Learn With Steem Contest: What Is Freelancing Writing and Why Should You Consider It.

Are you constantly seeing the word freelancing being floated around, maybe from someone or around the internet and you keep wondering what exactly is this freelancing all about?

I can assure you, you are not the only one who has ever wondered that. It does vary based on who you ask and the kind of work that they do but it all boils down to one thing, giving value to your client, luckily for you, I will be answering some of your questions here.

You’re not the only one. The definition of freelance writing can vary dramatically depending on who you’re talking to. Freelance writers can do tons of different jobs, find work differently, and work with different clients.

But don’t be confused.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll share everything you want to know about freelance writing. That includes:

NO	CONTENT
1	What is freelancing writing
2	Payment format of a freelance writer
3	Why you should consider being one
4	Advantages and Disadvantages

What is freelance writing?

Before we go further into what freelance writing is all about, let's first take a look at a simple definition.

Freelance writing is simply getting paid to write by different clients without being on a monthly company's salary budget. Being a freelance writer gives you the advantage to work with several companies as an independent worker. It could also be on a contract basis where you get to work for at least 1 week to 3 months with the company.

Freelance writers get paid in three formats but number three is my best, this also depends on who you ask.

1. Pay Per Word: In this format, the contracted writer and the client agree on a set rate per word of the article. Here, a writer can be paid $0.15/0.50 per word he writes. In naira, a freelancer can charge #20 to #50 per word. This works best for a veteran writer who has several good reviews on their belt where they can request to be paid as high as $0.75/100 per word. If the rate is moderate per word, then there is no reason why you should not accept.

1. Pay Per Hour: Like the name, freelancers are paid on an hourly basis. Here, the client hires a freelancer for a few hours (for 4/5 hours a day/week). I avoid this because it can be a pain to manage. The client also expects you you do wonders within the hours they hired you. If you can handle it, then by all means, get on board.

2. Pay Per Project: This is my favorite out of the three. Here, the writer has a stipulated amount for each project, regardless of how many words, or time it would take. The payment is usually made in milestones where the client pays half the price and completes it when the project is done. Sometimes, if the client is confident, they will pay the complete price even before the project begins.

Why should you consider being a freelancer?

• Your work is remote: One of the beauties of freelancing is that you get to choose who you work with, where you work from, and the kind of job you get to work on. Your work is remote, you don't even have to step out of your home if you choose not to unless the job requires it, and you are in complete control of what you do.

• You have a flexible routine: It is not a 9-5 career where you have to work until closing hours. As a freelance writer, you get to choose the hours you want to work for. You can decide to take a day off and complete it unless you work part-time. With its flexibility, you can turn down any job or client that does not suit your budget.
  Clients don't pay you do just sit down from 9 to 5, but the end product of their work however time it took to complete it.

• This is perfect for students who don't have much time but wants to also earn a side income. Or stay-at-home moms or someone looking to find an extra source of income.

So long as you can finish the contract before the deadline, nobody cares when and how you do the job. Just do a good job.

• You learn extra skills: You also get to expand your skills and create another source of income. Being a writer does not just stop at writing. There are other major skills that you will procure on your way to gaining mastery in your field.

The disadvantages of freelance writing

Just like any other job, becoming a freelance writer does have its disadvantages.

• It is not a get-rich-quick scheme: It takes time to build a steady stream of income. The mistake that most newbies make is that they think Freelancing is a get-rich-quick scheme. No! Freelancing is demanding and time-consuming, so becoming a Pro, an in-demand freelancer, one who is worth high payment for their time and work, takes time. Don't expect to start your career today and make a huge income in a month.

• You handle all the tasks alone: Freelancing writing does not only consist of writing. Since you are the boss, every task falls to you to do unlike when you are working a 9 to 5, where everyone has specific duties. You don't only write, you will have to learn how to multitask. There is the hassle of finding a new job every time unless you want to go hungry. There is the writing of the proposal, budgeting, and onboarding of the clients. You are not getting paid to do them but these things will cut into your schedule which you will learn how to deal with.

• It can be unpredictable. Even top freelancers find it hard to get constant jobs. It is not like office work where you are certain of your paycheck at the end of the month, here you are uncertain of when and where your next meal is coming from. It can be difficult to attract the right audience and keep them but with time, you will get there. You must know that you are competing with top freelancers who work with platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn, etc. It is here that freelancers regret their decision of becoming one.

• There are distractions everywhere. If you stay at home, it is either your children, your spouse, parents that could be calling your attention which could take your attention away from your work.

Being aware of these common issues does not stop you unless you are easily shaken, you can make a plan that succeeds and help you grow despite the problems you will face.

You must understand these things before you begin a career in this path. In the next series, I will be discussing the skills you need to have as a freelance writing because it is not just about wriitng, there are lots of things involved.