by Ruth Belena

Created on: March 13, 2009

Anyone who has confidence in their own writing, and the ability to work on their own, may consider being a freelance writer. For many, the dream of becoming a writer is really a fantasy about seeing their name on the front of a book, and achieving fame as a best selling author. The truth is that the majority of paid writers earn a living from articles, feature writing, promotional copy writing, review writing, travel writing, journalism, or other freelance work.

Who Can Become a Freelance Writer?

Becoming a freelance writer requires a willingness to write in different styles, and on topics that require some research. Some freelancers have specialist subjects they can write about, others build up a reputation for providing reliable information on any topic.

A freelance writer should be reliable and adaptable. A web writer will require some knowledge of SEO, and the ability to write compelling content.

Why Are Freelance Writers Required?

A recent study of website usability, by the Nielsen Norman Group, proved that Internet users focus more on plain text or written content than they do on images.

All websites require written content to show up in search results. Sites that add regular fresh text get higher ranking by search engines, and most visitors find their way to a site from words that match up with what they are searching for.

How Do Freelance Writers Find Work?

Freelance job sites list offers of work from businesses requiring web content or e-zine articles, and clients who want regular posting on their blogs or in their forums. Companies use freelance writers for business reports and for copywriting. Publishers of print magazines request articles, stories, features and other content.

Some freelancers set up their own writing business and promote their services through a blog or website. Others get freelance jobs by approaching potential clients, and through networking. Writers often use webmaster forums to seek requests for paid content, and for offering to write good SEO text, blog posts or forum posts.

Some content sites pay writers for articles, reviews, news items or opinions. The freelance writer can earn residual income from revenue sharing sites, in addition to selling articles for exclusive use.

Are There Other Benefits to Being a Freelance Writer?

A freelancer is self employed and can set their own working hours. They work from home, saving time and money.

Having intelligence and an enquiring mind are prime requisites to become a freelance writer. It is possible to learn and develop writing skills, and writing can certainly be improved by continuous practice.

A freelance writer is someone who wants to use their writing skills to make money, and knows there are plenty of opportunities to earn money for writing online. Writers want to work freelance because it gives them the flexibility to work when and where they want, with a profitable work at home job.

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