Writing requires so much mental gymnastics coupled with the number of intense research you have to do to make your piece exceptional. Sometimes, the downside to this is that the remuneration may not measure up to the amount of work done. So, what do you do as a writer? A very common option is freelancing or part-time jobs; these side gigs can provide stability while allowing you to pursue your passion for writing.
While it is already known that there is a way out, another concern that most writers have is where to get these side hustle jobs. If you are a freelance writer or you are planning to freelance on the side, some websites have been designated for this purpose.
Why should I do freelance writing as a side hustle?
If you are a full-time writer, freelancing allows you to earn more money, and not just that, you don’t have to stress about it because you can work from home or anywhere you are. The most important thing is to deliver the job to the client on time and as agreed upon.
Also, freelancing allows you to have different writing portfolios because the clients you will work with can only request based on their projects. If you write fictional stories for a client, you may have to write news content for another and this can enhance your skills and marketability.
Another privilege you enjoy while freelancing is the rich network of people that you can have to yourself. You can build valuable connections within the writing industry and even get closer to more opportunities
You can get writing gigs on these freelancing platforms
You no longer have to worry about where to find writing jobs to start your side hustle, see what we found for you:
People per Hour
People per Hour is a freelancing community that allows you to find clients when you post your projects for free. The purpose of posting your projects is to find professionals who might be interested in working with you. The good thing about People Per Hour is that you can sign up for free and start working as soon as you are in. Also, within a few minutes of signing up, you can get matched with other expert freelancers and that already makes you feel like you are home. The platform says that over $150million has been earned by freelancers with top freelancers earning over $7,000/month. This gives you the idea that you can also make your own money as a freelance writer on the platform.
Medium
Although there are people who just write for fun or pleasure on medium, there is a potential for earning too if you want. According to research, the top writers on Medium earn between $5000 – $49,000 in one month. Like every other platform, all you need to get started on Medium is to sign up on the website for a free account. However, you can also choose to upgrade your account by paying $5/month. With medium, you can reach a bigger audience and get paid according to the number of people who read what you wrote.
In these times
In these times.com is an international platform/magazine that hires people to write articles that are mostly politically inclined. Although this company is based in the United States, it can hire writers from any part of the world provided that you can write articles that will cover a wide range of topics such as politics, social issues, and culture. To join as a writer, you can sign up on the website and look out for when they would want to hire.
IWrite
iWrite is a simple platform for freelance writers with over 500 writers and more than 8 million articles written since its inception. On this platform, you can write any form of custom content articles, article rewrites, copies, and product descriptions. If you would love to work on iWrite, first, you need to register for a free account after which you will now request the type of content you would like to write. After this phase, based on your selection, you should get a job, work on it, and deliver it to the client who reviews it to approve or reject the work. If the client is satisfied with your work, they can download the work and you will be paid.
Drafts.co
Only quality content goes on Draft.co because when clients submit their requests, in less than 24 hours, these clients are matched with writers who can handle the copywriting process. This means that the client would have briefed you, as a writer, on what they want. Another important part of the process is to discuss deadlines with the clients so that you can both be on the same page. The company promises a 4.8/5 quality and because of this will vet their writers rigorously to ensure that they only have the best.
Upwork.com
Upwork is the popular platform for all freelancers and writers are not an exception. The platform houses freelancers who are looking for a gig and clients who need the services of very skilled freelancers to get through with their projects. When you sign up and complete your profile, you start to bid for jobs. Remember that you will not always be the only writer on the platform, hence the need to put your best foot forward. When you find and complete a job on Upwork, the client can send feedback which can strengthen your reputation on the platform and open you to bigger opportunities. Also, while you are getting paid, Upwork takes a little commission that still seems fair to users because they can set their price rates on their own.
Fiverr
If you don’t know about Fiverr, maybe now is the time to try the platform. This is another website that has a lot of people who need writers to help them fix their projects which makes writing a high-demand skill on there. What you are looking for is a side hustle and with Fiverr, you can work from anywhere as a freelance writer, delivering jobs even while handling your main work. Some of the most popular writing jobs on Fiverr include Articles and Blog posts, Translation, ghostwriting, proofreading and editing, and website content. You can also be provided with various niches to choose from such as career writing, career creative, business, and marketing copy. Sign up whenever you are ready and start earning cool cash. Just like everyone, you need the extra cash.
Exploring Alternative Job Opportunities for Freelance Writers
Freelance writing has emerged as a lucrative career path for those with a passion for words and a knack for storytelling. While traditional avenues such as content creation, blogging, and copywriting remain popular choices, there exists a myriad of alternative job opportunities for freelance writers seeking to diversify their income streams and explore new horizons. See some lesser-known but promising job prospects for freelance writers.
Technical Writing
Technical writing involves creating documentation for complex technical subjects, such as software manuals, instructional guides, and technical reports. Freelance technical writers are in high demand across industries such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. With the ability to translate technical jargon into accessible language, freelance writers can carve out a niche in this specialized field.
Grant Writing
Nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and businesses often require skilled grant writers to secure funding for various projects and initiatives. Freelance grant writers can leverage their writing expertise to craft compelling grant proposals, helping clients obtain grants from government agencies, foundations, and private donors.
Ghostwriting
Ghostwriting involves writing content on behalf of clients who are credited as the author. From memoirs and autobiographies to blog posts and speeches, freelance ghostwriters collaborate with clients to bring their ideas to life while remaining behind the scenes. This discreet yet rewarding career path allows writers to explore diverse topics and work with clients from different backgrounds.
Scriptwriting
With the rise of digital media platforms and streaming services, there is an increasing demand for talented scriptwriters to create engaging content for television, film, web series, and podcasts. Freelance scriptwriters can showcase their creativity and storytelling skills by crafting compelling narratives for various mediums, including screenplays, audio dramas, and video scripts.
Academic Writing
Academic writing encompasses a wide range of tasks, including research papers, essays, dissertations, and scholarly articles. Freelance academic writers collaborate with students, researchers, and academic institutions to produce well-researched and meticulously written content. This niche market offers opportunities for writers with strong research and writing skills.
Localization and Translation
Freelance writers proficient in multiple languages can explore opportunities in localization and translation services. They can translate written content, such as websites, marketing materials, and product descriptions, to make it accessible to global audiences. Additionally, writers can adapt content to suit cultural nuances and preferences, ensuring effective communication across language barriers.
Content Editing and Proofreading
While writing is undoubtedly important, so is the process of editing and proofreading to refine and polish written content. Freelance editors and proofreaders play a crucial role in ensuring clarity, coherence, and accuracy in written materials. They review and revise content for grammar, punctuation, style, and consistency, helping clients deliver polished and error-free work.
Curriculum Development
Educational institutions, e-learning platforms, and training organizations require curriculum developers to design and create instructional materials, lesson plans, and course content. Freelance writers with a background in education or instructional design can leverage their expertise to develop engaging and effective learning materials tailored to specific educational objectives and target audiences.
Corporate Communication
Freelance writers can explore opportunities in corporate communication, assisting businesses with internal and external communication strategies. This may include writing corporate blogs, newsletters, press releases, and marketing collateral to promote brand awareness, enhance stakeholder engagement, and convey key messages to employees, customers, and the public.
Branding and Content Strategy
As businesses strive to establish a strong online presence and engage with their target audience, there is a growing demand for freelance writers with expertise in branding and content strategy. Writers can collaborate with businesses to develop content marketing plans, brand messaging frameworks, and storytelling campaigns that resonate with their target market and drive business growth.
