Well hello to you my reader chums! Being a freelancer is one of my favourite things; I love working with clients and on various projects, which I adore, plus the flexibility that comes with it. I've worked part-time as a freelancer for nearly a year now and there are many things I've already learnt, and things I've done to help me succeed, and find clients. 

If you're keen to start freelancing and don't know where to begin, here are my tips on how to start out as a freelance writer. 

Set up a LinkedIn profile

I'm in love with LinkedIn and have found some of my best clients via the platform. I've been on LinkedIn for years but have only really made good use of it in the past year for connecting with those relevant in the industry and prospective clients. It's a great resource to share all of your experience (and list out your previous jobs), interests and skills. 

It's also a place to build up a personal brand. I've seen many freelancers sharing their tips, experiences and advice on being a freelancer, and you can do that too - and create a personal brand for yourself. We all have different experiences and perspectives, and LinkedIn is a tool you can use to share expertise. 

Feedback and testimonials are key to creating a strong reputation as a freelancer. On Linkedin, you can ask for clients to write you testimonials on your profile, which means, when new potential clients find you, they can see what other people have said about you.

Set up an Upwork profile

There are many platforms available to help you search for freelance opportunities such as Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com. If you have no idea about how to find work or pitch for it, one of these sites is incredibly helpful. You can set up a profile, a similar way you do with Linkedin, listing your experience, skillset, rates and a summary of the type of services you offer. Then, when you pitch there, potential clients can refer back to your profile and see your list of experiences. You can also be paid through the platforms and as you agree to contracts with clients on there, if a client doesn't pay, they can help you out legally.

Build a portfolio

Many potential clients will want to see your work and your skill level, which can be tricky if you're new to the freelancing world. If you've created work such as blog posts in previous jobs with your name on it, you can link to that. However, if you're in a position where you have no bylines, the best way to create a portfolio is either writing a blog or creating work on your own accord. For example, writing up example blog posts you'd do for a specific client or mock-up web pages. It may not ever be published, however, it will show potential clients how you write and your skill level.

Create a pitch template 

Pitching isn't the most exciting part of freelancing I have to admit, which is why I've created a pitch template. This helps when I'm pitching for various freelance openings on different platforms, whether it's Upwork or directly through emails. The template basically is a rough outline of what you need to include and then you can fill in all the gaps for the specific project or role at hand.

Pitch away to jobs you're passionate about

When you're accounts are created, you've started a portfolio and have your template, this is where the pitching fun begins. Search for jobs you love the sounds of and even go for the ones which don't thrill you as much. As a newbie freelancer, you want to build up a log of work for various clients to show your flexibility and adaptable skills when it comes to writing. When you're more experienced and have a stack of clients behind you, then you can start searching for clients you really adore - as you're more likely to land the position.

Contact people, you've previously worked with

It's never about what you do, it's about who you know. Connections in life are a huge key to success. It's usually the people we know who help us find our big breaks or boost us up when needed. This is why, as a new freelance writer, contact all the people you've previously worked with. It could be old bosses, colleagues or organisations you're affiliated with. You never know who needs a new writer on board.

Work on your skills

Freelance writers never stop learning, like with any other job. When it comes to writing, never stop for work or pleasure. The more you write, the better you become. Invest in courses, read relevant articles, attend webinars and listen to podcasts. The more you know will help you in the long run.

Show up every day 

Consistency is key to success and as a new freelance writer, you need to be showing up every day. You'll have good days and bad days, and it's even more important to keep pushing through on the harder and hopeless days. Freelancing isn't an easy ride let me tell you, but building a successful career in what you love is the greatest reward.

I hope you enjoyed this post. What other tips do you have?

Thank you for reading <3