So, you want to dive into the world of freelance copywriting.
You're excited. This is what you want to do. You're telling people about your ambitions and growing your network. But there's just one problem.
You don't have any experience.
Ruh-roh.
But don't worry. I'm here to help. So, let's start with the big question.
How Do You Become a Freelance Writer with No Experience?
Well, the answer can be summed up in one word: write.
Don't worry, I'll expand on that.
Make Up Your Own Samples
Write samples that showcase your talent since you have no previous assignments to draw from. As an example, pick a topic. Something that is both something interesting to you and that you believe people are looking for.
I'll give you some examples: Write about the latest developments in technology or healthcare, business, entertainment, fitness, and the like.
And then keep writing. And then write some more.
In the end, you should have sample blogs, email samples, and social media posts at a minimum.
The next step?
Show Your Samples to Other Writers
I'll share a little trade secret: Writers like to help other writers.
It's true! Hop onto LinkedIn and start connecting with other freelance writers. You'll be amazed at how open, friendly, and eager most of them are to help.
(Sure, there might be a couple rotten eggs in the bunch. But that goes for literally any subgroup on the entire planet.)
Ask if you can send your samples to them. Get feedback. Look at examples of great work and edit, edit, edit. Make sure they're as solid as they can be.
After that, you need to ...
Create an Online Portfolio
There are almost limitless resources for creating portfolios. This is how you can share your samples with potential clients.
Right now, you're looking at a Shopify website. (I love it!) But you can also find many other options at varying costs.
Again, find someone you can trust to guide you if possible.
And once that's done ...
Volunteer to Write Pro-Bono for Charities and Non-Profits
This is how you'll get some actual samples that you didn't just make up. These will not only be real assignments you can add to your portfolio, but they'll also give you a sense of what it's like to have clients.
Sure, they're not paying you. But there will be things like parameters and deadlines. Perhaps requested edits.
All good experiences to have.
And then, of course, you'll be building a network of grateful people who can recommend you to paying clients.
But don't rely on that alone. You also need to start the pitching process.
Find Paying Freelance Clients
Go to LinkedIn and start asking your network about anyone they know who may be looking for freelance writers. I
I've found that even making a public post has resulted in some responses that ultimately led to paid work.
That's a first step, but there's more to it than that. And I'll be sharing more in the very near future.
In the meantime, I hope now you have enough to get started. Now you can become a freelance copywriter with no experience!
Stay tuned!