Launching a successful freelance writing business in 2024 requires more than just a way with words, so I’ve gathered top tips from a wide range of industry experts. From harnessing the greatest advantage of freelancing – flexibility – to exploring new trends like audio format scriptwriting and honing in on a specific niche, here are 11 essential tips that I, along with these seasoned professionals, recommend for building a profitable freelance writing venture this year!
Embrace Flexibility in Your Freelance Writing Business
One of the sweetest perks of running a freelance writing business is the flexibility it offers. As a mother, I’ve found this invaluable. It’s about carving out work hours that sync with your life, not against it. For me, that means writing when the kids are having independent play time, at my parents, or after they’re asleep. But this isn’t just a mom thing – it’s a smart strategy for anyone seeking work-life harmony.
In 2024, with the digital world at your fingertips, use tools like scheduling apps and time-tracking software to plan your day efficiently. Think about breaking your work into focused sprints during your most productive hours. This approach isn’t just about comfort; it’s a key to launching a lucrative business (instead of just a side hustle that burns you out!). By working smarter, not longer, you’re setting yourself up for success, no matter what your day throws at you.
Desiree Grosman, Copywriter and Founder of Capital Copywriter and Write at Home Mom
Seek Expert Training and Coaching
Invest in training or coaching! No one is an expert on day one when they start a freelance writing business. We all need a little help getting started. Rather than running in full force and wasting time on efforts that might not work, find experts who have done it before.
That’s not to say all freelance experts are created equal—some make grand promises. Vet courses and coaches carefully. Take a chance on free webinars and challenges. When in doubt—ask around. Don’t be afraid to talk to the freelance writing community to see who they recommend!
Beth Chernes, Copywriter and SEO Strategist, Beth Chernes Copy & Strategy
Offer Audio Format Scriptwriting
If you are a freelance writer in 2024, you need to consider the shift to audio formats. In addition to your content-writing services, provide scriptwriting services, making it easy for clients to leverage YouTube, podcasts, and other audio formats.
Jason Vaught, Director of Content, SmashBrand
Invest in a Writing Course
If you’re brand new to freelance writing, it is worth it to spend some money on a course that can show you the ropes of running a freelance writing business. Most reputable courses will cost around the $1,000–$1,500 mark, but they show you everything you need to know, bring in guest speakers, and will often have a community of like-minded people you can join. And, you will make that money back in no time.
Do your research and pick the course that seems right for you, and consider it an investment in your business that you can claim on your taxes. (Also, keep track of all the money you spend on your business to lower your tax bill.)
Rob Swystun, Content Strategist, Rob Swystun
Organize Your Freelance Business Finances
One word: organization. Start with your ban; talk with a banker for guidelines, and open a business account so everything is set up. Decide if you’re an LLC or a corporation—the IRS dictates how much you owe on a quarterly basis. Talk with former co-workers and clients and let them know you’re freelancing. Lastly, name your ‘company’! Best of luck with your new biz!
Anne Hagerty, Senior Content Writer/Copywriter, Anne Hagerty
Showcase a Strong Portfolio
Success in Freelance Writing 2024: Strong Portfolio, Niche Focus, and Networking
To launch a lucrative freelance writing business in 2024, you need to create a proper portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a variety of writing samples in specialized niches and create a professional online presence.
Network with others in the field, engage in effective marketing, and clearly communicate your rates and terms of business. Keep updated with industry trends, prioritize quality work, and adapt to changes. Build a strong network, engage in effective marketing, clearly communicate your rates and terms, stay updated with industry trends, prioritize quality work, and be adaptable to change.
Faizan Khan, Public Relation and Content Marketing Specialist, Ubuy Australia
Develop Targeted Client Acquisition
To launch a lucrative freelance writing business in 2024, it is crucial to develop a targeted client acquisition strategy. This involves researching and identifying potential clients, creating a compelling pitch or proposal, and proactively reaching out to them. Utilize various channels, such as email, social media, and networking events, to showcase your expertise and offer solutions to their specific writing needs.
For instance, if you specialize in travel writing, you can target travel agencies, airlines, or tourism boards to offer your services. By developing a well-defined and proactive approach to acquiring clients, you stand a better chance of securing high-paying projects and establishing yourself as a sought-after freelance writer.
Ben Lau, Founder, Featured SEO Company
Craft High-Quality Initial Articles
To kick off a successful freelance writing business in 2024, my top tip is all about laying a solid foundation with your initial work. Start by writing a few super-high-quality articles—these could even be unpaid guest posts to just get your name out there, but the key is to make them exceptionally good. Invest three times more time and effort than usual to ensure these articles are impressive in both content and presentation.
When you’re ready to pitch to editors or apply for paid gigs, use these articles as your portfolio showcases. They’ll speak volumes about your skills and dedication to quality. Set your rates confidently to reflect the value you bring and show that you know your worth. With this approach, you’ll have a much higher chance of getting continuous gigs and building great professional relationships.
Juliet Dreamhunter, Founder, Juliety
Combine Writing with Editing Skills
Be able to both be a writer and an editor, so you can turn in higher-quality content that requires fewer revisions. Learn your client inside and out, and learn what features/services to always include in your writing while brainstorming fresh ideas monthly. Don’t retread the same content if they already have it. The goal of most digital written content is to either enhance what’s already out there or to offer new advice.
Garrett Nutgrass, Marketing Content Strategist, Destify
Embrace AI Writing Tools
Stay updated with AI writing tools: ChatGPT, POE, all of them. You may not think it necessary now, or you may be repulsed by the notion of making AI a part of your writing.
But like it or not, it’s happening. Change is the only constant, and AI writing tools, with their incredible intuition and continuous improvement, will soon become mainstream (if they haven’t already). Just like the Industrial Revolution forced farmers and weavers to learn new ways to coexist with technological advancement, the AI Revolution will do the same for us.
Soham Chakraborty, Senior Content Writer, BeatRoute
Specialize in a Specific Niche
Focus on a specific niche or sub-niche, showing your customers your expertise and experience. This is the only way to differentiate yourself, avoid falling into a price war, and offer added value that only an expert in a certain niche can provide. By doing so, you can take advantage of your specialization, showing that you understand the needs of that particular audience and can write targeted and effective content.
Giovanni Della Ventura, Head of Content, giodella.com
Whether you’re a multitasking mom like me or anyone striving to balance life with a thriving freelance writing business, hopefully these strategies help! They’re about making the most of your unique circumstances, leveraging the inherent flexibility of freelancing to fit your lifestyle. From exploring new trends to crafting quality content and effectively managing your writing career, these tips are your roadmap to success in 2024.
