Starting A Freelance Career As A Content Writer

Freelance as a content writer

We at Freelance2Freedom are committed to bringing you top-notch information to give you a head-start in the start of something new. In our series of guides for freelancers, today we share with you everything you need to know to start your career as a freelance content writer.

Why should you become a freelancer?

Before looking into the details of how you can become a content writer, let first us see why one should consider becoming a freelancer.

The COVID-19 pandemic came with dire consequences in all economic sectors. Jobs were lost, markets crashed, and many businesses were shut down temporarily or even permanently. 

As the world is on a slow path to recovery, businesses have changed the way they carry out their work. The World Economic Forum suggests turning to more flexible methods of conducting business. 

As businesses look forward to lowering their overhead expenses such as infrastructure, the market for freelancers is proving to be promising for a bright future. 

What is freelance content writing?

Along with the rise in the market for freelancers, the pandemic has also given wings to the digital movement which has been brewing around us for some time. 

In other words, the content on the internet is on the rise. From how-to guides and gourmet recipes to financial advice, everything is available on online blogs and social media. And this is the crux of the job of a freelance content writer, writing content for businesses and websites to be published online. 

Who can become a freelance content writer?

There is a common misconception that only journalism and mass communication graduates can start a freelance career as content writers. Like I said, a misconception. 

Content writing is more about what you write than what degree you possess. A journalism graduate knows the nitty-gritty of writing, but they may not be an expert on the stock market to analyze the latest acquisition by a Big Tech in Silicon Valley. Moreover, there is no dearth of knowledge and information on writing on the internet as it is just waiting to be consumed by gifted professionals. 

Here are 5 steps to kickstart your career as a freelance content writer with ease. 

Step 1: Identify your niche

While a jack of all trades can sail through the world of freelance content writers easily, a master of his field has a chance to earn more on account of the proficiency they have to offer.

Ask yourself what do you wish to write about? Economy? Politics? Food or Travel? Technology? Health and Lifestyle? These are just a few umbrella terms out of a myriad of options the world has when it comes to freelance jobs for content writers. 

Step 2: Add to your skills

The key to climbing up the ladder is to keep becoming a better writer with each passing day. As I said, you don’t need a formal degree to become a freelance content writer. But there are ways in which you can improve your writing. 

Other skills you can acquire are SEO, proofreading, and copywriting. 

Step 3: Building your writer profile

Showcasing your work is crucial to get the most out of your gig pitches. An online writing portfolio can digitally showcase the best of your works and amplify the chances of being picked by the editors. 

You can also start your own blog which can keep you on your feet with writing and grow your following as a writer. 

Step 4: Harness the power of social media

Social media is where the major chunk of internet activity happens. Building your network on sites like LinkedIn can go a long way in bagging opportunities for content writing. Social media also gives you a platform to gather a following for your blog and increase your reader base. You can tap into the power of various platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Tumblr, and Pinterest.

Step 5: Bagging the initial projects

There is no special advice other than just putting yourself out there. Send your samples to organizations you want to work with and utilize your network to bag gigs. Alternatively, you can look for gigs on freelancing websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer. 

Conclusion

The life of a freelance content writer is exceedingly desirable. Trust me, I am one too. Flexible working hours, freedom to choose the gigs, and handsome pay, all add up to a balanced life. You can know more about content writing trends in 2021 here.

Looking to start a freelance career as a content writer in Dubai, UAE? Freedom2Work is your one-stop-shop for all things freelancing. Get in touch with us to apply for a freelance license and a residence visa.

Website: https://freedom2work.com/

Address: 213, Vakson Commercial Building, Umm Al Sheif, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE

Phone number: 800-FREEDOM (373 3366)

Email: info@freedom2work.com

Frequently asked questions

1. Where do freelance content writers work?

• Freelance content workers can work with various organizations such as news outlets, businesses, magazines, and influencers.

2. What skills does a freelance content writer need?

A freelance content writer requires the following skills:

• Research aptitude
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Communication abilities
• Social media know-how
• Editing and spotting errors

3. What is the difference between a copywriter and a content writer?

• A content writer differs from a copywriter by the purpose of their writing. While a copywriter writes to persuade their readers to take action like buying something after reading an advertisement, a content writer’s job is inclined towards educating or entertaining their readers.

4. What is SEO content writing?

• SEO content writing or Search Engine Optimization content writing is to write content with the aim to achieve a higher ranking in search engine results.

5. What are some examples of content writing?

Here are some common examples of content writing

• Blogs
• Social media posts
• Website content
• Newsletter content
• Ebooks
• User manuals