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Freelance writing has been the business model for many online entrepreneurs to fuel their dreams of a better life. When we dream of making money online it is often to escape a life that has lost its spark. While many succeed, most never will and the dreams die as quick as they are born.

Hopefully after reading this article, you will understand that you too can make money online with freelance writing if you feel passionate about it.

As some of you know, I came to freelance writing more by accident than by design. After a failed business venture in MLM I discovered that I wasn’t cut out to be a die hard sales person, but more so a writer who enjoys blogging and writing about a vast range of topics, while expanding my ever growing knowledge.

I basically slipped into my business and I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity, regardless of what happens in the future. I thrive on writing about many subjects and every time I do, I learn something new.

The fun part of this is that you can too!

Here are some of the characteristics you will need (in my eyes) to make this work.

1.) You need passion for the written word. That means you mustn’t flinch at the idea of having to write a 600 word article, regardless of the topic. As a matter of fact, on an average day I write about 4,000 words for clients.

2.) You also need to be a voracious reader and learner. I’m convinced that reading hundreds of books has helped me to understand English grammar without having to study the subject.

In case you wonder, I grew up in Switzerland and what I know today is the result of years of reading and learning. Plus, I never feel that I stopped learning and am always soaking up new information. I guess I am like a sponge.

I simply crave new knowledge.

3.) Get into action. You’d be surprised as to how many people wish to be a freelance writer but never actually do anything at all to make it happen. Action is the magic word and the sooner you jump into the cold water, the quicker you will be able to swim. To help you get started, I created a freelance writing guide for new freelancers. In the guide I touch on many subjects to do with freelance writing so if you are interested to learn more, feel free to take a peek.

4.) Brand early. Branding is everything in our business. If people don’t know who you are, you make it complicated for them to find you. The best way for a freelance writer to brand himself is to use his own name.

The sooner you actively do this, the quicker clients can recognize you. More recognition = more work!

5.) Use an online portfolio. Show the world what you are about. Make a statement, like McDonald’s. Be proud. When you are good in your field, there is no room for false modesty but always, always stay humble.

There is a difference.

6.) Build step by step. No new freelance writer will be run over with tons of work when he first starts out. As long as you are prepared for this, you can build your business as it grows without the need for speed and pressure.

7.) Look for expansion. There will come a time in your business when you need to expand. You might need to outsource, or cap your clients to keep on top of all your assignments. The sooner you weigh up your options, the smoother your business will move into the next chapter.

8.) Never stop looking. Even if you business is flying along, it pays to keep a couple of options open. The nature of freelance writing determines that you won’t always be fully booked. Plan for those quiet times and work that plan.

9.) Network. Networking has been my biggest income source. Without networking, I wouldn’t have half of the clients I have now. Every day I am amazed at the power of networks and how they help my business. Before you wonder though, networking didn’t come easy. It required months of hard work to stay in the loop and connect with other bloggers to eventually get noticed by them.

A comment here, a blog post there and more will be required to build a strong network of other business owners who might be prepared to recommend your services to third parties.

10.) Hard work. I said it before, I say it now. Working hard is part of making it happen for any online business, regardless of the industry. Long hours, repeat work, frustration and success are all part of any serious entrepreneurs daily life.

The question is, do you want your own slice?

(original article)