Our most recent virtual Mastermind in the Get Freelancing Community was all about freelance writing. Karen Bohnert shared her unique perspective from her freelance writing days, including what she looks for in freelancers now that she's an editor. Here's what we learned.
Keep an open mind.
If being published in a large, industry-specific publication is your goal, never under-value other writing opportunities that fall outside of that. Consider complementary services you can offer to a client, and other places to use your writing talents. Your own blog, ghostwriting for another company's website or newsletters, and social media posts can all serve as stepping stones that will build your portfolio and your network.
Leverage your network.
Think about your involvement in the industry. When you go to shows and events, go a step beyond walking the halls of the trade show. Attend the receptions and networking events. Reach out ahead of time to set up a meeting instead of hoping for a chance encounter with an editor you want to work with. Make sure your network knows that you are available for work, and don't downplay what you can do!
Have your portfolio ready.
Keep a file (Google Drive works well for sharing) of your best work. A blog is another great way to demonstrate what you can do - not to mention the added benefits of blogging for your personal or company brand! Make sure to include recent and relevant topics. Editors are looking both for that viral element, and for hot topics in technology. Understand that your portfolio is an example and ideas that you can build on: these pieces are not likely to be picked up and run as-is.
When you're approaching or pitching an editor for the first time, it's good to include samples of what you can do, but understand that your first step is likely getting to know each other. The way you work, communicate and meet deadlines are heavily weighted along with your ability to write.
Communicate.
Things change throughout the course of a project or a writing assignment all. the. time. Whether it's on your end, or the client's end, the relationship needs to work in a way that can accommodate curveballs. Find out how the client likes to communicate, and make sure they know of a timeline when they can expect responses back from you.
Be open to negotiation.
Pay for writers can be all over the board. When the client or publication doesn't set the rates for you, a good practice is to go in with your ideal range - and if it's someone you're really interested in working with, definitely throw in, "But I can work with your budget."
Don't forget about the intangible benefits that some opportunities can offer. Even if the project doesn't pay what you'd hoped, if it gets you in front of an audience you didn't have, it will pay dividends down the road.
Be careful of your client's competition.
Just like you'd be careful of a conflict of interest with any other client work, tread lightly when it comes to writing for competing publications. If your portfolio includes work that you've done for a competitor in the past, make sure the current nature of that relationship is clear.
There was so much more we covered, and you can watch the replay of the Mastermind in full when you sign up for a free trial in the Get Freelancing Community!
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