Freelance writing is a dream profession for many writers because it allows a flexible work schedule, the ability to telecommute to work, and time to work on other writing endeavors. It also allows writers to constantly perfect their writing skills, and the experience gained from freelance writing is invaluable to a writer’s portfolio.


However finding freelance writing work can be difficult, especially if you’re just trying to break into the freelance writing field, unless you know how to approach it. These five techniques can help interested writers secure freelance writing jobs more easily:

1. Pitch ideas to local publications: There are likely a slew of local print publications ranging from local magazines to community newspapers that will contract freelance writers for different pieces. Reach out to them and pitch ideas that you think would be a good fit for their publication. Even if they don’t take your initial pitch, you can work together to find an idea that would be a good fit for their audience and after submitting a few pieces you could end up becoming a regular contributor.
2. Constantly search freelance job boards: There are a lot of freelance job boards throughout the web that post open jobs that are in need of freelance writers. Writers can then apply for the position and then go from there, and depending on the type of work needed can make a decent amount of money providing content.
3. Sign up for freelance writing sites: Some freelance writing sites will post topics that they need freelancers to write on, and once you sign up you can go in and click off the topics you’re interested in writing about. You then upload a completed article to the site and are paid accordingly, usually based on word count. While these sites typically don’t provide a lot in terms of income, it’s a good way to make a little extra money and gain a lot more experience.
4. Market your skills to organizations: Often times different organizations such as non-profits or small businesses can use the help of a freelance writer assisting in press releases and content for their websites, among other things. Since these organizations typically outsource this type of work it’s the perfect opportunity for you to market your skill set and expand your portfolio. Don’t be afraid of contacting them or playing up your strengths.
5. Blog: Blogs are quickly becoming one of the easiest ways to showcase your writing talents and secure freelance pieces because companies have a chance to preview your writing style and determine if it’s going to be a good match for them ahead of time. Make business cards to hand out with your blog URL on them, and keep them handy because you never know when a networking opportunity can occur. 

Freelance writing is a great way to polish your writing skills and make some extra money. By continually exposing yourself to new writing opportunities you’ll not only expand your client base but also your well-roundness as a writer.

Author Byline:Ken Myers as an Expert Advisor on multiple household help issues to many Organizations and groups, and is a mentor for other “Mom-preneurs” seeking guidance. He is a regular contributor of “www.gonannies.com”. You can get in touch with him at k.meyerst20@gmail.com.