How to become a freelance writer with no experience

Freelance writing can be a great way to make money and further your career, but many people are intimidated by the process of getting started.

Even if you’re already an established writer, knowing how to go from your current work situation to freelance writing can be difficult to figure out, especially when you don’t have any prior experience in freelancing or blogging (you can learn more about blogging at this Wikipedia page).

 If you’re interested in becoming a freelance writer and want some ideas on how to get started, read on for our guide on how to become a freelance writer with no experience at all!

What is Freelance Writing?

Freelance writing is simply writing that you do not get paid for until the work is completed. You may be asked to write an article, blog post, or even a book. Usually, when you are first starting out, you will be working for free.

This is called writing for exposure. By writing for free, you are able to build up your portfolio and show potential clients what you are capable of.

The Benefits of Freelance Writing

There are many benefits of freelance writing. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that you can make money doing something you love – writing! But there are other benefits too, such as: 

1. You can be your own boss and work from home (or anywhere else in the world). 

2. You can choose who you want to work with and what projects you want to work on. 

3. You can set your own rates and earn as much money as you want/need. 

4. You can take on as much or as little work as you want. 

5. You can take breaks whenever you want or need them – there’s no such thing as vacation days when you’re a freelancer!

Getting Started as a Freelance Writer

So you want to be a freelance writer, but have no idea where to start. Don't worry, you're not alone. I was in the same boat when I first started out. Here are a few tips on how to get started as a freelance writer with no experience

How do I get started?

The first step is finding work. You can look for online job postings, or contact companies and individuals directly and inquire about writing opportunities. Once you've found a few potential clients, the next step is to put together a portfolio.

This can be a website, blog, or even just a document with some of your best writing samples. Make sure that it's accessible to prospective employers so they can easily see what you're capable of.

Next, make sure that your resume is up-to-date and professional looking; never forget to mention any freelance jobs that you may have done in the past as this will show prospective employers that you're experienced in many areas.

Taxes and Declarations as a Freelancer in Canada

When you become a freelancer, you're responsible for paying your own taxes. This includes declaring any income you make to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

You can do this online through My Account or by mail.If you're registered for GST/HST, you also have to file regular GST/HST returns. You can do this online through My Business Account or by mail.As a freelancer, you may be able to deduct certain expenses on your tax return.

These could include things like office supplies, computer equipment, and professional development fees. Be sure to keep track of all your receipts!If you have any questions about taxes and declarations as a freelancer in Canada, be sure to speak with a professional tax accountant or lawyer.

Advice from other freelancers

If you want to become a freelance writer, but have no idea where to start, don't worry! You can definitely do this, even without any prior experience. Here's some advice from other freelancers who have been in your shoes: 

1. Start by writing for yourself. This can be anything from a blog to just journaling about your day-to-day thoughts. Getting in the habit of writing regularly will help hone your skills and prepare you for taking on paid writing gigs.

2. Once you feel comfortable writing, reach out to friends and family members who might need help with something like their resume or a business proposal. While they may not pay much, these types of projects give you valuable experience and allow you to network with people in your personal life. 

3. Now that you've built up a little portfolio (even if it's small), it's time to branch out into more professional work. Check sites like LinkedIn for local businesses in your area looking for writers or browse through job boards such as Indeed or The Ladders. You'll likely find plenty of opportunities that fit within your desired field, so apply today!