How to Become a Freelance Writer

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Many individuals and publications need a variety of different written content and some employ freelance employees to complete many different types of tasks. Freelance writers are self-employed writing professionals that provide a variety of writing services for many different purposes.

What does a freelance writer do?

Freelance writers sell written content to a variety of individuals, publications, and organizations. They act as independent contractors and usually seek out their own work opportunities. They write a variety of content such as poems, blogs, articles, short stories, fiction pieces, business proposals, manuals, and contracts. They often set their own schedules, payment requirements, and conditions to clients. Some freelance writers sell their content to news organizations, book and magazine publishers, advertising agencies, and other organizations. Some freelance writers are sponsored by organizations to write specific content during a specified amount of time. Many individuals and organizations hire freelance writers to complete short-term or recurring tasks such as contributing articles on specific topics to newsletters, writing a column, and providing their opinion on certain issues for news agencies.

What kind of training does a freelance writer need?

Freelance writers typically need at least a bachelor degree in English, journalism, or other related field. They must also have excellent spelling and grammatical skills and great computer skills. Many aspiring freelance writers complete internships or work part-time for school and college newspapers, local magazines, and other related publications. Some freelance writers begin their careers working for publications and they decide to do freelance work once they gain extensive experience. Freelance writers often complete continuing education and additional training throughout their careers to keep their skills up to date and stay abreast with advancements in the field. They often participate in writing workshops, conferences, and seminars.

What are the prospects for a career as a freelance writer?

Employment of freelance writers is expected to grow faster than average for all professions, increasing 15% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increased demand for writing services will drive job growth.

Job prospects are expected to be good with strong competition. Freelance writers with advanced training and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities.

How much do freelance writers make?

As of February 2010, the average annual salary for freelance writers is $56,000; average annual freelance writer salaries vary greatly by location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).

A career as a freelance writer is an excellent choice for individuals with a passion for writing a variety of different content for many different purposes. Freelance writers must have a solid understanding of a variety of writing styles and have excellent spelling and grammar skills. Patience, self-discipline, self-motivation, creativity, good problem solving, and critical thinking are necessary characteristics. Freelance writers must have excellent written communication and the ability to constantly seek out new opportunities. They must be able to effectively work independently under stress and pressure to meet specific deadlines.

Now what? The next step is easy!

Take the first step today and request free information from our selected top online arts and design schools, or simply use the form below to find the program that is right for you!

(1) SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition.
(2) SOURCE: SimplyHired.com, Simply Salary