Freelance Writer's Perfect Pitch

If freelance writers want to get regular assignments, they need to avoid wasting employers' time. That means querying only for writing jobs they are qualified for. It also means giving employers the information they really need to have. Here's how to send in a query for a job on a jobs board.

1. General Information

Writers should start by listing their general experience (how many years they have been writing). They should also outline the types of writing they have done. This is an outline, not a resume, so keep it short.

Example: I would be interested in working on this project. I am a freelance writer and lecturer with 19 years' experience and mother to a three year old girl. I have written some parenting articles, examples of which are pasted below. I also write for InspiredAuthor.com on freelance writing. Please visit my website for additional examples of my work and my full bio. Thanks for your time. (This was written in response to an ad for someone to write a parenting lesson. I think it could be improved, but it got me the job. I also attached to samples of parenting articles.)

2. Be Specific

The next sentence or two should outline why this writer is the right person for the job. This could be in terms of general experience or specific expertise in a particular area. This is the first opportunity for writers to sell themselves to a potential employer.

Example: I wonder if you could tell me more about the opportunity you posted on freelancewriting.com. I am a freelance writer and have lectured on journalism at Coventry University for five years, so I am familiar with the academic writing style. I've attached my CV for your information. (The ad was not detailed, so I asked for further information, while stating my specific qualifications for an academic research job. That query was successful, too.)

3. Answer Questions

Employers often have specific questions about a writer's skills and experience. Writers should make sure they answer all employer questions. Failure to do so will mean that the prized writing job will go to someone else. No-one wants to hire a writer who can't follow instructions.

Example: I replied to an ad looking for writers with details of my experience and samples of my work. They then asked a specific question about areas of expertise. Here's what I wrote: My main specialty is writing (both for new writers and established freelancers), but I also write on parenting and SEO. I have just completed a tips site on video chat for Lifetips.com and am currently working on a Spanish tips site, so I am very versatile. I got a friendly reply from the potential employer.

continued: Pt 2