Building a great portfolio for freelance writing jobs.
When I initially started out as a freelance writer, the first thing I had to figure out was how to advertise myself. I knew that in order to establish myself I had to exhibit my work but for that to happen I needed to work on some actual jobs. I was already accustomed to the concept of blogging and other web related stuff but I knew I had to be innovative and clever to standout. I had a plan and I executed it in steps. I would advise beginners to follow these steps.
The first step is to work for yourself!! Yes it is correct there is no typo. Create a proper job, with requirements, delivery date, and specifications and then hire yourself to write the article. You will notice that you are far more professional in working for a paying job than a sample piece. You would be able to test yourself by meeting the job deadline and other essentials.
Once you are done writing the article move on to the review stage. Here you have to put yourself in clients’ shoes. Evaluate your work, identify any shortcomings in your article and look out for improvements. This can be used in your portfolio. With all this done you have entered the world of freelance writing.
Now you have finished your first assignment. Move on and try writing a new article with a different set of requirements. Include key words and try to fit them smoothly into the article. Repeat this again but with more challenging tasks. Test your skills as much as you can. Try to find out things that interest you and you are really good at and then look for work related to your interests.
Writing such articles would present you with a chance to show off your work. Potential buyers might be tempted by your writing skills and before you know it you might be hired. In addition you would have gained valuable experience. The next step would be to promote yourself and look for paying work.