Guest Post: How to Find Private Writing Clients
Are you a freelance writer tired of writing for numerous content mills? Content mills don’t often pay enough for freelance writers so it’s understandable to seek private writing clients who do pay what you’re worth. Writing for private clients really means you’re a ghostwriter.
Like many people, you’re probably wondering how do you find private clients, right?
I recommend creating a website. You can do it with several pages. WordPress.org is probably the easiest and best way to go. You should buy a domain name and hosting to promote your writing business. Your website doesn’t have to be fancy. It’s about you, a portfolio with writing samples or links to where your articles have been published; testimonies if you have any and your services and rates.
Once that is done, you have to promote your site. Put it in your signature in emails and on your business card. Always complete your profile on forums and on social media sites.
If you don’t have a site, other places to find private writing clients is signing up at freelance writing sites like oDesk.com or GetaFreelancer.com and bidding for projects. I have to warn you these bidding sites often have low paying jobs, but there’s always a gem in there somewhere. Also, check Craigslist even though there are many scams, there is also legitimate private clients. Be sure you have a resume and have sample writings to show or articles published somewhere online.
Join writing forums because many have a section for clients who are looking for writers. Don’t join to be self-promotional, but take the time to network and build relationships. Of course, write well on your forum posts because you never know who’s reading, who’s judging and who’s hiring.
You can be more self-serving on Twitter, but moderation and balance is everything. Engaging in quality is always important. I found my private client on Twitter. Actually, my client found me so networking and being consistent paves the way.
Lastly, you can do cold emailing. If you specialize in a specific niche, email those webmasters with a proposal. Don’t show them how many articles you have written or what you have achieved, but explain how you can help them with article marketing; how you can drive and increase their traffic and so forth.
Writing for several private clients means steady work and higher pay, but don’t let go of your content sites as it’s better to keep your basket filled. Whenever you need a change of pace cranking out some easy articles on content mills is the way to go and the extra cash is always nice.
Sophia McIntyre is an Internet Marketer, Article Marketer, Ghostwriter and founder of WorkAtHomeSpace.com, a free resource focusing on work at home companies and jobs, home businesses and other work at home related topics.
