How to Start Working as a Freelance Writer From Scratch

Joelson Carlos
Joelson Carlos
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tarting a career as a freelance writer can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you're unsure where to begin. The good news is: you don’t need a journalism degree, a background in publishing, or even a massive portfolio to get started. What you do need is a clear roadmap, dedication, and the willingness to learn and grow.

In this article, you'll discover step-by-step guidance on how to start working as a freelance writer from scratch—even if you have no experience.

Understand What Freelance Writing Really Is

Before jumping in, it’s important to understand the landscape.

Freelance writing involves offering writing services to clients on a contract basis. This can include writing:

  • Blog posts

  • Website content

  • Email newsletters

  • Product descriptions

  • Articles and features

  • E-books

  • Social media content

  • And more

The opportunities are vast, and the demand for quality content is high.

Identify Your Writing Strengths and Interests

To position yourself in the market, you first need to figure out what kind of writing you enjoy and what topics you’re comfortable with.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you prefer creative writing or factual writing?

  • Are you interested in specific niches like health, technology, travel, or finance?

  • Do you enjoy storytelling or instructional content?

You don’t have to pick one niche right away, but having a direction helps shape your portfolio and pitch.

Learn the Basics of Online Writing

Writing for the web is different from academic or print writing. Online readers skim content and expect concise, clear, and engaging writing.

Here are a few key skills to develop:

  • SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Learn how to use keywords naturally.

  • Formatting: Use headers, subheaders, bullet points, and short paragraphs.

  • Tone and voice: Adapt your writing based on the target audience.

  • Calls-to-action (CTAs): Learn how to guide readers toward a desired response.

There are many free resources and YouTube channels to help you build these skills.

Create Writing Samples (Even Without Clients)

You don’t need paying clients to create a portfolio. You can write your own sample articles or blog posts and host them on platforms like:

  • Medium

  • WordPress

  • LinkedIn

  • Contently

Write 3–5 high-quality pieces that showcase your writing style and ability to research and organize information.

Set Up a Basic Online Presence

Having an online presence builds trust with potential clients. You don’t need a fancy website, but you should have at least:

  • A professional email address

  • A LinkedIn profile with writing-related skills listed

  • A portfolio page (can be a free blog)

  • An About Me section describing what you do and who you help

This makes it easy for clients to find you and view your work.

Start Pitching and Applying for Gigs

Once your samples are ready, it’s time to look for work.

Here are some beginner-friendly platforms to find freelance writing jobs:

  • Upwork

  • Fiverr

  • Freelancer

  • PeoplePerHour

  • ProBlogger Job Board

  • We Work Remotely

  • LinkedIn Jobs

Write personalized pitches for each opportunity. Highlight your relevant skills, link to your samples, and show genuine interest in the client’s content.

Understand Pricing and Payment

As a beginner, it's tempting to undercharge, but remember: your time and skill have value. Do research on industry pricing. Some starting guidelines:

  • Blog post (500–800 words): $30–$100

  • Website page: $50–$150

  • Product descriptions: $5–$25 each

Start lower if you must, but gradually increase rates as you build experience.

Always use contracts (even simple ones) and agree on payment terms before beginning a project.

Keep Improving Your Skills

The freelance writing world evolves constantly. To stay relevant and competitive:

  • Read blogs from experienced writers

  • Take short writing or SEO courses

  • Join freelance writing groups on Facebook or Reddit

  • Ask for feedback from editors or clients

  • Keep reading—reading good writing helps you write better

Learning is part of the journey, and even seasoned writers continue to grow.

Build Client Relationships

Freelancing isn’t only about finding new clients—it’s about keeping them.

  • Always meet your deadlines

  • Communicate clearly and promptly

  • Be open to feedback and revisions

  • Offer ideas or suggestions to help their business

  • Deliver consistent quality

Happy clients are more likely to send you more work and refer others to you.

Final Thoughts: Your First Steps Matter

Becoming a freelance writer isn’t about having the perfect background—it’s about taking action. Start small. Write a few samples. Set up your profiles. Apply to jobs every day. Improve your craft and keep going even when you hear “no.”

Most successful freelance writers started with nothing more than motivation and a laptop. If they made it, so can you.

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