How to Find More Work as Freelance Writer

Self-employment can be extremely rewarding if a steady stream of income can be earned. One of the challenges associated with self-employment is finding more work. Freelance writers have the ability to find multiple opportunities if they understand the various options open to them. Here is how to find more work as a self-employed freelance writer.

Using job bid sites

Job bidding sites like Elance and oDesk often have postings for "one of" jobs that a freelance writer can take advantage of. There may be fees that have to be paid upon the completion of jobs which are minimal in comparison to the amount of money that may be earned. These sites can provide ongoing opportunities for a writer with a strong background or for a writer who is just starting out.

Using social networking

Social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter may provide opportunities for freelance writers to find more work. Freelance writers may search for companies who are providing opportunities on these sites by using keywords like "freelance writers wanted" or "need freelance writers". It is important that a freelance writer use caution when searching for work using these methods.

Paid to write sites

There are numerous paid to write sites like Demand Studios, Bright Hub, Wise Geek and Internet Brands (among others) who offer freelance writers up front payments for their work. Helium also offers these opportunities through their marketplace. These sources can provide a freelance writer with ongoing work depending on their individual expertise. Writers are encouraged to carefully review all terms of service to understand what rights they are retaining or relinquishing to these sites before making any contributions.

Making the most of residual opportunities

Freelance writers who are self-employed have a unique opportunity to earn residual income. Residual income can be earned by writing on a writer-owned blog, identifying writing sites like Suite 101 or Wikinut where writers can earn from page views or advertising revenue or from sites like HubPages and Squidoo. Many writers will have multiple sites that allow them to contribute their work for ongoing revenue options.

When searching for tips on how to find more work as a self employed freelance writer, it is important to examine the various options that are available. Using a combination of bidding sites, social networking with companies hiring writers or paid to write sites, it is possible to earn a decent living freelance writing. Writers as a whole should avoid counting on one site alone for all of their earnings as this could prove to be a disaster if there are problems with the site later.