Flexibility is one of the main benefits of being a freelance writer. In other words, you have the ability to set your own schedule – as long as you are getting your work done. When compared to a 9 – 5 job, you will find this to be a big change. Over the years, my freelance writing schedule has changed many times.
Generally speaking, I find it easiest to work regular business hours. This way I am on the clock at pretty much the same time as all my clients. Of course, this changes from time to time as I take care of other tasks and focus on my own projects.
It is not uncommon for me to start my workday at 6 am or earlier, and/or stay at the computer until 10 pm or later. Again, the ability to set this type of schedule is a huge benefit. If I get my work done early in the morning, for instance, I have the rest of the day for my own projects or to get even further ahead.
As you continue to work as a freelance writer you will begin to find a schedule that suits you well. You may have to base your day around the hours that your clients work. Or maybe your schedule will be dictated by another factor, such as your family.
Even though you have the ability to set your own schedule, try to work the same hours, for the most part, everyday. This will help to keep you on track, while making it easier for you to get into a “groove.â€
Take advantage of the fact that you can create your own schedule. Just make sure that this is benefiting you, as opposed to holding you back from reaching your goals.
Are you having a difficult time understanding what a client wants from you? Believe it or not, this is going to happen on a regular basis. There are two ways that you can approach this situation. You can begin the project without asking questions and hope that you do everything right. Or you can clear the air, get all the right answers, and know exactly what you are doing before you move forward. Which one of these options sounds best to you?
Your client is going to be happy when you ask questions. This shows that you are interested in doing your best, while helping them achieve the desired result. If you don’t ask any questions they are going to automatically assume that you know exactly what you are doing.
I know firsthand that it can be difficult to ask questions. After all, you don’t want the client to think that you are unsure of what they want or how to complete the job. But remember this: just because you are asking questions does not mean that you are lost and unsure of yourself. Rather, you are just trying to tidy up the details before getting started.
I have made the mistake of not asking questions and later regretting it – don’t let this happen to you. No matter if the project is just beginning or you have been working on it a few days, if something is on your mind be sure to get clarification sooner rather than later.
Your job as a freelance writer is to produce high quality content. But sometimes you have to go well beyond this. Over the years I have found that many clients don’t know the first thing about what type of content they need. For this reason, not only do I have to create the content for them but I also need to decide which type is best.
I take great joy in assisting unknowledgeable clients. This gives me the chance to show my expertise, and to teach somebody who does not know as much. And of course, it helps to earn me more money along the way.
When helping unknowledgeable clients make sure you are clear with what you are saying. Remember, the client doesn’t know the first thing about your line of work or what you can do for them. They won’t know the difference between a keyword article and a feature article. They won’t know what type of content is best for their site. You have to explain all the details, and then let the client decide what is best for them – with your help, of course.
Those who don’t know as much about freelance writing and content creation are always surprised as I begin to lay out the details. If your client does not know what they want or how you can help, make sure you take the time to educate them. This may not be the most exciting part of your job, but in the long run it will help you in many ways. Not only will the client hire you with confidence, but they will be grateful for the time you spent teaching them.
