Freelance Writing Jobs Newsletters

We understand that everyone’s budget and needs differ, so our comprehensive list covers both free and subscription-based newsletters.

Free Newsletters

1. The Writer’s Job Newsletter

The Writer’s Job Newsletter is an invaluable resource for writers seeking to improve their craft. Published weekly on a Sunday, the newsletter includes helpful writing tips and resources, remote-friendly job listings, and calls for pitches.

Although the newsletter is free, readers can sign up as a “supporter” for $5 a month. Supporters receive early access to opportunities on a Wednesday as well as an exclusive list of publications that pay for content.

2. Kat Boogaard’s Newsletter

Experienced freelance writer Kat Boogaard shares insider know-how, advice, and resources via her blog and a weekly newsletter. Her newsletter covers a wide variety of topics, from work-life balance to tips on building a solid social media presence. It also features exciting freelance writing opportunities and curated reading lists to help freelancers stay informed and inspired.

3. Freelance Writing Jobs

Sian Meades-Williams, an award-winning writer and editor, publishes a weekly roundup of UK-based part-time and freelance writing jobs that also includes details of editors actively seeking pitches. The free newsletter is sent every Thursday or a day earlier for Priority Members, at a cost of £4 a month.

4. Best Writing

Best Writing is an online platform that helps content writers connect with companies. Their website includes a job board, a writer’s directory, and a blog packed with interviews, research, and tools to help writers and companies produce better content. They source writing jobs from various channels, such as job portals, social media, online communities, and their exclusive partners.

Their weekly newsletter (sent on Thursdays) provides a roundup of the latest job opportunities, as well as interesting tips and resources.

5. Freedom With Writing

The Freedom With Writing newsletter aims to connect freelance writers with editors and publishers who are hiring for paid opportunities in a variety of niches. New subscribers are immediately sent the details of three companies hiring writers, with additional opportunities sent as and when they arise.

6. Peak Freelance

The Peak Freelance newsletter brings together the expertise of successful freelance writers with over 10 years of experience. Every Friday, they share freelance writing tips, the best freelancing writing jobs of the week, as well as other useful resources.

Paid Newsletters

7. Freelance Opportunities by Kaitlyn Arford

Every Friday, Kaitlyn shares an expertly curated list of new freelance opportunities, as well as other resources to help freelancers succeed (like how-to guides and contact lists).

Cost: $3 a month.

8. Sonia Weiser’s Opportunities of the Week

If you’re a freelance writer, you won’t want to miss Sonia Weiser’s biweekly newsletter. Every Tuesday and Thursday, Sonia shares freelance writing job opportunities to save you the time scrolling through social media and job boards. The newsletter also includes writing-adjacent opportunities, such as opportunities for editors.

Cost: $4 a month is the suggested rate, but it can work on a pay-what-you-can basis.

9. Write at Home

Discover high-paying freelance writing and journalism opportunities with full transparency thanks to the curation skills of Alasdair Lane, a reputable freelance writer and journalist based in the UK. He scours job boards and social media platforms to present UK-based and international opportunities in his newsletter every Monday and Thursday.

Cost: £5.50–£47 a year.

10. One More Question

Britany Robinson’s newsletter is a must-read. Within it, you’ll find pitch calls, article recommendations, and insightful Q&As with fellow freelancers.

Cost: $0–$60 a year.

Other Ways to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

While newsletters are an easy and accessible way to find jobs, there are other ways to find opportunities in this field. In our blog post How to Find Freelance Writing Jobs Online, we explore some of the other options available.

You could also consider checking out online communities like Freelance Writers Den. For $40 a month, members gain access to a wide variety of resources, including over 300+ hours of on-demand training, a 24/7 online forum, monthly live events, and more.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

Are you interested in pursuing a career as a freelance writer? Our Becoming A Freelance Writer course can help! You’ll gain the necessary skills to succeed with our expert instruction and comprehensive resources. Plus, with our guaranteed publishing opportunity, you’ll have the chance to showcase your work and build your portfolio. Take advantage of this valuable opportunity and register for our free trial today.

The post 10 Newsletters That Can Help You Find Freelance Writing Jobs appeared first on Knowadays.

So, whether you’re a brand-new blogger or an experienced freelancer, join us as we explore seven of the best freelance writing job websites for blog writers:

1. ProBlogger
2. Skyword
3. Contena
4. Contently
5. BloggingPro
6. TextBroker
7. iWriter

Where to Find Freelance Writing Jobs

When it comes to finding freelance writing jobs online, there are lots of options. From job boards to freelance marketplaces, figuring out where to look for your next gig can soon feel overwhelming.

So, if you’re in the market specifically for blog writing jobs, narrow down your search by using websites that specialize in hiring freelance blog writers.

We’ve collected 7 of the best of these websites to help you land freelance blog writing jobs.

1. ProBlogger

ProBlogger is a well-established platform that offers writing resources to bloggers of all skill levels.

Companies looking for freelancers post ads on its dedicated job board, where writers can then apply for the project. Jobs posted on ProBlogger regularly pay more than those offered through other freelance marketplaces.

ProBlogger is free to use, but its popularity means there’s lots of competition for work.

2. Skyword

Skyword is a tool that connects clients with writers and other creatives and tends to attract some pretty big brands.

This means its writer selection process is rigorous. But if you’re accepted as a writer, you’ll get access to well-paying blog writing jobs and the chance to receive 50% of your fee if a client rejects the work you submit.

When applying to Skyword, you’ll be asked to submit a writing portfolio and select any niches you specialize in.

3. Contena

Signing up to Contena grants you access to hundreds of freelance content writing jobs with high-quality clients.

The standard of work offered on Contena and the training course provided through its Writing Academy make it a great resource for freelance writers.

However, membership does come with a $500 fee.

4. Contently

If you dream of working with big name brands, Contently is the place to find blog writing work. Many well-known companies, including Marriott and American Express, rely on Contently talent scouts to find their freelancers.

You apply to register with Contently’s network by sharing your portfolio. If you pass their selection process, they’ll pair you up with the companies they feel are the best fit for your skills.

It’s worth noting that Contently only accepts experienced freelancers, so if you’re a new writer, you might want to build your portfolio first.

5. BloggingPro

BloggingPro features a straightforward job board aimed exclusively at freelance blog writers.

Jobs posted on the BloggingPro job board are categorized according to location, subject matter, and whether they involve a contract. Each ad also provides an estimate of what you’ll earn for the project, to help you decide whether or not to apply.

While individuals and companies must pay to post ads, writers can access job postings for free.

6. TextBroker

TextBroker is a content and article writing platform that matches registered writers with paying clients.

Rates paid via TextBroker are determined by your star rating, which is based on your experience, knowledge of SEO, and understanding of grammar. The higher your rating, the more clients you gain access to.

TextBroker is free to use, but it can take some time to move up to the better-paying ranks.

7. iWriter

iWriter is a content creation platform that hires freelancers to produce articles, blog posts, and product descriptions for clients.

One great feature of iWriter is that clients can tip you if they like your work, which makes it possible to earn more for each job you complete.

To work with iWriter, you need to submit a writer application. Once accepted, you can improve your ranking and access better paying jobs by completing articles and receiving ratings from clients.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

If a career in freelance blog writing sounds like a dream come true, our Becoming A Freelance Writer course could be the career boost you’re looking for.

It covers how to find, work with, and impress a diverse range of clients. It also comes with a guaranteed publishing offer to help beginner writers develop their portfolio.

Give the course a try for free and see where it could take you.

The post 7 Websites That Hire for Freelance Blog Writing Jobs appeared first on Knowadays.

1. What is a freelance writing portfolio?
2. Why do you need a freelance writing portfolio?
3. How to build a freelance writing portfolio (including examples)
4. How Knowadays can help you launch your freelance writing career

Keep reading to get started!

What Is a Freelance Writing Portfolio?

First, let’s review what a freelance writing portfolio is and what it is used for. A freelance writing portfolio is a collection of samples and projects that demonstrate your writing skills and specializations. It serves as a professional display for potential clients to see the quality and format of your work before hiring you. You may also want to include a link to your portfolio on your business website and social media accounts, so when you pitch to potential clients, they can easily review your work.

Typically, you should include only your best work in your writing portfolio, since you want to avoid overwhelming potential clients with a large number of samples. Choose samples that highlight your creativity, ability to engage the audience, and knowledge of SEO techniques. You should also select samples that reflect a variety of subjects and topics (unless, of course, you focus on one specific niche).

Why Do You Need a Freelance Writing Portfolio?

Freelance writing portfolios are an important tool to have in your toolbox as a new freelancer. Not only do they demonstrate your versatility but they also showcase your best work and simplify the process of pitching to new clients. They help you stand out among the crowd in a competitive market and give clients something concrete to evaluate you on. Having a well-organized portfolio also shows that you care about your work and have a proven track record of delivering top-quality results.

Freelance writing portfolios are beneficial in more ways than simply helping you source new clients. Maintaining and regularly updating a portfolio can help you reflect on your own growth and development as a writer. By continuously reviewing your past work, you can identify areas for improvement and set goals for future projects.

How to Build a Freelance Writing Portfolio

A good portfolio is professional, easy to navigate, and eye-catching, without being visually overwhelming. You already know why an effective freelance writing portfolio is important – so how do you build one as a new freelance writer? Below are some tips on building a freelance writing portfolio from scratch.

Select What to Include in Your Portfolio

If you have writing samples, be sure to include them in your portfolio. However, writing samples don’t just have to be paid work you’ve done for past clients – they can be any past writing you’ve done or example pieces you’ve created to use as samples. Try to showcase your ability to write different types of content, such as articles, blog posts, and website copy.

You can also include reviews or testimonials from past clients, awards or recognition you’ve received as a writer, and your freelance writing resume. Don’t forget to include a short biography and your contact information so clients can connect with you.

Organize and Format Your Samples

After you select your samples, organize them logically. Use categories, tags, or sections to group related samples and make it easy for visitors to navigate and find the content they’re interested in. Also, make sure to properly format your samples using bullet lists, headings, and subheadings to make them visually appealing and easy to skim.

Decide How You Want to Design Your Portfolio

These days, most writing portfolios are hosted online. Start by choosing the specific format you want to use, such as a website or portfolio-building platform. You don’t need to be a tech whiz to create a portfolio – there are lots of straightforward online tools and apps that can take you through the entire process from the beginning. You’ll need to decide on your branding (such as the colors, patterns, fonts, and designs) and how you want to structure your homepage.

Summarize Each Piece

Write brief descriptions or provide context for each sample or testimonial. Explain the purpose of the piece, the target audience, and any special considerations or challenges you faced while writing it. You can also include other relevant details, such as how the piece ranked on search engine results pages or how many times it was shared on social media.

Regularly Update Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is a living document, meaning it evolves over time. As you write more samples, gain more experience, and receive more positive client testimonials, be sure to update and add to your portfolio. If, down the line, you decide to concentrate your writing on a specialized niche, you’ll need to update your portfolio to reflect that change.

Freelance Writing Portfolio Examples

There’s no one right way to structure your portfolio – it should reflect your own unique style and creativity. Below are a variety of examples of well-designed, real-life freelance writer portfolios to give you some inspiration.

Writer and editor Jennifer Fernandez uses a minimalist grid theme to showcase a series of thumbnail images and photos of her previous work. This simple but impactful design makes it easy for potential clients to browse her work and get a feel for her overall style.

Writer and artist Akwaeke Emezi clearly defines the distinct services they offer and includes their most recognizable work front and center against a backdrop of muted colors. They also include a contact form so potential clients can easily connect.

Writer Kristen Bateman sticks to a modern black and white theme and organizes her work by category and publication. She also includes links to her social media accounts, which gives potential clients multiple ways to contact her.

Meanwhile, tech writer and reporter, Qin Chen, includes an eye-catching photo backdrop on the main page of her portfolio, taking a no-frills approach to presenting her previous writing work and organizing it as a series of links on a single page.

Although there are similarities among all these examples, each writer demonstrates their own strengths while keeping the focus on their work. So, while most freelance writing portfolios include the same basic elements, there is room for flexibility and to stretch your creative muscles.

Becoming a Freelance Writer

Do you want to learn more about what it takes to launch a freelance writing career – and build your portfolio at the same time? Check out our Becoming A Freelance Writer course – distinction graduates have the opportunity to write and publish three blog posts for the Knowadays website. Claim your free trial and get started today!

The post How to Build a Freelance Writing Portfolio That Wins Clients appeared first on Knowadays.

You might begin by proofreading for friends and then starting your own company, or you might find yourself proofreading as part of your job and take those transferrable skills to the bank. Broadly, though, there are two paths: working for a company or working for yourself.

Neither working for a company nor working solo is necessarily better; it’s a matter of preference, and we can’t tell you what’s best for you. What we can do, however, is look at the pros and cons of each so that you can make an informed choice.

This post will:

• Explain what working for a company means
• Outline the advantages and disadvantages of working as part of a team
• Explain what working for yourself entails
• Outline the advantages and disadvantages of working alone
• Provide an opportunity for you to get started, no matter which path you choose

Working for a Company

There are both advantages and disadvantages to working for a company. Different people will find working for someone else more or less desirable than others.

First of all, there are different kinds of companies. So, you might have a lot of options when deciding if this is the right path for you to choose. 

Some companies are easier to get into than others. For instance, publishing houses do not often advertise proofreading posts. That’s not to say you’ll never get work with companies such as these, but you may need to be proactive and build a reputation first.

Online proofreading companies, meanwhile, are usually looking for new freelancers, but you may need to complete a test and/or have relevant experience and qualifications.

Advantages of Working on a Team

One of the obvious advantages of working for a company is security. Most companies will take care of all the accounting work, leaving you free to just focus on your job. 

Another benefit is that being attached to a company is likely to bring in a higher volume of work more quickly than working alone at the beginning of your career.

Some people, when considering the benefits of working for a company vs. working solo, find the atmosphere of working with a team more desirable. 

That kind of security has a lot of advantages:

1. Consistent paycheck (low financial risk)
2. Set hours (able to enjoy free time when the workday ends)
3. A more social work environment
4. Health insurance and other benefits
5. The potential for promotions and other career development opportunities

Disadvantages of Working on a Team

Once you are on a company’s books, there are several things to consider. The first is that each company will have a certain way of working. Whether you are formally employed or working freelance, you will have to adhere to their rules and follow their processes. 

This might mean doing things in a way that you find counterintuitive, but it is important that you do what’s required, whether you like it or not. To do otherwise would be unprofessional and could damage your reputation.

A company will also either pay you a salary or take a portion of your payment per word rather than allowing you to set your own rates. This may work out as less than you could earn by yourself, depending on your rates and how much work you’re able to find.

Another issue is that, particularly if the company specializes in one thing, you might have to roll with its busy and not-so-busy periods.

Finally, another difference between working for a company vs. working solo is that companies often require you to work set hours in an office, and that is not always a preferable environment for everyone.

Working for Yourself

As a solo freelance proofreader, you set your own rules, choose your rates, and decide when to work and when not to.

You can refuse jobs if they’re lost causes or drop clients if they’re timewasters, but it’s all on you.

Advantages of Working Alone

When working as a freelancer, you can enjoy something sought after by many: freedom. You make all the decisions about how, when, and where you work.

If you do this well, you can build up a solid client base that gives you regular work. This level of freedom is desirable for many, and the advantages include:

1. Control of your rates/wages
2. Flexible schedule
3. Choice of working environment/conditions
4. Autonomy when deciding what work to take on
5. The potential to accumulate wealth

Disadvantages of Working Alone

When considering if you’d rather be working for a company vs. working solo, you need to recognize the disadvantages and possible stress that can be involved in working alone. 

You may have freedom, but you also have all the responsibilities. 

You have to decide whether to pay for your own training. You must create and run your website, attend to your work email, and organize your own schedule. 

You have to go looking for work. If you don’t do this well, you might not be able to get clients. That can lead to a significantly reduced income.

Of course, there is a middle ground. Many proofreaders get by on a mixture of solo freelance work and work with online proofreading companies. In some ways, this offers the best of both worlds: a balance of security and freedom.

Becoming A Proofreader

Only you can decide if it’s better to work for a company vs. working solo. You will need to figure out what fits best with your needs and your life.  Whichever path you choose, our comprehensive courses will take you from a complete beginner to a confident, trained professional.

Sign up for a free trial today.

The post Working for a Company vs. Working Solo appeared first on Knowadays.

There is something very appealing about being a digital nomad – working remotely and exploring the world – but getting started on that path might sound like a daunting endeavor.

This post will tell you everything you need to know about travel writing and will even provide you with a valuable opportunity to jump-start an exciting new career.

What Is Travel Writing?

Travel writers are people who get paid to write about travel. Some travel writers research destinations around the world, visit different places, and write about their experiences. Other travel writers research and write about destinations closer to home, providing in-depth guides to visitor attractions in their local area. Anything that involves the subject of travel would qualify as travel writing.

Travel Writing Examples

You have a lot of options when it comes to what type of travel writing you want to do. Here’s a brief overview of a few:

1. Hotel, restaurant, and destination reviews
   Visit different places and businesses, describe your experience there, and then rate and write a descriptive review of them.
2. Travel itineraries
   A good itinerary will be broken down into days (or hours for shorter trips). After a brief overview of all the stops on the trip, you need to provide interesting information about each destination so your readers will know if the trip is right for them.
3. Travel guides and advice
   These should be based on personal experience. The writing should be factual but casual in tone and describe an experience you’ve had on a trip with the intent to educate others on what to do or what to avoid.
4. Blog or social media content
   There is a broad range of writing opportunities here, so it is best to pick your niche (e.g., travel for families, backpackers, couples), do some research, figure out a schedule so you can post on a regular basis, and then start writing engaging content for your desired audience.
5. Travel books
   If you feel like you’ve got a lot to say about a certain trip or destination, why not write a whole book?
   Travel books are more than just a diary. You want to be able to write creatively so your readers will feel like they have taken the journey with you or form a desire to follow in your footsteps.

What Does a Travel Writer Do?

As mentioned above, travel writers write anything related to traveling. While most travel writers take trips and write about them, you can also write based solely on your own research, depending on the type of writing you want to do.

Typical tasks include:

• Describing specific travel destinations
• Giving tips on how to prepare for a certain trip
• Making recommendations (or criticisms) about hotels, restaurants, or excursions
• Drawing attention to religious or local holidays, festivals, specialized markets, architecture, etc.
• Providing advice or information about seasonal weather conditions, events, or concerns
• Writing about personal experiences you’ve had while traveling

The way you format your writing will depend largely on how it will be published. You may need to include interesting photographs if you’re writing for yourself, as opposed to if you’re working for an established magazine or publisher.

How to Become a Freelance Travel Writer

Finding travel writing jobs isn’t always easy. But here are a few easy-to-follow steps that can help you succeed.

1. Develop the Relevant Skills

You need to have the right skills to successfully pursue any career. To become a freelance travel writer, you not only need to have a good sense of observation and an understanding of technology and the internet, but you also need to know how to write effectively and have excellent knowledge of grammar and tense use, among other things.

If you feel any of your skills are lacking, consider taking a course or doing some training.

2. Build Your Portfolio

Write as much as you can to gain experience. Try to make sure that your portfolio is easily accessible online. If you don’t have clients that you currently write for, try starting your own blog to improve your writing skills and show your writing to the world.

As you write more, you will quickly develop your unique tone and style, which is valuable as a freelance writer. If you don’t have many clients giving you assignments, consider letting family and friends read and critique your writing.

3. Read a Lot

Many authors have said that to be a great writer, you need to read as much as you can. So, make sure you read other travel writing in the same niche that you want to write for.

4. Market Yourself

If you want to be a successful freelance travel writer, you need people to read what you have written. That requires a little self-promotion.

Having a website, improving your social media presence, and networking with other freelance writers are all great ways to improve your visibility.

5. Find Work

Once you’ve followed the steps outlined above, it’s time to look for travel writing jobs. Luckily, there are plenty of websites that offer freelance writing work. Some sites you may need to pay for, but many are free as well.

Social media sites like LinkedIn are also a great way to find jobs and network with other professionals. You can even publish your blog there!

Becoming A Freelance Writer

If becoming a freelance travel writer is something you’re interested in, you’re in luck! We can help you get started. Our Becoming A Freelance Writer course will teach you how to develop the relevant skills.

Building a portfolio is an important step. With our work guarantee, you could gain three professionally edited pieces of work after completion of the course. Start your free trial today and see for yourself!

The post How to Become a Freelance Travel Writer appeared first on Knowadays.

In this post, we’ll cover some of the common signs of a freelance scam and advice on how you can avoid them.

What Are the Signs of a Freelance Scam?

If you want to know how to avoid scams as a freelancer, you’re in the right place. While scammers use a variety of methods to catch freelancers out, there are some common warning signs you should look out for:

1. They won’t sign a written contract.
2. They offer higher-than-average rates.
3. They ask you to pay a fee before you start work.
4. They expect you to use an unfamiliar payment method.
5. They request free samples. 
6. They make off-platform communication requests.
7. They request access to your freelance marketplace accounts.

Keep reading to find out more about each of these freelance scam warning signs.

1. They Won’t Sign a Written Contract

A client that refuses to sign a written contract is a red flag for any freelancer.

Even though you may have to compromise on your terms sometimes, having a written work agreement (with the project’s deliverables, expected timeline, and payment information) can protect you from most freelance scams. You can use freelance contract templates to make your life easier (and stay on the safe side).

And if someone is completely unwilling to agree to your work terms in writing, you might want to reconsider working for them.

2. They Offer Higher than Average Rates

It is important for freelancers to know the value of their work and avoid taking on projects that offer a lower pay rate. But what should you do when the rate offered is way higher than average? Could a job be too good to be true?

Unfortunately, yes: it could mean that you won’t get paid at all. Do your research to know what the average rates are for the services you offer (and make sure to take into account your level of experience). If you come across an above-average rate, ask the client why the pay is so high.

Suspicious answers? Call their bluff and ask to be paid 50% in advance – if they agree, the offer might be real after all. But proceed carefully either way.

3. They Ask You to Pay a Fee

If a client asks you to pay a fee before the project starts, chances are they’re setting up a freelance scam. They might ask for a deposit, for example, or for you to pay to access a certain software.

To avoid falling for pay-to-work scams, never agree to work for clients that require you to pay for the privilege.

4. They Use an Unfamiliar Payment Method

Another red flag: a client that insists on using a payment method that you’ve never heard of.

To avoid falling for this, do your research! Although people often pay freelancers digitally (e.g., via Stripe or PayPal), checks, direct debits/bank transfers, and credit cards are also commonly accepted.

To prevent an unpleasant surprise after you’ve completed work, set out accepted payment methods before a job starts (e.g., with a freelance contract as above). And if the client disagrees with all of your proposed methods, consider politely turning them down.

5. They Request Free Samples

A free sample edit isn’t always a scam. It can be a great way to showcase the quality of your work and secure a job, especially when you’re starting out. So how can you tell if it’s a scam or not? Watch out for:

• Tasks that are overly complex or long
• More than one free sample request
• Free sample requests for projects you’ve already shown expertise in

Unfortunately, this isn’t the easiest freelance scam to avoid – and this means some prospective clients will take advantage of that to get work for free.

Working for agencies like Proofed can protect you from being exploited. But if you don’t work for an agency, make sure you clearly outline (and stick to) the number and length of free samples that you’re willing to offer.

6. They Make Off-Platform Communication Requests

Freelance marketplaces have terms and conditions for communication that aim to protect freelancers from exploitation.

Sometimes, though, people will request to move messages outside these platforms. This can make it easier for scammers to remove evidence of ill conduct. When asked to leave the official communication channels, the general advice is to say no.

If you do decide that someone appears trustworthy enough to communicate off-platform, however, make sure you do this on your terms. Use a work email address (rather than your personal one) and keep a record of all communications.

7. They Request Access to Your Freelance Marketplace Accounts

If someone pops up in your messages claiming they can help grow your freelance business, pay attention to how they say they will do it. If they request access to one of your freelance marketplace accounts (e.g., Fiverr or Upwork), they can then access:

• Your current earnings that are waiting to be transferred
• Your bank details
• Other personal information, such as your date of birth, national insurance number, and scans of your identification documents (e.g., passport or driver’s license)

In general, having to share any account information is a huge risk to your privacy and almost always a scam. Just say no!

How to Avoid Scams as a Freelancer

As a rule, you should consider new projects carefully and always do a quick search of your clients before accepting a job. If something seems too good to be true, it might just be! Remember to do these things: 

• Research the client.
• Get a contract signed.
• Check that you are being offered a reasonable rate.
• Don’t pay any deposits or upfront fees.
• Only accept standard payment methods.
• Communicate only through official platforms or a work email.
• Don’t share your freelance marketplace accounts with anyone else.
• Don’t give out personal information.
• Keep a record of all communications.

Becoming A Proofreader

If you are interested in becoming a freelance proofreader or editor but are worried about the possibility of getting scammed, our courses can help you get started. 

To help you feel safe while you’re getting started, we even offer guaranteed work with our partner company, Proofed, when you pass the final assignments of Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor with a distinction score (80% or above). 

If you want to get a head start on this exciting career path, sign up for a free trial today!

The post What Are the Signs of a Freelance Scam? (And How to Avoid Them) appeared first on Knowadays.

• Explain what LinkedIn Pulse is
• Look at the pros and cons of blogging on LinkedIn
• Explain how to get started
• Offer a great training opportunity

What Is LinkedIn Pulse?

LinkedIn is one of the world’s largest social networking sites for professionals.

In 2012, LinkedIn started its own content publishing platform called LinkedIn Pulse. Its original purpose was to allow industry professionals to share their expertise with like-minded individuals. Regular users could view this content and learn from it.

Luckily, Pulse has evolved over the years, and it is now a feature known as LinkedIn articles available to all users on their regular feed. Anyone can post articles on their own profile page. You can post to drive more people to your personal blog, but it’s also easy to use LinkedIn as your main blogging platform.

What Are the Pros of Blogging on LinkedIn?

There are benefits to blogging on LinkedIn. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. LinkedIn takes care of almost everything.

When you write an article on the site, LinkedIn will automatically share it with your connections and followers. From there, people can share it with their followers if they like what you wrote. As a result, the number of people who read your post can increase exponentially.

Other benefits include:

• It’s a well-established and popular platform
• It’s free – no domain names, ads, or paying to boost your exposure
• It’s simple to connect with other bloggers in your niche
• You have instant access to the millions of active LinkedIn users
• Other users are always looking on the site for more information related to their industry
• You can build strong relationships by providing valuable information to your connections
• When someone leaves a comment on your post, their connections will see your article in their news feeds
• The URL slug is simple, making it easy to share and promote your posts
• It’s easy to see how many views your post has received and where the readers live

What Are the Cons of Blogging on LinkedIn?

Like anything in this world, there are downsides to blogging on LinkedIn. One of the biggest ones is your ability to gain exposure outside of LinkedIn.

The site is very much designed to keep people browsing within LinkedIn. People may read your post, but they may not be motivated to go much further beyond that.

There is no reason you can’t place a link to your own website or blog in your post, but LinkedIn won’t do anything to help you establish a connection outside their social network.

Other downsides are:

• Lots of competition – if you post about a popular topic, it can be difficult to stand out among similar posts
• LinkedIn isn’t as detailed as Google Analytics when it comes to cumulative statistics for all your posts. You need to look at each one individually
• You can’t approve, reject, or mark comments as spam
• You don’t have access to your readers’ email addresses for following up on conversations or engagement
• LinkedIn’s algorithms determine what posts show up at the top of others’ news feeds
• LinkedIn owns the rights to all your content

How to Blog on LinkedIn

It’s easy to get started creating your first post using LinkedIn Pulse:

1. From your home feed, select “Write article” to open the publishing tool.
2. Upload an image.
3. Devise a creative title.
4. Write your article.
5. Add any appropriate hashtags.
6. Click “Next.”
7. Choose your post settings (e.g. who you want to post to).
8. Write a brief summary of your post (you can add hashtags here if you didn’t in the main article).
9. Click “Publish” or choose to schedule your post to be published later.

It’s important to note that a LinkedIn post is different from an article. A post is a short update (often limited to a few sentences or a short paragraph), designed to be timely and concise. By contrast, an article is longer-form and more in depth, and comes with additional formatting options. So, if you’re looking to create a quality blog post, you should use the “Write article” function.

A useful tip is to write your article in a separate word processor, and then copy and paste it into LinkedIn. This is a good rule of thumb when using any online publishing tool.

Before you start sharing blog posts on LinkedIn, you should have a plan about how you’re going to reach out to potential clients so they can see your writing. Additionally, if you want your blog to be valued, viewed, and shared, it is important to have a strong profile before you create your first post.

LinkedIn blogging is a great way for freelancers to promote themselves. It can help you:

• Showcase your expertise and establish yourself as an authority in your industry
• Build credibility and trust (increasing the chance that you’ll be considered for opportunities when they come up)
• Connect with a wider network of people who might be interested in your services
• Build and boost your personal brand

There are lots of different types of content you could share. For example, as a freelance writer, you could share writing tips and advice, your views on industry trends, success stories from your freelance projects, or reviews of writing tools and resources.

Becoming A Freelancer

If you are a freelance writer or want to become one, there’s no better way to be successful than to have your writing seen by as many people as possible. Blogging on LinkedIn is a great way to do this.

Developing your writing skills is an excellent way to grow your freelance writing business too, and one of the best ways to do this is to sign up for our Becoming A Freelance Writer course. It’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting started as a freelance writer.

Start your free trial today and see for yourself!

The post A Guide to Blogging on LinkedIn as a Freelancer appeared first on Knowadays.

In this blog post, we take a closer look at AI and machine learning (ML), the advantages and limitations of using AI for blog and article writing, and answer that pressing question: Will AI replace writers?

What Are AI and Machine Learning?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a machine’s ability to perform tasks that humans perform. It mimics the way the human brain works to create diverse and intelligent software systems.

Machine learning (ML) is a branch of AI and computer science whereby technology can automatically train itself using the data and algorithms inputted by users. This imitates how humans learn, which will improve the machine’s accuracy over time.

These two aspects of technology have been around for decades (the term AI was coined in 1956), but AI models have now become so advanced that they can generate their own text based on the prompts that their users input.

AI models like ChatGPT (a large language model that can generate written text from human prompts) and DALL-E (a system that can create realistic artwork from human prompts) have risen to prominence over the last few years because of their capabilities in generating text and images from prompts. Many people are curious about using AI for blog writing, but they should be aware of the advantages and limitations of the technology before they do so.

Advantages of Using AI for Blog and Article Writing

AI has some advantages in content creation.

1. Generating Ideas Quickly

Writers need a constant stream of ideas to release content frequently. If you’re suffering from writer’s block, AI can be a really useful tool. It can generate ideas within seconds, which you can use as a springboard to get your own creativity flowing. Plus, it means that you can focus more time on actually creating content – a much more enjoyable process.

2. Conducting Research

Many content creators will tell you that research is the most time-consuming and frustrating part of the writing process. Using AI to provide overviews of the subject matter can help you get to grips with the basics, so you can begin to dive deeper more quickly. Just make sure that you fact-check the information provided and that the sources used are credible and authoritative.

3. Creating an Outline

Then comes the problem of combining all the research you’ve compiled. AI generators can create an outline for a project that incorporates all your ideas and allows you to get on with writing.

Limitations of Using AI for Blog and Article Writing

Despite the obvious advantages listed above, using AI for blog and article writing has many limitations.

1. Lacks Creativity and Empathy

Ultimately, AI is just a machine, and it doesn’t have the same creativity and empathy that humans have. The writing that AI creates often feels flat and doesn’t connect with readers in the same way that human-created content does.

2. Has Limited Understanding of Tone and Voice

AI also has a limited understanding of tone, voice, dialect, and sarcasm. It can only understand standard English, which may make your writing sound robotic or unappealing to your target audience.

3. Needs To Be Fact-Checked

AI is only as good as the data it is trained on, and, unfortunately, one of the datasets it uses is social media, which is famous for misinformation. Therefore, it is likely that it will get information wrong or lack context.

4. Is Against Google’s Guidelines

While Google is not being as strict about using AI as it was a couple of years ago, it is still clamping down on businesses that are using AI to churn out vast quantities of poor-quality content. Excessive use of AI, without a focus on quality, may hurt your SEO efforts.

Summary: Will AI Replace Writers?

You might still be worried that AI will continue to get better and better as time goes on, but the truth is that it will likely never be able to replicate human creation processes exactly. AI is a useful tool in your arsenal, but it should not, and will not, replace you as a writer.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

If you are looking to start a flexible and rewarding new career, why not check out our Becoming A Freelance Writer course? Our self-paced, eight-module course will teach you the fundamentals of content writing, as well as how to source your own clients and launch a successful freelance business. Plus, if you achieve a distinction grade (80% or above), you can take advantage of our publishing guarantee and begin to build your portfolio! Try it out for free today.

The post Will AI Replace Writers? appeared first on Knowadays.

1. Why you need a resume as a freelance writer
2. How to write a freelance writing resume
3. An example resume template you can customize
4. How Knowadays can help you launch your freelance writing career

Keep reading to learn more about freelance writing resumes and why they’re important.

Why Do You Need a Resume as a Freelance Writer?

Whether you’re an established freelance writer looking to grow your business and find new clients, or a beginner interested in starting a new writing career, an up-to-date resume is essential.

A resume, along with a writing portfolio, helps you demonstrate your specific skill set, highlight previous related experience, and document any certifications or professional development activities you’ve undertaken.

To start, it’s a good idea to create a general freelance writing resume that outlines the key points of your experience and background, which you can then tailor to specific jobs or clients. This saves you time and effort and allows you to quickly apply for new opportunities that come your way.

How To Write a Freelance Writing Resume

But what should you include in your freelance writing resume? Even if you don’t have much experience yet, you can still create a comprehensive resume that gets the attention of potential clients. In general, you should include:

• Contact Information: Include your name, phone number, email address, and location (if applicable).
• A Professional Summary and/or Objective: This is a brief statement highlighting your expertise, years of experience, and writing specialties. Think of this section as your “elevator pitch.”
• Writing Specialties or Niches: List the specific niches or topics you have experience writing about. This could include categories like blog writing, content marketing, technical writing, creative writing, etc.
• Work Experience: Detail your freelance writing roles and projects. If you’re a new freelancer without much experience, focus on writing-related tasks in your previous employment. For example, if you wrote reports or summaries in your previous job role, include the relevant details of those assignments.
• Education: List your relevant degrees, certifications, and writing-related courses.
• Related Skills: Highlight skills that are essential to your freelance writing career. This can include software proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Word, SEO tools), research abilities, and additional languages you’re fluent in.
• Proficiency with Online Tools: Mention any specific online tools or platforms you are proficient in, especially those relevant to writing and content creation.
• References or Testimonials: If available, include quotes or testimonials from previous clients.
• Social Media and Online Presence: If you have a professional blog, active social media profiles, or a personal website related to your writing, provide links to them.
• Portfolio and Samples: Provide links to your writing samples or online portfolio. Keep in mind that this doesn’t have to be only paid work – you can include any writing samples that showcase your skills. (But be sure to ask permission from previous clients if necessary before including samples in your portfolio.)

In general, try to avoid generic statements like “looking for a challenging opportunity.” Instead, tailor your objectives to the specific opportunity as much as possible. And avoid vague, ambiguous language or too much detail. While you want to highlight your accomplishments, stay on track with clear, concise descriptions of your experience and previous roles.

Freelance Writer Resume Example

Here’s an example template of a freelance writing resume that you can customize to your specific background and skillset:

You can use this format as a guide and tailor the information to your job search. If you’re posting your resume on a freelance marketplace or job board, you can keep it more general to give a brief overview of your experience and skills. And of course, always proofread your resume so it’s polished and professional – typos and other errors are distracting and can deter potential clients from reaching out.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

Do you want to learn more about what it takes to make it as a freelance writer? Check out our comprehensive Becoming A Freelance Writer course for everything you need to know about starting out as a freelancer, including how to find and connect with new clients. Claim your free trial and get started today.

The post How To Write a Freelance Writing Resume appeared first on Knowadays.

Find out what you can gain from writing your own professional bio and how to get started crafting one, then take inspiration from our five proven examples of professional bios by established freelance writers.

What Is a Professional Bio?

A professional bio is a short biography covering a writer’s professional history, experience, skills, and achievements.

Its purpose is to introduce the author and their authority on their chosen subject or subjects.

Professional bios can be used in all sorts of contexts, from a freelancer’s website or LinkedIn profile to any guest posts or articles they may have written.

Why Should You Write a Professional Bio?

If you’re a freelance writer, having a professional bio is as essential as a strong resume.

The difference between the two is that a bio is a much quicker and more accessible way for potential clients to understand who you are and what you do.

A well-crafted professional bio can:

• Develop your brand
• Establish trust with potential clients
• Help colleagues and clients relate to you
• Provide you with a ready-made resource for networking

As a writer, you can even use your professional bio to demonstrate your writing skills and unique style.

How to Write a Professional Bio

Writing a professional bio shouldn’t come as an afterthought. After all, it might convince a potential client to work with you!

But if you have no idea where to start, here are our tips for writing a professional bio.

Know What to Cover

If you’re a freelance writer, your professional bio should include your:

• First and last name
• Job title (or name of your freelance business)
• Work and education history
• Professional achievements
• Skills
• Career goals or interests
• Freelance services

Remember to provide specific, quantifiable evidence to back up the claims you make in your bio.

This might include how many years of experience you have in a particular field, brands you’ve worked with, or awards you have received.

Depending on the context, you may also want to add contact details such as your email address or professional social media handles.

First-Person or Third-Person

Unless the website or publication you’re submitting your professional bio to requests otherwise, there are usually no rules as to whether you write it in the first or third person.

This means it’s up to you to decide the perspective for your bio!

On one hand, first-person bios build a connection with your readers and make you seem more approachable.

On the other, a bio written in the third person comes across as more objective and authoritative.

Think about what sort of clients you want to work with and what you want your professional bio to achieve before deciding which perspective to write it in.

Make It Personal

While the focus of a professional bio is, unsurprisingly, your professional life, there’s no harm in adding some personal touches to help your audience and potential clients get to know you.

In fact, adding details that your audience connects to on a personal level can increase your chances of finding work, as well as making your bio stand out.

So when writing your bio, consider adding any of your personal values, your interests outside of work, or formative life experiences such as where you grew up.

You could even link these personal details back to your professional goals.

Professional Bio Examples

Ready to write your own professional bio?

Before you begin, take a look at these five examples of professional bios we’ve collected to help inspire you.

1. Ruth Learner

Writer and editor Ruth Learner’s third-person bio showcases her experience, areas of expertise, and credentials before ending in a brief note on her personal interests.

2. Tahney Alexandra May

Arts writer Tahney Alexandra May takes a slightly different approach, opening her first-person bio with some personal details before specifying her skills and experience in three areas.

3. Cecily Paterson

Cecily Paterson’s LinkedIn profile is a great example of a professional bio with a style that doesn’t skimp on the details.

4. Kevin Baldwin

Copywriter Kevin Baldwin doesn’t shy away from highlighting his career achievements, while also managing to bring a sense of humor to his professional bio.

5. Marlen Komar

Marlen Komar’s professional bio is a little longer than most, but the unique dictionary-style formatting and her interesting anecdotes keep it memorable.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

Before launching your freelance writing career, get the expert training you need with our Becoming A Freelance Writer course.

In as little as six weeks, we’ll teach you how to craft compelling content, write for SEO, and navigate working with clients.

Plus, if you gain a distinction in the final assignment, you’ll get the opportunity to write content for the Knowadays blog!

Sign up for a seven-day free trial and get a taste of the course.

The post 5 Professional Bio Examples for Freelance Writers appeared first on Knowadays.