Is Freelance Writing Still Viable in 2024?

Despite the advancements in AI, I hold a different view!

Then, a change occurred. Perhaps it was my stubborn nature or just fatigue from reading too many pessimistic headlines about freelance writers being obsolete. I decided to take action by penning my Medium piece, “I Tried Upwork for 30 Days.”

I Took the Upwork Challenge

I set a personal goal to earn $100 in my first month, and I ended up exceeding that target.

I aimed to demonstrate that real people can still secure freelance opportunities, even as robots advance. Challenge accepted! The initial weeks were tough—plenty of proposals sent but little response. However, then it happened. I landed a job writing about technology for $20 per article. This made me realize that perhaps freelancing isn't dead after all.

Now, let me take a moment to explain how this novice secured her first job on Upwork. While I won’t reveal every detail about my current position just yet (stay tuned!), I will share the key elements that helped me get my foot in the door.

Your Upwork Profile: Your Online Showcase

Consider your Upwork profile as your digital storefront.

You want it to scream, “I’M GREAT AT THIS—HIRE ME!” The most critical aspect is ensuring your profile is 100% complete. Why? It signals to clients that you are serious, committed, and not just someone looking to make a quick buck.

Crafting a Flawless Profile:

• Professional Photo: Avoid blurry selfies. A clear, professional headshot can make a significant difference. A friendly smile helps too!
• Concise Bio: Clearly communicate what you do without overwhelming potential clients with too much information. Highlight your key skills and include a little about your preferred writing style.

The Proposal: Your Key to Success

Here’s a lesson I learned during my 30-day challenge: don't use the same generic proposal for every job. While it might be tempting to save time, it won’t yield results.

Instead, approach each job description meticulously. Look for subtle hints the client has provided about their specific needs. Tailor your proposal to illustrate how you can solve their problem. It may take extra time, but you'll see a significant increase in responses.

Additional Tips to Secure That Job

• Build a Portfolio: Even as a newcomer, you can create a portfolio that highlights your writing style. I linked to a few guest posts I had on other blogs. Did that help? I can't say for certain, but it likely gave me an edge!
• Respond Promptly: When a client reaches out on Upwork, reply quickly. This showcases your enthusiasm and reliability, both of which are crucial traits.
• Set Fair Rates: While it might be tempting to underprice yourself to attract clients, resist that urge! Charge according to your skills. Negotiation is part of the process, but don’t undervalue yourself.

Conclusion: Your Path Forward

Here’s the bottom line: your profile matters, your proposals are your ticket to jobs, and a few extra efforts can create a substantial impact.

Will everyone secure their first Upwork gig within a week? Probably not. However, I genuinely believe that with the right strategy, it’s far more achievable than some skeptics suggest.

Are you ready to embark on this journey? Start polishing that profile and submit those proposals! And remember, I’ll return with more insights on navigating the tech writing landscape. Stay tuned for those tips!