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Freelance writers have the opportunity to establish themselves as a niche writer or as a jack of all trades. If you're a writer, you might be wondering which option is best for you. Let's take a look at the two types of writing and you can make a decision based on what your individual needs might be.

What is a Niche Writer?

A niche writer is someone who specializes in one type of writing. That might be financial, medical, political or another single topic. Niche writers are frequently in demand, especially for businesses who might specialize in one field.

What is a Jack of all trades?

Those writers who fall into the "jack of all trades" category are able to write on a number of topics. This is usually a result of someone having extraordinary research skills. Being able to read and absorb a lot of material on a topic can help you write comprehensive material without sticking to one subject.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges of freelance writing is making sure that you have a regular monthly income. There are some writing markets that could be considered "seasonal" (such as education, gardening, etc.) while there are thousands of other markets (like finance) that can be written about year round. If you're going to be working as a freelancer on a full time basis, you are most likely going to find that writing about one topic day in and day out is going to grow tiresome very quickly. Being able to write about a variety of topics will keep you interested in your work. Jack of all trades writers are also able to take on a number of different clients in different industries.

If you're one of the fortunate niche writers who has a regular income base then niche writing could be all you need. For many of us however, the quest for ongoing assignments will ultimately force us to gain a more diversified outlook on our writing.

Portfolio

If you're looking for a freelancing gig then the best way to market yourself is with your portfolio. Those who lean towards specialization (i.e. niche writing) will quickly find that they have a portfolio that focuses on all one topic - which can discourage potentially new clients from even considering you.

A well rounded portfolio often offers you more opportunities for ongoing work. Since your base of knowledge is more rounded, your client list may grow as well. Each freelance writer will discover if they have a specific niche or if they are better off being a jack of all trades.

Income Potential

Some niche writers find that they are able to maintain a solid client base and still make the income they need. Those writers who have adopted the jack of all trades may have a variety of subjects to work on but may find themselves searching for work more often. Depending on your particular writing style, you may discover that you're a better niche writer than jack ofc all trades. Tou may also find that broadening your horizons means more income in the long run.

Summary

It is up to each freelance writer to decide if they wish to become a niche writer or a jack of all trades. Some of this will depend in your client base, where you search for new income and a variety of other factors. Only you can determine if you want to be a niche writer or a jack of all trades.

Learn more about this author, Doreen Martel.
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