Some people think freelance writing is a scary venture, but the process is simple. Although it is not easy, every writer has different stories on how best to start freelancing. While they might not all be the same, specific steps, remain common. Honestly, freelancing may come with different challenges like any other profession, but if it’s what you love to do, you’ll find it rewarding.

How To Start Freelance Writing

There is several homework to do, starting as a freelancer, but you’ll reach your goals following these steps:

1. Education And Training

   A degree may not be essential, but as a novice, you could use some basic courses in writing. You could take some online courses in writing; a communications and humanities background is also an added advantage. You could also seek a scholarship, fellowships, and other financial aids if you want to go deep. You’ll need more practice and experience as a freelancer than any degree.

2. Consider A Staff Job

   Working as a writer for an agency will help you get the required training while you work. Working for a digital writing agency will put the icing on the cake as it gets you prepared to launch out when you finally do.

3. Start Pitching

   You have to start pitching for gigs, either way, that’s the first way to start. You could push out any previously written article or short story to prove your competence, as that’s what employers want to see.

4. Showcase Online

   Having an online portfolio is a plus in this business. You could start with a simple website that people can link to from your pitch. You could also use a portfolio website like Contently, or even start blogging! A blog allows you to perfect your writing skills and display your skills to potential clients and even gain following by your readers. A website would also send a notion of originality to your clients.

5. Network

   You need the people in your life right now and those you’ll meet later as you never know who your next client might be. Put your social media connections to good use and maintain a good relationship with your existing clients. Your subsequent referral might just come from any of those, so keep your connection lines open.

6. Receiving Payments

   You would need to decide how to receive payments. You could draft an invoice or use an invoice generator that does that for you, after which you could choose how your money comes. Most people use international online payment platforms like PayPal, and you might want to check it out.

7. Prepare For The Worst

   There are times that clients won’t always show up, and you’ll get tonnes of rejection pitches, but that’s all part of what makes the journey exciting and rewarding. You’ll need to be disciplined to work, sort out your finances, and save for later because you’re your boss.

You’ll be ready to kick start your journey putting all these in mind, having guts and high-level resilience. Like any profession, it’s not without hurdles, but it’s a journey worth taking.