Hi everyone, just after some advice…

I’ve been writing for a range of mediums and industries for 15+ years but always for an employer. I’d now like to make the jump to working as a freelance writer but am not sure where to start and how best to make this a viable work option.

I have seen a few freelance job boards, most of which seem to be USA based and/or pay peanuts, so figure there must be a better way.

I’m in Australia.

Can anyone point me in the right direction? Any tips welcome!

Thanks in advance.

@speakyourmind I started freelance writing full time in November.  The best way to get started is to create a portfolio website that showcases the kind of writing that you want to do for clients.  Then create a blog where you continue demonstrating your writing skills with posts about the industries you like writing about.  After that, make sure that every social profile you use includes the fact that you are a freelance writer.  These three things will help you attract clients of your own.  The portfolio will especially help you when you are applying for writing jobs.

Also, I’m not sure what type of writing you want to do, but location shouldn’t be an issue.  I’m in the US, but I have clients in the UK, Philippines, Canada, Australia, Lebanon, and a few that I have no idea where they are actually located.  We handle most communication by email, with the occasional introductory call via Skype.  Then all writing is sent via email in Word, Google Docs, PDF, or text format.  

The only real challenges I’ve run into with writing for clients in other countries are time zone issues – they want a post on Wednesday, but my Wednesday is their Thursday.  So you just have to remember to do it a day early.  And sometimes I have UK clients who want UK examples in their content, while other UK clients want US examples because that is the market they are targeting.  But that’s about it – nothing too tough to work with.