The gig economy has changed the job market tremendously. Whether you’re a hater or a fan of the new economy model, the truth is that it provided new job opportunities to freelancers. Sure, modern gig experts are the ones with no 401(k) plans but far more freedom from the corporate world and 9-to-5 jobs.
Have you decided to join the long line of freelance writers? Check the tips on how to succeed in your career in the article below.
#1: When Quality is More Important Than Quantity
Most writing jobs will include knowledge of languages, grammar, punctuation, and other linguistic factors. Other skills to be considered are the candidate’s ability to work with writing tools. Meanwhile, all writing and translation jobs will require soft skills like communication and time management. When listing your skills, focus on quality. Better mention a few languages you’re proficient in than the entry-level knowledge of 10 languages.
#2: Think of Your Writing ‘Image’
We are not only about choosing the right picture for your profile, but this step is also essential. What we are talking about is the impression you give as a professional. In your Description line, we advise you to promote a few core skills. You can be a writer, editor, proofreader, and translator simultaneously. But what is your zest? Which are the projects you’re the best to complete?
Let’s say you know Spanish, Portuguese, and English. If you’re experienced in Portuguese-to-English translation, turn it into a basis for your Description line. If possible, mention the genres. In the end, your Description field might be as follows, ‘Portuguese-to-English translator of biography novels with 3 years of experience.’
In other words, develop a profile that would promote you as an expert in tasks you’re great at doing. Then, whether it’s translation or writing, think of that one skill and expertise area that makes you special.
#3: When Soft Skills Matter
The freelance industry is about perfect talent matching, short deadlines, and high-quality results. Believe it or not, soft skills are equally important as hard skills. All because, as a freelancer, you exist as a brand. Yet there’s no person you’re accountable to except you alone. There’s no separate 24/7 support team for your activities, as well as refund policies. Hence, the soft skills which your potential customer will mostly focus on are as follows:
- Time management. Balancing a few projects and completing your project on time is vital. Upload digital planners that can send you notifications;
- Self-discipline. Being a freelance writer is both a curse and a blessing when it comes to making schedules. You might work whenever you like, but frequently, you’ll have to choose between showcasing your talent or being a couch potato;
- Active listening. Understanding what your client wants must stay in the writing business. It means being attentive to details and ensuring you understand the project’s core requirements.
#4: Patience Will Conquer the World
Be prepared that getting your first gig might take time despite your outstanding talent. All because you’re new to the community with zero reputation and low rates.
After a few months of Sisyphean labor, a starting freelance writer has a high chance of leaving the idea of being a contractor. It is a turning point when showing a strong motivation to hustle when your rejection rate is higher than average is a must.
- Keep applying for gigs;
- Add recent projects to your portfolio;
- Keep upgrading your skills;
- Add cover letters and proposals with work samples when applying for the gig
#5: A Professional Freelance Writer is a Responsible Writer
Easier said than done. We understand you may hold a grudge against the previous agencies you worked for. However, accepting the fate of a freelancer means being responsible for your own mistakes. Once a client nails you from a global talent pool, you should do everything to ensure the work process is smooth.
- Pay attention to the deadline and milestones when accepting orders;
- Stay in touch with your clients to respond to messages and questions in time;
- Make sure to discuss your revision and refund policies before your start working on the content;
- Provide superb clarity when it comes to your prices;
- Focus on the preparation stage to avoid mistakes in the future.
Final Thoughts
Going remote, aka becoming a freelancer, might be scary at first. To promote yourself as a professional writer and translator, focus on upgrading your skills. Better isolate a few skills you consider to be the most important and upgrade them. Stay patient and develop maximum responsibility for your actions. Get advice from pro writers at militaryresumeservice.com Also, don’t forget about your soft skills and placing a high value on quality rather than quantity.
We hope the article was helpful to you. Good luck!
