Learning how to be a freelance writer can be challenging at times.
You'll face the issue of people wanting you to have more experience as a writer before they will publish your work.
But, how can you get experience if people won't publish what you write? We often hear the question posed as, "How do I get my foot in the door without getting it crushed?" Here are three tips to help you get your foot in the door as a freelance writer.
1) Go to writing conferences to meet editors and publishing house executives.
A big part of getting started in this industry has to do with building relationships with key individuals.
Listen to their advice, submit your proposals then adjust the things they tell you to adjust.
Don't be arrogant or put on the 'diva' hat.
Build trust.
Let them know that you are a professional and that you are easy to work with.
Most of all, listen to what they have to say.
2) Publish your first few magazine articles for free to build up publishing credits and gather the clips necessary to gain credibility in the industry.
3) Make a great first impression.
Be organized and professional.
Let your work speak for itself.
Nobody cares about what you think of your writing.
Let others sing your praises.
Here's a bonus idea.
Build a reputation for one style of writing, or being an expert on a certain topic.
In the industry, this is known as building a platform.
Be consistent in presenting yourself to other professionals in the industry.
Learning how to be a freelance writer isn't always easy.
If it was easy, everyone would do it.
But if you stick with it, apply what you learn and learn from your mistakes, you'll be on your way to becoming a successful freelance writer.