How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs
Since I started freelancing seven years ago, a lot has changed. Remote work has become more common, AI has helped (and in some cases, replaced) freelancers, and loads of new tools have been released to make the freelancing lifestyle much easier and streamlined.
But perhaps the biggest thing that has changed is how many freelancers are in the game. Freelancing was not unpopular in 2017, but now more people than ever are freelancing and the competition is fierce. So, strategies that once worked for finding freelance writing jobs may no longer cut it.
Whether you are new to freelancing or a seasoned writer, this article will lay out some of the most effective methods for finding freelance writing jobs. If you’re looking to make more money as a freelancer, keep reading!
1. Professional Networking Platforms
Let's talk LinkedIn – and I mean really talk about using it strategically. Gone are the days of just having a passive profile with no user profile picture. Your LinkedIn needs to work as hard as you do.
First, optimize that profile like it's your professional storefront. Use a professional headshot (or a phone picture that could pass as one), craft a headline that screams "I'm the writer you need," and write a summary that tells potential clients exactly what problems you solve. Are you a B2B tech writer who turns complex concepts into compelling copy? Say that.
Second, utilize the search function! Every day, users are posting queries for freelance copywriters and writers. Try using phrases like “hiring a copywriter” or “looking for a writer” in the search bar. I like to sort the results by date so I can slide into the DMs of recruiters before anybody else.
Pro tip: Start publishing original content on LinkedIn. Write articles that showcase your expertise. Don't just share – create. A well-written, industry-specific post can attract clients faster than any job board ever could. I've landed multiple high-paying gigs from clients who found me through my LinkedIn content.
2. Strategic Content Marketing
If you’ve been following my advice for a while (or, ahem, you’re a member of The Freelance Writer’s Guide to the Galaxy), you probably already have a portfolio website. That’s great! What you’re probably not doing is publishing blog posts on that website. Here’s why you should start.
Your blog isn't just a blog – it's your portfolio, your credibility builder, and your client magnet. But here's the key: it can't be random. Choose a niche and go deep. If you're passionate about healthcare writing, create content that demonstrates your understanding. Write about industry trends, break down complex medical topics, show potential healthcare clients that you're not just another writer – you're their potential strategic partner.
Guest posting takes this strategy to the next level. Pitch articles to reputable sites in your niche. Each published piece is essentially a billboard advertising your skills. Plus, those backlinks? Pure gold for establishing your online presence.
3. Targeted Cold Outreach
Cold pitching isn't dead – it's just evolved. Forget spray-and-pray emails. We're talking laser-focused, research-driven outreach.
Before sending a single email, do your homework. Use tools like LinkedIn, company websites, and industry publications to understand a potential client's specific needs. Personalization is everything. A generic pitch gets deleted; a pitch that shows you understand their unique challenges gets read.
Create a swipe file of successful pitches. Mine has templates that I customize for each prospect. The structure remains similar, but every email feels like it was written just for that client. You can download my free cold pitch templates here.
4. Leveraging Specialized Freelance Platforms
When it comes to finding freelance writing jobs, not all platforms are created equal. While generic job boards can feel like throwing darts in the dark, niche platforms offer targeted opportunities for writers who know how to navigate them strategically.
The top platforms I recommend checking out:
ProBlogger Job Board – This job board is specifically designed for writers and has frequent postings from quality clients.
Contena – This curated writing job platform requires a paid membership, but the upside is the opportunities are vetted so there’s less of a chance you’ll be scammed. Their training resources are also valuable!
Upwork – Despite mixed reviews, this is still a viable platform. I don’t book quite as much work through Upwork as I used to (and no $20k jobs recently!) but I still book enough regular work to keep me coming back for more.
5. Networking and Referral Strategies
Networking isn't just schmoozing at conferences. It's about building genuine relationships. Every past client is a potential future referral source.
After completing a project, don't just say goodbye. Send a follow-up email checking in, share their success (if appropriate), and subtly remind them you're available for future work. Ask for testimonials – they're marketing magic.
Join online communities specific to your niche. Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and specialized Slack channels are where potential clients and referral sources hang out.
Your Homework for Finding Freelance Writing Jobs
That’s a lot of info, but what about ACTIONABLE items, right? If you’re looking for freelance writing jobs, here’s what I suggest you do:
Spend 1-2 hours daily looking for jobs in a direct way. This means cold pitching, applying to gigs on job boards, responding to recruiters on LinkedIn, and sending proposals on Upwork.
Every 1-2 weeks, write and publish a new blog post. You can repost the same content on your LinkedIn. This is a less effective way to find clients in the short term, but way more effective in the long term.
Check Meetup, Eventbrite, and Facebook for networking events in your area, and make it your goal to attend one per month.
Conclusion
Finding freelance writing jobs isn't a one-time event. It's a continuous process of marketing yourself, improving your skills, and staying visible.
Will every strategy work every time? Nope. But if you implement these consistently, diversify your approach, and keep learning, you'll build a steady stream of freelance writing work.
Remember, seven years ago when I started, we didn't have half the tools and platforms available today. You've got advantages – use them.
Ready to take your freelance writing career to the next level? Join The Freelance Writer’s Guide to the Galaxy! This nine-module course will teach you everything you need to know about launching, managing, and growing a profitable, stress-free freelance copywriting business.