The Three Keys To Serious Freelance Writing Income
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My last post on the topic of freelance writing was titled make money with freelance writing. It garnered some interesting comments from readers. They were mainly to do with setting rates (the never ending topic), as well as how to go about the whole business in general.
I guess, when we talk about freelance writing, rates and getting started, we can keep turning in circles, since we will never agree for sure with regards to what is right and wrong.
In the end you will have to factor in your own experience, your needs and your position in your market to determine your own rates and procedures.
In this post I want to show you what I deem an absolutely necessity - must haves, if you really want to be a player in your market.
What most aspiring freelance writers often forget is, not everybody needs to start out in the Internet marketing, blogging industry. Many write for industry specific markets and earn a quiet fortune along the way.
What really determines your market is your expertise in it. If you are very knowledgeable and passionate about a specific topic, then this could provide the perfect starting position for your writing business.
You could target the health niche, the sports niche, the fitness niche, or even the lawyer/attorney niche. Regardless of the market or industry, writers are needed everywhere.
Once you break into your market, it’s time to make sure you have what it takes to build your business in blocks.
I did exactly the same thing, moving ahead, step by step, until I was able to sack my boss for good. It took me a total of seven months to do this and if I was able to do this, so can you. Also, when you look at the bigger picture, what are seven months in comparison to being stuck for another twenty years in a job that sucks the life out of you?
1.) To be taken serious you need a portfolio site
I’m not kidding. A portfolio site is an absolute must if you want to play your market. It shows prospective clients just how serious you are about your business and instills a sense of professionalism.
I used to be happy with having my blog and a hire me page, thinking it was sufficient enough for my business. I did have a portfolio site too, but it didn’t list rates and only contained my story, as well as a contact me form, very basic. Then once I became involved in the thought process on whether to post or not to post my rates, I had a wake up call while reading a blog post on Copyblogger.
This post was the final straw I needed to move my business to the next level (unfortunately I can’t remember the exact post). I moved my portfolio site from using a free template to a paid one, whilst investing a couple of hundred dollars for the transition. I also paid for a logo and customizations and the result has been nothing but amazing.
Within four days of having the new site up I had a new client. It paid instantly for the make-over. Since then, I have seen a sharp rise in new clients wanting to book my services. As a matter of fact, upgrading my portfolio site was the difference between me trawling various online job sites, looking for work and being fully booked out for 6 months solid, without having to look for work.
In my case, my blog is my voice, while my portfolio site is my profile, telling clients “hey, I’m serious about this, this is my business and I treat it as such”.
2.) Consistency matters
Consistency is key when it comes to your rates. Once you have established your rates to a satisfactory level, keep them consistent. This is why you are posting your rates in the first place.
Potential clients can see whether their needs and your services provides a match or not.
Being too murky here, or swapping them around isn’t good for business. It would be like going to your deli, buying a cup of coffee for $2 today, $3.50 tomorrow and $4 next week. You certainly won’t go back there in a hurry.
If you have established long term clients, keep your rates the same. I’m not saying you can’t ask for a pay rise, but you need to know when and where and be absolute certain you provided value for money to your client before you even attempt this.
I had one specific long term client whom I worked for with beginners rates. Every week I’d write 14 articles for a set amount. I did this for 8 months. Then he asked me whether I’d be interested to do something totally different, I said yes and named my current rate. He obliged.
He could have just as easily gone to outsource this job to India for a third of what he pays me, but because he knows I’m reliable and loves my work, he chose me instead.
Another client paid me the same rates for about 7 months now. I knew I had outgrown them (the rates) some time ago, but didn’t want to lose the client. This month I finally made the plunge and asked for a pay rise. I got it.
These are typical examples that sometimes it does pay to wait. A long term client can be worth a lot, since they often send you referrals too. Having said this, I also get referrals from new clients, which is the ultimate show of trust and appreciation. These people really rock because they show me how much they really value my work, which has nothing to do with money.
3.) Go beyond the call of duty
I pride myself on doing everything I can to make life easier for my clients. This involves sending them the finished work in a easy to use format, depending on what they need it for.
I also provide extra services for which I do not charge a cent. These services are not listed on my portfolio site either, I just provide them as I can. I guess in some ways I see myself as a service warrior. In the age of lost customer service art, I do my best to help rectify this gaping hole.
For example, I gained a new blogging client a few months ago. I got booked to publish a couple of blog posts every week, which I did. But because I was able to self publish I also had full access to the site as an administrator. My client was really busy with other aspects of his business at the time (that’s why he hired me in the first place), so when I saw his massive comment backlog I offered to look after this for him, approving, replying and denying comments - no charge. A simple gesture of service, that’s all. Naturally he was delighted.
These are the little things that really matter a lot!
Whatever it is you can do to make life a little easier for a client, do it. It will come back to you ten fold. I like to call this karma. Being a big believer of karma, I have to say, from where I’m standing, it really works.
What do you need?
If you are a budding freelance writer, stuck or frustrated, not knowing where to turn, let me know in the comments. While I’m far from knowing it all (I learn new things every day), I would be happy to help you as much as I can from what I have learned up until this stage in my business.
To wrap this post up, I have to honestly say; the three keys above have been the three major factors responsible for moving my business to the next level.
Update: If you found this post helpful, you're going to love our new ebook: The Keyword Crash Course...it's 100% free. Enter your email here to receive the series:
This book contains the methods used by hundreds of my students and readers to create an excellent low-maintenance income online...and it will for your too - if you'll just download it and put it to work.
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July 3rd, 2008 at 11:40 am
thanks for very informative post. 2 questions.
1. serious question: If I write say in sport niche, an article to my client, do I lose the right to that article. If I start a sports blog later, can I re-use the article or not.
2. NOT so serious question:
is that client of yours with a huge backlog of comments is Court.
thanks again.
July 4th, 2008 at 7:47 am
@ Roger: Thank you for your questions. Here is my answer and I hope this helps.
1.) No, you should never re-use any of your work prior written for clients. The only time you can keep ownership is if they fail to pay you for your services. I write every single piece of work entirely for my clients, everything is unique.
2.) No, it wasn’t Court.
July 3rd, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I am just learning the whole blogging process and read that it is necessary to have your own domain name. I bought some but am unsure how to make the switch. I have the instructions for changing my blogspot blog but don’t understand what happens when I use a new URL and how specifically this will make it work better? It is my goal to set up a blog for money and the one I have now doesn’t fit the criteria for a money maker so I was going to practice on this one that I do for people I know who want to share my journey in a new country.
July 3rd, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Have you checked out Court’s posts on creating a blog, such as “5263 Words on Starting a Blog” it’s under his “Court’s Best Work” window at the top right of this page, also he is doing a “Creating a Blog Video Series” also linked at the top there, I believe there are three videos so far, but will be 50 in total.
Check those out they will answer your questions.
Also, having your own URL, is much better than having your blogs hosted on a free site like blogger, basically the best way to explain this, is imagine if you are renting an apartment, you would not remodel because you don’t own it, as opposed to remodeling when you own your own home. The same applies to having your own domains as opposed to “renting” from Blogger, the design and page is NOT truly yours, you are just remodeling for your landlord. Make Sense?
July 3rd, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Also what do you do with the backlinks - are they desirable in helping your ranking?
July 4th, 2008 at 7:54 am
@ Lyn: Amazing Free Backlinks Checker Tool (what a mouthful) has already answered your first question pretty well.
I’d like to add that having your own domain name provides you with many advantages, especially if you run a business. I’m all for it, although some others might disagree and I see there is value in using blogger blogs for certain aspects of business like in niche marketing for example.
However, if you want to be serious about a business portal, then a domain name is a must in my eyes, plus hosting is so cheap these days, for a few coffees a months you can easily have your own.
Backlinks are a must to rank well in search engines, especially over time and the more competition you have, the more you need them. I suggest you follow Court’s video tutorials here and read up on his advice, since you will learn to understand why and how.
July 3rd, 2008 at 8:25 pm
I am a starting freelancer and I quit my job to pursue this line of work. I have one client now. The work I do for him is something that I would have done for free as it directly touches on my passions.
My question is, do I concentrate all my efforts on this client and ignore the others? Or, should I accept another one so I’ll have something else to earn from just in case my first client stops availing of my services?
And, also, what is your definition of ’spreading yourself too thinly’? Three clients? Four?
July 3rd, 2008 at 9:29 pm
@evilwoobie -
You definitely shouldn’t focus all of your attention on a single client… you know the old adage about “putting all your eggs in one basket”.
Unless that one client alone is able to (1) pay you a salary that you desire, and (2) provide you with work that you’re passionate about (which you already said was true).
If you’re happy with the pay and you think it’ll be continual, go for it, but if I were you, I’d take on more clients… even if it were just 2 or 3 others.
July 4th, 2008 at 8:05 am
@ Evilwoobie: You should never leave all your eggs in one basket. Whether this applies to having any amount of clients or using just the one business model, it’s always good to have a backup plan.
Especially since you quit your job with just the one client, I don’t think it will provide you with enough income to match a normal job. (I might be wrong though)
As a freelancer you should always aim to find more clients, since this industry has its high and lows. While I haven’t had to find a single client for the last 6 months I’m not a silly as to belief this streak will always last. There will come a time when work might dry up and this is reason enough to always have something up your sleeves.
So yes, seek more clients, as many as you can possible handle in terms of hours in the week. Only you know how long you need to full fill a job.
What I did is to judge the time I needed to complete the job for client A, B and C which amounted to 25 hours/week. This left me with a pretty good idea on how many more I could take on board for any given week. Working like this has been good for me.
The same applies for spreading yourself too thin. Only you know your own boundaries in terms of time and the way you can run your business without missing deadlines. Once your start to feel pressured, it might be a good idea to give yourself some slack.
Does this help?
July 3rd, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Very comprehensive and information rich post,
Thanks Monica
July 4th, 2008 at 8:07 am
@ AFBCT: You are welcome, glad you like it. Thanks for helping out Lyn too.
July 4th, 2008 at 12:06 am
You have a good point about having a website with a portfolio. When seeking writers, I NEED to see some samples before I order.
July 4th, 2008 at 8:08 am
@ InForum Advertising: It does make sense too doesn’t it. Kind of like try before you buy. We don’t go into a clothes shop and point to a pair of jeans before we squeeze our behind into it first.
Yes, we do buy on the net but not everybody is at ease doing that.
July 4th, 2008 at 12:44 am
[…] The Three Keys to Serious Freelance Writing Income […]
July 4th, 2008 at 3:00 am
Great article. Have only just found your site and have read many of your posts which are always helpful. This one has given me the idea to get out there and try it. I write all of my employers marketing material - and fairly well I think - so this ‘business’ is a good fit for me.
So…If I setup the Portfolio site, where do I go next? Any pointers greatly appreciated.
July 4th, 2008 at 8:15 am
@ GoldenAppleCorps: You need exposure! I’m a strong advocate to start your own blog. If you are an aspiring freelance writer you need daily practice since practice makes perfect. Also, there is another bonus by having a blog. You get to network with your future clients.
Business on the Internet relies a lot on connections. Not at the beginning, but after you have been around a while and others start to notice you. Job websites are another great way to break into the industry and there are so many too.
Search on Google for “writing job sites”. After creating a free profile you can start bidding on jobs. Once you get chosen you have yourselves a new client.
That’s exactly how I started out. I hope this helps you too.
July 4th, 2008 at 8:41 am
Monika,
Interesting as always. Do you believe that someone can learn to write well or do you think they need a certain amount of natural talent to ever make it as an online writer?
I understand there are many different ways you can earn money from writing online, and I know you are talking specifically about freelance writing here, but I’m not sure I could ever earn my living doing what you do just because I don’t believe I am a good enough writer.
Ray
July 5th, 2008 at 12:17 am
@ Ray: You asked an interesting question.
I think a person needs some ability to write well (which can be learned or even honed with practice), a very healthy dose of passion for writing and belief into oneself that you can do it.
My question to you is this Ray: what makes you believe you are not good enough anyway? If you like to do it but are unsure of yourself, why not give yourself a chance first? You owe it to yourself. You might be an undiscovered Hemingway for all we know?
I guess what I’m trying to say it this, if you want it, go an get it. You might be surprised what awaits you.
July 5th, 2008 at 3:35 am
Great post, very useful information. Last year, I started article writing with a portfolio on a blogspot blog with 10 articles. Now, I am focused on my blog and have no time to do articles for others.
July 5th, 2008 at 6:20 am
I just put up my online portfolio this past week, but I didn’t pay to have it done. I’m wondering if you could look at it and tell me what’s lacking or any major things I should fix content or design wise. Perhaps in the near future I’ll pay for some one to professionally design it.
I’ve been reading a lot of your posts here and at your other site and they’ve been really helpful. Thanks for helping us newbies out.
July 6th, 2008 at 12:14 am
@ Andrew: Your feedback means a lot to me, thank you. I had a look at your portfolio site. Right now it needs testimonials for sure. Since you mentioned they will be up soon, this isn’t a big worry.
I like how you interlinked the pages with each other, as well as providing a contact form and Skype. You might want to add your email address to your contact form as many people want the quick way and simply send an email. If you do, don’t type it for spam bot collection. Instead do this
example: andrew [at] yourwebsite DOT com
Once you get your testimonials up, it might be good to put one or two onto your home page to add instant “grab” factor for potential clients.
BTW, love your colors too, they are very unobtrusive and work well together. Also providing a phto like you did is a must to help build trust.
All in all, you did a very good job.
July 5th, 2008 at 11:33 am
Really a useful post to go through.
July 6th, 2008 at 12:47 am
Monika: Thank you so much for looking at my sight and giving me those few tips. I wasn’t actually sure if you would take the time to do that or not; and your comments were more in depth than I expected.
Honestly, when I look back farther on down the road, I will credit the majority of my success to you because out of everyone that I’ve gotten in touch with and read their posts, you are the only one who has no catch and sincerely wants to help others out.
Thanks
July 8th, 2008 at 2:24 am
@ Andrew: Wow, your words certainly humble me but never under estimate your own doing. While I might help to inspire you, in the end the ultimate gratification goes to you alone since you are the one putting in the hard work.
I’m sorry you seemed to have had a hard time getting heard. Feel free to contact me if you ever need help. I’ll always have time for an email or a quick chat.
July 6th, 2008 at 2:01 am
[…] Court’s IM School - Three Keys to Serious Freelance Writing Income […]
July 8th, 2008 at 11:46 am
The three hints were good to read.
The first one is really important and I like the others too.
I should read them again, again and again
July 8th, 2008 at 6:21 pm
I notice that you and a number of others use the Revolution theme for you portfolio site. Its a nice theme and I cant find anything free which is quite as good for a portfolio site, but is it a problem with a number of freelancers all using the same theme, or conversly is that a theme which now screams professional?
July 9th, 2008 at 6:01 am
@ Lissie: No, it isn’t a problem not to use this theme. I simply happen to like it that’s all. What is a problem in my eyes is if freelancers use free themes to showcase their portfolio sites.
This to me screams unprofessional who is too concerned to invest money into their business.
Having said this though, I do realize that some people really don’t have the money to invest into a professional theme. I respect this too like in the case of Andrew’s site (from an earlier comment).
But if it is in any way possible to upgrade, do it ASAP. It really does make a huge difference to the appereance.
July 9th, 2008 at 6:34 am
To be honest I doubt that most publishers would know which are paid themes and which are not! As I said I do like theme and am thinking about it. Or maybe I will stop being lazy and learn so css and fiddle with around with Mimbo!
July 11th, 2008 at 9:07 am
[…] The Three Keys to Serious Freelance Writing Income […]
July 11th, 2008 at 10:13 am
These tipps are really great and helpful.
I am a freelancer and I needed some keys like them.
Thank you for this helpful article!
July 14th, 2008 at 5:47 am
I agree with promoting your website through your own blog rather then using a separate blogging platform.This gives your website more weightage. Infact a good website should have it’s own blog ,links and directory resources so that it would get better traffic and more hits.
July 15th, 2008 at 6:48 am
These tips are really good for me and my site.
More hits are good, I would like to have some more too, so this article is helpful!
July 18th, 2008 at 3:33 am
I read these points on another website too and I can say that you have some additional points which are really important and helpful.
So your blog is great!
Thanks a lot.
July 20th, 2008 at 10:24 am
I want to be a freelancer but it is really scaring me.
How about the money—and I’ve got family. So I will better wait until I will be able to work as a freelancer.
July 23rd, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I am very interested in becoming a freelancer. I am wondering if being so young, 24, would affect my chances of doing well? Also, is it best to try to pitch queries to magazines and newsletters when you have little experience or pitch to local businesses and see if they need someone to write for them? Essentially my question is, what the best ways to find business if you have little experience?
August 6th, 2008 at 6:46 am
[…] my tangency post, The Three Keys To Serious Freelance Writing Income, I customary a wager from fear that drew me to be honest. He mentioned how hard it had been for him […]
August 9th, 2008 at 9:20 am
I am very interested in being a freelancer too.
But something stops me…
I think, I am too afraid to go these steps because it is really a hard and insecure way of life.
December 18th, 2008 at 7:17 am
[…] The 3 Keys to Serious Freelance Writing Income […]