Become a Successful Freelance Writer

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You can’t just say you are a writer and become inundated with assignments. Your work must stand on its own merit with measurable results.

Funny How Difficult This Is

No doubt you’ve heard that there’s some competition called AI in the writing arena. Before you wave the white flag, consider your value as an experienced, intelligent being. Some things that give you an edge over your automated opponent are specialty education, experience, a proven track record, and a sense of humor. Generative technology indeed has a vast database of jokes, but that doesn’t translate into comedy writing.

Whether you choose to write comedy (very much in demand) or something else, here’s what buyers are looking for. How much writing have you done? Is it available online for them to see? What type of results does it generate? Let’s break these questions down.

Some people who bill themselves as writers have nothing to show for it. Sometimes it’s because of ghostwriting or copyright transfer. Either way, writers should have some samples of what they’re selling, even if they’re speculative samples. When you link to writing on various websites, it boosts your credibility. To build writing portfolios, some writers offer webmasters free articles. Having samples and links allows prospective buyers to see your versatility and writing style.

Here comes the tricky dilemma. How do you measure results? Can you demonstrate that your article ranks high with organic search engines? For sure, your customers will measure results from your first project. They know pretty quickly if there is little interest in what you provide or if it doesn’t rise to the first page of search engines. External and internal links to your articles improve the ranking of your website. You may need to improve your SEO capabilities—or become a comedy writer.

So there you have it. Don’t just fill word counts. Provide measurable results with time-tested techniques that elevate your work above other writers and generative technology. If you have any doubts about whether your submission will gain traction, study the structure of ones that rank well.

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Kevin RR Williams writes and programs with decades of experience in anatomical studies, clinical science graphics, and digital publishing. His work explores the intersection of creativity, health, and technology across multiple disciplines.