The first, most difficult lesson that aspiring freelancers learn? Most clients do not want you.
To be successful, it is important that you come to terms with the fact that there are clients out there who do not, and will not ever, want any of your work.
Likewise, it is equally important that despite these rejections, you remain confident in yourself and your writing abilities. As long as you continue working to improve your writing, and as long as you do not give up on yourself, then you are bound to find success on your path to publication.
If you are just starting out, and are struggling with either the rejections from clients, or with maintaining confidence in your endeavors despite these rejections, then I strongly encourage you to refer to these 5 backup plans required for success in the field of freelance blogging:
1. Finding a reputable client is far more difficult than you may initially expect.
You set out into the field of freelance blogging, hopeful and eager to land your first paid writing gig, and before long you discover that there are a lot of scammers out there. During this initial “seek-and-find” period, you will also learn that there are a depressingly low number of legitimate writing opportunities to be found.
To ensure that you do not waste your time or fall into the trap of a scammer, you must be sure to research each of your potential clients prior to applying to work with them.
Visit and explore the client’s website. Get a feel for their niche and read a variety of the posts or publications on their site. See if your style and knowledge are compatible with their needs, and that their needs also fit in line with your desires.
Be wary of any opportunities that sound too good to be true; as the saying would have it, those are typically false-leads.
When considering a client, you should always run a Google search on them. Open a handful of the result pages that you get back on your client search, specifically looking for reviews of legitimacy of the client and what it is like to work with them.
Plan B: If you do fall victim to a scammer, getting “played” by a false client, instead of becoming discouraged and beating yourself up, you should opt to use the circumstances of your situation as another area of importance to focus on while researching potential clients. Use the mishap as a lesson learned, and move forward equipped with the new knowledge you have. Be sure to consider this new knowledge before applying to work with a client in the future.
No one is going to look out for your best interest the way that you can, so be sure to utilize every opportunity you have, to verify the validity of each possible client; doing so will ensure that you are working for someone who is reputable: both in the work they produce or provide, and in the ways that they correspond with their contributors (you).
It seems like a good deal of effort spent, to conduct this research on potential clients before beginning any actual work for them, but it is absolutely necessary if you want to save yourself a great deal of strife and frustration down the line.
2. The criticism you will receive is usually quite harsh.
For new writers, this can be extremely discouraging. Editors are receiving countless entries and applications every single day. It is only understandable that they reach a point of knowing exactly what they are [and are not] looking for in a writer; because of this though, their criticisms can often be so cut-and-dry that it is almost insulting.
Even in writer’s forums, and on people’s own personal blogs, there are readers with such negative criticisms that it is a wonder anyone continues to write at all.
The fact is, there are always going to be critics, and if they manage to knock you down– you cannot let them keep you down.
Plan B: When receiving harsh criticism or feedback, instead of shutting down and declaring that ‘your work is too poor to ever be chosen’, use these criticisms and bits of feedback constructively to build on the quality of your writing.
Now, I’m not saying to listen to the insensitive critic who is telling you to throw anything you’ve ever written in the garbage disposal; that is simply absurd.
Instead, I am suggesting that you consider the input of critics who may have a truly valid point [even if it is one we are initially inclined to refuse as a possible truth]. Listen more deeply and open-mindedly to the advice of those critics who are not intending to be hurtful, but who are instead hoping to be helpful in seeing you grow.
Shrug off the hateful words, and otherwise consider the less-than-preferable feedback from your audience. Even the harsh criticisms can help our writings flourish if we accept and address them appropriately.
3. Keep at it.
The field of freelance writing jobs is a fast-paced one, full of harsh criticisms and limited openings for publication. It is most often a first-come-first-served basis, or the opportunities are restricted to writers of a far more matured stature.
It can all become very discouraging at times. Be aware of this sense of discouragement, putting forth conscious effort to not be overcome by it. You should also focus on being realistic with your goals, knowing that they are going to take a good deal of time to achieve; finding a reputable client to work for and generating the income that aspiring freelance bloggers anticipate won’t happen overnight.
Plan B: In the meantime, allow yourself to utilize any and all of the free online tools that are geared toward furthering your writing abilities.
Seek out forums for freelancers and read the countless conversations that usually hold a wealth of information.
Local libraries are a fantastic resource for writers as well: chock full of ideas, lessons, and options.
Use any piece of information or advice you come across that will help you to expand on your current skills as a writer, until you secure a gig that provides promising momentum for the future.
Do not give up on yourself or your work, regardless of how off-putting any part of the “getting published” process may be. Remember: persistence is key.
4. Do not put all your eggs in one basket!
You cannot only submit one application, to one client, and think that’s how simple it is to successfully make it in the field of freelance blogging; because it isn’t.
You are really going to have to spread your work [and efforts] far-and-wide if you want to stand a chance at making something bigger out of your writing.
Plan B: Rather, you should submit samples and applications to as many reputable clients as you can. Doing so will increase your chances of being selected.
Even if you are not selected, some of those clients will still provide you with feedback as to why you were not selected, and these criticisms or bits of feedback can be used to expand on your skills as a writer, moving forward.
5. Be patient.
Using freelance blogging to make a living is not something that will be mastered quickly, even for the most naturally-gifted writers. Be aware that success in this field is not guaranteed; it is achieved through hard work, dedication, and relentless persistence.
You will need to continue to conduct research, dodge scammers, ignore absurd criticisms, and seek out legitimate opportunities. You are going to have to keep doing these things until you are sick and tired of them; and then, you’re going to need to do them all once more for good measure.
Plan B: For the time being, do not become restless and impatient with your desires to flourish as a writer.
Focus your energy and effort toward doing the absolute best that you can to stay calm and have faith in the madness of the publishing process.
Remind yourself that nothing worth having comes easily. Stay patient and do not rush off to quit your day job just yet.
As with any profession, amateur freelance writers and bloggers all have to start somewhere, and starting truly is the hardest part. I challenge you today to start; where ever you are, despite any constraints you inflict upon yourself, make the decision to start- and to stick with it. After that, I hope you will find value in, and assurance from, these 5 Plan B’s that truly are requirements if you wish to succeed in the field of writing or freelance blogging.
Once you’ve made that running leap over the starting line, when you begin to move along diligently in pursuit of your goals, you will then need to muster up all of the tenacity, perseverance, and will required to press forward, no matter how tired you get along the way; no matter how many Plan B’s, or C’s, [or even Plan D’s] that you wind up falling back on, along the way.
Pair these Plan B’s with the ability to remain secure and confident in yourself and in your work, and you will surely see your efforts flourish into achievements in due time.
Until then keep learning, keep growing, keep trying, and do not ever let anyone stifle your passions!
Happy Blogging! :]
Elizabeth Spencer says
Thanks for this thoughtful advice, Jessica!
Jessica Denne says
You are so welcome, Elizabeth! Thank you for reading! 🙂
Leanne says
I think the hardest part is proving to potential clients that I’m serious. “You only started a few months ago? We want someone with more experience.” It’s been said to be a few times already but I’m being persistent!
Cara Lewis says
So im reading this a little more than a year later…wer you persistant? Did it pay off? What are you doing now?
Jessica Denne says
Hey, Cara!
I have been persistent, but not as aggressively throughout the past year as I have been in the past six months or so. After this article was published, I did a few paid case-studies for individuals researching published writers. After that, I went through a move and some family medical problems, and slowed down in my efforts to be published, but still continued to write periodically (you can find my personal blog at http://www.jessjustcares.com).
Since my last blog post I have been working on writing a book. While I thoroughly enjoy blogging, I have a story in mind that will be better told as a book, so I am working on that.
Through this, I will continue to seek out writing contests and other opportunities where I’ll be paid if I win; and I will continue soliciting my work to publishers whom I would work well under.
I really try to keep myself active in my endeavors to advance my writing; to help me to network with other writers, publishers, or blog-owners; and to otherwise tirelessly pursue my goals.
Jessica Denne says
I can certainly understand that frustration, Leanne.
The way I tackle that dilemma is to remind myself this is the “norm” in any profession these days. They want people who are experienced.
If I were to be seeking employment, I would continuously apply to jobs, despite being told every time that the employer is seeking someone with more experience. I wouldn’t let it deter me from continuing my pursuit of employment, because I have bills that depend on my paycheck.
That said, when I encounter the same response from publishers or editors, from any other person or entity to whom I have pitched that they, “are seeking someone who is more experienced”, I simply just have to keep trying.
Despite being told this time and time again, I will continue to write and solicit my writing with the same fervent perseverance as I would when sending my resume out for jobs.
…and maybe my writing will never make it to the point where I have any form of regular, reliable income from it; even still, my heart and soul will be so full in knowing I have never given up the belief in myself. Despite all the blows I have received, I am still in the fight- and I do not ever intend to give up.
I hope this perspective may help!
Thank you for reading! 🙂
Sagar Nandwani says
Which beats tearing your hair and wishing they would load faster, while you stare hatefully at that stupid beachball graphic. You get a bit more workout, improve your posture, AND reduce stress, all at the same time.
Judy says
I really hear you Jessica. As much as it can sting, it is the criticism that gives me a new burst of determination to ‘Show ’em’ I can deliver.
It is difficult to shove it aside and keep writing, but in the end, it’s also the inner knowing that your other clients are very happy with your work. That in itself is encouragement.
I love how you’ve organised your approaches with true grit that is inescapable. Freelancing is bloody hard but when you love what you do and you do what you love, you gotta ask, How does it get any better than this? And inevitably it does.
Jessica Denne says
Judy, you have summarized my thoughts and feelings of being a writer so succinctly! 🙂
Thank you for reading! More over, thank you for the compliment on my article, and thank you for sharing your thoughts!! 🙂
Jessica says
I am just getting started and quite terrified of the uphill battle it will be to get established – articles like this put me at ease, knowing that it’s going to be hard, but it’s hard for everyone. Thank you for the wise words 🙂
Jessica Denne says
Hey, Jessica!
I am glad my words were able to put you at ease. That is what I was truly hoping for when I wrote this article: to be real about how hard it is, and maybe bring some comfort in the form of reliability and helpful suggestions.
Like you said, though, this can still be very trying and downright hard. I hope you’ve kept up with your writing; and if you haven’t, but still have it in your heart to write, then I hope you pick it back up again. 🙂
Thank you for reading! 🙂
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Jessica Denne says
I am so glad you enjoyed my post and were able to learn some new things from it! I hope it has continued to prove helpful throughout your writing journey!
Thank you for reading! 🙂
Durgesh says
Is it possible to earn money as a freelance blogger.
Jessica Denne says
Hello, Durgesh!
It is possible to earn money as a freelance blogger, yes; however this article speaks to how difficult it can be to make it happen.
In my research I have found a very select few LEGITIMATE websites through which I would be able to get paid for my writing. I do not want to share any of the websites here, as I am not sure of Sophie and Lauren’s stance on anyone doing so, but they are out there. You just have to be weary when doing your research because there really are a lot of scams out there. If you find a potential website or client who offers payment for your writing, a quick google search: “is (company name) a scam?” This has been my first course of action in my research of a potential client or website, as it is the quickest way to make a determination as to whether or not it’s a scam;; leading then into whether or not I want to work with them (do their needs match my passion/ niche?).
If you do find a website that you’d want to work with, be mindful that they typically have “boards” where the available writing jobs are posted. You can apply to, bid for, or otherwise submit your desire to be the one granted that job. These types of boards are usually very competitive and can be discouraging to new writers, with the majority of jobs being granted to “more experienced writers”, but this is where your fight must come into the picture, and you have to keep going no matter how many times you’re hit with the “we’re seeking a more experienced writer” bit.
(See above comments for my response to Leanne; as I think it is applicable here, too).
Thank you for reading; and good luck in your efforts and searches! 🙂
Dhrubo Mukherjee says
You just made me more serious about my freelance work. Yes, Jessica absolute wonderful tips.
I must appreciate all the options you have mentioned as plan B. When I started doing my first freelance work I was completely confused what to do or what I don’t. Time to time I established my credential by my work. What I experienced is clients only need the service and like sales here also clients is our God. They criticize used slangs but I kept on working and it really worked. Finding upon a right client according to your requirements needs some serious brainstorming to get the best outcome. If you are in freelancing you have to face ups and downs in your work. Always ready with your plan B to get the most outcome of your efforts.
Jessica Denne says
I am glad this article helps fuel your freelance-writing fire! That’s wonderful! 🙂
It’s very hard starting out, trying to find your niche and your writing-voice. It varies person to person and can be influenced by a number of factors. It really is up to us to decide what we want to write about, and what we don’t want to write about. This could be a beneficial first step in declaring one’s own intents for their writing endeavors.
By staying true to ourselves and our God, while working diligently toward bettering our writing in pursuit of our goals, we are building the necessary traits of confidence and resilience that will prove to be nothing short of beneficial in the long run.
Again, I am so glad you found this article helpful and I hope you remain to be confident and unwavering in your writing! Thank you for reading! 🙂
Shahnaz says
Thanks for the post – at first I thought backup plans meant “non freelance blogger things you can do as a writer” but this spin is much more constructive and inspiring! As I am new to this, the timing is spot on for me to have come across this article. Monday win!
Jessica Denne says
Hey, Shahnaz!
When I read the guidelines for this particular contest, my initial thought was also about “non-freelance blogger things you can do as a writer”, but then my brain switched gears. I began to really reflect and focus on the hardships I was (and still am) facing as an aspiring freelance writer. From there, this article came to life.
I’m glad you stumbled upon it, and I am glad it proved to be encouraging for you. Triple-win for it happening on a Monday (booo, Mondays)!! 😉
Thank you so much for reading! I wish you the best of luck and the sweetest rewards for your hard work! 🙂
Eva | Cold Brew Copy says
This put some things in perspective for me. Thanks, Jessica!
Jessica Denne says
Eva, you are so very welcome! I am glad you found this article to be helpful. Thank you for reading it! 🙂
Benjamin Ehinger says
I remember back in my sales days, we had a rule that you had to find 20 “no’s” before you’d find a yes. If we heard a no from someone, we started the countdown.
While freelance writing isn’t knocking on doors in neighborhoods, like in my sales days, it does mean you’ll hear No quite a bit. You have to build up that thick skin and understand it’s a numbers game.
Jessica Denne says
Yes, Benjamin! I agree completely with you in that it’s a “number’s game”.
Your comment as an important pointer is real gold, here!! Thank you for sharing your perspective!
Christian Sims says
I found this to be super encouraging. I’ve been a little bit overwhelmed by the whole process of starting freelance writing, but I’m going to keep at it. Thank you!
Jessica says
That makes me real happy, Christian! I’m glad you found this article to be encouraging, and that you’re going to continue on writing!
“Keeping at it” is truly our best defense against the “no’s” we may (read: “will”) receive along the way. No matter what, just don’t give up.
I wish you nothing but the best!