Are you interested in becoming a freelance writer because of the low startup costs? This is a definite benefit of a career in freelance writing. You don’t want to join the industry for this fact alone, but it is definitely something to keep in mind.
Even though startup costs are low it is important to provide yourself with the right freelance writing equipment. For some, this is already a done deal – they have what they need. For others, this means heading to the store to pick up a few items.
When it comes to freelance writing equipment there are two things you definitely need on your desk: a computer and printer. There is no way around this. Can you imagine working as a freelance writer without a computer? This would be next to impossible. Not to mention the fact that you would be putting yourself at a major disadvantage.
Most aspiring freelance writers already own both a computer and printer. They may have never used it for this purpose, but that does not matter. As long as both are reliable you can move forward with what you have. There is no good reason to rush out and buy thousands of dollars worth of equipment when starting a freelance writing career. This would be a big mistake. You are better off keeping the money for now, and waiting for your career to take off.
Do I need a dedicated phone line? This falls into the freelance writing equipment category. I have a separate line for business, but you should not feel like you have to do the same. In fact, I tell most freelance writers to forget about this when they are starting out. As you begin to earn more money you can think about getting a dedicated line.
If you want to succeed in the freelance writing world you need to provide yourself with the right equipment.Â
The most successful freelance writers earn the trust of every client. Is this something that you strive to do? If not, you should change your way. It is very important that every client trusts you. Sure, it can take some time to build this but over the long haul it should be a goal of yours.
Here are three ways to earn the trust of your clients:
1. Don’t disappear on them. Time after time I speak with clients that tell me horror stories about past contractors disappearing without a trace. If you take on a job make sure you are ready to complete it. To go along with this, don’t run and hide during the process. If a client calls or emails you, make sure you get back in touch with them as soon as possible.
2. Don’t skirt around questions. This goes along with number one above. To earn trust you need to be open and honest yourself. If a client asks a question of you answer it to the best of your ability. They may not like the answer, but at least you will show that you are being 100 percent honest. In return, you will probably get the same thing.
3. Meet every deadline. This goes without saying, but I am still surprised at how many freelance writers think it is a joke. If you agree to a deadline you need to do your best to meet it – no matter what it takes. Sure, there are times when you may need to request an extension but you do not want to make this a habit.
Have you found it easy to gain the trust of clients in the past? If so, stick with what you have been doing. On the other hand, if you have been struggling to succeed in this area you should fall back on the three tips above.Â
Over the years, hundreds of people have come to me asking for freelance writing advice. The worst emails are those from people who are giving up on their dream. They no longer feel that freelance writing is right for them, and for this reason they are moving onto another opportunity. While there is nothing wrong with moving on, remember this: you should have a very good reason for quitting your freelance writing career. If you don’t, it may be time to clamp down and stick with things for a bit longer.
Some people quit freelance writing because they have found a better job. For instance, freelancing offers a lot of freedom but some would rather go back to a 9 – 5 that gives them more “security.†As long as you are doing what makes you happy, that is the most important thing. Just make sure that giving up on freelance writing is what you really want to do.
On the other hand, there are freelance writers who give up because they just aren’t making the expected progress. These are the type of people who really disappoint me. They are very close to achieving success, but just don’t know if they can stick it out any longer. As you know, doubt is a very powerful thing. Even though you may feel like giving up, if you can stay with your career for just a bit longer things will eventually turn around. Unless you have another opportunity that you are comfortable with, giving up will probably make your situation, both with your career and financially, worse.
There is nothing wrong with moving on from freelance writing to a new career. Just make sure you have a good reason for doing so, and that you are not giving up because times are tough.
