Writing for a living is the career choice of many creative professionals - whether it's fiction, non-fiction, technical, trade, online or other specialist area. Writing markets and mediums are wide and offer numerous opportunities for freelancers, consultants and telecommuters.
A sizable proportion of the writing community work as freelancers. Many work from home offices or laptops from locations around the country and the globe. Writing is a job that has few physical boundaries, as long as you have access to a computer, the Internet and a phone - and of course, the talent. Freelance writers enjoy flexible hours and freedom of movement, even though the work is deadline driven. For many writers, their work is a labor of love. But it's also reassuring to learn that writing skills are in high demand across all industries. According to labor market research, job opportunities for writers are on the rise and demand from newspapers, magazines, websites, business and non-profit organizations and book publishers is expected to be strong. So, with the right mix of skill, experience, qualifications, effective networking and marketing, you can combine a rewarding career with the benefits of a free agent lifestyle.
The markets for freelance writers are numerous and diverse. Print and online publishers, business of all sizes, public relations firms, advertising agencies, professional, non-profit and religious organizations, educational institutions and government agencies use the services of freelancers and consultants. You might be commissioned to write a book, article, newsletter or marketing copy. Or you might be contracted on a project-basis or for a set timeframe. A good source of work are the rapidly growing special interest publications (online and print) aimed at 'niche' markets.
So, how do you kick-start your freelance career? A proven track record or evidence that demonstrates your talent is vital. Show potential clients that you can express ideas clearly and logically and that you can work to a brief. A relevant college degree (journalism, communications or even liberal arts) is highly regarded, as is some on-the-job training. Technical or business writers require qualifications and/or professional experience in a specialized field like IT, law or engineering. Online writers often need to be familiar with web technology and electronic publishing software software.
There is a large range of mediums for freelancers and consultants and the list is expanding. Sources of writing work include:
newspapers
magazines
books
websites
professional publications
technical publications
online publications
marketing copy
radio and television broadcasts
That should give you some ideas, but there are many more possibilities. As well as your writing talent, an inquiring mind, broad knowledge or a specialized skill, self-motivation, the ability to work under pressure and determination are valuable commodities that can put you on the path to freelance success.
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