Freelance Writing Jobs – Online Applications
How to Find and Apply for Online Writing Vacancies
Jun 7, 2009
A freelance writer always keeps their employer happy. There is nothing worse than a freelance writer who cannot meet deadlines. Always make sure that the work can be completed on time.
Whilst a writer is looking for freelance work, they should also still be writing. Even without a project or assignment to work on, writing a diary, updating a website, or writing a short-story will make sure that the writer keeps going. This way, when a project is offered, the writer will be able to handle the workload.
What All Good Writers Need
All good writers have a good resume. A resume/C.V should detail what qualifies this person to apply for the job. It should not just state details of schools and jobs, it should also state key skills, and have a brief personal profile.
Another thing that all good writers should have is a good computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection. When talking to a prospective employer online it is not good to lose the internet connection. Sometimes this cannot be avoided, but wherever possible use the best technology available.
Applying Online
There are several good online employment websites available for freelance writers. Sites such as Suite101, Elance, and Freelance Job Openings, are all excellent starting points. However there are also specialised websites designed with certain styles of writing in mind, such as script-writing, and screen-plays.
A lot of websites advertise freelance work but do not specify salary / payment details. Be careful. Certainly apply for the position if it sounds suitable, but do not sign on the dotted line to agree to supply any work unless payment terms have been discussed.
Whether writing fiction or non-fiction, articles, or books, work can be found as long as people are prepared to put in the effort to look for it. Remember that writing is usually done at home, so the employer does not necessarily have to be located near to the writer, or even have to be in the same country.
If, when applying for a job, samples of work are requested, try to make these samples relevant to the job vacancy. It is no use sending someone a fairy-tale when applying for a job as a news journalist. Ensure that the full job description is read and understood. If there are any unanswered questions, then send an e-mail to the employer. The employer will feel that they are dealing with a professional who has the sense to ask before applying.
If once work has been completed an employer suggests changes to a piece of writing, do not argue with them. This may sound like common-sense, but some writers do become very protective over their work. Ensure that all deadlines are met and answer any letters, telephone messages, or e-mails as soon as possible.
A writer who does exactly what the employer requires is more likely to obtain extra work, and is able to go back for a good reference.
So stick to deadlines, keep writing, have a good resume ready, get online, and start applying for work as a freelance writer.
