Freelance writing opportunities

Before the internet age, freelance writing was an almost unknown profession. Access to information on any subject was limited to books, periodicals and magazines, and communication was often slow and dependent on the pace of snail mails. But with this burgeoning new medium, flying solo as a writer has become an attractive option. As an independent professional, you get to be your own boss and enjoy all the advantages it entails; or, you could even do it part-time.

Here are a few of the opportunities open to you if you are a good wordsmith and can sell your talent to the right markets:

Web Content Writer: This is an entry-level position that can easily be found by trawling the web for freelance job sites, forums and blogs. While it does not pay much initially, it is a great way to create a writer’s portfolio with articles that have been credited to you. You can take it from there to break into higher- paying job markets like magazine features and newspaper columns.

Being a web content writer can get you lucrative ghostwriting opportunities, not to mention positions like those of a telecommuting researcher or a writing assistant for publishing houses. You could end up as a travel, health, fashion, automobile or entertainment writer, to name just a few general categories. Each category has a spectrum of opportunities all its own.

In addition, becoming a web content writer paves inroads into creating and monetizing websites. Many web writers either launch websites and blog on niche subject areas, or partner with a website owner for this purpose. Done well, this could be a great way of generating revenue.

Blogger and forum poster: This could be an interesting niche, which is not very high-paying but may help build a network of clients, fellow writers and editors. A lot of websites are looking for knowledgeable writers to post reviews regularly on their blogs and forums, because that is a great way of bumping up web traffic and marketing products. Once you have a specialized niche for blogging though, you can write for established and well-paying organizations.

Copywriter: If you have a way with words and feel confident about persuading someone to buy a service or product purely on the basis of your write-ups, then you could create your own well-paid gig as a copywriter. A copywriter creates hard-hitting material which can be used for marketing purposes in the form of online web advertising content, newsletters or press releases.

Resume writer: There is an increasing demand for professional writers who specialize in creating targeted, well-presented resumes. If you feel you have a knack for human resources as well as writing, this could be the calling for you.

Technical writer: If you have an engineering background or are simply fascinated by all kinds of technologies, procedures and products, you could become a technical writer. You could happily spin out tutorials, procedures and product reviews and get paid to do it.

Freelance writing can be more than just a meal ticket. It has the potential of becoming an enjoyable and rewarding profession in its own right. If your day job frustrates you or you simply want some extra income, take the plunge and write your first article or blog post today.