In this blog post, we’re looking at must-read content writing books for freelancers and what you can expect to find in them.

7 Books about Content Writing

With so much choice, it can be hard to know which books to read. Here are seven of our favorite content writing books.

1. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Stephen King is most well-known as a best-selling horror and thriller writer, but he also wrote a book exploring the craft of writing. While this book does not specifically deal with content writing and is more of a general discussion of writing theory, writers of any type can benefit from the advice.

2. The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr.

The Elements of Style comprises 8 “elementary rules of usage,” 10 “elementary principles of composition,” “a few matters of form,” a list of 49 words and expressions that people often misuse, and a list of 57 commonly misspelled words. Despite being over 100 years old, this book is as relevant for content writers today as it was then. It’s also a fantastic resource for editors and proofreaders. 

3. On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser

William Zinsser’s guide to writing non-fiction takes budding writers through the principles and methods used by experienced writers. He provides advice on how to write different types of non-fiction, such as memoir, interview, and business and travel writing, meaning that anyone who wants or needs to write can benefit from this book.

4. Storycraft: The Complete Guide to Writing Narrative Nonfiction by Jack Hart

Jack Hart is a writing coach who has helped several Pulitzer Prize-winning narratives reach publication. In Storycraft, he breaks down a narrative into its most basic components, such as narrative structure, point of view, and theme, before discussing how different types of narratives employ these elements. This book is particularly useful for those who are new to writing.

5. Unleash the Power of Storytelling by Rob Biesenbach

This book is a step-by-step guide to crafting compelling, persuasive narratives that meet business objectives. It teaches its readers about the importance of storytelling in successful selling and creating a brand identity through stories while also warning of the pitfalls that many writers come across. This is particularly useful for those who need to write stories to sell products or services.

6. The Copywriter’s Handbook by Robert Bly

In this book, Robert Bly takes readers step by step through the process of creating different types of copy. While content and copywriting are different specialties, there are aspects of copywriting that content writers can use to improve their content. Bly talks about how to write for the web and how to use graphics to enhance your writing, a vital but often overlooked element of content writing.

7. Everybody Writes by Ann Handley

Last but not least, Everybody Writes is the ultimate guide to content writing. It talks about the process of writing, different types of content, publishing rules, and tools you can use to help you create engaging content. This is a great reference book for all writers to refer back to as they create content.

Becoming A Freelance Writer

Have you considered freelance writing as a career but don’t know where to start? Our Becoming A Freelance Writer course covers everything you will need to launch your writing career. You’ll have access to 1:1 online tutoring and, if you pass the final assignment, a guaranteed publishing opportunity to start building your portfolio. Try it out for free today!

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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.

In today’s post, we’ll take a look at what coworking spaces can offer freelancers and how you can make the most of them in your freelance career.

What Is a Coworking Space?

A coworking space is a type of office or other practical space designed for freelancers and remote workers. Individuals using a coworking space work independently on their projects while sharing the space with others.

Coworking spaces might be provided by companies for remote employees, or independent freelancers can access them through a membership scheme. These memberships usually cover different options, such as:

• Hot desking: Desks are rented on a short-term basis and often across multiple locations.
• Permanent desks: Access is provided to the same workspace regularly over a long term.
• Private offices: Cubicles or larger rooms that offer more privacy are available.

The spaces are usually furnished with equipment and facilities, such as desks, printers and scanners, Wi-Fi, and meeting rooms. Most coworking spaces are physical places, but virtual coworking spaces are growing in popularity.

The Benefits of Coworking Spaces

Working from home comes with its benefits, but there are several reasons for why many freelancers choose to access coworking spaces instead. These spaces can:

• Improve motivation and productivity
• Reduce distractions
• Encourage collaboration and networking opportunities
• Offer access to professional equipment and facilities
• Provide a professional backdrop for video calls and meetings
• Set boundaries between work and home
• Minimize loneliness and isolation

Many coworking spaces offer affordable, flexible memberships, meaning you can choose when to use them and still maintain the freedom freelancers enjoy.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Coworking Space

With so many options out there, choosing the right coworking space for you can seem overwhelming. Here are our tips for what to consider when making your choice.

1. Type of Space

Different coworking spaces will offer different types of facilities. You might want a permanent desk that you can access at any time, or you might prefer having a more flexible, short-term arrangement. There are also industry-specific spaces that can provide resources for your line of work. 

2. Location

Your coworking space needs to be somewhere you and your clients can get to easily. Keep in mind things like accessibility, public transport links, parking, and the immediate surroundings ‒ is the space right next to a noisy junction or right around the corner from your favorite cafe?

3. Budget

Make sure to include coworking space fees and commute costs in your freelance budget. Consider whether there are any unnecessary extras that might push up the price of coworking options (if you choose a space not too far from home, for example, you might not need to spend extra money for access to a kitchen).

4. Search Tools

If you’re struggling to find the best space for you, try using coworking search or comparison tools like Coworker and WeWork. 

Knowadays Courses

Knowadays courses are your passport to a freelance career. If you’re interested in Becoming A Proofreader or Becoming An Editor, we can train you in all the essentials you need for work as a freelance proofreader and/or editor. And if you pass both courses with a distinction score of 80% or more, you will be given guaranteed work with our partner company, Proofed! Save 15% on both courses with the course bundle or try them out for free!

The post How to Use a Coworking Space as a Freelancer appeared first on Knowadays.

Keep reading for seven customizable email templates to use as a freelancer.

1. How To Approach a Potential Client

Cold emailing individuals or businesses you’d like to work with can be a great way to source new clients and get work. But writing a pitch can be a little intimidating if you’re new to the freelance game, especially if you don’t have sales experience. Here’s a brief email template you can use and customize for each recipient:

Hi [Client Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I came across your website [personal connection]. I was particularly impressed by [specific detail]. I’m reaching out because I provide [your service], and I’d love to partner with [you/your company] because [one or two specific reasons]. Do you have any time this week to talk about ways I could support you in [relevant areas]?

I look forward to hearing from you.

All the best,
[Your Name]

2. How To Follow Up With a Client

Sometimes you may need to follow up with a client about a project, for example, if they haven’t responded to your request for clarification or paid an invoice. Here’s a template you can use for friendly first reminders:

Hi [Client Name],

I hope you’re doing well! As you know, I sent over [a request/invoice/draft] on [date]. I’d really appreciate it if you could [provide information/fulfill the invoice/send feedback] by [specific date] so that we can move forward with the project. I’ve enjoyed working with you so far and am looking forward to continuing our partnership. Please let me know if you have any questions.

All the best,
[Your Name]

3. How To Respond to Scope Creep

While it’s not unusual to provide some revisions for clients based on feedback, it’s important to be mindful of scope creep (demands beyond the scope of the original brief) – you want to make sure you’re being paid fairly for your services. However, this can be an awkward topic to bring up with clients. If you find yourself in this situation, consider using this email template:

Hi [Client Name],

I hope you’re having a good week. I wanted to reach out to discuss [the project]. I understand you’re hoping to receive [extra round of revisions/other work] by [specific date]. Of course, I’m happy to do that and keep moving forward. However, given that this goes beyond what was outlined in the original brief, I’d like to revise the terms of our existing contract to include this extra work. My rate for this work is [amount per hour]. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on how we can take this forward.

All the best,
[Your Name]

4. How To Let a Client Know You’re Going on Vacation

Even though you’re a freelancer, you still need to take the occasional vacation! However, it’s a good idea to send your existing clients a quick email well in advance to let them know you’ll be going away. Try something like this:

Hi [Client Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I’m reaching out because I’ll be taking some time away from work and will be offline from [date to date]. I want to make sure everything is covered and we’re all set to continue when I’m back, so here’s what I plan to do before I leave: [outline tasks]. Is there anything else you’d like me to prepare?

All the best,
[Your Name]

5. How To Turn Down Work

When you’re just starting out as a freelancer, it may feel like you’ll never need to turn down work. But there could come a time when you can’t accept every project that comes your way. If you receive an offer from a client that you have to turn down, consider writing:

Hi [Client Name],

Thank you for the offer to [work on a specific project]. It sounds like a great opportunity. Unfortunately, my workload is a bit too heavy right now, so I’m unable to take it on at this time. I hope we can stay in touch and work together in the future.

All the best,
[Your Name]

6. How To End a Client Relationship

Sometimes it’s best to end a relationship with a client – especially when they’ve become too difficult or demanding. In these tough situations, try an email template like this:

Hi [Client Name],

As we’ve discussed recently, [outline challenges]. While I wish you the best of luck in the future, I no longer feel I’m the right person to complete this job and will be transitioning off the project. Over the next two weeks, I will be completing: [outline tasks].

I appreciate your understanding. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

All the best,
[Your Name]

7. How To Ask for a Testimonial

Testimonials are a great way to prove to potential clients that you can achieve the results they’re looking for. To ask a past client to write you a testimonial, try sending them something like this:

Hi [Client Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I’m reaching out because I’m collecting testimonials from past clients and would love to include some words from you. It was such a pleasure working together, and I’d love to highlight our partnership.

I’d be very grateful if you could write one or two paragraphs explaining what you enjoyed about working together and how it helped you/your specific results. I can send a few prompts to answer if you prefer. If you’d rather not do this, it would be good if you could let me know. I hope to hear from you soon.

All the best,
[Your Name]

Knowadays Courses

If you’d like to learn more about dealing with clients, consider taking one of our courses. Try a free trial today!

The post 7 Email Templates for Freelancers appeared first on Knowadays.

For books to help further develop your craft, meanwhile, check out these books on proofreading and editing.

1. ​Marketing Your Editing and Proofreading Business​, Louise Harnby

Louise Harnby has worked for over 30 years as a freelance proofreader. This is her excellent three-part guide designed to help you improve your freelance marketing skills:

• Part I introduces you to the concepts behind marketing and aims to build your understanding of marketing strategy.
• Part II contains a series of marketing activities that you can complete to improve your client outreach
• Finally, part III provides a sample outline of a marketing plan that you can follow step by step or use as a starting point to develop your own ideas.

Harnby’s book is great for those early in their proofreading career. This practical guide provides reassurance – and real-life action points – for those intimidated by the prospect of moving into the world of self-marketing for the first time.

2. Business Planning for Editorial Freelancers, Louise Harnby

While Harnby’s other book focuses on developing your marketing skills, Business Planning for Editorial Freelancers is a comprehensive overview of running a freelance business.

Topics covered include:

• Getting experience
• Training (we’ve got you covered there)
• Financial assessment
• Networking advice

Many of these chapters also feature several practical tasks to help you hone your business development skills.

Our favorite part of this book, however, is the several case studies by editorial freelancers reflecting on how they started out. Not only are these packed with great advice, but they’re so reassuring to read when you’re taking the somewhat intimidating leap into freelance life.

3. The Freelancer’s Bible: Everything You Need to Know to Have the Career of Your Dreams—On Your Terms, Sara Horowitz

First published in 2012, Horowitz’s book is an established and authoritative text aimed at freelancers in any industry.

This is a much broader and more comprehensive guide to freelancing than many of the other books in this list. Horowitz’s advice goes all the way from big-issue topics like managing your finances to the minutiae of what to keep in your home office desk drawer.

The Freelancer’s Bible is a comprehensive manual designed to offer support throughout freelancers’ careers. And as the founder of the Freelancers Union, Horowitz has shown her commitment to advocating for the welfare of freelancers in the US and beyond.

4. How to Start a Home-Based Editorial Services Business, Barbara Fuller

This book by Barbara Fuller is another guide to setting up a freelance editing business. In it, Fuller clearly outlines the required skills for editing. She also documents the common expectations of various clients in the editing world, with a focus on the publishing industry.

Fuller begins by offering valuable advice on how to determine whether freelance editing is right for you (though if you’re here, you may already know this!). She then moves on to discussing key elements of the trade, such as:

• The skills you need to be a successful freelance editor
• Which services you can offer, and how to decide what to charge for them
• The expectations of publishing houses (which are important to be aware of if you wish to work with them)
• How to size up legal and ethical issues in the freelance world

This book is excellent for those unsure of where to start in pursuing a career in freelance proofreading and editing.

5. Taking This Show on the Road: A Proofreader’s Guide to Digital Nomadism, Catherine Turner

Great for those looking to freelance proofreading as a work-from-anywhere opportunity, Turner’s guide outlines how to take your freelance proofreading business on the road.

As an experienced proofreader and equally experienced traveler, Turner has compiled her experience into a pocket-sized guide to “digital nomadism.”

Turner begins with some of the more standard advice on setting up a freelance proofreading business. But she then goes on to provide specific advice for travelers, including:

• Preparing to take your business on the road
• Advice about overcoming the challenges of working while you travel
• How to organize your time so you can enjoy yourself while still meeting deadlines
• Tips for staying healthy as you travel
• Case studies and advice from other nomadic freelancers
• Bonus resources, including a travel itinerary, a packing list, and a before-you-go checklist

If you’re considering becoming a freelance proofreader so you can work while you travel, or you want to take your existing work on the road, this guide might be perfect for you!

Become a Proofreader

These books about freelancing are great tools to develop your freelance business, but first you need the technical know-how. If you would like to become a freelance proofreader, our Becoming A Proofreader course teaches you everything you need to know. On top of that, if you achieve a distinction score of 80% or above in both Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor, you are guaranteed work opportunities with our partner company, Proofed! Sign up to our free trial today!

The post 5 Great Books About Freelancing appeared first on Knowadays.

• Opportunities to network with other editors and proofreaders.
• Additional training and advice to help you improve as an editor.
• Methods for promoting your services and gaining new clients.
• Access to industry news, resources, and events.

But which societies should you aim to join? Below, we offer a few tips.

Proofreading and Editing Societies in the UK and Ireland

In the UK, the major group for freelancers is the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP). Formerly the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP), it offers members access to training, free and discounted resources, and networking opportunities. It also has an online directory, where members can advertise their services to potential clients.

In addition, completing the Becoming A Proofreader course will give you points towards the CIEP membership level system, which is an extra incentive to sign up!

Other options include EPANI in Northern Ireland and the AFEPI in the Republic of Ireland.

Proofreading and Editing Societies in the USA

In the US, the two of the most prominent groups for freelance editors and proofreaders are the Society for Editing (ACES) and the Editorial Freelancers Association (EfA). Both offer training, resources, networking opportunities, and access to a membership directory.

Both the above also run regional groups and meetings. But if you’re looking for something closer to home, it is worth checking for local groups in your area. Prominent examples include the Bay Area Editors’ Forum, the Northwest Editors Guild, and the San Diego Professional Editors Network. However, many smaller groups also exist, so it is always worth doing a little research.

Proofreading and Editing Societies in Australia

In Australia, the major group for freelances is the Institute for Professional Editors (IPEd). As well as an accreditation system and various resources, IPEd has a member directory to make it easier to promote your services. It also has regional branches in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, and New Zealand.

Other Groups and Societies

As well as the national groups above, there are some international editing societies associated with specific fields or industries. Some major examples of these include:

• Council of Science Editors (CSE)
• Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS)
• European Association of Science Editors (EASE)
• Eastern Mediterranean Association of Medical Editors (EMAME)
• Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing (SABEW)
• International Society of Managing and Technical Editors (ISMTE)

If you work in any of these areas, then, you may want to look at joining!

Many proofreading agencies, moreover, run private social media groups or chat channels for freelance editors. This includes our proofreading partner, Proofed, which has a LinkedIn group where freelancers can share their experiences, advice, and support.

Becoming A Proofreader

Interested in becoming a freelance proofreader? Take our Becoming A Proofreader course and in just 45–50 hours you’ll learn everything you need to know to start proofreading professionally! Sign up today or try our free trial.

The post Freelancer Resources: Proofreading and Editing Societies appeared first on Knowadays.

1. Russell Lynes – Editing Is Necessary

The editor and publisher Russell Lynes is quoted as saying:

No author dislikes to be edited as much as he dislikes not to be published.

Here, Lynes is referring to the crucial role of editing in the publication process. As an editor, you may need to manage the expectations of clients, especially those who are precious about their writing. All authors need to confront editing eventually if they want to get published!

2. M. H. Abrams – A First Draft Is Changeable

American literary critic M. H. Abrams once said:

I think the hardest thing to teach a student is that what he or she puts down on paper is changeable. It’s not the final thing, it’s the first thing, which may just be the suggestive, vague identification of something that you have to come back to and rewrite.

This is something else you may have to help your clients with. Not everyone is keen to rewrite after a first draft, but the editing process is what makes good writing great.

3. Henry Brook Adams – Omit!

The historian Henry Adams wrote many books, so he was intimately familiar with the editing process. On this note, he advised a budding writer as follows:

My criticisms are always simple… Omit! Every syllable that can be struck out is pure profit, and every page that can be economised is a five-per-cent dividend… every book written without a superfluous page or word is a masterpiece.

It’s always nice to find an author who appreciates succinct writing. And, as an editor, it may be part of your role to help your clients achieve such concision!

4. Arthur Plotnik Let the Fire Show Through the Smoke

The author of The Elements of Editing, Arthur Plotnik knows a few things about editing. Even better, though, is the poetic way he describes the editing process:

You write to communicate to the hearts and minds of others what’s burning inside you, and we edit to let the fire show through the smoke.

This is a key insight on editing and proofreading! From literature to commercial copy, your role is always to help the client express themselves in a way their audience will understand.

5. Blake Morrison – A Bloody Trade

Let us leave the final word to poet and author Blake Morrison:

What’s wrong with a book can be something the author has repressed all knowledge of, something glaringly obvious which, the moment an editor or other reader identifies it, you think yes, of course, Eureka, and then you go back and fix it. Editing might be a bloody trade. But knives aren’t the exclusive property of butchers. Surgeons use them too.

The key to good editing, then, is being surgical with the changes you make. Don’t try to change the author’s voice or impose your own ideas on the text. But do look at how specific changes, big or small, could help the author express themselves more effectively.

Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor

If these quotes have piqued your interest in proofreading and editing, why not give Knowadays a try? Our courses teach you everything you need to know to work as a freelance proofreader and editor. And thanks to our partnership with Proofed, we even offer guaranteed work for anyone who passes the Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses with scores of 80% or more.

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