You want to become a freelance writer – but what kind? And do you want to limit your freelance business to writing?
You can be a generalist or specialize in a specific kind of writing or niche. You don’t have to limit your specialty or your niche to only one-you may have several specialties.
Some popular freelance writing (and writing-related) specialties include:
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Article writing for magazines, newsletters, or the Internet
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Blogging
- Copywriting
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Ghostwriting
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Research
- Web content writing, including SEO writing
- White paper/report writing
Though the above list includes some of the most popular freelance specialties, many more exist. Even if your favorite kind of writing isn’t included, look into the possibilities of making a career of what you like.
Pros and cons of being a generalist:
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You have more jobs available to you, but you have more competition also.
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You don’t need any special knowledge or experience beyond good research and writing skills, but you will have to spend time researching and learning about the field for new projects.
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You will be involved in a variety of projects; whether that is a pro or con depends on your temperament. If you are bored easily, you might like the variety; however, if you are easily distracted, you may find the variety overwhelming.
Pros and cons of being a specialist:
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You have fewer jobs available to you, but you have less competition.
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You need to have some knowledge about the specialty or the niche, but if you have experience, you can build on what you already know.
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You run the risk of becoming bored if you thrive on variety; however, if you like routine, you will probably be comfortable with a specialty or a niche.
The best of both worlds: Choose several specialties or niches. You will reduce the risk of being bored while still enjoying the benefits of being a specialist.
For example, I specialize in working with self-publishing authors with a variety of services: consulting on publishing, helping with research and manuscript development, editing the manuscript, formatting the book for printing, finding a cover designer and printer, creating and maintaining the author’s Web site, editing and posting blog entries, writing news releases and other promotional materials, sending out review copies …
For writers who pursue traditional publishing, I help with query letters and proposals.
I also write, edit, and perform virtual assistant duties for business clients.
Some freelancers like to write for many different clients. I prefer to offer a wide range of services to a few clients. You have to decide how you prefer to work.
Choosing a specialty or niche:
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Consider the skills and knowledge you have already.
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Consider skills and knowledge you would like to learn.
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Consider how interested you are in the kind of the writing or the niche and how long you can maintain that interest.
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Consider the demand to ensure people want or need the service you plan to offer.
Read more advice from successful freelancers:
How to Choose a Specialty as a Freelance Writer
Recipe for Freelancing
Next, we’ll talk about finding freelance jobs.