30.10.23

How to Get Your First Remote Writing Job

It is quite challenging to make a career in remote writing, but after making the first step, it becomes easier. In this article, we'll guide you through the adventure of landing your first remote writing job. So let’s start this journey.

What is a Remote Writing Job?

A remote writer works from anywhere. From any location separate from the client’s place or a company’s office. You can work from home, a co-working space, a library, a park, or any place with an internet connection. Furthermore, you can be a full-time or a part-time writer or even a salaried employee of a company.

Remote writing jobs often provide more stability and a predictable income compared to freelance writing. In contrast, freelance writers are self-employed and work on a project basis. They are not tied to a single employer. Additionally, remote writing jobs offer the flexibility to create a work environment that suits your preferences, whereas freelance writers often have to find their own clients and projects. 

 

Average Pay for Remote Writing Jobs

The average pay or salary for remote writing jobs can vary widely depending on factors such as your experience, the type of writing, your niche, and your country. Here's a general overview:

Entry-Level Writers: If you're just starting your career as a remote writer, you might earn around $15 to $25 per hour or around $30,000 to $40,000 per year. For example, entry-level writers can expect to earn these rates.

Experienced Writers: As you gain experience and build a strong portfolio, you can command higher rates. In comparison, experienced writers with a proven track record can aspire to these higher income levels.

Specialized Niches: If you specialize in a particular field, such as technical writing, medical writing, or legal writing, you can earn even higher rates, sometimes exceeding $100,000 per year.

Content Marketing and Copywriting: Writers who focus on content marketing, copywriting, or advertising often earn competitive rates. Additionally, it's not uncommon for experienced writers in these areas to earn $50 to $100 per hour.

Remember, these are rough estimates, and the actual pay can vary widely. Additionally, it's essential to research industry standards and market rates in your specific niche and continuously work on improving your skills and building a strong portfolio to increase your earning potential.

 

Remote writing jobs are in high demand, and there are many opportunities available for writers of all skill levels. Here's how to get started:

Step 1. Develop Your Writing Skills

First of all, you need to have strong writing skills. Here is how to get those:

Read Widely: Furthermore, the best way to improve your writing is to read a lot. For instance, books, blogs, articles on topics you are interested in will help you understand different writing styles and techniques and find the general contours of your future style.

Practice: Additionally, the more you write, the better writer you are. As easy as pie. Make time to write every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. In fact, set aside time for daily or weekly writing practice.

Seek Feedback: Don't be afraid to ask for feedback from friends, family, or writing communities. Constructive criticism helps you grow as a writer. Feedback can help you identify areas where you need to improve.

Research: Be ready to dive into the depths of the internet to uncover hidden gems of information. Good research skills will make your writing sparkle. For inspiration, consider writing tips from Benjamin Franklin.

Additional skills to improve:

• Clarity.
  Your writing should be crystal clear and not confusing. Avoid using fancy words or long sentences. As Aristotle states, "in regard to style, one of its chief virtues may be defined as clarity.
• Conciseness.
  As much as possible,get to the point without wasting words. Don't use extra words that don't add value.
• Engagement.
  Write in a way that's interesting and keeps your readers hooked. Additionally, use strong, vivid words and tell stories when needed.
• Variety.
  Be able to write in different styles and forms. For instance, at some point of your career you might need to write blog posts, articles, website content, or even technical stuff.

 

Step 2. Build Your Writing Portfolio

Your writing portfolio is your most important asset when applying for remote writing jobs. Additionally, It is your chance to showcase your best work and impress your potential employer. It demonstrates your skills and abilities.

• Choose your best work.
  The main thing here is not quantity but quality. Select your best pieces relevant to the type of job you want to apply for.
   
• Variety is key.
  Try to include a variety of writing in your portfolio, such as blog posts, articles, essays, website copy, and social media posts. This will show potential employers that you are versatile.
   
• Proofread carefully.
  Before you submit your portfolio, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.

Step 3. Write Guest Posts

Writing guest posts for blogs or websites in your niche can be an invaluable step in your journey to landing your first remote writing job. While you may not earn money directly from guest posts, the experience can significantly enhance your portfolio and help you establish yourself as a credible writer. 

• Research Blogs
  Find blogs that accept guest posts in your area of interest. Consider the one called Medium for example.
• Read Guidelines
  Carefully read the submission guidelines on these blogs and follow them precisely.
• Submit Quality Content
  Write well-researched, original content that provides value to the blog's readers.

When you write guest posts for other websites, you're putting your work in front of potential clients who are already interested in the topics you write about.

 

Step 4. Use Social Media as a Marketing Platform

Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing your writing skills and connecting with potential clients.

• Create an Engaging Profile
  To begin, craft a professional and engaging social media profile that effectively highlights your writing skills.
• Share Your Work
  Next, regularly post snippets of your writing, blog links, or thought-provoking insights related to your niche.
• Engage with Your Audience
  Moreover, respond to comments, engage in discussions, and network with other writers and potential employers.
• Run social media ads
  Additionally, if you have a small budget to invest, running social media ads can be a great way to reach a wider audience and promote your writing services.

 

Step 5. Apply for Remote Writing Jobs

Now that you've honed your skills, built a portfolio, and made connections, it's time to apply for remote writing jobs. 

Here's how to go about it:

• Search Job Boards: Look for remote writing job listings on platforms like Djobzy, Upwork, Fiverr and others. Djobzy is a reputable online job board that also has remote and freelance opportunities. It's a hub for job seekers looking to explore remote writing positions and various other job opportunities across different industries. 
• Customize Your Resume on the Platform: Tailor your resume to highlight your writing experience and skills.
• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalized cover letter for each application, showcasing why you're the perfect fit for the job.
• Follow-Up: Don't be afraid to follow up on your applications. It shows your genuine interest in the position.

Conclusion

Be patient. Your journey to landing your first remote writing job is a thrilling expedition. . It may take time, so don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep creating great content and engaging with your audience, and in time, the results will come. Remember Churchill's wisdom: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

So, get your laptop, sharpen your skills, and set out on the adventure of a lifetime as a remote writer. Happy travels and happy writing!

Read More: How to Learn Web Design and Get a Job