This is a guest post by freelance blogger Joy Collado.
Why should we hire you?
That’s one question every client asks.
They may not ask you this directly, but you can be sure that they’re thinking it.
ALL clients have standards and expectations. They have a list of traits and qualifications for the writers they hire. And that’s perfectly understandable.
That said, I think some writers forget that clients shouldn’t be the only ones setting the standards.
This is our business, too. And in the same way that clients turn down writers looking for work, writers should also set their criteria and learn to turn down work when the client doesn’t meet their standards.
Below are 3 compelling reasons why you shouldn’t write for a client:
1. You don’t share the same interests
Sure, with some research, you can write a good article or blog post about a topic you don’t know about —but do you really want to?
It’s a lot easier to write about topics that interests you. You’ll work more efficiently this way because you can produce an article in less time than you would on a topic you don’t like. That’s why most writing experts would advise you to develop a niche–one that you know a lot about and that you enjoy writing.
If you can’t find your niche yet, look into your hobbies and interests. Do you love baking? Photography? Perhaps business and finance? What about technology? Whatever the case may be, start with topics that actually interest you. This way, writing the article or blog post won’t be a drag.
2. You don’t believe in what they represent
If you push yourself to write about a subject you don’t believe in, it will show in your work. You’ll feel unrealistic and pretentious while writing. And that’s one thing every writer should avoid. Writing should be an extension of yourself. We write to make a living, but it doesn’t mean to say you’re going to write something that contradicts your own values.
Let’s say you’re someone who loves wild animals. Can you imagine yourself writing an article promoting a handbag made of wild crocodile skin?
You can write the article for sure, but that will be working against your natural muse.
3. You’re not happy with their offer
Okay, so you finally found a writing gig that interests you, and it’s a topic you connect with—great!
You’re all set.
Or, are you?
What if the pay isn’t fair?
Don’t settle for less than what you deserve. If a client can’t afford you, look elsewhere and find a company that can. Trust me, they’re out there.
On a side note, if you’re applying for a gig and the job post didn’t mention the pay rate, do a little research about the company you’re applying for. You can find their estimated income on websites like Manta and Hoovers. Sophie’s advice on her Client Hunting Masterclass is to pitch clients who have an annual income of over 1 million. This way, you can stay away from clients who don’t have the budget to afford your services.
Bottom Line
Clients have high standards in hiring a freelance writer. And as freelance writers, we should also have high standards in choosing them. If they can be picky, we should, too!
Have you turned down a client because of one of the reasons above? What are other good reasons to turn down paying clients? Share in the comments below.
Author Bio: Joy Collado is a freelance blogger. When she’s not blogging for clients, she’s working on her passion project The Joys of a Digital Nomad where she inspires online entrepreneurs to make a difference through their work.
In other news…
The fabulous Sophie Lizard at Be a Freelance Blogger is running an awesome promo for her Client Hunting Masterclass (in which I’m also a guest instructor.)