Questions from a new to freelancing writer

I have a few questions and if anyone can answer any of them would be very grateful.

I've noticed a lot of people give one price per x number of words, does everyone do this what other pricing models are there and do you not find that some work you can write off the top of your head and others you need to research for 4 hours in order to write 1000 words?

I've also noticed few people seem to specialise, at least if they do they don't often mention it, is this because most writing is within a few genres that are very easy for anyone to write?

What things are worth mentioning when I advertise: I am a native English speaker? I have a Marketing Degree?

and lastly anybody who allows people to pay once they are happy with an article, do you often have problems with people making up problems to avoid paying?

Many thanks
Dave

 

First off, you need to learn how to write, before anything.

I had to read your post several times to try to make sense out of it.

Not every writer charges the same way. That is, if that is what you were asking.

We charge by word or by project. Usually it is by project. How long it will take.

Yes, many times we have to do the research, but that is not included in the price. That would not be fair to the customer (client).

Copywriters, however, do include it in the price.

You do not need to mention anything in your advertisng. Your work (samples) in itself will speak volumes.

If they have any questions, they will ask you then.

For me, personally, I ask for the fee upfront. So I have never been stiffed.

If you do get stiffed, you are pretty much shit out of luck.

If anything, get at least 50% upfront.

 

I stress on getting upfront payment. I used not to get them, actually refuse to get them. And then I got kicked once, after around $400 of work. Now I either take upfront or go through Odesk (guarantee payments for hourly work)

 

Thanks for this guys I will bare it all in mind particularly regarding the payments up front, 50% sounds like it might be a good idea and I will into odesk.
It looks like I may need to work on a portfolio in order to sell myself to begin with.

Many Thanks
Dave

 

50% up front is a great way to stay safe - but what about those new to the forum?

 

It doesn't matter.

Even if you are new to writing, period.

Your work, your samples, your site will show people how good you are.

 

Agreed, it is your work, your time

 

Cheers everyone for your advice, I have spent the week working on some more examples to send to people to sell myself.

 

I need a copywriter truely, will you please send me "PM"

 

Hi terrificseo, I don't seem to be able to PM you may be because we are both fairly new here; please feel free to e-mail me at and I can send you some samples.

Cheers
Dave

 

Creating a portfolio of your work can produce great results with employers looking to hire you. Creating some fascinating content can help you to stand apart from the other applicants; as well as let the employer preview you’re writing styles and ability. Speaking as a writer and as an employer of freelance writers I can honestly say that a confident portfolio can make all the difference between an interview stage and being passed over.