adminFreelancing as a Website/Blog Content Writer is one of the commonest freelancing jobs that come handy in the Freelancesphere and as much as this is true, it is one kind of Freelancing that is hinged on a proper definition. That is, if it’s not properly and well-defined, it can lead to misconceptions on both parties end and also, the Freelancer might end up doing what is referred to as pro-bono at the end of the day and when that is not the case, she/he might end up receiving less than deserved.
What am I trying to say? As a Freelancer who is very much interested in content writing and platforms like websites and blogs, it is important that certain things are properly addressed and noted before you start content writing proper.
What then are these things?
1. Certify your interest: Sometimes, the benefit that comes with being on a particular platform as a Freelancer is secondary to what you can give the platform. As a Freelancer who is very professional and sincere, you should be able to ask/tell yourself that even though it’s true that this platform is offering these things, what am I offering this platform? Am I sure that I’ve got what it takes to satisfy the reason this platform is trying to offer me this much or the reason I’m being employed as a Freelancer on this platform? These ponderings are not to question your efficiency and ingenuity as a Freelancer but to help assess if you’re much more ready to be content-productive on the platform as much as they are willing to be financially productive. Don’t take a Freelance job on a platform that is focused on Art and Reviews when you do political criticisms. Don’t get me wrong, it is good to try our hands on new things but when it comes to professionalism, try not to do trial and error! Of course, there are certain industries that are close to one another. For example, if you’re a Lifestyle Freelancer, you can try your hands on platforms that talk relationship, health, daily experiences, etc. but the most important aspect is getting hold of your interest, How do I feel being on this platform? I know the money is good but is their kind of writing really my kind of writing? Deep down, do I really want to take this job or I want to take the money?
2. Make a contract: I cannot stress this enough. Sometimes ago, I was writing on a platform and there was no contract. We discussed it on phone and via Facebook Messenger and that was all and then I started writing. If I could count, I think I submitted up to 6 articles on that platform while it lasted and I never got paid for any. Why? Because I asked how many articles I was supposed to submit in a week/month, and I got the reply, as much as you can since you’re free and don’t have much on your hands so, submitting 6 articles within two months didn’t count as one of as much as possible so the employer never talked payment and I didn’t have the guts/grounds to ask because I was caught in a web of something that was improperly defined or undefined. So, as a Freelancer, no matter how long a platform has been existing, no matter their audience loyalty, no matter the reputation they have or do not have on ground before, Freelancing without a properly drafted and signed contract showing your agreement and your employer’s agreement is a fatal risk! There would be nothing to refer to when need be because sometimes, it can be very difficult to hold people to do their spoken words but you can hold them to their written words.
When freelancing on blogs/websites, the following should be properly defined between you two and also contracted;
(a) Numbers of articles in a week/month – don’t let anyone pull the as much as possible stunt on you. Let it be defined. Are you to write three times a week? Four? Or what?
(b) Mode of payment, time of payment and amount to be paid – Some platforms will tell you, you’re to be paid based on how many views gotten. Others will tell you otherwise. So, be clear on these three things and let it be written in the contract. Sometimes also, some platforms pay in kind – like they can pass some advertisement to you, reviews and the products but above all, you need to be sure you’re comfortable with it, and if not, object! Don’t fake understanding and accepting a contract and its specifications. You don’t have to take it if you don’t like it!
Finally,
3. Be diligent: Don’t be a lover of excuse! Some Freelancers can give you excuse ehn, I used to give excuses! Truthfully, sometimes, certain things are beyond you that it might take only you to understand what you go through because you’re human with emotions (lol), but if it must affect your work and delivery, you can let it go and if not, be ready to face the repercussions that come with slacking but basically, you have the power to not let whatever you go through affect your job/delivery! It’s not just a sham, it’s true and I’ve learnt that I can control it. So if I can, you can too (winks). I know it can be hard sometimes but when you get a new job and it’s one excuse today and tomorrow, mehn, it’s exhausting. Sometimes, it’s just too early not to be diligent.
4. Be Professional: Don’t be that Freelancer who digs/visits his/her archives often to dig up old articles to post on your employed platform. It’s so unprofessional. How long will you do that? They employed you because they probably have seen some of your works which depict newness, ingenuity and creativity on a daily basis. Keep them attracted to the new meal and stop trying to warm what has been frozen! I’m not saying a Freelancer’s articles can be outdated, No! Creativity is never stale but reusing can kill creativity and ingenuity. Always put the brain at work!
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