So, you think you can freelance? Well, I do too! Here are some basic characteristics and skills that a writer must have or develop, followed by some traits that a freelancer must have or develop in order to be successful.
A Writer Should:
- Have mastered the language they are writing in.
- Be able to clearly and logically communicate ideas with the end user in mind.
- Know how to research, and then research some more.
- Be able to work independently for long periods of time (or many short periods of time will work too), without extensive procrastination or waffling.
- Be able to work with other professionals, such as clients, editors and agents, in a mature and efficient manner.
- Be prepared (and able) to brush off rejections, and keep on plugging.
A Freelancer Should:
- Have a general understanding of business practices, such as verbal and written contracts, invoices, resumes and portfolios.
- Be very self-motivated and self-disciplined.
- Be able to present themselves in a professional manner to potential editors and clients.
- Handle insecurity, failure and exhaustion well.
- Be ready to be a secretary, accountant, tax preparer, researcher, job-seeker, computer technician and business consultant, too.
