Whether you’re looking to be a ghostwriter, freelancer, or just simply want to find a writing job, there are plenty of reputable places online to help you get started.
Elance is a good option. As of today, there are 705 jobs listed under Writing and Translation. Here are a few breakdowns for you, keeping in mind that some jobs fall under multiple categories.
- 372 eBooks
- 441 Creative Writing
- 963 Web Content
- 298 Academic Writing
To get started on elance, you’ll need to register and complete your profile. This can be a bit time-consuming, but buyers will use this to decide whether to hire you. One of the toughest things for me was putting together a portfolio, or having any samples to offer when bidding.
I’m not sure if this is the best solution, but it has worked out for me. I use blog posts as samples for potential buyers. I also have copies of articles I’ve sold elsewhere online that I can attach for samples. The whole idea is to give the buyer something of yours to look at that’s similar to what they’re purchasing.
Don’t be tempted to under price yourself. You’ll be tempted to bid low, particularly when you’re just getting started. Charge a fair amount for your work. Underbidding can backfire by making buyers think that you’re not worth any more than you’re asking for.
When bidding, write a custom bid for each job. Address each question or requirement that the buyer has, and provide samples of work that demonstrate your ability to deliver what’s needed. It’s helpful to explain how you arrived at your fees so buyers can compare what you’re offering and charging to others’ bids.
When you have the job, deliver what you promise, well done, and early if possible. Communicate frequently and clearly with your client. Don’t outsource the work to someone else unless the client approved it before you bidded. Often a client is looking for a long-term relationship, so doing a good job on the first project will mean you get the first offer for subsequent projects.
Job Boards are another viable option, but one that I don’t use, so I can’t speak to them specifically. Here are some options for you to explore.
The same rules apply as with Elance. Provide a custom quote for your services and relevant samples of your work to land the project. After you’re hired, communicate with your client and provide what’s asked for professionally and on time.
Other
If you’re looking to make money from your blogging or writing, then check out some sites that pay you to do so. You’ll write articles and sell them through their sites. You won’t get rich, but you will learn what sells well and what doesn’t. You’ll get feedback on your work (sometimes), and you’ll have some articles to add to your portfolio of published works.
I’ve had some success with Constant Content. It’s a nice way to sell some articles that you don’t have a place for. However, if you’re writing something that’s close to your blog topic, I think you’re better off posting it on your own site and gaining the traffic. Just my opinion…
Anyone care to share other sites for writing jobs, freelancing jobs, etc.?
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