A lot of people want to know how to become a freelance writer. “How do you get paid for writing?” is what they often ask. When I think about what got me here, three lucky things needed to happen in order for this to occur.
- I met the “right” people. When I first decided to switch gears from therapist to writer and as a new freelance writer in Hawaii, I got lucky only because I met the right people. For example, I connected with a newspaper writer from San Jose Mercury who connected me with another writer. This writer ended up being friends with a business owner who just so happened to need a copywriter. Knowing someone in the industry, upped my reputation and helped me to land my first gig.
- I asked the “right” questions. A lot of times we don’t succeed not because we ask the wrong questions, but simply because we don’t ask. When an opportunity comes up, take the risk. If this comes to you in the form of a new acquaintance who is living your dream job, ask him or her how they got there. If you meet an editor, ask them if they’re looking for writers. It’s not asking that will prevent you from getting that freelance writing gig.
- I got the “right” gigs. I did my hard work. At the beginning, I didn’t always get paid to write. I didn’t always get paid well to write. But I did it. Over time, my portfolio grew and I could be more choosy. To become a freelance writer, you have to work hard like every one else. Sometimes this means rolling up your sleeves and writing about things you don’t really care about. Over time, you’ll get to choose.
I hope you catch what I’m saying here. To be honest, while there may be some luck involved, a lot rests in your hands. Instead of waiting for opportunity to come your way, make your own. Go to networking events (I only went to one before I scored my first paid magazine writing opportunity in Hawaii). Contact people in the area you’re interested and ask if you can do an informational interview (Talking with an expert in the field landed me my first copywriting job). And tell everyone you know you’re looking for writing opportunities. But most importantly, write whenever you can and about anything, just write! Every single thing that you write matters, because it’ll make you that much better of a writer.
