Freelance Writer: What are Expected From You?

I have received many applications for freelance writers and I always list down my expectations. True, there are many projects ready for you and you can really make money. But it's not an overnight success; even if you are working freelance, you spend most of your time at the computer. For starters, you have to be quick in finding new job postings and also, spending time writing to meet deadlines.

So what does it takes to be a freelance writer? Here are some of them.

• Steady and stable internet connection. Using the cafe will be expensive in the long run. If you really decide to be a freelance writer, you have to have your own internet connection. Clients want to communicate with you often particularly regarding updates. Some clients can give you urgent assignments.

• Quality and original work. Some writers fail to give what the client really wants, just like any job; you have to satisfy your customer. It's not about meeting deadlines but it has to be really good and people will read them. There are some that editing their work means rewriting. Also, it is such a shame when writers have 25% duplications in their work. Before submitting your work, run the ArticleChecker to erase any duplications.

• Deadlines. Clients have heard all excuses from writers - black-out, emergency, blah blah blah. Not to be rude, there are really emergencies that would come our way as writers. The best way is to do your project ahead of time. Deadline is the name of this game; you have to play with it.It is also very unprofessional to cancel a project few hours before the deadline. If you must cancel a project for any reason, it must be at least 12 hours before the deadline.

There are many expectations from a freelance writer, but since you are just starting; stick to the three things I mentioned. Freelance writing is all about discipline and dedication.