Online Writing Jobs: How to Turn Your Writing Passion into a Lucrative Online Career

Learn how to turn your passion for writing into a lucrative career with online writing jobs ...
Online Writing Jobs: How to Turn Your Writing Passion into a Lucrative Online Career

Do you love writing? Would you love to turn your passion for writing into a lucrative career? Then this post about online writing jobs is for you.

Freelance online writing jobs are a lucrative option for individuals looking to earn income from home. With the internet providing a vast array of platforms and opportunities, it is possible to build a successful career as a freelance writer without the need for a traditional office setting.

Across various freelance websites, content writing is consistently a highly sought-after skill. This includes various forms of writing such as article writing, copywriting, ghostwriting, technical writing, and web content writing. With the ever-increasing demand for written content, freelance writers are in high demand.

In this guide you will learn not just how to craft great content but I will also provide you with a list of 101 websites that pay you to write your content.

If that has piqued your interest then let’s get started.

What Is Freelance Online Writing Jobs?

Freelance online writing jobs refer to work opportunities where writers are hired to create written content for clients. These opportunities involve creating articles, blog posts, product descriptions, web content, and other forms of written materials that are in high demand.

Freelance online writing jobs are conducted remotely. They are a great way for writers to earn money from their skills and work from the comfort of their own home, on a flexible schedule. These jobs allow writers to work with a wide range of clients and on different types of projects, which can help to diversify their portfolio and gain experience in different writing styles and niches.

The Scope of the Online Content Writing Market

The Scope of the Online Content Writing Market

Right now, the online content writing market is huge and still growing. As more and more people are turning to the internet for information, website owners and online entrepreneurs are constantly working to create valuable, high quality and unique content to satisfy this growing hunger for information.

Unfortunately, not many of these marketers can depend on their own resources to produce the volume of content that they need to power their online properties. This is why they turn to content writers. And so, as an online content writer you can make some side income (or even full-time income) by helping these people write useful and high quality articles to power their online business.

Here are some statistics relating to online writing jobs that will interest you:

  • Freelance writing is a popular choice for many writers. A staggering 39% of the U.S. workforce, or 60 million Americans, freelanced in 2022. [Source].
  • In 2021, Freelancers earned, on average, $28/hour for performing skilled services. A 40% increase compared to 2020. [Source].
  • Freelancing is expected to grow by approximately 14% over the next six years. [Source]
  • Demand for content marketing services is expected to increase, with a survey by the Content Marketing Institute revealing that more than half of B2B marketers surveyed expect their organization to hire or contract content producers in 2023. [Source].

The good news is that you don’t need to have some previous track record as a writer before you can take advantage of this trend. Whatever your level and experience in writing there is a market for you.

The Benefits of Online Writing Jobs for Writers

Before we dive into the details let's consider some of the reasons why you should consider online writing jobs as a writer.

1. Flexibility of work

Online writing jobs often allow for greater flexibility in terms of location and schedule. As an online writer, you can work from anywhere with an internet connection, giving you the freedom to work at your own pace.

2. Variety

Online writing jobs can offer the opportunity to write on a wide range of topics and industries. This allows you to keep things interesting and continue learning and growing as a writer.

3. Independence

This is one of the biggest reasons why many are going into freelance writing jobs today. With online writing jobs you’re your own boss. You have more control over your career and you’re able to set your own rates and negotiate your payment terms.

4. Potential for good income

While it's true that the income potential for online writing jobs can vary, many writers are able to earn a good living through online writing. By building a strong portfolio and marketing your services effectively, you can build a successful online writing career.

How Do You Make Money as an Online Content Writer?

Basically there are two different ways that you make money writing articles online. These are:

  1. Through Upfront Payment

Under this arrangement you need to set yourself up as a freelance writer who simply write on any subject and you are paid upfront based not on the performance of the article but on the contractual terms.

  1. By Contributing Content To Other Websites

Under this arrangement you submit the articles you have written to websites that are ready to share their revenue with you. You are either paid based on the number of page views that the article receives or the income from the advertising on the site.

It must be pointed out that while the first option demands you do most of the work of scouting for clients, it is however more profitable. However, as a beginner who is just starting out, it may be somewhat difficult to convince clients that you have what they need. But this is the option you should aim at ultimately.

One thing you need to note also is that websites that are ready to pay you upfront for your articles are reputable and established sites with a large following. Getting your content in these sites is a plus for you as you can quickly build a valuable portfolio.

Online Content Writing Jobs: Contractor or Hired Worker?

Online Content Writing Jobs: Contractor or Hired Worker?

Apart from the above two main ways of making money as an online content writer, the market can also be divided into two segments – those who are in the market as independent contractors or those hired on part-time or even on full-time bases by companies.

When you are hired either as a blogger or in-house writer, you are most times not really different from a paid worker, though the conditions may be different. However, this is a good way of getting started as freelance writer. Once you’ve gained the necessary experience you can become an independent contractor.

As an independent contractor, you can make money with your work in the following ways:

  1. Offering your services on freelancing platforms

There are many websites that connect freelancers with clients looking for writing services. Examples are Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. You can create a profile on these platforms and bid on writing projects that match your skills and experience.

  1. Your own blog or website

You can start a blog or website and monetize it by placing ads, selling products or services, or through sponsored content. This can be a long-term source of income, but it requires time and effort to build an audience and generate traffic.

  1. Direct out reach to businesses

You can reach out to small businesses and offer your writing services for their blogs, websites, or marketing materials. You can also write articles for online publications or magazines, which often pay for contributed content – as pointed out above.

  1. Sell your own writing

You can create and sell ebooks, courses, or other digital products that utilize your writing skills. This can be a good way to diversify your income streams and build a passive income once you have established yourself in your niche.

Online Writing Jobs That Make For Great Side Gigs

With more and more people wanting to work online there are now more options for online writing jobs today than before. The following are some of the top online writing jobs you can start today. What more? Any of these online writing jobs can make for great side gigs.

1: Blogging

Blogging is a great way to share your thoughts and ideas with a wide audience. It can be done on a variety of topics such as personal finance, travel, parenting, food, and more.

As a blogger you may decide to start your own blog or get an online job as hired blogger. To start a blog, you will need to choose a niche, select a blogging platform (such as WordPress or Blogger), and create content. Once your blog starts to gain traction, you can monetize it through advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing.

For a beginner, you can start by creating a free blog on platforms like WordPress.com or Blogger, and then learn about monetization options as you gain experience.

2: Freelance writing

Freelance writing is a great way to turn your writing skills into a side gig. Websites like Upwork and Freelancer allow you to find clients looking for written content in various niches, such as blog posts, product descriptions, articles, and more.

To get started, you will need to create a portfolio of your work and build a profile on these platforms. For a beginner, you can start by offering your services to friends, family, or local businesses in your area, and then use those samples to create your portfolio and apply for jobs on those platforms.

3: Content creation

Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are in need of written content to accompany their visual content. This includes captions, descriptions, and scripts for videos. To get started, you will need to create a strong social media presence, and then reach out to influencers or brands in your niche.

For a beginner, you can start by creating your own social media accounts and experimenting with creating captions or descriptions for your posts and videos. You can reach out to small businesses or influencers in your area to offer your services.

4: Copywriting

Copywriting is the art of writing persuasive, compelling content that motivates people to take action. Businesses need written content for their websites, brochures, and other marketing materials, and copywriters are in high demand. To get started, you will need to learn the basics of copywriting and create a portfolio of your work.

For a beginner, you can start by learning from online resources such as Copyblogger or taking a copywriting course and then offering your services to small businesses or start-ups in your area.

5: Technical writing

Technical writing involves creating user manuals, instruction guides, and other technical documents. These documents are used to help users understand and use a product or service. To get started, you will need to have a strong understanding of the technical subject matter, and be able to explain it in simple, easy-to-understand language.

For a beginner, you can start by learning about technical writing and then offering your services to small businesses or start-ups in your area.

6: Grant writing

Grant writing involves creating proposals that are used to secure funding from foundations, government agencies, and other organizations. Non-profit organizations and small businesses often hire grant writers to help them secure funding.

To get started, you will need to understand the grant writing process, and be able to write persuasive, compelling proposals. For a beginner, you can start by learning about grant writing and then offering your services to small non-profits or start-ups in your area.

7: Editing and proofreading

Editing and proofreading involve reviewing written content for errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. If you have a keen eye for detail and a good grasp of grammar, you can offer your services as an editor or proofreader.

To get started, you will need to create a portfolio of your work and build a profile on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. For a beginner, you can start by offering your services to friends, family, or local businesses in your area, and then use those samples to create your portfolio and apply for jobs on those platforms.

Additionally, you can take online editing and proofreading courses to improve your skills and increase your chances of getting hired.

8: Ghostwriting

Ghostwriting involves writing content on behalf of someone else, typically a book or an article. Some authors or business leaders hire ghostwriters to help them write their books or articles. To get started, you will need to have strong writing skills and be able to understand the author's voice and style.

For a beginner, you can start by reaching out to authors or business leaders in your area and offering your services as a ghostwriter. You can also check out platforms like Upwork or Freelancer for ghostwriting opportunities.

9: Press Release writing

Press Release writing is the art of creating compelling, newsworthy content that promotes a product, service, or event. Many businesses and organizations hire people to write press releases to promote their products or services.

To get started, you will need to learn the basics of press release writing and create a portfolio of your work. For a beginner, you can start by learning about press release writing and then offering your services to small businesses or start-ups in your area.

10: Fiction and non-fiction writing

Writing fiction or non-fiction books is a great way to turn your passion for writing into a side gig. You can self-publish your books or submit them to publishers and agents. To get started, you will need to have a strong understanding of the publishing industry and be able to write compelling, well-crafted stories.

For a beginner, you can start by writing short stories or articles and submitting them to magazines or online publications. You can also take writing courses or workshops to improve your skills and increase your chances of getting published.

Getting Started With Online Writing Jobs

While it is really easy to make money writing content online you still need to package yourself in a way to will get you more jobs. Whether you are going the way of an independent contractor or you expect to be hired by some company out there, you’ll need to have a strategy in place.

Besides, it's important to have a strong portfolio of writing samples and a clear understanding of your rates and the types of projects you're willing to take on.

Here’s a guide to help you get started on the right path:

  1. Gather Your resources

Basically you need a computer that is connected to the internet for you to successfully become either a freelance or hired online content writer. Ensure this is in place and then make a plan so that you have some time off every day to work on your business.

  1. Build your resume/portfolio

Clients or hiring agents will want to see samples of your work before engaging you. It is important therefore that you have samples of your work published somewhere on the internet before you start looking for jobs.

Decide on the niche or topics you want to concentrate on. Or possibly the niche/subject you want to start with. As expected this should be a subject you already have some knowledge in. Once you have decided on this, write some very high quality articles on topics that will be of interest to your potential clients and get them published on article directories or your own blog.

Now, let me emphasis that though having your own blog is not compulsory but having one gives you some advantage. This is because the potential client will be more convinced that you are an experienced writer.

If you have your own blog you can have a dedicated “Hire me” page on the blog where you prospect for clients.

  1. Market your services

Once you have some articles published your next move is to prospect for clients. This is actually where many give up. Attracting potential employers and clients is something you will need to continuously do. If you don’t know how to market your services, getting clients will be difficult.

Finding Online Writing Jobs

There are many different ways to find online writing jobs. Some of these include:

  1. Freelancing sites

This is the most common route that many new comers usually take. With freelance outsourcing sites like Elance.com and Freelancer.com you will be able to connect with clients easily.

However, there is a high level of completion on these sites. Whether you will win jobs or not depend on factors like your bid price, your skills, your previous experience, nationality, and a few other things.
The good news is, once you break through these barriers you can be sure of success.

  1. Fiverr.com

This is a website where you can set up your article writing gigs (projects) and clients will pay you $5 for each article you write. You also offer article bundles for more.

  1. Content mills

These are content and SEO agencies that help other websites with content marketing and search engine optimization projects. Once you are accepted by these agencies you can be sure of getting writing assignments and getting paid for each article completed.

Note however, that many of these content mills pay peanuts.

  1. Social media

You can use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to market your article writing services. There are various article writing groups on these social networking sites where you can pass across your message to other members and of course you may get referral from some of these places.

  1. Networking

Networking is an important part of any career, and online writing is no exception. Attend writing conferences, join writing groups and organizations, and connect with other writers online. These connections can help you find writing opportunities and can also provide valuable support and guidance as you build your online writing career.

Whatever the method you choose to use, you will need to run things like a business. Treat your clients in such a way that they will always come back to you.

This goes beyond writing great articles. You should be able to meet deadlines, show concern about their business, communicate effectively with them and respond quickly to their mails and calls. If changes or re-writes are needed you should be willing to effect these.

Freelance Job Websites

As mentioned above, freelancing sites are some of the easiest ways for getting online content writing jobs. This being so, it will be a disservice if we do not talk about them in this special guide.

So, what are Freelancing sites?

These are websites and job boards that offer you a chance to promote yourself and to find those that are seeking help. Using freelancing site is one of the best ways to start finding content writing jobs online and to make money as a content writer. These high traffic sites connect freelancers with clients.

Most of the large freelancing sites are free to set up an account. In fact, you can often land jobs without having to spend any money. You just pay a small fee from every project you are able to land on these sites. For most of these sites, that fee comes from the vendor/purchaser of the project. So, it is a great way to generate money without investing in marketing.

Examples of Freelance Job Websites

While there are a lot of freelancing sites out there I just want to refer to a few in this guide. These are all high powered websites with tons of traffic:

Example #1: UpWork.com

UpWork.com

This was formerly known as oDesk.com. It is the #1 ranking in terms of annual freelance earnings. If you want to understand more of how it works, check out the site. They have thousands of jobs on there that you can look at.

While you don’t have to you can start by inserting a profile image as it helps you to stand apart from those that don’t have one. It really just helps the potential buyer to connect with you. It helps them to communicate and to start to trust you.

You may look at other profiles on the site so you can get a good idea about those that work well and that get attention.

Take the time to complete a good profile before you apply for any jobs. All of the information helps them to verify you as a freelancer and a person. They aren’t going to share all of the details from your profile with each potential buyer. However, the website does want to have some basic details to verify you are a real person.

You will need to take a job readiness test so that you can apply for up to 20 jobs per week. That averages to about 80 jobs per month just by completing this free test. That will set you apart from those that don’t. It will give you more chances to bid. Any time that a free freelancer site has a free test for you to take, do so. It is good for your continued success.

Example #2: Guru.com

This is another very popular freelance site. They have thousands of potential jobs that you can bid on. The site is simple to navigate and you can apply for what you would like to do.

Example #3: Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com

This is another very popular freelancing site. It used to be RentaCoder but they merged to create a large site with so many jobs. It may be the largest freelance site out there now.

Freelancer.com allows you to take exams for various categories. But my advice is to only take exams for the types of work that you would like to do. The exams will really increase your chances of getting the jobs you apply for. You are almost 4 times more likely to get hired on this site for a job if you have completed the exam. It is well worth your investment of the time.

On your free account with Freelancer, you have 10 free bids. You want to be selective about what you bid on. You can bid how much you want to make and it will be included in the fee charged the buyer. For example, if you say you want to earn $140, it will be $155.56 to the buyer. That will cover the Freelancer fees so you don’t pay anything out of your pocket to get started.

There are paid options on all of these freelancing sites, but you don’t have to upgrade to them. Start out with the free options first. If you get to the point where you are making money then you can invest to upgrade your account. If you get the chance to write a proposal, do so. It can help you to differentiate your bid from those of other potential freelancers.

Once you have an understanding of how to work with these sites you will be able to work with any other freelancing site out there.

Tips for Success In Online Writing Jobs

Tips for Success In Online Writing Jobs

Here are some tips that will help you get more freelance jobs as an online content writer:

  1. Create a winning profile

For a start you need a winning profile that you can post on freelancing sites, if you want to get jobs on those sites. Write a winning headline. Try to limit it to one line on the profile page. Include a clean and professional looking profile image.

  1. Build a strong portfolio

Your portfolio is your calling card as an online writer, and it's important to take the time to build a strong one. Include a variety of writing samples that showcase your skills and expertise. Be sure to include examples of different types of writing, such as blog posts, articles, and marketing copy, to show your range as a writer.

You can set up a free page at www.about.me if you don’t have a website. This is a great recruitment tool that you can use. These resources are all in place to help you create a free website to advertise your services and advertise what you can do. It is a good way to appeal to buyers and to make you appear more professional in their eyes.

  1. Write great proposals

Have a strong opening paragraph in your proposal. Open with your qualifications. What sets you apart? What makes you good at what you do? What makes you the right candidate for that job?

It will also do you good to explore other profiles to learn from them. Look at some of the top profiles of those in your niche. These are people with experience and that get jobs. It will give you a good idea of what to add on your profile.

If you have some qualification that is relevant, make sure you mention it. Use that to your advantage. It isn’t the end of the world if you don’t have any high-sounding degree. But if you do, don’t neglect to include it.

  1. Offer samples of your work

Always offer samples of your work, even if you are brand new to freelancing. This will greatly improve your chances of being hired. Create your niches and then come up with samples that you can use for each of those niches. Samples show what you can do and help you stand out from the competition.

Offer several samples and try to show a variety of the types of work you can do.

  1. Follow the rules of the freelance site

When looking for jobs on freelancing sites it is important that you stay within the rules of those sites. Be careful about what you share in your details. You don’t want to get banned for not following the rules or doing something you shouldn’t because you weren’t aware of it.

  1. Understand the tone/style of your target market

Before reaching out to a potential client, take some time to read through other articles on their sites (if this is available). Note the tone of the site and model your article after what you see on their site or blog. Know the site’s tone, voice and the topics generally covered.

Even after doing this, it’s always a good idea to ask the client for the desired style or for other related tips when you get the assignment.

  1. Be creative

Don’t just copy other peoples content or re-edit old ideas. Write articles that are useful, practical and contain actionable advice. Readers are always looking for easy step by step guides. If you can produce content that help them in this wise you will be sure of getting more assignments.

  1. Look for reputable writing assignments

Whether you are looking for work on a freelancing site or you reach out to clients from your own site, be careful that you do not fall prey to those who just want to feed fat on your sweat.

Know how to pick the jobs with the most promising paychecks. Avoid those that make no mention of money, or ask writers to submit new work on spec in order to be considered. Truth is most of these ones are contractors who will want to pay you peanuts and then sell your work to high paying clients.

The best thing is to look for those that specify some level of experience and include a reasonable pay rate.

  1. Don’t make pay the only criteria

Not minding the above, when you are vetting markets, don’t judge the pay rate on the dollar amount alone. Most times a writing assignment may develop into a working relationship that will be of great benefit to you in the future.

So if you can have some information about the potential client’s rates, payment history and possibly what is required for you to successfully complete the assignment, you can go on as long as you know there is something in it for you.

  1. Expect tight deadlines

Online people always expect immediate results. With this in mind, you may be expected to write to a very tight deadline, especially if covering a breaking event. You must learn to package your time and resources to beat every deadline. If you fail to do this clients may find it difficult to get back to you.

  1. Set fair rates and negotiate payment

As an online writer, it's important to set fair rates for your work. Do your research to determine the going rate for the type of writing you do, and be sure to factor in your experience and expertise when setting your rates. Don't be afraid to negotiate payment terms with clients, but be sure to do so in a professional and respectful manner.

  1. Market yourself effectively

As an online content writer, you are responsible for finding your own clients. That means it's important to know how to market yourself effectively. Build a website, create a LinkedIn profile, and use social media to showcase your writing skills and attract potential clients.

Use a professional photo on your social media sites. It should be similar to what you use on your freelancer sites. Mention on your social media site that you are a freelancer. Tell them what you do and what types of work you offer. Mention what you do so that people are aware of it.

Overcoming Online Writing Job Challenges

Online Writing Job Challenges

As with any career, being an online writer can come with its own set of challenges. By being proactive and finding strategies to overcome these common challenges, you can build a successful and rewarding career as an online writer.

Here are a few common challenges you may face as an online writer, and some tips for how to overcome them:

1. Time management

As a freelancer, it's important to be disciplined in managing your time. Set clear boundaries around your working hours, and try to set aside dedicated time for writing and other tasks.

2. Dealing with difficult clients

It's inevitable that you will encounter difficult clients at some point in your online writing career. When this happens, it's important to remain professional and try to find a resolution that works for both parties. If necessary, don't be afraid to walk away from a client if the working relationship becomes toxic.

3. Managing workload and avoiding burnout

It's easy to become overwhelmed when you have a lot of work on your plate. To avoid burnout, try to take breaks and make time for self-care. It's also important to learn how to say no to work that isn't a good fit or that you don't have the capacity to take on.

Further Resources

Here are a few online courses, books, and training programs that might be help to you as you step out to start your online content writing career.

Online Content Writing courses:

  • Writing for the Web by the University of Canterbury
  • Freelance Writing 101: The Complete Guide by Skillshare
  • Copywriting 101 by the American Writers & Artists Inc.
  • How to Write a Freelance Contract by Kristi Hines

Content Writing Books:

  • The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
  • On Writing Well by William Zinsser

Training programs:

  • Copyblogger Academy by Rainmaker Digital
  • Freelance Writers Den by Carol Tice
  • Copywriting Academy by AWAI (American Writers & Artists Inc.)

FAQs: Online Writing Jobs

Q: How Can I Get An Online Writing Job?

A: To get an online writing job, you will need to have strong writing skills and a portfolio of your work. You can start by creating a free blog or website to showcase your writing samples. You can also reach out to small businesses or start-ups in your area to offer your services. Additionally, you can create a profile on online platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr to find clients looking for written content.

Q: Which Is The Best Online Writing Job?

A: The best online writing job will depend on your interests and skills. Some popular options include freelance writing, content creation, copywriting, technical writing, and grant writing. It's best to research and explore different options to find the one that best suits your needs.

Q: How Much Does Online Writing Pay?

A: The pay for online writing jobs can vary depending on the type of job, the client, and your experience level. Freelance writing jobs on average pay around $0.05 to $0.10 per word, but it can go up to $1 per word for experienced writers or for specialized niches. Other types of online writing jobs may have different pay structures such as per hour, per project, or per word.

Q: Where Can I Write and Get Paid?

A: There are various platforms and websites where you can write and get paid. Some popular options include Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, and other freelance platforms. You can also get paid for writing on your own blog or website through advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. Additionally, you can get paid for writing on other websites such as Medium, HubPages, and more.

Conclusion

Online writing can be a fulfilling and lucrative career for those with a passion for writing. In this guide, we've explored the benefits of online writing jobs, how to find writing opportunities, and tips for success as an online content writer. We've also addressed common challenges and provided strategies for overcoming them.

As you build your online writing career, it's important to continue learning and improving your skills. Consider taking online writing courses or joining writing groups and organizations to stay up-to-date on industry developments and connect with other writers.

There are also many online communities and resources available to support online writers. Consider joining forums and groups specifically for online writers, where you can connect with others, share advice and resources, and find support and encouragement.

I hope you find this post helpful as you step out to create a successful and rewarding career as an online content writer.

If you have find it useful, kindly share with your online contacts and also let us know in the comments below.

2 Comments
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  2. thanks for helping by writing such content mindblowing

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