Planning Freelance Writing Work
As you know, obtaining freelance writing work can be difficult. But at the same time, the actual writing process is not always a walk in the park. In fact, this can be every bit as trying if you do not stay organized and work through each project in a logical manner.
When planning your freelance writing work, there are several things that you should keep in mind.
1. For the most part, never trying completing a job in one day. While this may be possible for smaller projects, anything that is of substantial size should be broken down into separate components. For instance, if I have to write a 750 word sales letter, I will work on it as follows.
Day one: research the topic, collate information, and set up the file.
Day two: begin the writing process, and see how far I can get without additional research. Day three: complete additional research, and finish the first draft.
Day four: make changes, and work out any kinks.
Day five: proof the final copy, and send to the client.
As you can see, it is easier to spread this work out over five days than to do it all at once. Not only does it make the job easier on me, but it also helps to ensure the highest level of quality.
2. Never bite off more than you can chew. Even though it is nice to garner new freelance writing projects, you do not want to have too much work. While this sounds silly, it can be a serious problem. Imagine if you had 5 sales letters due on the same day. You would have to complete the five steps above, five times over. Of course, before you turn down any job make sure that you carefully consider what you are doing.
3. If possible, spread your deadlines throughout the week. It is always nice to have one or two projects due each day as opposed to five or more. I have been in this predicament, and it can make for a long workday; sometimes heading into the early hours of the morning.
Once you secure a freelance writing project you are halfway home. Just remember, you are being hired to write compelling copy. You cannot simply be happy with getting the job. You must also deliver quality work on time.
