If you’re brand new to freelance writing, it can feel overwhelming fast. Job boards, portfolios, writing samples, AI tools, client pitches…it’s a lot.
And if you’ve ever thought:
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“Do I need a website first?”
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“What if I don’t have any experience?”
- “Is this pointless in the age of AI?”
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“How do I actually get clients?”
You’re not alone.
After over a decade helping thousands of people start freelance writing careers, I’ve seen exactly what works (and what doesn’t) when you’re just getting started.
So I want to break down some real strategies for landing freelance writing jobs for beginners.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or your first step toward full-time freedom, this post will help you take action with confidence.
Let’s get started.
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Table of Contents
What You Actually Need to Start Freelance Writing (in 2026)
Ok, before you jump into your new freelance writing career, you want to do a few things first.
1. A basic understanding of freelance writing
You don’t need a degree in journalism or years of experience — but you do need to understand what clients expect. That includes:
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How to write clearly and with purpose
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How content is used (think: blogs, emails, SEO, thought leadership)
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How to follow instructions and meet deadlines
This post walks you through everything: How to Become a Freelance Writer
2. A way to showcase your writing
Clients want to click a link and read your work online.
Here are three easy ways to build a portfolio without overthinking it:
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Start a simple blog or portfolio site (we show you how right here)
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Use free portfolio tools like:
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Post samples on LinkedIn if you’re not ready for a full site
If you’re stuck, keep it simple. Make a folder of your portfolio samples in Google Drive and share the link to prospective clients.
No matter what you choose, just make sure your writing is accessible and easy to read.
3. A few quality writing samples
You don’t need clients to get samples; you just need to write them. Create 2–3 blog-style posts in the niche you want to target. Pick a few sites in that niche, read a couple of blog posts, and then write in a similar style and format to those posts.
Write like you’re already getting paid:
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Use a clear headline
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Focus on solving a specific problem
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Include links, subheadings, and formatting
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Avoid fluff
If you’re not sure what to write, check out our guide: How to Create Freelance Writing Samples That Get You Hired.
That’s it. You don’t need to overcomplicate things. Start with the basics, then build as you go.
With that set, now we can look for jobs.
Where Can a Total Beginner Start Freelance Writing?
If you’re brand new, the goal isn’t to find any freelance writing job. Look for opportunities where you can get real experience, build samples, and start getting paid as quickly as possible.
Here are some of the best places to start:
Blog Writing
Most companies still need blog content. And many are open to newer writers, especially if you show strong writing samples. Look for where you already have expertise, like from a hobby, current or past job, to jump in. For example, if you’ve spent the last 5 years working for a healthcare company, write about healthcare. Start with where you have an advantage.
Email Copy and Newsletters
Small businesses are finally waking up to the power of email. Tons of businesses need help writing welcome sequences, product announcements, educational courses, and newsletters. These are short, focused, and perfect for beginners who want to learn conversion-focused writing.
Content Repurposing
Content repurposing is a hidden gem. Take existing content (like YouTube videos, podcasts, webinars) and turn it into blog posts or social content. It’s easier than writing from scratch and incredibly valuable to busy clients.
Thought Leadership Support
Founders and execs want to build authority online but don’t have time to write. You can help by turning their ideas (via call notes, LinkedIn posts, or rough outlines) into content that helps build their personal brand or promote their company.
Ghostwriting LinkedIn Posts
LinkedIn is booming in 2026, and many professionals are paying writers to help them build a presence. If you’re good at writing short-form content and understanding tone of voice, this is a great entry point. Spend some time on LinkedIn following the top voices in your niche and see what they’re saying.
AI-Assisted Editing
Many clients use tools like ChatGPT to create rough drafts, but they still need a human to edit for tone, clarity, and structure. If you’re confident in your editing skills, this is a fast-growing niche that’s perfect for beginners and can help you build your AI skills.
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10 Ways Beginning Freelance Writers Can Land Jobs
You don’t need a fancy website or a massive social following to land your first writing gigs. What you do need is a simple system, a mix of proactive outreach and passive visibility.
Here are key strategies that still work (even with AI in the mix):
1. Leverage LinkedIn (Seriously, It Works)
If you’re not on LinkedIn, you’re missing out on one of the most active hubs for freelance writing work in 2026.
Here’s how to use it:
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Optimize your profile headline to say what you do (e.g., “Freelance B2B Writer for Tech + Finance”)
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Post short, helpful content once or twice a week
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Comment on posts from editors, marketers, and founders in your niche
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Use your About section to list your services, niche, and a CTA
This builds visibility fast. Spend 30 minutes a day engaging potential customers in your niche, and the DMs often follow.
You can learn more about getting your LinkedIn profile up and running with this post.
2. Tap Into Your Personal Network
Don’t overthink this. Just let people know you’re available for writing work.
And I mean everyone.
Send a quick message to friends, old coworkers, or even your gym buddy and say:
“Hey! Just a heads up I’m taking on some freelance writing work. If you hear of anyone needing help with content, blog posts, or email copy, feel free to send them my way.”
You’d be surprised how often this turns into a real gig or leads to a referral down the road.
Never be afraid to promote yourself. Start by creating a list with 25-50 people and reach out to them.
3. Write Guest Posts in Your Niche
Even if you’re new, pitching a guest post to a site in your target niche is one of the best credibility boosters out there.
Why it works:
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You get a live writing sample published on a legit site
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You can use it in your portfolio and pitches
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It helps you start building relationships with editors and content teams
Just keep it simple: pitch 2–3 relevant headline ideas, keep your email short, and follow up once.
Use this killer guide to guest posting to help you get started.
4. Repurpose Content for Busy Clients
Most companies are sitting on unused content — webinars, podcast episodes, LinkedIn posts — that they don’t have time to turn into blog posts or newsletters.
Offer to handle it for them.
This is:
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Easier than writing from scratch
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Faster to deliver (and bill for)
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Extremely valuable to overworked marketing teams
This is a great offer to pitch if you’re efficient, organized, and love polishing rough content.
5. Edit or Rewrite AI-Generated Drafts
AI tools are everywhere now. But any solid writer knows the output often needs work.
That’s where you come in.
Offer services like:
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Editing AI drafts for clarity and tone
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Rewriting robotic-sounding content
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Structuring messy outlines into publish-ready posts
It’s one of the fastest-growing writing niches right now and a great way for new freelancers to gain trust and build recurring relationships.
6. Build Real Connections with Other Writers
Writers aren’t your competition. They’re your shortcut.
Other freelancers can:
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Pass along extra work
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Refer you to great clients
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Help you avoid time-wasters and low payers
To get started:
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Join writing communities, masterminds, or Slack groups
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Show up and be helpful
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Don’t ask for work, just build relationships and offer value
This is one of the most underrated long-term strategies out there.
7. Post Your Writing Publicly (and Consistently)
No one can hire you if they can’t see what you can do.
Don’t wait for permission, publish your own writing:
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On LinkedIn (ideal for B2B or professional niches)
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On Substack or the social media platform of your choice
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On your personal blog or portfolio site
Share your thoughts, solve common problems, and show your tone of voice. You’d be amazed at how often a single post can land you a client.
8. Get on High-Quality Content Platforms
Sites like Contently, Skyword, and ClearVoice still connect writers with big-name clients. And while they aren’t instant-win platforms, they’re great long-term plays, especially if you’re focused on quality over volume.
Here’s how it works:
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You create a detailed profile with your experience and writing samples
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Clients search the platform to find writers for specific projects
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If your profile matches what they need, you get invited to apply
Tips for success:
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Add strong portfolio samples (especially in one niche)
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Use relevant keywords in your profile
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Be patient. These platforms take time to gain traction
Even if you don’t land work right away, these are solid places to host your portfolio if you need it.
9. Build a Relationship with a Marketing Agency
Marketing agencies are always looking for reliable freelance writers, and landing one agency client can mean steady work across multiple brands.
Here’s why it works:
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They do the client-hunting for you
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You get experience across different content types and industries
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It’s a great way to build your portfolio quickly
Start by identifying a few agencies that align with your interests (B2B, eCommerce, wellness, etc.), then send them a short letter of introduction, 5–6 sentences is all it takes:
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Who you are
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What you specialize in
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A couple of relevant writing samples
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That you’re available for freelance work
Want help finding agencies? Check out:
10. Send Thoughtful Cold Emails (Yes, Even Now)
No one loves cold emailing, but when it’s done well, it works.
Forget templates. Focus on real people at companies you want to write for. Your goal isn’t to land a job in one email — it’s to start a conversation.
Use this LOI format:
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Introduce yourself and what you write (1-2 sentences)
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Mention any relevant clients or industries (1-2 sentences)
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Include 2–3 sample links
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End with a soft call-to-action like “Let me know if you ever need help with content” (another 1-2 sentences)
Cold pitching works. But the key is to make it about the client and not sell.
Need help writing your LOI? Use this cold email checklist.
Bonus: Write a lot
This is the magic bullet:
I know a lot of writers who get found because they put out a ton of writing. They don’t worry if something gets trending or a lot of likes; they just write and publish.
That’s the key. You have to write and put stuff out there. See what works and what doesn’t. But don’t let starting hold you back.
Try writing every day, even if it’s just 100 words or for 5 minutes.
Here’s how you can start a daily writing practice.
This isn’t always the fastest way of doing things, which is why you shouldn’t rely on it as your primary method of marketing, but it does work.
Prolific writers who publish content on their blogs or across sites like Medium and LinkedIn can gain a lot of traction and attract clients.
What About AI? Should I Be Worried?
AI tools like ChatGPT have changed the writing world — no question.
And if you’re just starting out, it’s normal to wonder, “Why would someone hire me when they can just use AI for free?”
Here’s the truth: AI can create content, but it can’t create trust.
That means if you want to stand out in 2026 and beyond, your value comes from things AI can’t do well:
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Understanding a client’s brand voice
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Asking smart questions to clarify messaging
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Writing content that connects with real humans
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Thinking strategically about what content is for — not just what it says
Plus, most clients don’t want “an AI writer.” They want someone who knows how to use AI tools strategically to speed up research, brainstorm faster, or edit more efficiently.
You don’t need to panic about AI. But you should start learning how to use it to your advantage.
If you want a guide to how real freelancers are thriving with AI right now, check this out: How Freelancers Should Think About AI (Without Panicking)
Ready to Start Freelance Writing?
Alright, now you know at least where to start looking for freelance writing jobs for beginners. Use these strategies as your base and go from there.
Remember, so much of it is just about putting yourself out there and taking action.
If you get stuck, just take the next baby step forward.
You can do it!
This post has been updated for accuracy in December 2025.
Sean Ogle
Sean Ogle is the Founder of Location Rebel where he has spent the last 12+ years teaching people how to build online businesses that give them the freedom to do more of the things they like to do in life. When he's not in the coffee shops of Portland, or the beaches of Bali, he's probably sneaking into some other high-class establishment where he most certainly doesn't belong.Join over 40,000 people who have taken our 6 part freelance writing course. Sign up below and let’s do this together.
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