Being a Professional Freelance Writer (Part One)
During recent escapades in the fields of professional freelance writing and editing, I compiled a list of topics I wished somebody had taught me before I had opportunities in front of me and was exchanging emails with potential clients or employers. From that list, I wrote this article series, filled with lessons I learnt through experience.
Though I am by no means an expert, I hope these articles will prompt you to contemplate something you had not previously considered and will encourage you to become the professional you want to be (you know, if you want to be one).
To be a professional freelance writer or editor, you first need to establish that you’re a business. When you start looking for professional opportunities, or if one accidentally appears on your doorstep, you want to be prepared.
Internet Presence
Firstly, prepare to be a business by taking over the internet. Figure out your business name and create social media accounts that are linked together by that common thread. Replace the embarrassing email address you had in high school with a professional alternative. Build a website and use it to feature your portfolio, rates, and contact details, so that if people stumble across you, they know who you are and what you do.
Business cards
My next tip is to design and print some business cards. Include your name, what you do, and your contact details. Include a link to your website and portfolio too, if you have one (which you should). Keep a handful in your wallet and pass them out when you meet people in need of a writer or editor. Give some to your friends and family so they can do the same. Business cards are particularly useful if you attend writers’ festivals, as you will meet a lot of like-minded people there who may want to keep in contact.
ABN (or equivalent)
This last piece of advice applies specifically to being a freelancer in Australia, but be sure to check out how to register as a business in your country.
Here, we need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) to be classified as a sole trader. This number is important when writing invoices and contracts for paid freelance employment (and actually receiving those payments). It also helps you seem like a reliable business person to the potential clients or employers that you are corresponding with. You don’t want to leave it until an opportunity arises to try and tick these boxes, so make sure you have your ABN or equivalent before you’re receiving emails requesting your services.
These simple tips will help you be prepared for when you have an opportunity to complete some paid work in your field. The next article in this series, which you can find here, will discuss the importance of creating and maintaining a portfolio.
Being prepared (Becoming a business) »
Showing off (Creating a portfolio) »
Getting employed (Pitches and finding work) »
What are you worth? (Rates) »
Signing on the dotted line (Contracts) »
Being able to pay the rent (Invoices) »