If you’re reading this, you may have wondered to yourself ‘how can I become a freelance writer?’

The short answer: ‘Not without a lot of hard work.’

As to whether or not you should become a freelance writer, that’s another article for another day. On that subject, I will simply pose this question: ‘can you be fulfilled doing something other than writing freelance?’ If so, give it some serious thought.

Assuming you’ve discovered you must become a freelance writer, here’s how to get started…

Find Your Niche
The beautiful thing is, writing doesn’t just exist in a vacuum. It is an integral part of business and life in general everywhere. Therefore, whatever you’re already passionate about– whether crocheting or World of Warcraft– is a great entry point for your career as a freelance writer.

Before he became a bestselling novelist writing books that start with the word ‘The’, John Grisham was a lawyer and politician. So when he launched his writing career, what did his stories revolve around? Law and politics.

There’s a lot to be said for following your passions in life and all the more as you start out to become a freelance writer. If you can talk about a subject ad nauseum, chances are you could also write about it. So instead of getting rolled eyes at parties when you go on and on about Flemish needle lace or that your new ’resto druid for questing totally roxxorz,’ you could be getting paid.

Maybe.

Make It Happen:

Answer this question: what is your great passion? Once you’ve answered that, research and create a list of (10) outlets within that area of interest. Magazines, books, online… it’s all good.

Tomorrow, Part 2 of ‘How To Become A Freelance Writer’ wherein we’ll learn all about creating the writing samples that will get you gigs. See you then!

- Matthew Porter

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