If you like to write, freelance writing may be the career choice for you. It’s not a get rich type of career. In fact, you may never get rich. But the rewards are great. Seeing your name in print is just…well, cool!
Today I’ll be talking about freelance writing on the Internet.
Writing for the Internet is preferable for many writers. It’s a little more informal, so you don’t need to be a journalism major to get published. The whole process is quicker, as well. Because everything is done on the Internet, you can write and publish an article in a day. That means faster pay!
There are tons of freelance jobs on the Internet. Everything from blogging, writing website content, article writing, social media writer, and ebook writer. Just Google Freelance Writing Jobs and you’ll see there’s a lot of work available. There are new websites and social media sites going up on the web everyday!
Check out the site Writing Jobs For Web & Print. There is tons of information and they have an extensive list of online writing jobs.
HireVine is another site that lists blogging and social media jobs.
There are a few things you need to know before inquiring about a writing assignment.
It is important that you do your research. Know the format and voice of the website that you wish to write for. Check out the Writers Guidelines. You need to know where your piece fits in. You will use this in your “pitch”
Most editors want to see samples of your writing. If you haven’t been published yet, do you have old college papers or something you’ve written for a previous employer? These can be used as samples.
If you have no samples of your writing, here are a few suggestions:
1. Offer to write for a non-profit organization. They may have a newsletter or blog that they need help with.
2. Start a blog of your own.
3. Write a letter to the editor on a subject that you are passionate about.
4. Just try writing an article and see what happens! Everyone needs to start somewhere.
You will also need to know how to write a compelling query letter. Rebecca Sato, at Fast Cash Freelance has a short informative video on the query letter.
The compensation for online writing varies. Some pay per click, others a flat fee. Your best bet, as mentioned earlier, is to do your research.
There are some sites that don’t pay a dime, but don’t be too quick to disregard them. If you need exposure, this may be the place to start.
Writing for the Internet can be an enjoyable way to make money from the comfort of your home. Just remember to do your research, have some samples available and write a strong query letter. And watch the offers pile into your inbox!
Next time, I’ll discuss freelance writing for print publications.
Comments
This is wonderful information Carolee. There's no better way to find out how to accomplish something than to get advice from someone who has done it. I'll be checking out the sites you've mentioned and forwarding this info to a friend who writes as well.
I'm glad I could help, Kim!
Thanks for the article. I write for the Examiner too and am always looking for additional opportunities.
I'll have to check you out, Gina!
Glad to help.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!