Running a freelance writing business can often feel like a constant uphill climb. From pitching to marketing to managing deadlines, how can there possibly ever be time for coasting or even taking your foot off the pedal for a quick rest?
However, there are strategies you can implement to keep the wheels turning in your freelance writing business while giving yourself the white space you need in order to rest, recover, and plan.
Strategies for elevating your freelance writing business
Here are six areas to focus on so you can build a sustainable business without sacrificing quality for your clients.
Define your brand vision
You’re more than “just a writer” and one of the best ways you can stand out in the marketplace and with clients is by defining your brand vision. This both helps you narrow the scope of your work and allows you to attract right-fit clients to your sphere of influence.
Do you want to become the go-to writer for tech startups, specialize in health and wellness content, or provide thought leadership ghostwriting? Clarifying what you write and who it’s for makes it easier to market yourself and let people know why they should work with you.
Building a cohesive online presence will also help your branding efforts. Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your expertise, share portfolio samples, and connect with potential clients. If you prefer other platforms and your clients are active there, then consider implementing a social media strategy there as well.
Deliver an exceptional client experience
This is where your systems come in. Writing well is a given, but delivering a satisfying client experience will completely elevate your business. Yes, this means meeting deadlines and following through, but it also has a lot to do with your soft skills: your communication, your onboarding, your professionalism.
For example, develop systems and SOPs in order to respond promptly to inquiries, set clear expectations, and provide regular updates throughout a project. These simple acts show clients you’re reliable and invested in their success.
This can also mean offering value-added services like content strategy sessions or SEO optimization tips. Look for areas you can provide additional value that will mean a lot to your client but not add a lot of work to your plate. Clients will notice the care and attention you provide, which can lead to repeat business and referrals.
Diversify your services
In the same vein as looking for ways to add value, having multiple sources of income will allow you to have steady cash flow from month to month even if one income stream slows or dries up over the year.
Think about how you can expand your offerings to meet clients’ needs. Here are a few simple ideas:
- Have an add-on editing or proofreading service
- Offer packages that bundle together your services
- Provide consulting on content strategy or audience engagement
Upselling is another way to boost revenue. For instance, if you’re writing launch emails, put together a pitch for sales page copy or follow-up emails to go with it. If you’re writing business profiles, why not also pitch to take photographs for the piece? Things like that.
Optimize your operations
In general, freelance writers don’t have a lot of overhead. But you can still “spend” a lot with your time so managing this limited resource will allow your business to thrive. Assess your current processes to identify areas for improvement.
For a practical example, think about an arborist and the tools they would need to do their job well. Something to climb with, something to cut with, and the right clothing to maximize movement and safety. But to make things more efficient and save time, upgrading from pruning shears to an electric chain saw would make a huge difference!
Think about your tools in this way. Which ones will allow you to work faster without losing quality? Invest in those. Some examples:
- Upgrade your tools: Use software to help expedite and automate editing, proofreading, project management, and invoicing
- Streamline admin tasks: What do you repeat over and over again? There’s probably a way to systemize or automate it using inexpensive tools
- Batch your work: I know this doesn’t work for everyone but context switching and multi-tasking are not the time savers they feel like. Grouping similar tasks together than help you maximize productivity
Scheduling work strategically can also save time. For example, plan projects for clients in the same industry back-to-back to minimize context-switching and leverage your expertise efficiently.
Market yourself!
Effective marketing is key to ensuring a steady stream of clients. Make sure prospective clients are clear on what you offer so they can decide if you’re the right writer for their needs. Also, find ways to make your services seem as exciting as possible. Honestly, of course. But don’t downplay the value you bring to the table!
Here are some ways you can market your services in an exciting way:
- Leverage client testimonials: Showcase reviews and case studies from happy clients to build credibility
- Run promotions: Offer discounts on bulk projects or limited-time packages to encourage clients to book your services
- Network locally and online: Connect with professionals like digital marketers or agencies who might need writers for their projects. Partnering with them can open new and unexpected doors
Commit to continuous growth
The freelance writing industry is constantly changing and staying ahead of trends is essential. Keep learning by taking courses, attending webinars, participating in groups, or experimenting with new tools.
Additionally, pay attention to client feedback. Use it to refine your processes and elevate your offerings. Freelancing success is built on adaptability and a willingness to evolve with market demands.
Turning your freelance writing business into a predictable income generator doesn’t happen overnight, but it is possible. Stay committed to growth, embrace challenges as opportunities, and keep delivering value to your clients. You’ve got this!
