Hiya writer friends,
Over the last 2.5 years, I have written 270+ articles for freelance clients—an average of two per week. This is not counting the newsletters I write, the books I’m working on, or the pieces I write for The Wordling.
However, you won’t hear me talking about these articles or posting links on social media. A lot of them are ghostwritten, but many of them are on un-sexy, complex subjects that no one outside of that particular industry would care for.
The articles I’ve been writing for the last few years have been part of a different strategy. I’m at a point in my career where higher rates and consistent assignments are more valuable to me than prestigious bylines. While I’d still like the bylines, of course, they’re more of an afterthought and not something I actively pursue.
Given the choice between writing about a boring subject for a client that gives me several high-paying assignments each month and a one-off byline in a prestigious publication, I’m more likely to accept the former.
And with very limited time in recent years, that is the choice I’ve made.
It’s allowed me to quietly create a consistent income writing for a handful of reliable clients while I build The Wordling, pursue other interests, and enjoy time with my family.
When you start your career as a freelancer, it’s natural to be impressed by the big names and bylines.
But ask any veteran and they’ll tell you the key to long-term success in this business is in creating predictability—both in your systems and your income. That may come from writing feature stories for bigger names or it may come from creating content for brands.
The consistency and predictability is key, however.
Remember, there are a lot of freelancers who do not have prestigious bylines who are making excellent money, writing regularly for high-paying clients, and enjoying their life. And there are many with big-name bylines who aren’t able to make ends meet.
It’s a mistake to build this career around a never-ending pursuit of bylines.
An important reminder, if you needed it today.
Cheers,
Natasha