Guest post by George Taylor
The idea of being a professional writer has always intrigued me. If I were to ever create my own “bucket list” of sorts, there’s little doubt that writing a book, or becoming a published author would find itself somewhere on the list… and more then likely, somewhere in the top 10. I don’t think I’m alone in this either, especially when you look at the millions of textual contributors every day over the internet.
Whether it’s in the form of a blog post or simply a “How To” article on cooking a great steak, aspiring writers are all around us. With the advent of the internet, this information superhighway has created the greatest platform for writers since the days of using charcoal on the wall of a cave. The problem with today’s technology is not how you can publish your work… the problem is how do I get paid for it?
The Internet Is Content And Someone Has To Write It
Arguably, there has never been a better time for finding freelance work as a writer then right now. The internet is content and a large part of that content is provided by writers. With billions of web pages being published every single day, internet marketers and web masters all over the world are in constant need for content. It’s this ravenous, insatiable appetite that has the professional marketer constantly in need of new written material if they intend to compete and be known as an authority in their niche.
Well written content is what keeps the web surfer on their website. It creates credibility, trust, and is often times the primary reason that the site owner is able to convert that visitor into a subscriber or a customer. In the world of internet marketing… informative, well researched articles are an important part of a reputable website’s business plan.
What Are The Benefits Of Being A Freelance Writer?
Being a freelance writer has so many benefits, some of which are obvious, and some not so obvious. Obviously, as an independent writer you can work from home or any where you’d like. With your laptop and an internet connection, today’s freelancer can work and earn money while traveling, at a coffee shop, or in the comfort of their own home. You can work part time or full time if you like… and really, as long as you meet your client’s deadlines you can work whenever you feel like it. You work for yourself, can set your own rates, and decide who you want to write for or not.
Ok… these are some of the obvious reasons, but there are some very cool intangibles as well. Some less then obvious perks that should be considered too. Writing on various topics and sub-topics keeps things fresh and new. Not only that, but the initial research that goes into writing a quality report or article keeps your mind razor sharp, allowing you to become a mini expert of sorts on a wide range of subjects. If you are a read freak, and love to learn… this is right up your alley.
Another often overlooked benefit is your ability to work with very intelligent, successful entrepreneurs from a perspective that is outside the reach of the general public. As their hired ghostwriter, you’re given a unique opportunity to see and hear how they structure the information used for their business. You’ll gain knowledge regarding their area of expertise that ordinarily would take years to learn, while at the same time getting paid.
How Do I Know If My Writing Is Good Enough?
If you’re worried about having to resurrect everything you’ve been taught about perfect grammar and dangling participles… relax, take a deep breath my friend, because this is the internet. In the world of the internet sentence structure and grammar should be informal and conversational in tone. And…it’s OK to start sentences with the word “and”.
Readers on the web have very little patience and short attention spans which means that paragraphs should be short and to the point. If you can write a decent letter or e-mail over 150 words… you can probably write for the web.
Is Freelance Writing For You?
Taking on work as an independent writer is not very difficult. The work is out there, and anyone can stay busy if their writing skills are slightly above average. The downside to this work from home business is the global competition for work. Prices for quality writing can be very low, dependent upon the required expertise for the topic and the quality of work the webmaster is willing to pay for.
The other point to keep in mind, is that eventually you will max out on your earning potential. You’re only one person, and you can only charge so much for your work. Eventually it becomes simple mathematics as to how much you can make.
However, whether you’re looking for part time income or a full time business, if you enjoy writing the work is out there. As an American living in a very rural province in the Philippines, I’m living proof that freelance writing from your home, with customers from all over the world is a real possibility for anyone.
About the Author
George Taylor is a Freelance Writer enjoying the freedom that freelance work can offer. To find out more about George or to iniqure about his services visit gtaylorwrites.com
About Tom White
