- Advice
How to find hot writing jobs
Are you a writer looking for freelance work? There are plenty of positions available for talented wordsmiths, but finding your way to the right gig can be difficult. (I’m looking at you, “Write 200 Articles A Week”...)
Luckily, the internet can help you streamline your search, and you can even set up email notifications so you don’t have to constantly comb through job postings.
Things to know first
1. Before you begin the hunt, make sure you have a great cover letter put together, as well as a resume, LinkedIn profile, and a writing portfolio (or at least links to clips).
2. When browsing job websites, try to think of unique ways that your skills could be marketed so that you can search for specific keywords. For example, “Copywriter”, “Grantwriter”, “Blogger” or “Social Media” will bring up very different results than searching for “Writer.”
3. Worried about scams? Do your homework, don’t give out too much personal information, and don’t sign up for anything that feels unreasonable. For more information, read this blog post.
Here are some great resources for finding your next writing gig:
Mediabistro
Probably the most well-known website for finding jobs in writing and media, Mediabistro posts about 50 freelance gigs a week.
Indeed
A job searcher’s staple, Indeed is a great website to check regularly or use to set up email notifications, as it can quickly update you on new positions in your area.
Idealist
Want to write for a worthy cause? Idealist is your place to find freelance gigs as well as full-time and volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector.
Publishers Lunch
Do you love books? Self-described as the publishing industry’s “daily essential read,” Publishers Lunch also posts new positions in the field. Most of the jobs are full-time, but there is the occasional freelance gig as well.
Krop
While this website is targeted at designers and developers, Krop occasionally posts copywriting gigs for creative companies.
Craigslist
Yes, yes, Craigslist can be dicey, but there are plenty of legit writing gigs on here too! Especially if you’d like to work for a startup or a smaller company.
Staffing agencies
Staffing and temp agencies are good for finding freelance work, but there are downsides, most notably that they might take more of a cut than you’ll get. However, you’ll also get access to quality clients and reliable pay without having to market yourself, which can be a huge plus. Creative Circle often lists copywriting positions.
Read more about the pros and cons of working with a staffing / temp agency here.
While it’s mostly known for being a networking platform, LinkedIn is especially useful when you’re on a job hunt. Use the website’s search features to find new positions, set up e-mail notifications so you can stay in the know, and use it to reach out to recruiters. Learn more about finding jobs via LinkedIn here.
Glassdoor
Glassdoor is a great place to get the scoop on what it’s really like to work for a company, as it has anonymous reviews from current and old employees. Use it to search for company reviews, salary ranges (freelance is often listed as hourly), or new jobs.
Introduce yo’ self
Is there a company that you’d love to work for? Reach out to them yourself! Send them a brief email that introduces yourself and tells them what you specialize in. Ask if they need any freelance writing and be sure to convey what appeals to you about their company (or why you’d be a great fit). They might not need help, but if they do, they’re much more likely to choose someone who is enthusiastic about their company.
Freelancers, what are your favorite ways to find writing gigs?
Other resources you might be interested in: