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How to make a living as a freelance journalist

There are many types of freelance journalists so the first thing you have to decide is which type you want to be. Ask yourself these questions:

1. Do I want to write for Broadsheets or Tabloids?
2. Would I prefer to write for magazines?
3. Do I want to interview famous people?
4. Would I prefer to interview local people?

5. Do I have any qualifications to write?
6. Would I be prepared to gain some qualifications?
7. Do I want to work full or part time?
8. Do I want to specialise in a certain area?

You have to remember that, as in any job, you will probably have to start at the bottom and work your way up, so unless you have qualifications and experience already, writing for the Broadsheets, or even the Tabloids is probably out to begin with.

Perhaps you're not planning this as a full time career, then maybe finding the stories of interest to local people and thereby the local paper, could be the place to start. Would you be happy to write about the bowls club match or the latest local fishing club competition?

This is where most freelance journalists have to start, but whilst you're doing this you will be making contacts and with each sale you make you'll have something else to add to your CV.

Always make sure you research your articles thoroughly, editors want facts not inaccuracies. Make sure any people you interview know what they're talking about and always double check the facts you're given.

When contacting newspapers or magazines make sure you always send your work to a named editor. You can often find this out from the Writers' and Artists' Yearbook, or a quick phone call could give you the information you need.

As you send in more and more work and hopefully get mmore and more sales, you will gradually get to know the different editors. As they get to know your work you may be lucky enough to get a commission or even offered a weekly spot in their paper.

If you know a lot about a subject, such as gardening or sport and want to specialise in that area, then you'll probably have a bit of a head start. A little knowledge goes a long way and if you can demonstrate that knowledge in your articles you should soon find yourself writing for a variety of local magazines and newspapers.

Of course, whilst writing for those local papers, there's no harm in sending out occasional articles to national magazines and newspapers. Again make sure you send them to named editors.

As you begin to get more sales you could think about getting an agent who'll be able to place your articles for you, either with publications or with syndicates.

If you want to write for the broadsheets then it might be worthwhile getting some qualifications. A degree will probably get you through some doors and any other journalistic qualifications would also probably be of great help.

Even without formal training, and no matter what type of journalist you want to be, hard work and dedication to your job are the essential qualifications.

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