Writing for the World Wide Web
How to Get Started in Internet Freelancing
If you're a freelance writer, discouraged by rejection slips, why not learn to write for the web.
When you begin freelancing it can be discouraging awaiting responses from editors. Then, when you finally receive a reply from one of those query letters you wrote months ago, your article or idea is rejected. Even worse, it’s a form letter reading, “Thank you for your interest but you article doesn’t fit our editorial needs at this time….”
Don’t give up. Keep sending out those queries. In the meanwhile, why not develop your skills writing for the web. Only a few years ago there wasn’t much opportunity for freelance writers finding paying work writing for the web. But in the last few years, freelance writing gigs have grown significantly.
Advantages of Web Writing
- Much quicker - Besides being published quicker, you’re also paid much faster.
- More exposure – You can reach readers worldwide.
Disadvantages
- Considered less professional -Unfortunately, some editors of print publications don’t regard web clips as seriously as printed articles.
- Lower pay – You may be paid faster, but the pay is much lower than writing for print publications. Most all web writers are paid via Paypal.
How Internet Writing is Different
- Summarizes immediately - When you write for the internet, forget the rules you learned regarding writing for print publications. Instead of focusing on a creative lead or hook leading up to your topic, you must zoom straight into the topic in your opening paragraph.
- Uses keywords – You may have a top-notch article, but if readers can’t locate your article, it isn’t doing any good to either you or them. Unlike print publications, your readers have to find your article. That’s why it’s imperative to use at least 2-3 strong keywords at the beginning of your article so internet search machines can direct readers to your articles. To test out your keywords you can take advantage of software such as Textalyser.
Strong Meta-content
Because your internet readers scan for information and keywords, writing strong headlines and subheads are vital if you want your articles read. The attention span of an internet reader is short, so make use headlines, subheads, cutlines, and labels. Realize that web readers scan (rather than read every word) when searching for information and/or keywords.
Reputable Writing Gigs
Suite 101 – Although Suite 101 doesn’t offer upfront payments, they pay well in page views. You have to be accepted to write for Suite 101, as their standards are high. Membership is open to all countries.
Associated Content - Associated Content (AC) is the only gig which offers upfront payments. Most of the offers are low, but AC also pays for page views. To be paid you must be at least 18 years old and a US citizen.
Ehow - You don’t need to apply for acceptance to write for Ehow. You just sign up. All registered users can write and publish topics on whatever topics they choose. However, the format is somewhat less professional and doesn’t afford as much opportunity to develop your skills as writers are confined to a standard template when submitting their articles. Ehow is not restricted to US citizens, but open worldwide.
Internet Research Associates (IRA) – IRA pays for ghostwritten articles. The pay isn’t high, but you do get paid quickly for your work.
These are only a few of the many web opportunities you can take advantage of as a freelancer. Besides searching online, also get involved in Writer Groups and Message Boards where other freelancers share information on writing jobs.
