Content writing is a great way for freelancers to find flexible work they can do from anywhere. As a freelance content writer, you have a wide variety of projects you could take on to earn income. The type of content writing work available ranges from blog posts and articles to ebooks and white papers.
Some of the most common content writing projects freelancers take on include:
Blog Posts
Websites of all kinds use blogs to share timely information with their readers. Businesses may need blog posts on industry topics, new products or services, profiles of team members, and more. Freelance writers can be hired to research and draft blog posts on various topics. Posts typically range from 400-1000 words.
Articles
Both online and print publications regularly assign article topics to freelance writers. Article topics could be anything from evergreen content like how-to guides to current event pieces. Article length varies but is usually 500-2000 words. Writers are paid per article accepted.
Ebooks
Some companies and organizations hire freelance writers to produce in-depth ebooks on certain subjects. These can be 20-100 page digital books covering a specific topic area. Ebooks require more in-depth research than shorter forms of content.
White Papers
White papers are in-depth reports, typically 5-50 pages, that examine a specific issue, challenge or problem within an industry. They are marketed to potential customers or stakeholders. Writers conduct primary research for white papers through interviews and data analysis.
Product Descriptions
For ecommerce companies, freelance writers are hired to draft compelling 150-300 word descriptions of the features and benefits of the products they sell. Descriptions need to convince potential buyers.
Case Studies
Case studies profile how a particular customer successfully used a company’s product or service to achieve certain results. They are 2-10 pages and include interviews, metrics and testimonials. Freelancers research and write case studies.
Landing Page Content
Web pages designed to capture leads require optimally formatted copy that addresses subscriber pain points and incentivizes them to provide contact details. Writers optimize landing page text.
Enewsletter Articles
Many companies publish regular online newsletters and need fresh 300-800 word articles on various topics sent to subscriber lists on a schedule. Writers pitch and provide enewsletter content.
Sales Collateral
Sales decks, one-pagers, infographics and other sales-focused materials require crisp summaries of features, capabilities and value propositions. Copy is optimized for scanning.
Press Releases
Announcements of new products, executives, funding rounds, partnerships and other news require the standard who, what, when, where formatting of a press release. Releases aim to elicit media coverage.
When searching for content projects, freelance writers can look on sites like Upwork and Fiverr where clients post projects and freelancers can apply or bid on work. Professional associations and industry organizations also sometimes hire writers for content needs. Freelancers can also reach out directly to potential clients like publishers, businesses, non-profits and marketing agencies to offer their writing services.
Being an effective freelance content writer requires strong research, interviewing, and writing skills. It helps to have subject matter expertise in certain industries. Experience in multiple writing styles and formats is also valuable when taking on different project types. Setting realistic rates and turnaround times is important for landing work and repeat clients.
Quality sample work, a professional website or portfolio, and strong communication skills will help freelance writers get hired for content projects. With practice, content writers can build a sustainable freelance business by regularly securing blog posts, articles, ebooks and other writing assignments from clients. Content remains a crucial marketing channel, so the demand for talented freelance writers is steady.