Freelance Writers

Freelance writing offers freedom and flexibility, but it is not an easy profession.

Depending upon your niche, you need both hard skills (research, SEO knowledge) and soft skills communication, time management) to excel in your career. 

Before moving on to how to become a freelance writer, let's explore some of these essential qualities. 

1. Research

Strong research is the most critical aspect of writing. Research adds value to your content and sets you apart from the competition.

To ensure that your content is authentic and genuine, go beyond the first page of search engines. Find credible sources, diverse viewpoints, and reliable data to fact-check and verify the information. 

Remember, businesses use content marketing to build trust and establish themselves as authorities.

Your well-researched and valuable content helps them achieve this. 

Bar graph showing why marketers use content writing

Source: AIMultiple

2. Writing Proficiency

Along with research, a writer needs a robust grip of language and the ability to articulate ideas eloquently.

Good grammar is essential, but it is not enough to become a decent writer. You also need to grasp elements like tone and voice and create an engaging narrative.

Copywriting, in particular, requires writers to become experts at emulating a brand’s voice. This helps them write content that resonates with the audience and feels personalized.

This skill set enhances their writing from informative to truly engaging.

3. Editing and Formatting

No matter how good they seem, first drafts are never perfect.

Even the most experienced writers have to revise or edit their content.

Good editing skills require patience and a keen eye for detail.

Readers are sensitive to spelling mistakes and punctuation, so ensure your final draft is free of all errors. 

People consume online content differently from how they read books or magazines. To keep them engaged, present the information in a concise and scannable way.

Use bullet points, images or relevant tables to break up your text and make it easy to digest.   

Illustration showing data about spelling/ Grammar mistakes

Source: Content Chef

4. Communication Skills 

As a freelance writer, clear communication has a direct impact on your success. You will be interacting with clients, readers, and sometimes business owners.

Strong communication skills help you get qualified leads through different ways: 

1. Understanding Client's Needs

You can effectively grasp their goals and requirements. 

2. Asking the Right Questions

It ensures clarity and avoids misunderstandings. 

3. Discussing Ideas

You can collaborate effectively on content brainstorming. 

Transparent communication keeps all team players on the same page.

It helps you keep the project on track and maintain clarity over deliverables, deadlines, and revisions.

5. Time Management

Freelance writing often involves juggling multiple clients and projects.

To deliver high-quality content, you need good time management skills.

This means prioritizing tasks, meeting deadlines, and maintaining the quality of work. 

Break down your writing process into smaller chunks. Schedule dedicated time for research, drafting, editing, and client communication.

This organization will keep you on track and ensure you deliver quality content every time. 

The skills listed above are just a few.

To truly excel, freelance writers also need problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and an understanding of SEO and AI tools.  

How to Become a Freelance Writer in 2024: Detailed Process

Now that you are clear about the knowledge of writing styles and necessary skills, let's move toward the next step.

We will explore a step-by-step process to guide you in becoming a successful freelance writer. 

1. Do Research on the Freelance Writing Industry

Before launching your freelance writing, invest some time in research.

Start by searching online for “how to be a freelance writer.” You will come across blogs and websites of established freelance writers.

Many writers offer guides, blogs, and practical tips on getting started and managing a freelance writing business. 

To gain a more realistic perspective, explore freelance job boards and opportunities.

You will know what types of jobs are available, typical pay rates, and different working styles.

This research will help you set expectations and tailor your approach for a successful career.  

2. Select a Niche

A niche is simply a topic you are passionate about.

Choosing a specific niche can be a powerful tool for beginner writers.

It helps you stand out in a crowded marketplace by targeting clients who are looking for writers with specialized knowledge.

Here are some key benefits of choosing a niche: 

1. Expertise

Go for  a niche that allows you to build deep knowledge and showcase authority.  

2. Targeted Marketing

You can create a portfolio to attract clients looking for writers in your niche 

3. Increased Rates

Specialized skills often get you higher-paying clients than general writing. 

For example, if you are passionate about interior design, your niche could be ‘home improvement writing.’ You could then target clients who need content on topics like architecture, DIY projects, or home decor trends.     

3. Create Your Portfolio 

A portfolio is a collection of your best writing samples. It shows your expertise and skills as a writer, editor or marketer.

A portfolio helps clients to analyze your writing style, voice, tone or knowledge in chosen niche. 

As a beginner, create fresh writing samples that are relevant to your niche.

Start and end the portfolio with your best work and organize it in a clear and scannable manner.

Remember, recruiters and hiring managers are busy, so keep it concise and impactful. 

4. Understanding SEO

Businesses hire writers to create content that attracts attention online.

This is where SEO comes in. It helps search engines understand your content, like articles and blogs, and rank them accordingly. 

Spend time learning SEO basics like keywords, meta descriptions, and headlines.

It can help your client’s content rank higher in search engines.  

5. Find Your Ideal Clients

Once you have selected your niche and built a portfolio, it's time to find your ideal clients. This research-intensive task will take some time.

Start by searching for companies, websites, and blogs within your niche.

For instance, a tech writer might target SaaS blogs. 

After pinpointing your ideal clients, take a closer look.

Explore their existing content to understand their writing style and see if they hire freelance writers.

As you research, compile this information in a Google sheet. 

Include details like the company name, description, services, and contact information.

This organized approach will help you reach out to the most promising leads.   

6. Build an Online Presence

Building an active online presence is essential for freelance professionals.

It is your responsibility to showcase your skills to a global audience and reach out to fellow professionals.

Potential clients often use online platforms [LinkedIn, Upwork, Fiverr] to research writers, so having a strong presence is the key.

Social Media Platforms and How Much Brands Trust Them

Source: Hootsuite

While websites and social media have their place, nothing can beat the effectiveness of LinkedIn.

With over 70 million active companies, it is the largest professional networking platform.

Take time to optimize your LinkedIn profile: 

• Update your profile title and change it to something relevant such as ‘Freelance Writer’, ‘Technical Writer’ or ‘Content Marketing Writer’. 

• Use a clear and professional-looking photo.

• Update your ‘About’ section. Highlight your services, niche expertise, and what makes you a valuable writer. 

• Provide a link to your website or portfolio for clients to explore your work further. 

7. Start Finding Work 

Once you are sorted and ready, it is time to find your first client.

There are various online platforms and freelancing websites that offer remote working opportunities.

Keep in mind that freelancing is an ongoing journey that needs consistency, patience and resourcefulness.

The more applications you submit and pitches you make, the higher your chances of landing a project.

As you gain experience, referrals from satisfied clients can become a valuable source of future work. 

Best Platforms to Find Freelance Writing Opportunities

As a beginner freelance writer, finding work can be challenging.

Don’t worry; there are plenty of outlets where newbies can find promising leads.

Let's explore them one by one. 

1. Job Boards and Websites

Job boards and freelance websites are an excellent starting point for new freelance writers.

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Guru allow you to set flexible rates and connect with recruiters around the globe.

These marketplaces offer a vast selection of writing gigs which makes it easy for newbies to find work. 

Job boards like ProBlogger, FlexJobs, and SimplyHired are also worth exploring for writing opportunities.

They offer a more curated selection of projects and potentially high-paying clients.    

2. Cold Pitching

This approach involves targeting potential clients through targeted emails or messages.

It can be a bold strategy for beginners but effective for landing new gigs.

Before starting, research businesses within your niche. 

Showcase your skills and expertise in a personalized way.

A good cold pitch should highlight your understanding of the client's business and what value you can bring to them. 

3. Social Media 

Don’t underestimate the power of social media for finding clients.

Platforms like LinkedIn and X are always full of opportunities.

Follow your ideal clients, engage with their content, and keep an eye on future collaborations. 

You can also showcase your expertise by regularly posting high-quality, relevant content in your niche. 

4. Referrals

You might be surprised, but most freelance work comes from referrals.

Getting a lot of referrals at the beginning of your career could be tricky, as building a reputation takes time.

Focus on delivering high-quality work. 

Always try to maintain positive relationships, as satisfied clients can be your biggest advocates.

Their positive reviews and recommendations will be a valuable source for future freelancing gigs. 

Circular bar chart explaining how freelancers find work through data

Source: 99 firms

Conclusion

Freelance writing can be a demanding but rewarding career path.

With dedication and hard work, there are no limits to your success.

Don’t be discouraged by the lack of experience.

You can start from scratch and gradually enhance your craft with online resources. 

The key to success is to focus on something you love and keep developing your expertise in it.

By investing time in research and planning, you can become a successful writer in no time.

Along with research and skills, using tools like ClientManager can streamline your workflow, let you focus more on your craft, and secure better clients.

It manages everything from client onboarding to project management and lets you run your freelance writing business without any frustrations. 

FAQs: How to Become a Freelance Writer

How do you start freelancing with no experience? 

Starting a freelance writing career without experience is not a problem.

Choose a niche you love and build a portfolio with relevant samples.

Create a robust online presence to display your skills. Keep researching and building connections with potential clients.

Soon, you will start getting freelance writing projects. 

How long does it take to make money as a freelance writer? 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

It depends on your skills, hustle, and niche.

With dedication and passion, you can start earning top dollars within a few months.

Building a consistent income stream might take 6-12 months.  

Which freelance writing niche pays the most? 

Technical writing, legal writing, and medical writing are generally high-paying niches due to their specialized knowledge.

Focus on a niche you enjoy writing and can learn about.

This will help you stand out from the crowd and secure high-paying projects.  

What is the future of freelance writing?

The future of freelancing writing is bright.

Businesses are always in need of high-quality content for marketing and branding.

Freelance writers who can adapt to AI and offer and create quality content will be in high demand.