How to *REALLY* Start Freelance Writing in 2024

Summary

This video script offers a comprehensive guide for freelance writers to secure high-paying clients in 2024. It emphasizes the importance of specialization, skill adaptation, and confidence in setting rates. The speaker shares personal experiences and strategies, such as exploring niches, learning about SEO and digital marketing, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and WordPress. Persistence in follow-ups and expanding one's online presence through guest posting and interviews are also highlighted as key to winning lucrative writing projects.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Specialize in a niche to stand out in the crowded freelance writing market. Experiment with different niches initially to find your passion and expertise.
• 📝 Focus on honing specific types of writing skills such as SEO writing, copywriting, or email writing to offer targeted services to clients.
• 📚 Continuously learn and adapt new skills beyond writing, such as using tools like WordPress, Trello, Asana, and SEO tools, to increase your value to clients.
• 💪 Build confidence in your rates by starting with a base rate and gradually increasing it as you gain more experience and client responses.
• 🔄 Be persistent in following up with potential clients to secure high-paying projects. Don't hesitate to follow up within a few days if you don't hear back.
• 🌐 Utilize various online platforms to market yourself, including guest posting, social media, Medium, and participating in interviews to build your personal brand.
• 💬 Engage actively on LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and other professionals in the industry. Keep your profile updated and professional.
• 📊 Create and manage a newsletter to grow your personal audience and demonstrate your expertise in your niche.
• 🚀 Set realistic goals and plans for your freelance writing business, including a 90-day marketing strategy to increase your online presence.
• 📈 Invest in courses or communities like 'Write Your Way to First 1K' to receive guidance, support, and resources to help you succeed as a freelance writer.

Q & A

What is the first step to winning high-paying clients as a freelance writer or copywriter?

The first step is specialization. You need to stand out by finding a niche that aligns with your experience or personal interests, which can be identified by exploring different areas and seeing what resonates with you.

Why is specialization important for freelance writers and copywriters in 2024?

Specialization is important because of the influx of new freelancers in the market. It allows you to offer unique expertise and stand out from the competition, making it easier to attract high-paying clients.

How did the speaker initially explore different niches in freelance writing?

The speaker spent time researching online, looking for contributors and writers in various topics such as parenting, natural health, and education for children with autism to determine viable niches.

What is the significance of skill adaptation for new freelance writers and copywriters?

Skill adaptation is significant because, in addition to writing skills, freelancers need to learn new skills such as SEO, copywriting, and using various tools like WordPress, Trello, and Asana to stay competitive and meet client demands.

Why is learning about digital marketing beneficial for a freelance writer?

Learning about digital marketing is beneficial because it allows the writer to specialize in a high-demand area, understand the audience and industry better, and thus attract high-paying clients.

How can a new freelance writer build confidence in their rates?

A new freelance writer can build confidence in their rates by starting at a base level, such as 10 to 12 cents per word, and gradually increasing their rates as they gain experience and client feedback.

What is the role of persistence in following up with potential clients?

Persistence in following up is crucial to winning high-paying clients. If there is initial interest but no response, following up sooner rather than later can help nurture the potential client relationship and increase the chances of securing the job.

Why is it important for freelance writers to have a presence on multiple online platforms?

Having a presence on multiple platforms helps increase visibility and reach a wider audience. It also establishes the writer's authority on certain topics, making them more attractive to high-paying clients.

What are some of the tools a freelance writer might need to learn to adapt to client needs?

Some tools a freelance writer might need to learn include content management systems like WordPress, project management tools like Trello or Asana, SEO tools like SEMrush, and graphic design tools like Canva.

How can freelance writers use LinkedIn to find high-paying clients?

Freelance writers can use LinkedIn by optimizing their profile, connecting with industry professionals, content leads, strategists, and decision-makers, and participating in relevant discussions to increase their visibility and attract high-paying clients.

What is the recommended approach for a new freelance writer when setting their rates?

A new freelance writer should start at a base rate of 10 to 15 cents per word and adjust based on their comfort level, the market, and client feedback. They can then gradually increase their rates as they gain more experience and confidence.