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So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

Last Updated: September 9, 2021 BY Michelle Schroeder-Gardner - 104 Comments

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

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Find out what you need to know about becoming a freelance writer. This is a great list!Last week I finally started my Ways to Earn Extra Income. A lot of you have questions, and today I figured I would continue my Extra Income series with how to become a freelance writer or a staff writer. A lot of you seem very interested in this. For the sake of this post, a staff writer = freelance writer, just to make this all easy.

Before September, I never thought I would be staff writing, and I never even thought about it. But once I began, I really started to enjoy it. I really love to write (yes, I do realize that I’m not the best and I probably should proofread more, but I do like to talk), and writing for different blogs was fun for me.

And I’m not going to lie, the money is nice also. Being able to write about topics that I enjoy, from the comfort of my home is great. I try (yes, try) to throw all of my extra money towards student loans, since I do have a $38,000 student loan payoff plan that I am working on.

I believe I started freelance writing in September of 2012. I DID make mistakes though. I signed up for way too much, and as a result, my own blog suffered. I feel like the content on my blog wasn’t the greatest when I had signed up for so many staff writing assignments. Luckily, that did not last long as some of the assignments were only short-term.

Then I ended up stopping a couple of others and right now I am at my perfect amount. Taking on too many writing assignments at one time was definitely a mistake that I made.

Related content: How To Become A Freelance Writer

So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

My tips on how to become a freelance writer:

1. Start out slowly when searching for freelance writing gigs!

Don’t make the same mistake I did when looking for freelance writing gigs. I thought I could write for multiple blogs, but lets be for real, there are only so many personal finance topics that you can create in one week before you get extremely bored.

Determine how many blogs or websites that you want to write for. Start out slowly by adding assignments one at a time. Decide how many websites you want to write for, and how many times per week or per month. Get the feeling for it and be 100% positive before you start adding more assignments to your list of things to do.

I originally signed up for a ton of websites when I first started freelance writing online. I never sacrificed the quality just so that I could fit them all in, instead I started slacking on my own blog. I now write for two personal finance blogs and for one hotel in the Caribbean. I prefer this mix the best.

 

2. Discover your niche when learning how to start freelance writing.

There are many different blogs, websites, magazines and so on that you could possibly write for. And there are tons of topics that you can write about. What do you think you could write best about? Possible topics include: travel, fashion, home, do-it-yourself, personal finance (of course 🙂 ), pets, family, and so on.

However, not everyone can write about travel blogging, and if you never travel, then this is probably not the best bet for you. Stick to what you know when looking for freelance writing gigs and you will learn how to become a freelance writer quickly.

 

3. Search for staff writing assignments, freelance writing jobs, and let your services be known.

How are people supposed to know that you are looking for a freelance writing position? Over the summer, I was asked to be a staff writer for a blog. The e-mail came out of nowhere, but after I received it, I started looking into staff writing further. Having a blog (as talked about before), helped people find me and consider me for their staff writing positions.

After that initial e-mail, I then posted on Yakezie (a personal finance community with a great forum) and stated that I was searching for a staff writing position. After I made the post on the forum, I received a couple of e-mails and this is what launched my staff writing career. The power of throwing yourself out there and just asking was definitely helpful for me.

Also, there are the ProBlogger job boards, and there are a lot of staff writing positions on there. I know of a couple of people who have found their positions through that website.

If you do have a blog (see below for further information), then make sure you have a “Hire Me” tab if you are available. This will then let others know that you are looking, and also what you are available for.

Many blog owners might also be looking around, or they might make blog posts directly stating that they need staff writers. This is a GREAT way to find freelance writing jobs. Keep an eye out for this. It doesn’t hurt to just e-mail the websites directly. If you truly want to write for them, try sending them a quick e-mail, and attach some writing samples, and/or link to your blog as well.

 

4. Make sure your articles are always top quality to ensure that you will be hired for freelance writing gigs.

There are many reasons for making sure your articles are always top quality when searching for freelance writing jobs. Many website owners will refer your work to others, and what they think is most likely the best representation of your work.

Don’t expect to just be able to sit down, think of a topic and write it all up in 30 minutes. I keep a running notepad on my phone about my possible ideas for article topics. This is a lot easier because I tend to think of my best topics when I’m not trying to think about it.

A good post that you research, write, proofread, etc. might take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Possibly longer, all depends on the topic and how much research is needed for it. Some posts take me days to write and format, so it all really just depends.

 

5. Start your own blog if you are looking for freelance writing gigs.

A lot of you had the same question: How did you find your staff writing assignments? I always reply with the same answer: Someone contacted me directly. I think having a personal finance blog definitely helps because people already have an idea of how I would write for them.

This is important here! Make sure the posts on your blog are high quality, as this is how you will be judged. Having your own blog and staff writing are very similar in that you will be creating articles for both.

Starting your own blog is always a great idea if you truly want to get into freelance writing and if you are looking for freelance writing gigs. This is of course a topic that I will be writing about separately in another post (the topic of starting your own blog), so today I’ll just talk about how it pertains to helping you out with increasing your chances of landing a staff writing gig. I do have some tips listed on my Extra Income page about starting a blog, so take a look there for a start.

When you have your own blog, then a person looking for a freelance writer will already have an idea of your writing style and quality. This makes it a lot easier for someone to hire and take you onto their website.

Please read How To Start A Blog On Bluehost if you are interested in starting your own blog (which can then help you find freelance writing jobs). There is also a way to earn a free domain through that blog post and you will receive a discounted price through my tutorial! 🙂

 

6. Know your worth when finding freelance writing jobs.

Different niches and websites probably have different starting rates for blog writing. Determine what you want to charge, and stay at least kind of firm with that amount. You don’t want to charge less than what you truly want or deserve, and then sacrifice quality because you think you aren’t being paid enough.

Determine how much you will ask for depending on the niche, the amount of words, and the amount of research needed for the article. There are many factors to think about. Are you purely just writing about your life? Or will the article topic take hours and hours to research, and then even more hours to write?

Obviously a 500 word article would probably be worth less than a 2,000 word article. The key is to keep all of the factors in mind and know your worth!

EDIT: Read about why Jordann thinks Staff Writing is the Perfect Side Hustle.

Related tip: My friend Cat Alford started a course called Get Paid to Write for Blogs that I highly recommend. She has written for many large sites and is extremely successful. Now, she is sharing her amazing tips so that you can become a full-time writer as well. If you want to earn money as a writer, I recommend you check out her course.

Do you do any freelance writing? Do you have any tips to share on how to start freelance writing? How do you find freelance writing jobs?

 

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104 Comments
Filed Under: Blog, Career, Extra Income Tagged With: Blog, Career, Extra Money, Self-employment

About Michelle Schroeder-Gardner

Michelle is the founder of Making Sense of Cents, a blog about personal finance and traveling. She discusses how her business has evolved in her side income series. She paid off $40,000 in student loans by the age of 24 mainly due to her freelancing side hustles. Click here to learn more about starting a blog!

Comments

  1. Sam says

    January 15, 2013 at 4:28 am

    Thank you so much for this Michelle! You rock! I will be implementing these tips over the next few weeks! Hope to work for even a fraction of be success you’ve had!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:21 am

      Welcome Sam! Hopefully all of this is helpful.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  2. Laura S. says

    January 15, 2013 at 5:10 am

    I am a fairly new reader of your blog and have to say you do a great job thoroughly explaining extra income. I do a lot of freelance writing (would love to get into staff writing). I have used sites such as Odesk to find freelance work. I never received much money through that, but it led to recommendations. Now I have a couple of regular and well paying freelance writing gigs. I always make sure clients know I have a blog and English degree. I believe both help me not only get the jobs, but negotiate better pay.
    My recent post Monday Musing-Ten Things About Me

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:22 am

      Great tips!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  3. Holly@ClubThrifty says

    January 15, 2013 at 6:07 am

    These are great tips! I agree that there are only so many personal finance topics that can be covered! I have thought about branching out my topics a little and trying to find somewhere to write about parenthood.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:22 am

      I think that's a great idea Holly. I think it's easier to write when everything is about the same topic.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  4. DC@Young Adult Money says

    January 15, 2013 at 6:10 am

    I have a post about freelancing coming up tomorrow! It focuses on freelancing in general, but I think you covered all the bases as far as freelance writing goes. I think discovering your niche is very important. It's important to brand yourself a certain way, especially when you first start out.
    My recent post The Best Feature of Twitter: Lists

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:23 am

      Looking forward to your post DC 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  5. evencheap says

    January 15, 2013 at 6:56 am

    Great tips! I have found a few jobs on Craigslist and Kijiji.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:23 am

      I would never have even thought to look there. Thanks for the great idea!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  6. AverageJoe says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:01 am

    Great tips! I do some freelance writing for long-time clients. I used to freelance a ton, but found that if I could find steady client work for the same people, it became really easy to crank out good content because you really got an idea what they wanted from you.
    My recent post Expected Family Contribution: Digging For (and Finding!) Financial Aid

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:24 am

      I agree, it's easier if I know what they want.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  7. John S @ Frugal Rules says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:10 am

    Great tips Michelle! My wife and I both do our own freelance writing on the side to bring in some additional income. I agree that talking about PF all the time does get a bit boring and you can only cover a certain amount of topics. One thing I'll say about rates is to be careful not to lowball yourself. If you write for someone else and they refer you to their friends there might be the expectation that you do it for the same rate. Rates are always tricky and we've been doing it for several years.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 7:24 am

      Great tip John. You are right, you don't want to get stuck with the same rate on multiple tasks.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  8. Lance at Money Life and More says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:18 am

    Very interesting topic. I don’t know that I will ever staff write but if I do I at least have an idea how to land a gig. Now I know how to look for staff writers as well, if I ever decide to hire one.

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:33 am

      Glad my post worked out both ways 🙂

      Reply
  9. Lisa @ Cents To Save says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:27 am

    In my mind, I think I would be a great staff writer but the reality is that I would definitely struggle with writing quality posts all the time. I admire your talents Michelle!
    My recent post Sunday Night Chit Chat

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:33 am

      Sometimes it can be hard if you are having writer's block, that's why I try to write things down as I think of them.

      Thanks Lisa!

      Reply
  10. Lisa @ Happy Girl says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:29 am

    Hi Michelle,

    I enjoy blogging but I think staff writing would stress me out!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:19 pm

      It can definitely get stressful if you don't manage your time well enough.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  11. MakingSenseofCents says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:30 am

    Haha that's actually a great idea! I had a ton more to write on the topic, but I didn't want to turn it into a 5,000 word post 🙂

    Reply
  12. Frugal Portland says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:42 am

    I am a staff writer for only one other blog. I'd like to do more, but some weeks, I really can only get that one extra in!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:19 pm

      I know exactly how you feel!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  13. mycanuckbuck says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:51 am

    Thank you, thank you! I have sent this link to myself at home for future reference. It's really nice of you to share all your wisdom/experience. 🙂
    My recent post Easy ways to save money at the grocery store

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:19 pm

      Haha I am so happy that some people will find this useful. I wasn't sure if I was just blabbing.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  14. nicoleandmaggie says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:57 am

    My freelance work also has tended to just come to me. But under my real name and unrelated to my blogging (I'm an expert on an important topic in economics). I have to fill out a form at work every time I do a freelance assignment, which is irritating. I've often thought that asking and soliciting would be the best way to go about freelance if I had time to do more. Scalzi talks about getting a copy of Writer’s Market and submitting stuff to places on it. I guess that's pre-blog though.
    My recent post Consumption value of chores?

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:31 am

      I'll have to look into Writer's Market. Thanks!

      Reply
  15. Happy_Homeowner says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:06 am

    Love this! I'm currently staff writing and doing a few miscellaneous tasks for a couple of blogs–I agree about balancing things!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:20 pm

      Yes, balance is definitely needed.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  16. Matt says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:08 am

    Staff writing is an excellent way to earn extra income. I think it is something that I should look more seriously into, once I've finished my degree. Thanks Michelle!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:20 pm

      Welcome Matt!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  17. Sean@onesmartdollar says

    January 15, 2013 at 9:39 am

    Awesome article Michelle. My wife is wanting to start doing some freelance writing as well so this is a big help for her.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:20 pm

      Glad it's helpful 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  18. Ashlee says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:13 am

    What a great read today, Michelle! Staff writing sounds very interesting. I'd love to read your articles on the Caribbean!!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:20 pm

      Thanks Ashlee! And haha I will share the link some day 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  19. Allison says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:20 am

    Thank you for this Michelle!
    My recent post Clean Eating, Week 2

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:21 pm

      Welcome Allison 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  20. johnnyofb says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:30 am

    Awesome saucesome post. Great info, Michelle!

    I work full-time as a writer for an advertising agency and my current side gig is our blog. So I get a little writing-ed out. 🙂 I do much more freelance graphic design and web design work, and for the most part, all of your tips hold true for that line of work as well. I would also include tapping into your own networks. Most of my freelance work has come from former employers and friends. Throw a post up on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or send direct emails and let people know you're accepting new freelance clients for X skillset. Even if they don't have any current work for you, odds are they'll pass the word along.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:21 pm

      Ha I would definitely be writing-ed out as well!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  21. Rachel says

    January 15, 2013 at 10:53 am

    Thanks! This was definitely helpful. I do freelance writing on the side (mostly unpaid though), I just find it hard to find paid work out there. I will check the Problogger site and keep trying to promote myself for paid gigs. Having a blog and online portfolio has helped me greatly- and I encourage both of those things to everyone reading this. If anyone knows of any other websites for freelance/staff writing jobs, I'd love it if you e-mailed me!
    My recent post 3 Things Every Blogger Should Do When Commenting

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:22 pm

      Thanks Rachel. When I find out about more legitimate websites, I will definitely share them.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  22. therandompath says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:29 am

    I learned so much from this post Michelle. Thanks for the tips. You are rockin' it! 🙂
    My recent post What Happened to My Allowance?

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:22 pm

      Welcome 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  23. Fig says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:52 am

    Great post! Really helpful for someone like me just starting out. 🙂
    My recent post Friends & Debt Freedom

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:22 pm

      Thanks!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  24. Leslie says

    January 15, 2013 at 11:59 am

    I have a free-lance writing gig that pays me in perks not money but that's okay by me. I was offered the position through Twitter. I retweeted a local blog enough times that they looked through my blog, liked my writing style, and asked if I was interested in writing for them.

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:23 pm

      Wow that's a great way to get a writing position. Hopefully that works for others as well.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  25. Money Bulldog says

    January 15, 2013 at 1:42 pm

    I'm so glad it takes someone else 1.5-2 hours to write a post, I thought it was just me! I find myself reading a post through several times, changing the wording and ironing out any typo's as I go. Then there's the research. I hate to make a statement about something if I'm not at least 99% sure that it's fact. I'm sure I still miss things but I'd rather not post and leave it until the next day than send out something I'm not happy with.
    My recent post Making Money Online With HubPages

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:24 pm

      Haha yes writing a post definitely takes a long time.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  26. eemusings says

    January 15, 2013 at 2:54 pm

    I am a writer by profession, so freelancing has probably been a lot easier for me than others. As always, it's hardest starting out – first you need to build your portfolio and get QUALITY clips, which will lead to more, bigger and better. The problem with online writing is it doesn't pay anywhere near what print publications pay (or used to pay). While I have one that pays REALLY well per post, the others are a lot lower, although the hourly rate works out OK (or I would drop them).
    My recent post Tuesday Three: Tech thoughts

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:25 pm

      I agree, a portfolio definitely needs to be built. I need to work on that. Thanks!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  27. eemusings says

    January 15, 2013 at 2:56 pm

    Oh, and for anyone looking to make money through writing and blogging, I recommend checking out the blogs Leaving Work Behind, Make a Living Writing, and Dollars and Deadlines. Really helpful stuff.
    My recent post Tuesday Three: Tech thoughts

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:26 pm

      Thanks! I'm sure a lot of people will find this comment super helpful.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  28. Sarah @ lovebites says

    January 15, 2013 at 3:25 pm

    Great post – and excellent tips. I've always heard that the only way to get started as a professional writer is by working for free – and I don't love that idea! 🙂
    Maybe I will get a little more serious about looking for paid gigs. Thanks for the inspiration!
    My recent post Recipe Tuesday – Easiest Satay Chicken Ever

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:26 pm

      Ha yeah I definitely don't have time to work for free!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  29. Savvy Scot says

    January 15, 2013 at 3:33 pm

    I think point 4 is vital! Never compromise quality. I made a similar mistake to you and took on far too much work to start with. The writing started to become too much of an effort and I realised that things would have to change.
    My recent post The Passive Income Series – Method 1: Get Paid to Browse the Internet

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:26 pm

      Glad I'm not the only one who took on more than I could handle. I felt horrible!
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  30. Pauline @ Reach Financial Independence says

    January 15, 2013 at 5:54 pm

    I freelance for a few travel blogs and it has been great for about three years, then I needed a break from the topic and now I am happy with my own blog. I still write a bit about travel but like you lowering the amount of work has made it more enjoyable.
    My recent post 13 money resolutions for 2013: #8 be happy!

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:27 pm

      Yeah I agree.
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  31. Budget & the Beach says

    January 15, 2013 at 7:06 pm

    Great information Michelle! Thank for letting us in on some of your secrets!
    My recent post Leaving There

    Reply
    • Michelle says

      January 15, 2013 at 8:27 pm

      Welcome 🙂
      My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

      Reply
  32. Michelle says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:20 pm

    Thanks girl! I will definitely think about that.
    My recent post So You Want to Be a Freelance Writer?

    Reply
  33. Cassi says

    January 15, 2013 at 8:44 pm

    This as very helpful and interesting! Also, like people above have said, I think number four is the most important tip you have given. No one wants to read something that the author obviously didn't take time on. Quality over quantity!

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 16, 2013 at 11:31 am

      I agree Cassi!

      Reply
  34. Tony@YODTO says

    January 16, 2013 at 7:22 am

    Awesome tips! I have been writing for a very short period of time and recently started my own blog. It never dawned on me to take it any further, but this article has inspired me to look further!
    My recent post 6 Ways to Surround Yourself with Passionate People

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 16, 2013 at 11:32 am

      Hopefully it all works out! 🙂

      PS did you send me an email the other day? I feel like you did but I can't find it anymore.

      Reply
  35. seedebtrun says

    January 16, 2013 at 7:32 am

    Great tips, Michelle.. Freelance writing is great because you can do it anywhere at anytime of the day.
    My recent post Wishing For Walkability

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 16, 2013 at 11:32 am

      Agreed! It's nice to work at home.

      Reply
  36. Jessica @ Budget for Health says

    January 16, 2013 at 8:08 am

    I never thought I’d become a staff writer but Derek at Life and My Finances helped me start my blog up and later asked me to start writing for him because he liked my unique financial twist I offered as a registered dietitian.

    Reply
    • MakingSenseofCents says

      January 16, 2013 at 11:33 am

      That's great! I recently started a new blog called FITnancials that my sister is running. Talking about healthy stuff is different and fun.

      Reply
  37. Christopher @ This that and the MBA says

    January 16, 2013 at 8:30 am

    I love how ambitious your readers are. I think having a few blogs and a job takes up all my time. Right now I am interviewing virtual assistants to take some of my work load so that I can focus more on writing. The promotion aspect of blogging, I don’t really care for, but I do enjoy just getting out there and reading other blogs and just news in general. I come to work everyday and sit down and just crank thru my reader just soaking up all the information.

    Reply
  38. Jon says

    January 16, 2013 at 10:49 am

    Thanks for such an informative post on freelance / staff writing. I have been reading blogs for years and finally decided to start my own. I think your site was one that really encouraged me to just get out there and start writing. And I'll agree with Christopher – your readers are just as inspirational. Thanks for the great post! I have saved it in my Evernote folder of blogging resources.
    My recent post Family Devotional: Interested In Spiritual Things – Week 3

    Reply
  39. My Money Design says

    January 16, 2013 at 11:03 am

    What's funny is that I have never been approached to do free-lance writing for another blog even though I have it on my advertise page and would be willing to do so. Perhaps that says something about my quality ? 🙂
    My recent post P2P Investing Denied! What Should be My Next Passive Income Ambition?

    Reply
  40. becca112971 says

    January 16, 2013 at 3:09 pm

    not sure i could do this I mean I love to write but i'm not sure my writing is good enough not only that but I tend to write fiction and poetry not many people want that

    Reply
  41. kimateyesonthedollar says

    January 16, 2013 at 9:54 pm

    Thanks for sharing. If I can just find that site that pays me to write about eyeballs…..I don't know how you find the time to do all that you do, but you are killing it on income.
    My recent post My Child Needs Glasses, Now What?

    Reply
  42. Canadianbudgetbinder says

    January 17, 2013 at 12:27 am

    Thanks for the tips Michelle. Blog posts take me a while to put together as well. I wish I could whip one up in 30 minutes ( I could) but I know it won't be my best work. I hope the fans appreciate the time, effort, personalization, pictures, and structure that goes into a blog post especially if one adds in SEO etc. Keep up the great work. I don't staff write but maybe one day I'll branch out, that's the goal. I start out with one and see how I like it but know I have you to come bug for more tips… 🙂 Cheers mate.
    My recent post A Personal Story:Chores and Money Lessons Growing Up

    Reply
  43. Suba says

    January 18, 2013 at 4:37 pm

    Thanks for sharing the tips Michelle. I am planning to dip my toes into freelance writing this year. But before that I want to improve my writing. I take a VERY long time to write each post. So I will be working for pennies an hr, if I keep up my current pace. I want to bring in some income from my blogging addiction this year, so I definitely want to improve my writing and start looking into some freelancing.

    Have a great weekend!
    My recent post How to get cheap prescription drugs and save money on medications

    Reply
  44. Ian says

    January 28, 2013 at 1:36 pm

    Wow, I just ran across this. Very awesome. I have been very curious as to how you get into freelance writing. I wont finish school until this summer but I will definitely be looking into it then when time is more available. Until then I guess ill practice my writing chops!
    My recent post Getting the Most Out of Your Peer to Peer Loans: Part III ~ The Borrower Description

    Reply
  45. @MySixthCents says

    April 12, 2013 at 11:01 pm

    I agree with you 100% that admitting denial is probably the most important step in achieving a debt-free life. I can say this because I have experienced a financial awakening of sorts just in the past year due in large part to people like you in the PF community who make known their debt goals and then TAKE ACTION to kill it! So keep on keeping on, sister :).

    But, cooking every meal at home is just not gonna happen when you live in Los Angeles. The food around here is too ridonkulously delicious.

    Reply
  46. EDELMIRA WREBSTE says

    May 9, 2013 at 1:24 am

    Thanks for this article. This article is very informative and innovative. I really appreciate your help. It is very useful for freelancing. After reading this remarkable paragraph I also glad to share my familiarity here with friends.

    Reply
  47. Crystal Yorker says

    June 12, 2013 at 8:23 pm

    Freelance writing has been a lot of fun for me over the past couple of years. I don’t do it full time, but its nice to get a PayPal transfer every few weeks for dinners/gadgets/etc

    Reply
  48. Harry says

    June 29, 2013 at 3:07 am

    Hi Guys,
    I wanted to be a writer. I am searching for sources for the best platform to write a novel & publish it. But I found this lithasa http://www.lithasa.com/ which says you can earn and build network when we start writing our first chapter.

    And they have created a new publishing model. They are looking for writers. So I would like to know more about it. Let me know.
    Thanks
    Harry.

    Reply
  49. janice says

    July 8, 2013 at 11:54 am

    FANTASTIC advice! I really love the content on this blog– it resonates with what I’ve been trying to build (ie. Freelance career, paying down my enormous student loan, etc). I enjoy your blog articles and helpful advice. Keep ’em coming! 🙂

    Reply
  50. Karen Martínez P. says

    November 8, 2013 at 12:58 pm

    Great post, Michelle!

    You’re right, it’s so tempting to write about everything we like and lose focus when we could be writing about a specific topic and get better results.

    I started my own blog already (it’s about freelancing, actually) and I hope to make a living from it next year.

    Reply
  51. Scott says

    March 18, 2015 at 2:13 pm

    Could somebody please name an actual figure – dollar amount – that you charge? Per word, or per hour, or per post? Any range in actual figures would be great. Thanks!

    Reply
    • James Bailey says

      August 28, 2019 at 10:19 am

      Scott, you ask a question that is really hard if not impossible to answer the way you have ask the question. Are you looking for the amount a new freelancer would charge or that a veteran freelancer would charge?
      There are so many different writing fields and each charges differently. A grant proposal writer might charge one fee while a travel writer might charge another. Some one who writes blogs that are short (200 words or less) might charge by the word while someone who writes 1,000 word blogs would probably charge per article.
      If you could restate your question with a little more info on what you type of work for what type of fees, someone would be able to provide you with the info you need.
      Good luck.

      Reply
  52. sharon says

    April 7, 2015 at 6:52 pm

    Hello Michelle,
    I am really pleased that I have found you.I am very interested in becoming a blogger but have no idea really.
    Finding you is brilliant i feel better and now I can slowly begin to work things out. I have started a blog again still unsure on how to present but having looked at your beginners guide is I feel will be informative and helpful.
    Thank you very much Michelle x

    Reply
  53. Marilyn says

    May 14, 2015 at 9:31 am

    Hi, how do you get work as a Freelance writer and a Staff Blog writer? My husband is an excellent writer and has a over 140 IQ and is super literate so I am have been looking for opportunities for him while he is working his day job but need help in finding jobs for him. Any suggestions? Any help would be greatly appreciated thank you. 🙂

    Reply
    • Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says

      May 14, 2015 at 12:10 pm

      Replying to your email now 🙂

      Reply
  54. Rachel says

    May 29, 2015 at 7:41 am

    Hi Michelle. Great post!
    I have a question for you. You write for three blogs presently. How many posts per week?

    If you only post once every week or two for each, how do you earn enough?

    Of course you have a couple blogs of your own, but I have repeatedly heard that the revenue from online ads is minute unless you’re a celebrity. Maybe what I have heard is wrong though?

    Reply
    • Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says

      May 29, 2015 at 9:34 am

      The amount of posts I write varies from week to week, depending on what some of my clients need. Most of my income comes from the blogs that I own now. You can check out my latest income report for more information – https://www.makingsenseofcents.com/2015/05/april-monthly-online-income-report.html

      Reply
  55. Mikah says

    October 29, 2015 at 2:13 am

    Hi!! I’ve been looking at sites which are mostly about writing full-time. What if I’m just interested in a part-time writing gig? I don’t want to give up my career in IT (which I love) and most of the content I write are about travel and music.

    Any tips for people like me who wants to treat writing as a hobby and at the same time, a source of income? By the way, thank you for the information you shared!

    Reply
    • Michelle Schroeder-Gardner says

      October 29, 2015 at 2:46 pm

      The tips in this post can be applied to a part-time writing job as well. Good luck! 🙂

      Reply
  56. Avery Breyer says

    November 2, 2015 at 4:03 am

    The tips in your post here are bang on! People think there is so much competition out there, but it’s actually not that bad since most of the people you’re competing with for work don’t take the time or have the skills to proofread their work and put out a high-quality article.

    Reply
  57. Vic @ Dad Is Cheap says

    December 13, 2015 at 11:23 pm

    This is great Michelle! Being a freelance writer is definitely a dream of mine, but it’s also very intimidating getting started. My blog so far has gotten a great response, but it’s hard to gauge if that will lead to paying work down the line. There’s also the self doubt that creeps in when you’re trying to do something completely different than what everyone else in your life is doing for work.

    Reply
  58. Debjyoti Ghosh says

    December 21, 2015 at 7:01 am

    Hi Michelle,
    Great post! I think it is a really great idea for someone who is great with words to start a freelance career as a content writer or use this in a way to supplement their primary income. Today, content writing is one of the top wanted jobs in the virtual space along with transcription, data entry, graphic design, translation and tutoring. So, whoever decides to do this, these are really great tips to follow.

    Reply
  59. Deanna says

    June 1, 2016 at 8:16 pm

    Good tips! I actually found out about how to get into Freelancing from a LifeHack article, and since being an author wasn’t making enough I ended out giving it a shot. Now it’s my main source of income and has been for the past year and a half. I love it. More than anything it’s been a huge help to improving my work!

    Reply
  60. The InDEBTed Nurse says

    July 24, 2016 at 5:47 pm

    I have recently started ghost writing for the owner of another blog to supplement my income while I get my own blog off the ground. It is actually a lot easier than I feared!

    Reply
  61. Shelly Herzhaft says

    April 14, 2017 at 10:05 pm

    Great article! It is inspiring to read that there are so many others who have the same motivation to write. Would love to write for a living! Language intrigues me. To bring words to life and have them form visual images for the reader makes me tingly. I have searched for a while online and have found nothing legit so far. I have been intimated by starting my own blog since I am not that versed on the online lingo or creating links and all the other technical things that would come with doing so although maybe now is the time to jump in the saddle. I am not a quitter and will continue reading, writing and researching until the opportunity for publication can no longer ignore the knock on the door.

    Reply
  62. Demi says

    September 10, 2018 at 3:03 am

    Thanks for this, some great tips! I am just starting out and Problogger certainly seems to have some good opportunities. I have had a little interest from potential clients, now my problem is trying to give them a quote for my work… too little and I will look amateur, too high and I may look greedy. More research needed I guess!

    Reply
  63. Setu says

    October 10, 2018 at 10:21 pm

    Hi, how do you get work as a Freelance writer and a Staff Blog writer?

    Reply
  64. Robin Smith-Crawford says

    October 13, 2018 at 6:44 pm

    I am interested in being a freelance writer! I have no idea where to start, how to do it, and find reputable companies in need of this service. Please advise

    Reply
  65. Charlene says

    October 29, 2018 at 4:59 pm

    This is truly the unselfish motive I’ve been looking for to verify my own reasons for doing freelance writing…I love it! Thanks!

    Reply
  66. Tara @ TheBlessedAndBusyFamily says

    February 11, 2019 at 3:47 pm

    Michelle, I recently made the same mistake you did. I, too, work as a freelance writer and recently took on way too much. My blog suffered and I was also so desperate for work, any work, that I took assignments for topics that were a stretch for me. The amount of research I had to do to simply prepare to write the posts made my pay completely not worth the time invested. But, a great lesson learned for going forward. The Hire Me tab is a great idea, btw. I’ll have to add one. Thanks!

    Reply

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Hello and welcome!
My name is Michelle and I'm the author/owner of Making Sense of Cents. Learning how to save money and make more money changed my life. It allowed me to pay off $40,000 in student loans, start my own business, and I now travel full-time.

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