When it comes to freelance writing there are a number of mistakes that are easy to make but that should be avoided. No matter what type of freelance writing or ghostwriting you do, you need to ensure that you avoid these mistakes if you want to get repeat business from your clients.
#1 Not Doing Proper Research
If you don’t carry out proper research it will show. Freelancers who write in a hurry or with limited research will turn out dull pieces. They might also produce articles that contain irrelevant information or information that is totally out of date. Most freelancers tend to use the web for their research and while this is great there are other options too. If you are using the web for your research then you need to steer clear of sites like Wikipedia for your research. You want to ensure that your research is accurate. You would be surprised by the amount of websites that contain inaccurate information. Make sure you do your research correctly or you could end up giving your client an article that contains irrelevant and incorrect information.
#2 Spelling Mistakes
It doesn’t matter how good you are at writing, you need to proofread everything before you submit it. It really is important that you proofread everything you write. Read, edit and then read it again. You will be surprised at what you can miss. Your reputation as a freelance writer is at stake so make sure you send your clients copy that is flawless.
#3 Losing The Flow
Keeping your writing on track is important. It is so easy to lose track of yourself and begin rambling or go off on tangents. This is even easier if you are blogging for a client. It is so easy to go off on a tangent and start talking about something totally different. I myself have done this a number of times and it is only when I go back to edit that I realise it.
No one wants to read something with no direction especially not your clients. When writing for them you need to connect with their readers. You need to get to the point and keep on track.
#4 Incorrect SEO
SEO or search engine optimization is a big thing for freelance writers. This involves using specific keywords in your writing. One of the most common mistakes that many freelance writers make is overusing these keywords. If you are working as a SEO content writer you need to keep in mind that whilst the keywords are important you are still writing for human readers.
#5 Rubbish Headlines
No matter whether you are writing an article, press release, sales page or blog post the title or heading you use is going to be important. The headline is what will attract readers and encourage them to read the remainder of your text. You need to spend some time on your headlines because a strong headline is going to get attention. If you are writing for clients a strong headline is going to get them the results they require and this will mean more work for you.
After reading all of these mistakes, how do they apply to your freelance writing work? Are you making any of these mistakes?
Until next time,
Keep Writing
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I just came across your website, so you may have already answered this one, but how do you write a good title?
I’d love some pointers.
Thanks Macie,
Delighted to have you hear. I will do a post later in the week to answer your question and thanks for asking. Headlines are important and knowing how to get them right can make a big difference to your blog or website.
Amanda