Are you tired of the 9 to 5 grind and want to explore new ways of making money? Or maybe you've been bitten by the writing bug and want to turn your passion into a career. Whatever your motivation, online writing jobs are a great way to earn a living from anywhere in the world.
From crafting blog posts to creating social media content, online writing jobs are diverse and in high demand. But with so many writers competing for work, it can be tough to break through the noise and build a successful career. That's where this guide comes in.
We'll take you through the essential tips for making money with online writing jobs. But don't worry, we won't bore you with the usual cliches about "finding your niche" or "building your portfolio." We'll give you the real, practical advice you need to succeed in this competitive field.
Getting Started with Online Writing
If you're new to online writing, or freelance writing as many people love to call it, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. First, you need to familiarize yourself with the world of online writing. This means understanding the different types of online writing jobs and the skills required for each. It's also important to research the market demand for different types of writing to determine which niches are most profitable.
Once you've done your research, it's time to start building your writing skills. Read articles and books on writing, take online courses, or attend workshops to learn from experts in the field. Practice writing every day to develop your style and voice.
Next, create a portfolio of your work to showcase your writing skills to potential clients. You can start by creating a blog or website to publish your work and share it on social media platforms.
Finally, start looking for online writing jobs by searching on freelancing platforms, job boards, or cold pitching to potential clients. Building a network of contacts and referrals can also help you find job opportunities.
5 Reasons Why You Should Pursue Online Writing
Flexibility
Online writing jobs offer a high degree of flexibility in terms of work schedules and location. You can work from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. This flexibility means you can work at your own pace, choose your own hours, and take on as much or as little work as you want.
It's a great option for those who prefer a more flexible lifestyle, such as digital nomads, stay-at-home parents, or those who want to supplement their income with part-time work. You can work from anywhere you have an internet connection, and you can stay in control of your workload.
You choose when and how much work to take on, allowing you to work around any other commitments you might have. Working in this way also allows you to explore different topics and build relationships with clients from around the world.
High demand
The rise of content marketing has led to a surge in demand for skilled writers. As businesses and individuals look to establish their online presence, the need for quality content continues to grow. Online writing jobs offer a wide range of opportunities to work with clients in various niches and industries, from tech to finance to healthcare. With such a high demand for content, the opportunities for writers are endless.
Whether you're looking for part-time gigs or long-term projects, there is no shortage of work available. Many writers specialize in certain topics, allowing them to become experts in their niche and provide quality content for their clients. Meanwhile, others choose to diversify their skillset and work across a wide range of industries and topics. Either way, there is always a demand for writers who can create compelling and engaging content.
Diverse opportunities
Online writing encompasses a wide range of niches and industries, providing diverse opportunities for writers. Whether you're interested in writing about healthcare, travel, or technology, there are online writing jobs available in almost every niche. This diversity allows you to choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise, making it a great option for those who want to combine their passion with their work.
For example, if you're a healthcare expert, you can pursue healthcare writing jobs. Similarly, if you have a passion for travel, there are travel writing jobs available for you. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can make money writing about what you love, while also gaining valuable experience in the process.
Creative expression
Writing is a form of creative expression that allows you to share your unique voice and perspective with the world. Online writing jobs offer the opportunity to express your creativity while getting paid for it. As a writer, you have the ability to craft engaging stories, compelling copy, and informative articles that inform and entertain readers. Whether you're writing about a new product or a travel destination, online writing jobs offer a great outlet for your creative talents. Writing online can also provide an opportunity for self-expression and personal growth. Writing about topics that interest you can help to develop your skills and knowledge, while also giving you the satisfaction of knowing your work is making a difference in the lives of others.
Earning potential
While online writing jobs may start with lower rates, the earning potential is high for skilled and experienced writers. As you build your portfolio and reputation, you can command higher rates and enjoy a lucrative career. You can also leverage your writing skills to diversify your income streams, such as writing eBooks or courses, creating content for social media, or starting your own blog. With the right mindset and skills, online writing jobs offer great earning potential and a fulfilling career path.
While there are challenges to starting out, you can begin setting yourself apart from the competition by taking the time to hone your copywriting skills or specialize in a certain niche. With dedication and perseverance, you can become an in-demand professional writer and reach your own definition of success. Whether you're looking for extra income, a full-time job, or more creative outlets, online writing jobs can offer plenty of possibilities.
10 Essential Tips for Making Money with Online Writing Jobs
Develop a writing portfolio.
A writing portfolio is a collection of your best writing samples that showcase your writing skills and expertise. It should include a variety of writing styles and formats, such as articles, blog posts, case studies, and white papers. When building your portfolio, make sure to choose samples that align with the type of writing you want to do and highlight your strengths.
Consider using a website builder or online platform to showcase your portfolio, and make sure it's easy for potential clients to find and navigate. Include information about yourself and what makes you a great writer. If you have any awards, certifications, or other achievements, make sure to include them.
You can also include samples that demonstrate your research and editing skills. Finally, include a portfolio statement that explains why you're the perfect writer for the job.
Choose a niche
Choosing a niche allows you to specialize in a particular area and establish yourself as an expert in that field. This can help you command higher rates and attract clients who value your expertise. When choosing a niche, consider your interests, skills, and experience. Look for areas where there's a high demand for writers, but also try to choose a niche that you're passionate about and enjoy writing about.
This will give you a greater sense of fulfillment and make it easier to market yourself as a specialist. Having an area of focus can also help you stay motivated and make your work stand out from the crowd. When you become an expert in a particular field, it makes it much easier to find new clients and stay ahead of the competition.
Build your online presence
Building a strong online presence is essential for attracting clients and showcasing your writing skills. This includes creating a professional website, setting up social media profiles, and publishing content on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn.
Make sure your online presence reflects your brand and showcases your writing skills and experience. Be active on social media and engage with potential clients and other writers to build your network. Reply to messages, comment on posts, and use hashtags to boost visibility.
Joining writing groups, forums, and other online writing communities can help you stay up to date on the latest industry trends and open you up to new job opportunities. Finally, spending time on self-promotion and marketing can help you stand out from the competition and land more writing gigs.
Network with other writers
Networking with other writers can lead to new job opportunities, collaborations, and referrals. Join online writing groups, attend conferences, and participate in writing communities to expand your network. Don't be afraid to reach out to other writers and introduce yourself, and be willing to share your knowledge and expertise with others. Building relationships with other writers can be a great way to increase visibility and gain access to more job opportunities.
You can also learn from the experiences of others and benefit from the collective knowledge of a large group of professionals. Networking regularly with other writers can also help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments. By engaging in meaningful conversations and staying in touch, you'll be better positioned to find new leads and make valuable connections that can help you in your career.
Set competitive rates
Setting competitive rates is essential for attracting clients and earning a sustainable income. Do research on the average rates for your niche and adjust your rates accordingly. Consider your experience, expertise, and the type of writing you're doing when setting your rates. Don't undervalue your skills, but also be willing to negotiate if needed. Aim for something that is fair for both parties, and make sure to explain the benefits of your services and the value of the investment. When negotiating, remain open to compromise, but don't be afraid to stand your ground if necessary. Remember, you are providing a valuable service that deserves fair compensation. Be proud of what you do and never feel guilty about your prices or fees.
Be professional and reliable
Maintaining a professional image is essential for attracting and retaining clients. Communicate clearly with clients, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work. Respond to client inquiries promptly and be willing to make revisions if needed. Build a reputation for reliability and professionalism, and your clients will keep coming back for more.
When working with clients, be sure to communicate openly and clearly. Provide straightforward responses in a timely manner, and make sure that you are always willing to listen to their requests. If revisions are needed, make sure they are completed quickly and efficiently. This will help you build a lasting relationship with each customer.
Be open to feedback
Feedback from clients and other writers can help you improve your writing skills and grow your career. Be open to constructive criticism and use it to hone your craft. Don't take feedback personally, but rather view it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Consider joining a writing group or finding a mentor who can provide feedback and guidance.
This can be invaluable in helping you to perfect your craft and take your writing to the next level. Get involved with workshops and other events in the writing community to network, learn more and get inspired. Joining a group of like-minded writers can also provide support, accountability, and motivation as you pursue your writing goals.
Constantly improve your skills
Continuously improving your writing skills is essential for staying competitive and growing your career. Take writing courses, read writing books, and attend webinars to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Practice writing every day and seek out new challenges and opportunities to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Set a goal to write for a certain amount of time each day, or to finish a project in a certain time frame. And don’t forget to edit your own writing, as well as get feedback from peers. This will help you hone your writing skills. Moreover, you can also look for feedback from other writers who have experience in the field and can provide unbiased opinions about your work.
Stay organized
Staying organized is essential for managing your workload and meeting deadlines. Use tools like project management software, to-do lists, and calendars to keep track of your assignments and prioritize your tasks. Set realistic goals and deadlines, and break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Create a system that works for you and stick to it. Even if your system initially takes a lot of time to set up and maintain, the time saved in the long run is worth it. A cluttered desk can be overwhelming and can make it difficult to find what you need. Staying organized and having a structured system in place can help you stay on top of your tasks and keep your stress levels in check.
Be patient and persistent
Building a successful career in online writing takes time and persistence. Don't give up if you face rejection or setbacks, and keep honing your craft and building your network. Stay motivated and passionate about your writing, and remember that success often comes from hard work and dedication. Take advantage of opportunities as they arise, and keep learning and expanding your skills. A successful career in online writing requires a lot of self-discipline, but the rewards can be immense.
Finding Online Writing Jobs
Network
Connect with other writers and professionals in your desired niche. Join writing groups on social media and attend writing conferences or events to meet new people and make connections. Making connections is key when working in a professional field. Take advantage of the resources in your network to get inspired and learn new techniques, tips, and tricks. As you become more connected and knowledgeable, you can turn those connections into relationships that can open doors for more projects and opportunities. Keep an open mind and be willing to take risks, it is vital to the success of your career.
Research and pitch
Don't wait for job postings; pitch your ideas to potential clients or publications. Research companies or websites you'd like to write for and send them a personalized pitch. Your pitch should include why you're the ideal candidate to write for them and what topics you think you could cover. If you don’t hear back, follow up a few days later with another email. Don’t be afraid to be persistent and reach out multiple times if you get no response. Make sure your emails are professional, friendly, and brief.
Build a relationship with clients
Once you land a client, build a strong relationship with them. Deliver high-quality work on time and communicate effectively to build trust and ensure future work. Create a schedule that fits the client’s needs and stick to it. Show them why you are the best for the job and set yourself apart from the competition. When you build a strong relationship with a client, it can be very beneficial for both parties. They will feel secure that the job is being done well, and you will be able to rely on them for future projects.
Consider freelance platforms
If you're just starting, consider joining a freelance platform that specializes in online writing jobs. This will help you get more exposure and find clients more quickly. Experienced freelancers can also benefit from joining a platform as it gives them access to new projects and potential long-term clients. You can search for gigs based on your area of expertise or what you're interested in writing about. You can also narrow down your search by looking for specific types of projects such as blog posts, website content, and press releases. Once you have found a gig that interests you, you can submit a proposal that outlines your qualifications and experience.
Getting Paid for Your Hard Work
As a freelance writer, one of the biggest challenges you face is getting paid on time. It can be frustrating to complete a project and then have to spend weeks chasing down payment from a client. This can be especially challenging for Kenyan freelancers who have limited options for receiving payments.
Thankfully, IntaSend offers a solution to this problem. With its invoicing system and payment links, IntaSend makes it easy for Kenyan freelancers to get paid seamlessly. The invoicing system allows you to send professional invoices to your clients, complete with all the necessary information, such as project details, payment terms, and due dates.
Once the client receives the invoice, they can pay directly through IntaSend's secure payment gateway. If they prefer, you can also send them a payment link that they can use to pay you quickly and easily. This eliminates the need for complicated bank transfers or other payment methods, saving you time and hassle.
By using IntaSend's invoicing system and payment links, you can focus on the good part of freelance writing – creating content – rather than worrying about getting paid. Plus, you can rest assured that your payments are secure and will be deposited directly into your account.
Get started with IntaSend today!
Cover Photo by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash
