The Best First Steps for a New Freelance Writer

Embarking on a freelance writing journey can be both exciting and daunting. Here, we outline the best initial steps to help you navigate this exciting yet challenging field.

Choose the Right Platform

Starting your freelance career is a big step, and choosing the right platform is crucial. Seek out a platform that offers equal opportunities for all levels of expertise. There are several such platforms, including FreelanceWriterJobs. Registering with a reputable platform can provide you with numerous first-time opportunities. Additionally, you can leverage promotional codes to boost your chances, such as fp389600.

Boost Your Research and Editing Skills

As a freelance writer, you’ll need to be well-versed in using various research tools and proficient with editing software. Some essential tools include:

Grammarly – Great for checking grammar and spelling. Hemingway Editor – A perfect tool to simplify sentences and check readability.

Reading extensively and practicing your writing skills regularly will help you build a strong foundation. Fancy yourself a prose writer or a novelist? That’s amazing, but for now, focus on honing your research, editing, and writing skills, as they are key to landing projects as a freelance writer.

Start Submitting Your Work

The best way to build your portfolio and gain experience is to start submitting your work to various publications. Begin by targeting smaller magazines and online publications. Freelancing is not just about the paycheck; it’s about building a portfolio. Even if you don’t get a project, every attempt is a learning opportunity.

Understand the Basics of Journalistic Writing

Journalistic writing is a great foundation for any freelance writer, regardless of the niche. Key elements to master include:

Angle: This is the topic or reason you are writing the article. It helps set the direction of your piece. Without an angle, your article would be like a pizza without cheese. Introduction: This is the opening paragraph or two of your article that introduces the story. It should focus on the who, what, when, where, why, and how. Quote: A well-placed quote can add depth and authority to your article. It humanizes the story and provides authenticity. Attribution: Ensure that all the information you cite is properly attributed. Without attribution, your credibility is at stake. In court reporting, this is especially crucial and considerations similar to these should be made for your quotations.

Writing like a journalist requires a simple, straightforward style. The goal is to convey information clearly and concisely. While there may be variations, the core elements remain consistent across different platforms and settings.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Becoming a successful freelance writer is a journey that requires consistent effort and practice. Writing every day and seeking out feedback is a great way to improve. Start small, and as you gain confidence, take on more challenging projects. Remember, every piece you write is a step forward in your freelance writing career.

Conclusion

Starting as a freelance writer is an exciting journey, but it requires dedication and the right approach. Follow these initial steps, and you will be on your way to building a thriving freelance writing career.