Why Not Everyone Should Be a Freelance Writer
I keep hearing about the low entry barrier to freelance writing. Many people seem to believe that anyone can become a freelance writer.
This popular belief, I believe, is factually inaccurate.
While it is true that almost anyone can purchase a web domain and begin blogging, this does not imply that every blogger is a freelance writer.
Some people should never work as freelance writers. If you’re wondering whether you’re one of them, here are some warning signs that you shouldn’t pursue freelance writing:
1- You Never Like Doing Research: While some freelance writing assignments may allow you to write about what you already know; many require extensive research. The topics you must research are not always attractive.
2- You are not familiarized with the field about which you wish to write. One of the reasons I rarely outsource large projects is that they necessitate highly specialized training. Because of my technical training, I can qualify for jobs that I would not have been considered for otherwise.
3- You don’t have new ideas. While it is common to experience irregular writer’s block, most successful freelance writers can overcome those blocked periods. After all, good ideas are the building blocks of good writing.
4- You scorn deadlines. The majority of freelance writing projects have deadlines. Some of those deadlines can be pretty difficult. If the thought of meeting a deadline makes you nervous, freelance writing may not be for you.
5- You Are Unable To Tolerate Any Form of Rejection. Even the best freelance writers must face rejection at some point. Their application has been denied. The client requests significant changes to their work. Or perhaps something they write is not well received.
6- You are untrustworthy. The foundation of a freelancing business must be trusted. To gain a client’s trust, you must demonstrate that you will do what you say you will do. When it comes to freelancing, dependability is essential.
7- You want a completely passive income. Most freelancers I know work long and hard hours. Even if they do receive regular payments, likely, the writer worked very hard to put that system in place.
8- You aspire to be famous. Only a tiny percentage of freelance writers achieve celebrity. In fact, in many cases, you will not even be given a byline for your work. This is especially true if you’re writing for a business.
9- You despise writing. The mere thought of writing anything, whether a letter or an email, makes you cringe. (You’d think this would be obvious, but when I talk about freelance writing, some people are surprised at how much writing is involved.)
People have previously told me that while there are many freelance writers, far fewer truly GOOD freelance writers. I believe it to be true. What do you think?
What other indications do you have that someone should not be a freelance writer?
