I have been freelance writing for over 18 years, and there have been many times when I wondered how to get my next client. That’s a part of the life struggle of a freelance writer, but here are a few tips you can use that will keep you from (hopefully) getting frustrated and worried about where and when your next client is coming.
1. Love to Write
First off, you have to at least love writing and make it a daily practice if you really want to get something out of it. If writing is going to be your livelihood, then you need to make it a part of your lifestyle, at least. Right? One other thing to do is to start writing a little each day, then build from there. Go slowly from 200 words a day, to 400 words, then 900 and just keep building, depending on your goals. One phenomenal writing tool I’ve used to help me with this is Scrivener. You can also read this Scrivener software review I wrote about it if you’re seriously considering using it.
2. Business Growth
Realize that it takes time to grow a writing business. This is especially true if you want to get good-paying, long-lasting clients. So buckle in and get ready to work hard to grow your business and create endless streams of income.
3. Real Business
No matter what anyone else says about your “freelance lifestyle,” it is imperative that you treat your writing business like the real business that it is. Otherwise, you’re nursing a hobby, and while that’s fine too, it’s not accurate to call it a business if you’re not treating it like one.
4. Grow Slow
It might be smarter to start growing your business on the side (read: after hours) before you decide to go all in full-time. Slow growth ensures that you’re ready when the time comes and that you’ve gotten things to a level that requires your full-time attention.
5. Network, Network, Network
Network with other writers in your area of expertise. I’ve gotten and given a lot of writing gigs this way, especially when we’re all overloaded and need to meet deadlines. I have writer-friends that I’ve met online over 10 years ago and still talk to today. Real, genuine connections never fade away.
6. Writer’s Website or Page
Create a basic writer’s website. This can be something very simple with your Main Page (landing page), the About page and some samples of your work. This gives potential clients a “place” to find you and take a look at your work. It also helps you look very professional, which is what you want. Include links and clips you’ve done, no matter how small or (seemingly) insignificant they may be.
And finally, never stop learning! There’s always something different to learn in web writing. Different clients have different requirements, even the content mills, so it’s best to understand what each one wants so you’ll be successful.
Good Luck!
