Getting Started As A Freelance Writer

by Kelly Watson

Imagine setting your own hours, working in your pajamas and getting paid to share your opinions with the world. Best of all, you don't even need a Journalism degree--just good writing skills and a strong dose of perseverance.

Freelance writing doesn't come without drawbacks. You're not guaranteed an income, for starters, and the pay can be mediocre in certain markets. But if you're willing to work hard and handle rejection, there's nothing stopping you from making a living wage within six months to a year.

WHERE TO BEGIN

For many would-be writers, getting started is the tough part. Fear sets in when they consider taking the first steps to a writing career. You will face rejection, no matter how good your writing skills are. But getting published doesn't have to be hard. Start small, and leverage the connections you already have. Submit an article for your church newsletter. Study your local newspaper's writing guidelines, then submit an op-ed article.

Don't forget to look for commercial writing opportunities as well. They can be just as creative, and often pay more than editorial writing assignments. Volunteer to write a press release for a local nonprofit, or develop some ad concepts for a small business in town.

WRITING FOR MONEY

Once you have a few published writing samples, you can approach paying markets with confidence. Most magazines and other writing markets request that you query first. This means sending a one or two page summary of your article idea and why you're the perfect person to write it.

Before querying a publication, do your research. Read back issues, and get a feel for what the magazine or newspaper has published in the past. Some publications have a list of contributor's guidelines posted on their web site; these can help in your submission. When sending your query letter, make it look as professional as possible. Read it aloud to find typos, then have a friend proofread it for you. If you have professional-looking stationary or personalized letterhead, use it. Then enclose a few writing samples and a self-addressed stamped envelope.

HANDLING REJECTION

Don't be surprised if you get a rejection – and don't take it personally. Getting rejection letters is just part of a freelance writer's job.

Whatever happens, keep querying and studying the publications. You might have to try a dozen times before you get an assignment, but you'll be improving with each new query letter.

OTHER RESOURCES

For more tips on starting a freelance writing career, check out "Six-Figure Freelancing" by Kelly James-Enger or "The Renegade Writer" by Linda Formichelli and Diana Burrell. Peter Bowerman's "The Well-Fed Writer" and Bob Bly's "Secrets Of A Freelance Writer" are two great books for those looking to specialize in commercial writing.

Working from home can be isolating. Luckily, there are a number of online communities where you can connect with other writers. FreelanceSuccess.com is a paid online message board where some of the top writers hang out and share tricks of the trade. MediaBistro.com is a similar online writing community with helpful resources, market guides and more. Talk to other writers, do your research, and don't give up. Rejection is rarely easy, but in time you'll discover how rewarding a freelance writing career can be.

Kelly Watson is a freelance marketing coach and the founder of Womenwise Marketing, a web site full of free marketing tips and other business resources for women. Visit the Womenwise Marketing blog and subscribe to Kelly's free bimonthly podcast at http://www.womenwisemarketing.com.