After nearly a decade as a freelance writer and journalist, I’ve picked up plenty of dos and don’ts along the way. Here are 10 tips that I’ve found to be helpful at every stage of the journey.
- Ask Yourself the Big Questions
How much time do you want to devote to freelance writing? What kind of material do you want to write? How much money do you need to make? Determining the answers to these questions—and re-evaluating them periodically—is key. - Do Your Homework
Maybe you want to write for parenting magazines. Perhaps a byline in National Geographic is your aim. No matter what your goal, research potential clients (publications/outlets) to make sure you have enough expertise to contribute and that you’re on board with their content and mission. - Be Proactive
For publications that pique your interest, see if you can find “Write for Us” or “Pitch Us” links on their websites. If you can’t, there’s no harm in reaching out to an editor expressing your interest and qualifications to contribute as a freelancer. I’ve “cold emailed” several editors and was surprised to receive assignments within the week. - Nurture the Writer-Editor Relationship
A good rapport between freelance writers and editors requires communication and mutual respect. Be clear about expectations when it comes to what you’ll be writing, deadlines, and payment. Accept constructive criticism and edits, but keep a cautious eye out for editors who make so many changes to your work that your voice is lost. Speak up. Ask questions. Keep in mind that editors are busy and under significant pressure, so be sure to respect their process. Also, remember that this is a two-way street; a good editor will respect you, too. - Don’t Work For Peanuts (Know Your Worth)
In the beginning, you might be willing to accept compensation that’s on the lower end just to get “in” with a publication. Once you’ve established yourself as a reliable and solid contributor (or if you’re earning more elsewhere for work that’s similar in length and style), ask the editor to increase your payment. Some editors’ hands are tied and they’re simply unable to offer more. Others will definitely boost payment once the rapport is built. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Your time and effort are valuable and you should be compensated accordingly. - Keep Detailed Records
This is vital. Get a good Excel spreadsheet going to track clients, deadlines, invoices sent and received, and any pertinent notes. - Meet Deadlines and Don’t Flake
With the exception of a true emergency or extenuating circumstance, this one is non-negotiable. Editors often have content planned out months or years in advance (depending on the type of publication), so if you can’t get the work done on time (or at all), that leaves them in a bind. Of course, if you’re writing a piece that’s due far down the line, there’s no harm in asking your editor whether the deadline is firm or has a bit of wiggle room. - Know When to Say No
To avoid burnout, realize that it’s okay to decline a pitch or a potential assignment. Especially at the beginning of your freelancing career, you may be in a rush to gather as many clients as possible in an effort to get your name and credibility out there. That’s fine, but only take on as much as you can without sacrificing the quality of your work and your sanity. - Remember Your Power
Regardless of what you write, your words will matter to someone out there, whether it’s a new mother seeking prenatal advice from an expert, a military family fielding the challenges of deployment, or a citizen who relies on a digital news outlet to know what’s happening in the community. You’re writing for real people, and your work makes a real difference. - Have Plenty of Coffee on Hand
If you’re reading this, you’re a writer, so you already know this. No elaboration necessary.
About the Author
Laura Adams Boycourt is a freelance writer/journalist with bylines in a number of regional and national publications. As an educator, she is passionate about literacy and helping youth become engaged readers and writers. Laura is actively querying a children’s picture book manuscript and has several other writing projects in the works. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young daughters, getting out on the Chesapeake/James, and watching Baltimore Orioles games.