by Terri Rains
There are many places online where you can find a freelance writing job, but you have to know where to look to avoid the scams and deadbeat clients. Because the online world is fairly anonymous, it sometimes happens that a client will order a set of articles, only to take off with them -- and your money. Many freelancers who have been in the business long enough know the names to avoid and connections to make. If you are new to freelancing however, keep in mind the following tips when searching for a job.
Clients - It's a good sign if a potential client has a positive reputation with other freelancers. However, it is always a good idea to ask around about somebody you are not familiar with. Often, new content buyers will stiff several writers before the word gets out that they are someone to avoid. It is not unreasonable to ask for your fees upfront if it is the first time working with a particular client.
Contracts - New freelancers often do not realize the extreme importance of having a contract with their clients. A contract can be as simple as an email detailing the specs of the job, but be sure each parameter of the job is covered: fees, deadline, and details of the deliverables. Having a contract is smart business, and helps you avoid any disagreement over payment.
Communication - The sign of a great client is one who frequently and openly communicates with the writer. If it takes three days to hear from a new client after sending an email or making a phone call, you should proceed with caution. In addition, be sure they are specific about the job they want performed -- vagueness makes it easy for a client to claim you did not perform your end of the bargain.
Writing web content is fun and satisfying, but it can be difficult to find a steady stream of reliable clients if you do not know where to look. Using the tips above will aid a new freelancer in the search for a good content opportunity. Once you have written for a while and have made enough contacts with other writers, you will have more confidence in turning down questionable offers. Unfortunately, other writers may have had to deal with unsatisfactory clients for you to know to avoid them, but their experience will guide you on yours.
There are many places online where you can find a freelance writing job, but you have to know where to look to avoid the scams and deadbeat clients. Because the online world is fairly anonymous, it sometimes happens that a client will order a set of articles, only to take off with them -- and your money. Many freelancers who have been in the business long enough know the names to avoid and connections to make. If you are new to freelancing however, keep in mind the following tips when searching for a job.
Clients - It's a good sign if a potential client has a positive reputation with other freelancers. However, it is always a good idea to ask around about somebody you are not familiar with. Often, new content buyers will stiff several writers before the word gets out that they are someone to avoid. It is not unreasonable to ask for your fees upfront if it is the first time working with a particular client.
Contracts - New freelancers often do not realize the extreme importance of having a contract with their clients. A contract can be as simple as an email detailing the specs of the job, but be sure each parameter of the job is covered: fees, deadline, and details of the deliverables. Having a contract is smart business, and helps you avoid any disagreement over payment.
Communication - The sign of a great client is one who frequently and openly communicates with the writer. If it takes three days to hear from a new client after sending an email or making a phone call, you should proceed with caution. In addition, be sure they are specific about the job they want performed -- vagueness makes it easy for a client to claim you did not perform your end of the bargain.
Writing web content is fun and satisfying, but it can be difficult to find a steady stream of reliable clients if you do not know where to look. Using the tips above will aid a new freelancer in the search for a good content opportunity. Once you have written for a while and have made enough contacts with other writers, you will have more confidence in turning down questionable offers. Unfortunately, other writers may have had to deal with unsatisfactory clients for you to know to avoid them, but their experience will guide you on yours.
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