Once someone has determined that writing online is a good side gig , or even a full career, it’s time to decide whether blogging or putting themselves out there as a freelancer is the best fit for them.
There’s plenty to consider, and here’s some food for thought when making this decision.
The benefits of blogging
Blogging can be a type of writing that is well suited to those who enjoy exercising their creative flair. There’s a huge number of topics ranging from general areas such as gardening to niche ones focused on a very specific subject area – for example, growing tomatoes in Corner Brook, Newfoundland.
It offers the opportunity for authors to write about something they are interested in, and this passion is often translated into written words.
Setting up a blog can lead to long-term potential earnings, though it may be slow at first. Posts can be updated to keep them “evergreen”. This simply means that a piece that is relevant today should still be relevant a few years from now with just a few tweaks. They offer a way to earn passive income, and can also include affiliate links, advertisements, selling memberships to view exclusive content, or through links to purchase items such as promotional products printed with a blog’s logo design or other graphics.
Build your audience
Finding ways to grow your audience can be key to earning income as a blogger, and patience and consistency are a must. This can range from using social media to gain attention, to including a link to a blog in one’s email signature line. While this makes it possible to earn over an extended period, it also requires perseverance, and it may take some time and hard work to get a blog up and running. It can be well suited to those who work best on their own, want more control over their work, or who like to write whenever a great idea hits.
Freelancing can be financially rewarding
For those who excel at putting themselves out there, freelancing can be both fun and profitable. It often provides a faster income stream, and writers may be able to charge higher upfront rates for their work. They can also choose what they wish to work on, so it offers plenty of variety without a lot of risk.
At first, freelancers often build their client base by reaching out to companies or groups, and they may also choose to take advantage of freelancing websites. Here, they can bid on projects that catch their eye. Some sites offer opportunities for writers to train and improve their craft, but if there is a fee being charged, it can be a good idea to consider if the amount is worth it.
Freelancers may set their own rates per word or per finished piece, and the more experienced they are, the more they can charge for their services.
Additionally, incorporating graphics, videos, or other “extras” can maximize the amount requested per article.
Those who can prepare pieces on very specific topics for a niche market often do well, and they can also get to know their clients and obtain repeat customers.
What are the drawbacks?
Freelancing does have some drawbacks, and it may not be for everyone. Bidding on projects can be time consuming and even nerve wracking, and there may be deadlines and other time constraints that make it difficult. While in theory, one can choose the items they work on, they may not always be able to do so, especially when getting started.
Which is the better way to earn?
That depends. While freelancing tends to come with immediate income, over time, bloggers often enjoy long-term growth. Their work remains online, drawing passive income through views, links, and advertising. A freelancer can earn more simply by taking on additional projects, and if they establish themselves as a subject matter expert in a particular field, may be able to command higher rates.
A dynamic duo
Something else to consider is the process of using one type of writing as a stepping stone to another. Freelancers can develop a blog to use as a portfolio of their work, and bloggers can offer their services on a freelance basis upon request. This offers the benefits of both while helping to mitigate drawbacks.
While freelancing may initially earn more, bloggers often catch up over time. Both provide a way for those who enjoy writing to put their skills to work, and the type they choose can depend on their personal work style and risk tolerance.