51: New To Freelancing? 10 Tips to Help You Succeed

Freelance writing is the number one way to make money online. As a content writer, the opportunities are endless but you must hone in on a few key skills to go from good to great and watch your income grow. Here are 10 tips to become a successful freelance writer.

1. Create a Routine. 
I know this sounds cliché, but creating structure is important. Otherwise, you fall prone to 'I will get it done later' or the opposite of that is you work all the time! 

2. Value Your Time
Calculate your hourly rate, if a task is below that, then outsource it! 

3. Understand How Taxes Work as Freelancer 
Talk with an accountant and determine how much you need to hold for taxes. This will save you a lot of time and headache at the end of the year!

4. Find a Specific Spot to Work 
Having a clearly defined space to work creates boundaries of when and where you will get work done. When you create a specific spot, you will be amazed at how much efficient you are in getting things done!

5. Honor Your Calendar 
The amount of integrity that you have usually has a direct relation into the ROI and the percentage  work that you get done! If you say you will do something, write it down and do it. 

Check out this Harvard paper on Integrity: Without it Nothing Works

Learn more about why you should 'honor your word' from the book The Four Agreements.

6. Find Like Minded People and Hang out with Them

Whether you are introvert or extrovert hanging out with likeminded people increases your network and can give you news which may lead to more income opportunities! 

7. Keep Learning

To quote Warren Buffet "The More You Learn, the More You Earn". Whatever writing niche you are in keep learning about that industry; this will make you more valuable to clients and they will pay you for your continued in depth knowledge. 

8. Make an Effort to Get to Know Your Clients 

This is relationship building 101! When you show genuine interest in not only their business but their life, you create a personal connection that leads to a better partnership. 

9. Level Up Your Writing Skills

Invest in yourself, get out of your comfort zone and be challenged! This allows you to accomplish your income goals and become a better freelance writer. 

10. Remember: Have Fun!
Enjoy the process, document your wins and congratulate yourself! The more fun you have, the less you will worry and this will have an effect on everything you do, including attracting more clients!