Freelance Writing Rates

One of the many challenges facing freelance writers is setting a fair rate.  One of the reasons this is so challenging is that there are thousands of people who have ventured into the freelance writing field.  However, not all content is created equally, and not all writers are great (or in some cases even good) writers.

Establishing yourself

While you need to establish yourself, it is not recommended that you accept wages below what you consider fair for the work you are doing.  Freelance writing rates vary and include “per page” to “per article” to “per word” and there are freelance writing jobs available that are “per hour” as well.  You know best what your work is worth on each basis and it is up to you to establish that rate early on.

Competition

One thing you will find out very quickly is that there are writers who will fight fiercely for the same work you are bidding on.  Do not let this deter you.  Just because someone is willing to write something for $5 for a 800 word article does not mean that you have to.  You should “sell” your skills and in doing so, sell your rate along with it.

Making your pitch

Some freelance writers include right in their proposals that they know their rate is high. Once this is done, they go on to explain why the higher rate is a better value for the client.  Do not be intimidated by what appear to be low ball bids.  Go ahead and bid your own worth. You owe it to yourself to not undersell your talent.

Being Fair

Many freelance writers offer different rate levels based on some specific criteria.  These can vary widely and may be based on some of the following:

• Location – If your client is in the same town or city and expects a face to face meeting, wining and dining or any of the other niceties that go along with local business.  Do not hesitate to advise those clients that one way or another they are paying for your time.  Clients who are further away often demand less of your time and therefore may be considered for a lower rate.
• Assignment length – Assignment length can vary widely from a “one shot wonder” where you need to write a quick sales letter or other simple document.  Other assignments are “ongoing” where you may work 6-8 hours a week over an extended period of time.  Many feel that a longer term assignment may be worth a slightly lower rate if it means additional work.  Make this decision yourself and find something you can live with.
• Difficulty – Another serious consideration is how difficult an assignment is going to be to work on.  If you are an expert writer on one topic and suddenly you have a new client asking for something that is outside of your field of expertise, you may consider charging a higher rate.

Summary

Regardless of whether you are just starting out or are a well established freelance writer, your rates are important. One of the dangers in bidding low rates is you could be stuck with them for a very long time.  Consider your freelance writing rates very carefully before you agree  to take on a new client or assignment.

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