I write a lot of posts on things freelance writers need to do besides writing. When you think about it, we wear many different hats. Writing is a small part of what we have to do on a regular basis if we want to be successful at our jobs.
Here are some of the jobs we need to do well if we hope to make it as a
1. Job Hunt
Freelance writers have to take some time out each day or several times a week to hunt for new opportunities. You might do this by querying magazines or reading the online job ads. In this feast or famine world, it’s a good idea to check the job boards so as not to have slow spots during the month.
2. Customer Service
If looking for work is one of the most important parts of a freelance writer’s job, customer service runs a close second. It’s important our clients are happy with our work. This means good communication with the client, responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner and following up after each gig.
3. Research
Even if you’re well versed on a topic, you’ll still need to research. This might mean Googling some info or visiting the library for a more in-depth read. You might want to watch a documentary or interview experts. Research is probably the most time consuming part of the writing process.
4. Editing
Even if you’ll have others proofreading your work, you should always take some time to self-edit. Going over your work to remove obvious typos and grammatical errors will put you in your client’s good graces and make her more appreciative of your efforts.
5. Bookkeeping
You have to keep the books as a freelance writer. You’ll need to keep track of all your projects, how much money you received from each client, and which invoices are outstanding.
6. Office Management
In addition to bookkeeping, you’ll need to manage all your contracts and important documents. You will need to be able to analyze your business to make sure you’re charging enough for your work and keep track of all your projects and clients.
7. Marketing
Cold calling, letters of introduction, special blogs and websites, and advertisements you may take out in order to get work are all a part of marketing yourself as a writer in order to gain new clients.
8. Writing
Probably the most obvious part of our job. I don’t think I really need to talk about this part.
9. Networking
I’ve said it a million times before, networking, especially social networking, helped this blog to become a success. I spent hours on forums, social networking sites, conferences, and more making friends and joining communities and it worked. I’ve joined clubs and organization in the real world to meet people in hopes of promoting my writing services and it helped me to land a couple of regular offline clients. If you want to land more clients and make a name for yourself, networking is a must.
10. Sales
Sales and marketing go hand in hand. This is the part of my job I like the least as I’m not a salesperson. I dislike cold-calling and sending letters of introduction, but I did it and it helped. Whenever you apply for a job you’re selling yourself.
Are you a multi-tasker? What are some of the other jobs we do as freelance writers?
0
65k
6k
Leave a Reply