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How to create a freelance writing portfolio

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Job hunting can be serious business for freelance writers seeking new opportunities. While traditional employment opportunities may want to see a CV or resume, the portfolio is the ultimate showcase of a freelance writer’s experience, knowledge, and skills.

Knowing that your next opportunity within the realm of freelance writing could depend on a well-rounded portfolio can be daunting. It’s fair to wonder how to create one and what it should look like when you’re determined to impress potential employers and clients.

There’s much to consider when compiling your portfolio, but you’ve found the right resource to guide you along the path. Read on to learn more about expanding your opportunities for writing from home today.

What is a freelance writing portfolio?

A freelance writing portfolio is a compilation of the best writing samples you’ve produced throughout your career. You can use these to provide tangible evidence of your capabilities as a writer and demonstrate how you can help potential clients grow their brands and reach a broader audience.

The portfolio also provides clients and hiring managers with a clearer picture of the areas in which you have strong knowledge or expertise in. It is the great equalizer when you’re seeking writing jobs, as experience level goes out the window when clients begin comparing portfolios.

It’s wise to update and add to your portfolio as you evolve and your writing improves. You can also create a new portfolio to stand out more for specific writing opportunities.

Why do you need a freelance writing portfolio?

Portfolios have largely replaced CVs and resumes for creative professionals seeking to take on new work. They are especially vital when writing from home and building a career around the written word.

It is a fantastic tool for writers, editors, bloggers, and storytellers to show their gifts and talents and give themselves a leg up in the competitive environment of freelance writing. You can use the freelance writing portfolio to give your potential clients an idea of your writing style, tone, and overall personality, helping them through the hiring process.

Tips for creating a freelance writing portfolio

There are several things you can do to start strong when creating your first writing portfolio and applying for jobs that help you earn money from home. The primary focus should be selling your abilities and experience, and it’s best to build your portfolio around those ideas.

Here’s a closer look at what you can do when creating your first freelance writing portfolio.

1. Create an introduction

The beginning of your portfolio should act as an introduction and sales pitch. You want to sell the client or hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the open position while setting the tone for the interview.

Make your introduction unique, as it will help you stand apart from other candidates. It’s your opportunity to tell the story of your career from your perspective.

2. Choose and organize writing samples

After finishing the introduction, you’ll want to review your writing samples and find the top pieces you’ve written across all your writing jobs. If you don’t have enough pieces, you can always create more for fictional brands to highlight your skills and experience. If you choose this route, be transparent that they are examples rather than paid work.

You have several ways to organize the writing samples, with many writers choosing a chronological order. Other options are topic-based and medium-based. Topic-based writing is wise if you specialize in a specific type of writing or subject matter, while medium-based writing helps if you have more experience writing news stories or blogs.

3. Narrow the options

Culling your options is the most challenging part of creating a freelance writing portfolio. You will need to review the pieces you’ve chosen and remove the ones that don’t fit or reflect as well on your skills and experience. It’s best to find a balance between quality and relevance.

4. Design your layout

Now that you have the final puzzle pieces, you’ll want to design your portfolio’s layout. Choose an option that is appealing and easy to navigate for clients and hiring managers. Clear fonts are also necessary to put your best foot forward.

Further your freelance writing career today

Finding steady work as a freelance writer starts with showcasing what you can offer, and a freelance writing portfolio is a powerful way to do that. Find your best pieces and choose a creative layout for your first portfolio.

If you can see a career in freelance writing for yourself, apply to become a writer with Words of Worth today. We’re looking for US-based writers and would love to see you join our team.