Writer Friendly

Before applying for freelance writing jobs, there are some important things you need to take care of first. If you decide to move ahead and apply to jobs, you might find that it’s more difficult and that you are not prepared to provide potential employers what they’re asking to see.

First, familiarize yourself with style guides such as AP, Chicago, MLA, etc. Depending on what type of writing you want to do, you will have to know a certain style guide inside and out. For example, news reporting and other article writing often uses MLA while research papers might use MLA or APA. Consider purchasing a style guide, if you don’t already have one, because they provide exercises to practice your editing skills.

Second, update and format your resume. Include your objective, education, work experience, organizations/awards/certifications and references (you can state that your references are “available upon request”).

Third, organize a paper and electronic portfolio that includes your resume, clips (writing that has been published), cover letter to potential employer and copies of any certifications or degrees. Whether you are meeting with someone in person or sending your information via email, you will know exactly where your stuff is.

Fourth, seriously think about what types of jobs you would like to do. Are you a technical writer, fiction writer, nonfiction writer, poetry writer, screenwriter, etc.? Unfortunately, writers have to know how to write well and how to market themselves too. Once you have a better idea of what you want to write about or what kind of audience you want to write for, you will be able to market yourself more appropriately.

When you have accomplished these four tasks, you will be better prepared to start looking and applying for freelance writing jobs.

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