Monday, November 24, 2008

Still Not Freelancing? What are You Waiting For?

We're rounding the corner of November heading full speed into December. 2009 will be here in a matter of weeks, folks. That means there's still time to make good on some of the 2008 resolutions you may have neglected. If starting a freelance writing business has been your goal, there's no better time to get started than the present.

Don't Quit Your Day Job – If You Don't Want To

You can start off slow to see if freelance writing is something you'd really like doing. In this economy one of the best things you can do is diversify your income sources, and a good way to do that is by starting a side gig. Try freelance writing out as a part-time business. You can always make the decision later to remain part-time or go full-time. Get a couple of loyal clients under your belt and you could command a nice part-time income.

Consider web writing to get started

Writing copy/content for the web is a pretty easy way to get started as a freelance writer. There are many businesses that need a continuous supply of fresh content in the form of website copy, articles and press releases on a regular basis. Even if your goal is writing for magazine publications or writing a book, web writing can provide a regular income while you focus on other writing goals.

You Can't Fire Yourself

That's got to be the best part of working for yourself - no sudden layoffs. Of course therein lies a challenge as well. No one will tell you to get a move on to finish up client deadlines, you will have to accept responsibility when clients are unhappy and you must be organized and motivated in order for your business to function properly. There's a lot of responsibility and hard work involved, but if you love what you do the payoff is definitely worth it.

Start Networking for Business

Visit various freelance writer forums, blogs and social networking sites to meet and learn from other freelance writers. It's also a great way to stay "in the know" about what jobs and other paid writing opportunities are available. Allot a certain amount of time each day for networking so that you can stay on task the rest of the time.

Get started on that marketing campaign

Yeah, I know I talk about this a lot. But that's because it's so important. You can easily get started working for existing content sites that ay a set dollar amount per article, but why not just market your own freelance writing services and get paid even more?

2009 is just around the corner. If you've been thinking about starting a freelance writing business, don't delay. Now is as good a time as any to start making plans for your new business.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Yikes... It is the end of November isn't it... which means December and goal reviewing and setting... not sure I'm up for that at the moment. sigh.

Thanks.

Anne Wayman now blogging at www.aboutfreelancewriting.com

Kimberly Ben said...

Anne, you're not alone. I'm scambling to finish client projects, sqeeze in my own writing projects and access my business goals for 2009. Time is NOT my friend right now. Thanks so much for stopping by to comment. :)

 
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