Freelance Writing

This is no business for the faint-hearted. Freelance writing as a vocation is one of the toughest ways that you will ever set out to earn a living. Of course it takes some talent, but there are many talented writers who never manage to make it past the “wanna-be stage.” That’s because writing talent is only one small ingredient; just as important is a willingness to hang in there when the going gets tough.

And it will.

First, there’s the demise of print markets and publishing entities that once welcomed and even nurtured freelance writers. Today, you are up against fierce competition, from the Internet online bloggers to self-publishers. If you don’t know how to blog, engage in social media, or keep up with current trends in the publishing world, you are already way behind the eight ball. Furthermore, because print media is in decline, there are fewer opportunities for freelance writers to showcase their talents as staff writers are often expected to take up the slack. In other words, there are fewer good-paying outlets for freelance writers.

Then there’s the insecurity of living from one freelance job to another. Some people thrive on the unknown; others are freaked out by not knowing if they will have a paycheck from one month to the next. Know your personality type and be willing to live with financial insecurity, at least until you have established a steady working clientele.

Which leads me to another point: freelance writing is a BUSINESS, not an inspirational hobby. To be successful, it requires your full attention, your 100 percent commitment, and your patience in building up your clientele, just like any other small business venture.

All of which is NOT to say “don’t be a freelance writer.” On the contrary: I call my website “once a writer, always a writer” for a reason.

Writers must write; often in spite of themselves. If you are one of those inspired, creative, crazy types who have something to say and will say it no matter what, you might just have the makings of a freelance writer.

If that’s the case, let’s talk. After 30 years in the business, I think we have something in common.