Alice Lemée's 7 Steps to Freelance Writing Success

This article delves into the insights of Alice Lemée, a successful ghostwriter, who earned $86,000 last year while traveling the world. The article, based on her LinkedIn posts, outlines seven crucial steps to achieving freelance writing success, specifically targeting aspiring and experienced freelance writers seeking to make money writing.

• The first step involves finding paying clients and then focusing on personal branding.
• The second step emphasizes the importance of clear communication and setting boundaries with clients.
• The third step provides tactical writing tips to elevate your writing skills and resonate with your audience.
• The fourth step delves into ninja tricks for freelance pricing, client engagement, and maximizing your freelance writing success.
• The fifth step focuses on embracing the reality of freelance writing, including income fluctuations and the inevitability of rejection.
• The sixth step acknowledges the importance of learning from mistakes, as they are an integral part of the freelance journey.
• The final step emphasizes the power of taking the first step, drawing inspiration from Alice Lemée's own success story.

Find Paying Clients First

The article highlights that focusing on landing clients is paramount, even before building a strong online presence or pursuing personal branding. It emphasizes the importance of building a writing portfolio, seeking freelance writing jobs on relevant platforms, and approaching potential clients with confidence. This step underscores the need for practicality and prioritizing tangible income over elaborate marketing efforts.

• Develop a portfolio of at least five high-quality articles to showcase your skills to potential clients.
• Utilize job boards like Write Jobs PLUS+ to find freelance writing opportunities.
• Instead of passively seeking work, be proactive and state your availability for freelance writing projects.
• Embrace the writing process, including the challenges of rejections and waiting, as they are part of the journey.

Setting Boundaries and Clear Communication

The article emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and communicating effectively with clients to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth freelance writing experience. It provides practical advice on establishing clear expectations, addressing client requests, and managing project timelines.

• Establish a clear fee structure for expedited work or additional tasks.
• Specify the number of interviews included in your service offerings.
• Communicate your availability for conference calls and set boundaries for unreasonable client demands.
• Don't hesitate to say no to clients if the situation doesn't feel right.

Strategic Writing Tips for Freelance Writers

The article offers valuable writing tips from Alice Lemée, focusing on creating engaging and resonant content. It stresses the importance of writing authentically and effortlessly, highlighting how natural and enjoyable writing often leads to better results.

• Write about topics that inspire you and make the writing process enjoyable.
• Embrace authenticity and share your genuine voice with your audience.
• Utilize the “second-order description technique” to enhance your writing and create a memorable impression.
• Avoid language that suggests loss or negativity, focusing on positive and uplifting messaging.
• Continuously study and learn from successful writers to improve your skills.
• Practice writing regularly to refine your craft and develop your unique voice.

Ninja Tricks for Freelance Success

The article delves into practical tricks for maximizing your freelance writing success. It offers advice on pricing strategies, client communication, and maximizing client engagement.

• Use a "lump-sum" pricing strategy to avoid negotiating individual items and ensure flexibility.
• Charge a premium for ghostwriting projects where your name will not be attributed.
• Experiment with different pitching strategies, such as shortening your pitches or adjusting follow-up times.
• Strive to be a dream freelancer by prioritizing punctuality, affability, and talent.
• Adjust your prices based on client's reach and influence to maximize your earnings.

Embrace the Reality of Freelance Writing

The article emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the realities of freelance writing, including income fluctuations, rejection, and the constant need to land new clients. It highlights that freelancing is not a "get rich quick" scheme, but a path that requires resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.

• Be prepared for income fluctuations as client projects can be unpredictable.
• Expect rejection as it is an unavoidable part of the freelance journey.
• Maintain a strong financial cushion to navigate potential downturns in freelance income.
• Develop a robust client acquisition process to ensure a steady flow of work.

Learning from Mistakes

The article underscores the importance of learning from mistakes, acknowledging that they are an inevitable part of the freelance journey. Alice Lemée shares personal anecdotes of challenges she faced, highlighting how overcoming setbacks can lead to growth and resilience.

• Don't take client feedback personally, but rather see it as an opportunity to improve your skills.
• Thoroughly vet freelance writers you refer to your clients to protect your reputation.
• Invest in a reputable accountant to manage your finances and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Start Today: The Power of Taking the First Step

The article concludes by emphasizing the power of taking action and embracing the freelance journey. It encourages aspiring freelance writers to follow Alice Lemée's example and make the leap, drawing inspiration from her success and resilience.

• Start your freelance writing journey by taking small, consistent steps.
• Embrace the learning process and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
• Stay motivated and persistent in your pursuit of freelance writing success.
• Remember that everyone starts with zero, and gradual progress is key.