Australia is celebrated for its vibrant freelance scene, with millions now working under their own steam.
Among the options available, freelance writing is a popular choice for many who seek a self-employed path. Being able to manage workloads from home flexibly and write on a range of subjects can be an attractive and lucrative role – but finding opportunities is the first obstacle to overcome.
Here, we offer some worthwhile options to consider whether you’re trying to make that critical start or build on your existing career.
Direct pitching and cold emailing
It’s worth noting that high-paying freelance writing assignments are not always advertised openly. This means that new writers can make their own chances when they contact online magazines, SMEs and small content agencies directly. However, forming a strategy first is strongly advised to optimise results.
For instance, if writers have a specialist subject like technology, healthcare or finance, they can contact employers in the industry. Researching existing content is key so that you can explain how the writing you offer can supply the copy or blogs their site needs.
To avoid emails ending up in recycling bins and spam folders, writers should track down the email address of marketing managers and editors on platforms such as LinkedIn.
General and specialised freelance job boards
Online employment boards can be a useful place to pick up work as a freelance writer in Australia. There are many reputable job boards posting write-from-home and hybrid writing assignments, and writers can tab them in their browser for easy and regular review.
SEEK is a widely used platform for those looking for contract, part-time and freelance content roles in Australia, while the ProBlogger Job Board is a well-established hub with a trustworthy reputation that was specifically set up for digital writers, content marketers and bloggers.
Upwork, on the other hand, is renowned as the world’ s largest marketplace for freelancers. Self-employed writers can simply create a profile and then bid for any writing job they feel they can competently complete.
An option specific to Australia, Rachel’s List is a highly respected resource that not only hosts an active job board with ever-changing listings, but also offers local freelancers networking tips to help them connect with potential employers and useful contacts.
Maximise LinkedIn for leads
Having a professional profile on LinkedIn can be an excellent way to present yourself as a freelance writer. Profiles can also serve as a live writing portfolio and CV.
On LinkedIn, freelancers can connect with a wide range of hirers including editors and marketing managers. In their profiles, writers can post content that showcases their specific niche and skills that then gets seen during interactions with connects. Writers can also respond to posts from potential new clients to professionally network and get noticed.
Construct a starter portfolio
Even without professional accreditations and previous assignments under their belt, freelance writers in Australia can build a writing portfolio. Digital portfolios can be created from mock articles and blogs and shared with leads or through direct email pitches. Easily customisable, online portfolios can be tailored to only include content that will appeal to a targeted employer, improving results.
Are you looking to gain writing experience with a fresh opportunity?
At Words of Worth Australia, we are always on the hunt for dependable freelance writers with time to spare in their week. To apply, writers don’t need a past career in writing or an accepted qualification, and all work completed is paid by the word. However, freelancers must meet certain criteria that includes having a good command of the English language, equipment and software to write with and reliable access to the internet to communicate with editors and submit work. Finally, and most importantly, writers must be reliable and able to adhere to deadlines set.
If you are currently seeking opportunities to get started writing blogs, web copy, news articles, features and more, apply to write freelance with Words of Worth Australia today.