How to Start a Freelance Writing Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Starting a Freelance Writing Business: The Complete Guide
So you want to start a freelance writing business? I feel you. Many writers dream of being their own boss and making a living doing what they love. Freelancing offers flexibility and freedom. But turning writing into a money-making career takes strategy and hustle.
This guide breaks down exactly how to launch a freelance writing business from scratch. I’ll share the steps I took to quit my day job and work for myself as a full-time freelance writer. Whether you want to start part-time or dive in completely, these tips will help get your freelance writing career off the ground.
Step 1: Improve Your Writing Chops
Before taking the plunge into freelancing, level up your skills as much as possible. Refresh yourself on grammar, AP style, different tones and formats of writing. Become a master editor. The stronger your foundation, the more hireable you’ll be.
Consider taking a continuing ed writing class. They’re affordable and really sharpen your abilities. Broaden your reading habits too — varied books expand your vocabulary and style. Don’t neglect non-fiction either. Studying magazine writing helped my skills immensely.
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Step 2: Find Your Niche
Most successful freelance writers specialize in a niche. Decide what you’re most passionate about writing. Then research potential publications and companies you could write for in that niche. Establishing expertise in one area, like marketing writing, is the best way to land consistent work.
I chose to niche down into personal finance writing. I researched major finance publications and joined a writers group for that niche. Getting to know editors in your niche is hugely helpful for securing work!
Step 3: Set Up the Basics
Get your business ducks in a row. Register an LLC to protect your personal assets or operate as a sole proprietorship if you’re starting small. Open a separate bank account and get a credit card for only business expenses.
Have an organized system to track invoices, expenses, payments — a spreadsheet works fine when you’re starting out. And set up an email just for your freelance writing business correspondence to keep things separate.
Step 4: Build an Amazing Writing Portfolio
Your portfolio is the key to landing paid writing gigs. Include 4–6 strong samples showcasing your skills in your niche. Vary the formats — blog posts, feature articles, whitepapers, case studies, etc.
Create some spec pieces just for your portfolio if needed. I wrote a few mock pitches to finance brands — it helped me land gigs later on. Update your portfolio regularly as you complete projects. First impressions matter!
Step 5: Make a Website
A website establishes your personal brand and generates leads 24/7. Just cover the basics at first: About, Services, Portfolio Samples, Contact Form. I used SquareSpace — their templates are fabulous. Don’t forget to optimize for mobile too!
Once you start getting clients, add testimonials. A blog and newsletter down the line are great for attracting potential new business.
Step 6: Network Like Crazy!
Networking is huge for getting your first few clients. Attend conferences and join professional groups in your niche. Set up informational interviews with freelancers a few steps ahead of you. Introduce yourself to editors and businesses you’d like to write for.
Gently mention you’re taking on freelance work during conversations. Most of my early jobs came through people I met at a writing conference. I treasure those connections!
Step 7: Pitch Clients and Apply for Gigs
Start pitching clients aligned with your niche and experience. Customize each query. Link to portfolio samples that fit their specific needs. I landed some of my best clients just by sending personalized cold emails.
Sign up on job boards and LinkedIn to apply to open freelance gigs too. Follow directions closely and attach a strong cover letter. Reach out if you aren’t contacted after applying.
Step 8: Price Your Services
Pricing is tricky at first. Research typical freelance writing rates based on experience and niche. Bill by project, hourly or per word. Start low while building portfolio — raising rates is easier than lowering them.
I priced around 15 cents/word initially. Two years later I increased to 25–30 cents/word. Know your worth!
Step 9: Get Organized
Running a freelance writing business requires organization. Invoice clients every 2 weeks like clockwork. Use billing software — so much easier than manually tracking everything.
Maintain a calendar with deadlines color-coded by client. If you stay busy, start waitlisting potential new clients until you have availability. Avoid overbooking yourself.
Step 10: Keep Growing
Treat your freelance writing business like a plant — it requires constant nurturing and growth. Check in with happy clients about additional projects needed. Ask for referrals! Keep networking and pitching prospects.
Set income and growth goals every quarter. Join a professional organization to stay on top of industry trends. The work you put in early on really pays off down the road!
With the right strategic foundation, you can build a fulfilling and financially rewarding freelance writing business. Just stay focused, determined and persistent. You’ve so got this! Let me know if you have any other questions — I love helping aspiring freelance writers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much money can I make as a freelance writer?
Income potential varies widely in freelance writing. Most full-time freelancers charge between $0.10–0.50 per word, or $30-$100 per hour. With steady clients, six-figure incomes are possible but take time to build up. Manage expenses carefully when first launching your freelance writing business.
What types of writing jobs can I get as a freelancer?
All kinds! Common freelance writing gigs include blogging, web content, marketing materials, magazine articles, white papers, case studies, email newsletters, and more. Jobs run the gamut from one-time projects to ongoing work with regular clients.
Do I need any special education or training?
No specific degree or credential is required. However, taking writing classes, studying a niche topic, or getting a related degree like journalism or marketing can help prepare you. Strong writing chops and specialized knowledge are vital.
How do I find freelance writing jobs?
The best way for new freelancers to find work is through networking, personal outreach to potential clients, pitching editors, and applying for posted job listings. Building a website, portfolio and social media presence to promote your business helps too.
What software or tools do I need?
At minimum, you need a reliable laptop and top-notch word processing software. Other helpful tools include project management, invoicing, and accounting software, a CRM, email marketing, and social media scheduling tools.
How much time do I need to devote to freelancing?
Many freelancers work part-time at first — around 10–15 hours a week — until their business is profitable enough to go full-time. Expect to spend additional hours on non-billable tasks like marketing, accounting, etc, especially in the beginning.
What do I need in my contract?
Clearly define the project scope, timeline, payment terms, usage rights, kill fees, expense reimbursement, confidentiality clauses, and other expectations in your freelance writer contract before starting any major projects.
Do I need an LLC or business license?
Registering an LLC or getting a business license can provide liability protection and tax benefits. Research requirements for your state. If you’re starting out part-time, you may be able to freelance as a sole proprietor first.
How do I get clients to pay on time?
Be proactive! Send invoices promptly and follow up on late payments. Make your payment terms and due dates crystal clear. Offer incentives for early payment. Only take on clients with a history of paying reliably and on time.
