Looking for a job can feel overwhelming, and I’m sure about 99% of writers would agree. When I started my career, I struggled because I was getting paid very little for the awesome work I was doing. Then in early 2022, I decided it was time to find a solution.
At first, I thought maybe the issue was with how I was pricing my services. So, I paid to get expert advice and spoke with other writers to figure out what I was doing wrong. I also kept a close eye on the writers I looked up to.
After a few months of working hard to find a solution, things started to make sense. Haha! While hunting for new opportunities, I also improved my skills, stood out from the crowd, and showed up on social media, especially LinkedIn and Twitter.
The big turning point came when I landed my first contract worth more than 300,000 NGN. And the interesting thing is, it took me only two weeks to finish the job. Since then, I’ve gone on to work with many great local and international clients, and I’ve moved from being a writer who wasn’t making much money to making a seven-figure income.
In this article, we will explore why many content writers struggle to find well-paying gigs, how to land high-paying writing jobs, and actionable tips you can use right away. I also interviewed 4 successful content writers from different fields, so make sure you read until the end to get all the valuable insights.
>>> Oh, and just a heads-up: The juiciest part of this article is at the bottom. Don’t miss it!
Why do writers struggle to find clients?
Finding the right clients as a writer isn’t a walk in the park. It’s more than just knowing what others charge and copying their prices. It’s more about being the best fit for the job, showing potential clients you’re awesome, and proving that investing in your writing is worth it. Oh, and it’s also about believing in yourself and what you do.
One common mistake writers often need to correct is believing that there are no jobs. Just think about how big the world is – that should give you a sense of how many companies are searching for assistance. From where I stand, it usually comes down to one of two things: either you’re not sure where to find your potential clients, or there’s still some personal growth you need to work on.
Why are a lot of writers without jobs? Let’s take a look at the most common reasons:
Lack of expertise
Before anyone gives you a shot, you must demonstrate that you’re the standout choice they’ve been searching for. This means having a strong portfolio within a well-defined niche. Those who hire writers aren’t just looking for individuals who can string words together; they’re seeking problem solvers. Many of them are searching for people who can assist them in drawing in leads and potential customers. If you have experience in that realm, they can take a risk on you.
>>> Read More: Tired Of Rejection Emails? 10 Portfolio Mistakes Content Writers Must Avoid
Poor visibility
I’ve noticed that many writers are eager to turn a profit, yet they often overlook the potential of professional platforms like LinkedIn. It’s not just LinkedIn; there are various other social media platforms too. However, LinkedIn stands out because it is a platform designed for professionals. It’s a space where serious business connections are made, ideas are shared, and collaborations happen.
To truly harness the power of LinkedIn, you need to do more than just create a profile. Take the time to build a professional presence. Share insightful articles, contribute to discussions in your field, and connect with others who share your interests.
Weak client outreach
More often than not, your clients won’t come knocking on your door. You have to take the initiative and reach out to them; platforms like LinkedIn can be incredibly helpful. But here’s the thing: how do you come across when you do reach out? Is your CV polished and up to date? Do you have a compelling cover letter and a well-organized portfolio?
Initiating contact with potential clients requires some effort on your part. You must make a positive impression right from the start. Your CV should accurately reflect your skills and experiences, your cover letter should clearly express your value proposition, and your portfolio should showcase your best work. This combination of elements can greatly influence how potential clients perceive you and your capabilities.
Different ways to find high-ticket clients as a writer (according to 4 expert writers)
Let’s dig into the secrets of finding high-ticket clients as a content writer. The good news is that I’ve had the chance to chat with 4 other skilled content writers who’ve spilt the beans on their job search strategies. If you’re looking for more insights beyond what I’ve shared, you’re in luck – their perspectives will be incredibly valuable too.
Onyekachukwu Blessing (Content Marketer)
Blessing has over 2 years of experience in the field and works as a content marketer for diverse brands.
She shared:
“When seeking a new opportunity, I search for jobs in my area of speciality, check the requirements, and when I’m confident in the required deliverables, I go for it. Sometimes I might not be able to deliver 100% of the requirements, but I also apply if it presents opportunities for me to learn and grow.
Outside of social media, I’ve enjoyed favors from men; people I’ve worked with refer me to jobs. My first job on LinkedIn came after sharing my experience with a firm at the end of my service year. According to the founder, my story resonated and captivated him, prompting him to share his post-NYSC experience with me as encouragement.
Days after that chat, he offered me to join his organization on a project
Others come from people appreciating my content and style. Funny enough, they don’t react to my content, but I’ve built an amazing connection through DMs.”
>>> Read More: The Best Portfolio Examples Of Content Writers On The Internet Right
Moriah Joy Chace (Freelance Journalist & PR Communications Specialist at ACH Child and Family Services)
Joy has over 5 years of experience as a content writer and freelance journalist and currently works as the PR Communications Specialist at ACH Child and Family Services.
She shared:
“My most effective job strategy involves using LinkedIn to cold pitch people. What I do is simple: I pitch to editors on the platform and wait to hear back. I also get a lot of referrals from the people I work with.”
Adeife Adeoye (Content Writer & Strategist for B2B SaaS Brands)
With 6 years of experience as a content writer, Adeife presently focuses on writing for B2B SaaS brands.
She shared:
“I mostly use LinkedIn to search for jobs. I do something called the Boolean search. A Boolean search uses specific words (AND, OR, etc.) alongside keywords to expand or limit the search results. What I do is search for “Content Writer” AND “Hiring” or “Content Writer” AND “Needed,” then I filter my search results for the last 24 hours. Then I scroll until I find one that works for me.
I also use Slack groups like Superpath, Women In Tech SEO, etc., to scout for jobs. Outside of social media, I focus on personal branding so the clients come to me. In this context, personal branding means ensuring I have a great website and publishing content on the website.
To reiterate: LinkedIn has been a significant part of my strategy, and I advise writers seeking new job opportunities to explore the platform and post strategically.”
Praise Adeola (Freelance Content Writer & Finance Educator )
Praise has over 4 years of professional experience. She is a banker, financial consultant, and freelance writer passionate about guiding businesses in intelligent decisions, creating content on diverse subjects, educating communities about finance, and promoting inclusive digital education.
She shared:
“Regarding content writing, I don’t actively search for jobs — they tend to find me. However, it wasn’t always this way. As a newcomer, I received advice to start with popular sites like Upwork and Fiverr. I shifted between these platforms for six months but quickly realized they didn’t align with my interests or expectations.
Instead, I focused on writing content I enjoyed reading for leisure. During that time, I was strongly interested in short poems and plays. As I delved into more books and online articles, I discovered my passion for writing about my financial and career journey. It was at that point I discovered my niche. I commenced sharing these write-ups on social media and a popular writing platform called Medium.
I wasn’t concerned about the lack of immediate gigs and jobs; I simply continued to write. People began noticing me and relating to my experiences as time passed. This led to opportunities like writing for publications, editing books and articles for clients, and even speaking at content writing events.
In the long run, I found my specialization in writing finance and career development-related articles. I established a community on Telegram and WhatsApp where I shared my content and services. I primarily secure my content writing jobs within my expanding community of over 160 people.
There’s always someone there interested in purchasing my courses, participating in workshops, or joining their team of content creators.
Honestly, if I were to quantify most of my content writing jobs, I would attribute them to my community.”
Say goodbye to low-paying jobs now.
In my case, over the past 5 years, I’ve tried various strategies. These include reaching out on LinkedIn, applying through job boards, building my brand, networking, and consistently engaging where my potential clients are active. These strategies work! Make sure you implement all of them!
Meanwhile, I have a private writing community on Telegram where I share job updates, tips, advice, and resources for content writers. I started this community because I’m tired of all the gatekeeping that goes on in the Nigerian freelance writing community. So, I decided that the change starts with me!
People have landed jobs and gained access to great resources in this community. You should be a part of us! Join my writing community here!
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