by Ben Pearce

Created on: July 30, 2009

So you've decided to take the big step and become a freelance journalist? For a start it may look quite easy, but you must consider the different aspects when getting started.

First of all, you need a sufficient workstation to produce your work on. You will need stationery, a good computer with a internet connection, phone, printer and a fax machine if possible. It can be very helpful to have your workstation in a separate office, away from the distractions of everyday life.

Being able to manage your time is also another key to freelancing. By keeping a diary, you can schedule when you're going to write, promote your business and interview people. This will help you balance your time and work with family, making sure everything is done to the correct deadline.

Meeting new people and gaining contacts within the industry is another way to advance your writing career. By joining writing groups, internet forums, various clubs and getting your name out there, can often lead you to that much needed freelance work. You can offer your services to help write your clubs weekly or monthly newsletter, which is always a good starting point to your career and writing portfolio.

Marketing tools such as business cards can benefit your business immensely. When sending away query letters to editors when attempting to submit articles, it is important to attach a business card to your cover letter. This is a good way to show your professionalism and a point of contact for your editor, if your work is required.

Research is another very important part of freelance journalism. You must spend time finding the correct facts for your content, whether it be from the internet, books or contacting people. A good facility to use for research is your local library which carries everything from fiction and non fiction books to newspapers and magazines. Remember to make sure the sources are reliable before using the content for your writing.

You will need to track your income and expenses along the way. Write down in a log book your expenditure and income from your articles, making sure you keep all dockets and receipts for tax purposes. If possible use job numbers for different expenses which you can allocate to projects when pricing. Having a good view of your income and expenses will always help you when accessing your business.

That is only the start of freelance journalism. As your career develops, different jobs and needs will arise. Once you are organized, you can make your writing career work for the best and hopefully supply you and your family a good income.

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