Ok, so we've established that freelance writers need a web presence, but what exactly does that mean? Here are 10 elements you should consider building into your freelance writing website.
1. Introduction/Buy-In/Photos/Logos
Your landing page should immediately elicit a buy-in from your potential client. In your own words and graphics, you must convey professionalism, while still coming across as a real, verifiable, trustworthy human. Use logos, professional photos and some text that expresses who you are as a writer, what you can do to serve the potential client, and why-specifically- they should hire you.
2. Past Work/Employers
Next, offer up a clear listing of past employers and clients. What have you done in the past that makes you worthy of hiring in the future? Who do you currently write for? What articles/pieces have you completed that will give your next client the confidence to hire you?3. Other Qualfications
List/demonstrate other qualifications next. Include academic training, awards, organization memberships and other pieces of evidence that demonstrate your ability to write and serve the publication/magazine/company or client.4. Samples
Don't just say it: show it! Include completed samples of your past work in your writing website. You can use PDFs if you have the right to publish the work on your website, or you may simply provide a description and a link.5. Subject/Niche Information
If you write specifically in a certain niche/subject matter area or medium, make sure your potential clients understand that. In addition, including this information will help you with SEO and keywords (see below).6. Keywords/SEO Terms
I cannot tell you how many times a fellow freelance writer has told me that he's got work because his client searched for "freelance writer" = "city name" or "freelance writer" + "latino niche" or a similar keyword combo. If you're not familiar with building SEO terms into your site, check out About.com's Guide to SEO for an easy intro.
7. Rates/Policies
I have always named my rates up front and in print, as I put a lot of research into them. However, some writers prefer to name a range, or suggest that potential clients call for quotes. In addition to rates, be sure to be up front and clear about your policies, such as those pertaining to down payments, rush jobs, contracts and non-disclosure agreements.
8. Blog
Including a blog in your webspace enables your client to see that you're a professional, busy, thriving business. It also helps with Google ranking and allows your client to perhaps see a personal side of you, or get a taste for your writing voice.
9. Testimonials/References/Case Studies
This is self-explanatory. Include anything that will give the publisher/editor confidence in your skills.
10. A Page for Current/Ongoing Clients
I keep a page specifically for current clients that includes instructions on how to pay me, where to access our contract, how to use my FTP service, how to contact me in emergencies, and generally anything else that current clients may need to know.
