It can be a daunting task for freelance writers to get noticed by potential clients. Sure, there is a lot of work out there to be had, but if the list of quality writers who are competing against you for those opportunities is twice as long, how can you possibly stand out?
I asked myself that same question six years ago when I started Edit This®. I had my computer, an enthusiastic attitude, and tons of creative juices – but only one client.
Truth be told, that client was from an existing relationship with a newspaper.
So really, I started from scratch as a freelance writer and small-business owner.
If I wanted to be a successful freelance writer (you know – not just do it for a hobby), I had to look beyond good writing skills, put myself out there, and say, "HEY, LOOK AT ME!!"
6 ways freelance writers can get noticed
Here are a few tactics that worked for me then that I continue to live by now.
1. Market yourself
As freelance writers, we cannot sit behind our computers all day and expect potential clients to find us. Legitimize yourself by starting a freelance writing business, even if it's a simple sole proprietorship, and then create a website. Invest in a site that promotes you and makes you easy to find. Hire someone to build the site for you, but make sure you write the content. From there, get business cards, build an engaging social media presence, ask for referrals, and tell everyone that YOU ARE FOR HIRE!
2. Network, Network, Network
To piggyback off the tip above, I spend time networking with other professionals at events. This includes breakfast gatherings, luncheons, and after-hours mixers. I do this because I love people, and it's fun to learn from each other. Building authentic relationships is one of the best ways to grow a successful small business – especially for freelance writers. If people feel like they know you, they see you a lot, and they like you, they'll never forget you. They'll think of you first when they have something that needs to be written. I promise.
3. Don't be a one-trick pony
There's nothing wrong with specializing, but if you're trying to stand out to a broader client base and get noticed as a freelance writer, no matter the situation, it'd be wise to be that writer who can help with any project. Being able to write about any industry or topic shows your range as a freelance writer and will bring more work in your direction. I'd even go so far as to say it makes you a better writer overall.
4. Never say "no" to an opportunity
There are exceptions to every rule, of course. But if you don't take a freelance writing assignment, then someone else will, and you'll never know if that one story or project could have been your big break.
5. Blog
I literally just wrote a blog about how every small business needs to have a blog. And guess what, that includes freelance writers. After all, how is anyone going to take you seriously if you're not walking the walk and talking the talk? It can feel like you're talking to yourself at first, but people will notice and start following – especially if you're being consistent and sharing to social media. The next thing you know, your posts are being shared, and opportunities spring up left and right.
6. Highlight what makes you different
There are so many freelance writers, and a lot of them are just as skilled as you are. So focus on what makes you unique. For example: are you an award-winning writer? Are you local? Can you write about anything? What's your style, and why should that matter to clients? Make sure your portfolio is visible so people can see your work and judge for themselves.
Call Edit This for all your writing and editing needs
Edit This is a writing and editing services company in Denton, TX. We specialize in producing written and error-free copy that explains your passion, promotes your products and services, and helps you stand out.
Our list of services include:
* Website copy
* Blogs
* Ghostwriting
* Press Releases
* Editing
* Newsletters
* Resume writing
* And so much more
Whether you need us to write content from scratch or put a better spin on what you've written, we are the local writing and editing partner every business owner needs.
Our writing and editing services cover clients nationwide but are local to anyone in Denton, Corinth, Lake Dallas, Shady Shores, Hickory Creek, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Argyle, and the rest of DFW.
Thanks for reading!
*STEVE GAMEL is the President & Owner of Edit This, a writing and editing services company located in Denton, TX. Steve handles anything involving the written word. Give him a call today to help give your business a clear voice.
#freelancewriters #freelancewriter #freelancewriting #waysforfreelancewriterstogetnoticedbyclients #writingandediting #smallbusiness #EditThis