Writing has been a means of vocation for literal millenia and no one can argue that as the times have changed so has the way that writing takes place. Over thousands of years the trade has seen change after change – from quill and parchment all the way to the digital frontier of Dropbox and Google Drive. What hasn’t changed, however, and possibly never will, is the need and the employment for writers.
Now, with the growing trend for remote work where overhead costs have been cut and content has still been produced, the work of a freelance writer has never looked so dynamic and challenging. At the same time, the landscape and need for freelance writers has never been higher.
Here are ten steps to take that we at The Word Counter suggest that will only serve to help you on your journey as you discover how to achieve success in your writing career!
1. Have a Portfolio
If you are new to the game and don’t have a single word you can commit to a portfolio, then the first thing you need to do is start building that portfolio. This can seem daunting, but google searching for websites that allow guest writers to blog is a great way to get started. It may not pay much or anything at all, but it will get your content published!
2. Presentation
If you already have a portfolio then be sure your image says what you want it to say to potential clients. This can look like a lot of different things, from a personal website, youtube channel or even a dedicated Instagram and Tik-Tok account spreading awareness for the work you do and it’s quality. We suggest using professional social media platforms like Linkedin to showcase who you are and your writing prowess.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Brand
What are you passionate about? Find out what kind of personal brand you want to create and go for it! That may look like writing for a specific genre, having a very particular tone and just setting yourself apart from the competition. You are unique, make sure your work shows that.
4. Keep Learning, Keep Growing
What are you interested in and how do you want to use your talent as a writer? Those are big questions that you need to consistently ask yourself over the course of your career. Never become complacent with your current level of mastery. Engage in activities like continued education or writers circles to constantly keep you growing.
5. Be a Reader
If you want to write well, make sure you’re well read. Find the people that you admire and look up to within the writing field and stay well versed in their work. This can help to challenge and elevate your own writing to a standard you seek to master.
6. Count the Cost
Find out what scares you about a career in writing or it’s potentials and determine to overcome them. The truth is, beginning a writing career can be a long, arduous process depending on the level of expectation that you have. Make sure you’re ready to commit for the long haul!
7. Learn How to Welcome Critique
Some of us handle correction and critique better than others, as a writer it is a must that we learn from our mistakes. Especially as an aspiring career writer, the content of your writing must consistently improve and that only happens through repeated critique and fearless self-discipline.
8. Be Up to date
Until you have regular work and consistent clientele, become comfortable with regularly checking your sources. Keep an eye on social media like Linkedin and don’t be afraid to constantly plug yourself when you feel the opportunity arises.
9. Write From the Heart
Some of us aren’t lucky enough to be branded right off the bat, and you may have clients for a time that are meant to an end and not your passion projects. However, that doesn’t mean your writing needs to lose it’s heart. Approach every project with a healthy level of interest so your readers can feel engaged.
10. Don’t Lose the Love of Writing
Lastly, remember that the best writers are the ones that truly love to do it. That doesn’t translate to daily enjoying your work – it is a job and most days it will really feel like one. But that also doesn’t mean you have to lose the energy that drew you to writing in the first place. Take breaks regularly and discover ways of remembering your passion for writing and why you want this career.
