You Are An Ideas Person

Is your head bursting with ideas? Do you see events happening and long to write them down? Are you a bit of a dreamer? If you've said yes to any of these, then you're well on the way to becoming a freelance writer. Ideas are your bread and butter, and good ideas will impress editors, so you get commissions, get published and get paid.

You Enjoy Research

Do you like searching for information? Are you fascinated by anything new? Do you like talking to people? If you enjoy the thrill of finding the last piece of the puzzle, your writing will be well-researched. Research is a crucial part of writing fiction and non-fiction, and good research will make the difference between publication and rejection for a freelance writer.

You Can Take Criticism

Show editors that you can give them their money's worth. Are you willing to do rewrites and accept criticism from editors and publishers? Can you let go of your ego and learn from others? Can you bounce back from rejection? If you can, then you'll have the thick skin you'll need as a freelance writer.

You Like Working On Your Own

Although you meet a lot of people as a freelance writer, at some point you'll have to sit down by yourself and do the writing. These days, there's little need to go into an office; you can telecommute instead. So you need to be happy with your own company.

You're A Good Timekeeper

Editors and publishers have deadlines that they expect writers to keep. If you turn up on time for everything, then you've got a head start. If you're chronically late, get a reliable watch and a calendar and prepare to move out of your comfort zone and submit work on time.

How did you do? If you scored three or more out of five, then you're ready to be a freelance writer. Don't worry if you didn't, though. We can still help you write in a way that will improve your chance of publication, and give advice on choosing the right setting for writing, finding inspiration and doing the research.