The Truth About Freelance Writers' Rates: An Overview

Let’s be honest, I’m sure that everyone would like to work at home, have a free schedule and make a decent living. Well, that is the life of a successful freelancer! However, that won’t happen unless you spend a lot of time building up your reputation and then you would be able to enjoy such a life.

The problem is that most freelancers may struggle when it comes to setting rates for their writing jobs. That is completely understandable, as money is usually a rather sensitive subject. So you must be wondering how you can resolve this issue and make it less awkward, well here are a few tips for you:

Let the client offer the price first

Unless your client demands it, it might not be a great idea to demand a price first. It would be awkward, as it is highly unlikely that you can bid on the client’s budget precisely. If you are ever given the chance, let the client have the decision and you can discuss from there.

Most of the times, the client would have a rather flexible budget (not unreasonable!), so there is a bit of a leeway. That’s the key if you want to secure jobs quicker!

Never set crazy rates!

It might be tempting for you to try and secure a large job. Let say you want to make $1 per word, but that won’t be reasonable unless you are some sort of famous writer! Obviously you must start from somewhere down the bottom and move your way up! That’s the only way that you are going to survive in the world of freelancing, so remember that and you will become successful!

As a matter of fact, you should start at a rate of $1-$2 per 100 words. Then you can decide whether this is what you want to do.

Don’t oversell yourself

There are times when you really want to get a job but you’re not quite qualified for it. That is totally normal, but the last thing you want to do is to oversell yourself. As a freelancer, it is important to maintain a professional image so you must be honest with yourself. If the client hires you and you can’t deliver the standard of work that he demands, then it is only going to stain your profile! It’s not worth it and just stick with what you are good at! That’s how you make a name out of yourself in the freelancing world!