There’s something about learning from our peers that makes freelancing a more fulfilling career path. When you connect with other writers around you, you’re no longer operating in a vacuum of uncertainty. You open yourself up to a vast network of resources and empathy. That’s one of the reasons we’re so excited to continue our Women’s History Month series.
Last month, in anticipation of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we decided to ask some of the freelance writing women in our own community and peer communities to share their experiences. Today we continue to share their stories here on the blog.
Deenah: Creative Copywriter
How did you get started with freelancing?
I started freelancing just last year, but have been writing for years. Like many people, I was feeling unfulfilled in my previous job during the quarantine. I wanted to help people and still find a way to combine my love of creative writing.
I found out about freelancing while scrolling through the internet. I thought copywriting was always this Mad Men type of career, but the copywriters I saw looked like me: female, bright, passionate. I knew that I could also provide copywriting to entrepreneurs and small business owners and make an impact on their lives.
I truly believe entrepreneurship is the key to success. It builds independence, humility, gratuity, and resilience. My biggest accomplishment would be finally starting to put myself out there and hitting publish on my website. Progress is better than perfection!
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a freelancer thus far?
To not compare myself to people who are on a different level as me. We all have different lived experiences, privileges, cultural identities, financial situations, that make it harder or easier to start. It’s key not to get down on that fact and to not let that stop you.
What advice would you give to new freelance writers?
Just start. Don’t let fear or anxiety talk you out of it. Don’t procrastinate and make excuses. Take action. Start networking, get experience for free, build your skills. Whatever you do be consistent. It may be overwhelming. Take a break if needed, but give yourself a deadline to go out there and
Connect with Deenah:
Yuval Ackerman: Email Marketing Copywriter
How did you get started with freelancing?
I officially registered my business two years ago today. It was before ‘rona was even a real threat to us here in Europe (I’m based in Berlin), but I was working in a gastronomy job that made me miserable and wanted to flap my wings and fly for the longest time. When the pandemic hit and we were all forced to sit at home, I had no time to waste. I was on a mission to build my business.
I started with content writing, and the beginning was TOUGH. It took me a couple of months to get my first big client, and from there the road was clear. But then, less than a year ago, I realized that I was doing copywriting works for my clients, even though by definition I wasn’t hired as one. It was time for a change.
I took part in a mastermind that revolutionized the way I run my business today, decided to niche down dramatically into email marketing (for wellness, lifestyle and femininities entrepreneurs), built my own business strategy, and fired all of my then-clients. I’m the most proud of the way that I’ve made so far. It wasn’t easy, and I’ve made it all with hard work, love and dedication. I’m proud of the business and the life that I have today.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a freelancer thus far?
That everyone has their own pace and what success might mean to you, won’t necessarily mean the same thing to me.
What advice would you give to new freelance writers?
Learn as much from others as you can, build a community of like-minded professionals, and don’t be afraid to fail.
Connect with Yuval:
Wendi Gordon: Freelance Writer and Editor
How did you get started with freelancing?
Although I had some articles published in newspapers and magazines as far back as 1988, I consider 2011 the start of my freelancing career. That was when I wrote, edited, and published “Timeless Truths for Troubled Times,” a Christian devotional book available on Amazon. The book is still the accomplishment I am most proud of, not only because it got 5-star reviews but also because readers let me know that it helped them get through tough times.
More recently, I have been writing articles for various online magazines. One of those publications, “Illumination,” has featured several of my submissions in curated collections. I write most often about mental health issues, because I believe that sharing my own experience and the coping strategies that work for me will help others. Other topics I enjoy writing about include travel, faith, politics, and inspirational people.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a freelancer thus far?
I have learned how important it is to build connections with readers and other writers.
What advice would you give to new freelance writers?
Be patient, don’t give up, and learn from more experienced writers.
Connect with Wendi:
TW: @writerwendig
Angelique Barbara: Creative Freelance Writer
How did you get started with freelancing?
I began my adventure in freelance writing this year. I am available for creative commissioned work and artistic guidance. As a self-taught freelance writer, I am not influenced by outside brands or design. I can easily create a unique and artistic approach to suit a client’s individual interests or needs.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a freelancer thus far?
Networking is very important. Communication is key. Flexibility is vital.
What advice would you give to new freelance writers?
Create a personalized and specific website to showcase your work.
Connect with Angelique:
Laura Briggs: Freelance Legal SEO Writer
How did you get started with freelancing?
This is my tenth year! (2.5 of them I was part-time.) I’ve earned over one million dollars just from freelance writing projects over the years and that still blows my mind! I also used freelancing to get two TEDx talks and five book deals. It’s opened so many doors and I started a nonprofit to teach other military spouses how to freelance.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a freelancer thus far?
Know what you will and won’t stand for. Choose clients accordingly.
What advice would you give to new freelance writers?
Make sure to pitch every day and get someone to evaluate your pitch if it’s not working! It takes time to get that first client, so be persistent by pitching often and putting your best foot forward.
Connect with Name:
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Missed the last post? Check it out here!
Need Motivation? Get Inspired by These Freelance Writing Women
Stay tuned for more freelance writing wisdom as we celebrate International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month all week long!
Chime in!