This Is How You Become a Freelancer

Hello ladies!

So, the word on the street is that you want to be a freelancer. On a blog post I wrote a while ago about how I got into copywriting, one of you lovely readers asked in the comments section,“how do you suggest starting to do freelance writing? What is the process of submitting articles?”. I couldn’t really answer directly, because there are several ways to eat your gari (grated cassava), abi? (isn’t it?)
I started to think about the methods I have used or even considered, and thought I’d share some of these with you. This blog post offers some very practical tips so you may want to note down 2-3 actions you will take immediately to get you on your way to your freelancing dream.

Blog like a copywriter

This is a good place to start. Ensure your blog looks like that of a copywriter. You can do this by creating a ‘copywriting’ page which includes links to previously written work. Also, make sure you include ways in which potential clients can contact you.  An ‘about’ page can also help.

Collaborate

Reach out to other bloggers and ask to guest post. Do this by sending out a polite email, stating your intentions, and why you want to write for their blog. It’s great to be ambitious, but also consider that you are more likely to get a response from other bloggers on your level (size and experience)

Pitch articles

This is probably the most traditional way of getting noticed. Start by pitching to your local newspaper, and build your way up to larger traditional and online publications. Ensure you locate the correct email address, and send your submissions as an attachment with a polite cover email. You may get a few rejections but never give up.

Advertise yourself

Always include the title ‘freelance copywriter’ in your social media bio. Consider joining LinkedIn – the social media site for professionals, and make your profile reflective of your copywriting ambitions.

Be of service

Look for small or newer companies (because they are more likely to respond to you) and offer to write a ‘trial’ piece of copy for free. If they are pleased they may hire you permanently. You can also ignore what I said about reaching out to smaller companies and just shoot your shot with the bigger ones!

Join a freelancing website.

Sites such as Fiverr and PeoplePerHour are always looking for freelancers of any kind willing to do some work for a small fee. It’s another great place to start so sign up!

Stay ready

You need to be serious and intentional. If you really want to be a freelancer then you need to get into the mindset of one. Whilst you wait for your first client, create your price lists, welcome packs, sign up forms etc.

Study your craft

Learning never stops, and evoloving always continues. You can go down my route and sign up for a whole course. It’s expensive and choosing to study is a mighy feat, but it will look good on your CV. But if you are not in a place to undergo anything too strenuous, make sure you read at least 2-3 online articles a week about the industry. There are tons of them!

Be an expert

Use your online voice (social media profiles/ blog) to share your expertise with others. This will set you apart as an expert and draw people’s attention to you.

Get feedback

Whenever you do some work for an organisation or publication, no matter how small, politely ask for a testimonial. Share your testimonials with the world! Having someone blow your trumpet is 100 times more effective than blowing your own!

I can’t promise you overnight success. There is a lot of hustling to be done. However, now you have ten ways to get your writing noticed.  If you have any more, please comment below. Oh, and you must let me know if you intend on taking any of my advice.
Good luck in your freelance career!