Before I go into what the best freelance writing platform for writers is, I’d like to explain what freelance writing in itself is. Freelance writing is when you work as a self-employed writer, offering your services to various clients instead of being employed by a single company. It involves creating written content like articles, blog posts, marketing materials, or creative pieces for different purposes.
While freelance writing is booming, it comes with challenges. You need to find clients, meet deadlines, and manage your workload. This is where freelance writing platforms shine, connecting writers with opportunities and making the process smoother. This is why choosing the right platform can make or break your career.
What Makes a Freelance Writing Platform the Best?
Not all platforms are created equal, so knowing what to look for is vital. A good freelance writing platform should:
- Offer fair pay: Look for platforms with transparent payment systems and reasonable rates. Also, make sure they offer your preferred payment option.
- Provide job variety: Platforms with diverse writing gigs not only help you grow and stay interested. You get to gain experience in various industries before finding your niche.
- Charge fair fees: All platforms take a cut of your earnings, but the best ones won’t take too much of your profits.
- Be easy to use: The interface should be simple and user-friendly.
- Support: Platforms with good customer service and writer resources make your experience smoother.
Matching these features to your needs will help you choose the best freelance writing platform for your goals.
Top Freelance Writing Platforms
Let’s explore some of the most popular freelance writing platforms and their pros and cons. What is great about this list is that each platform has unique features that cater to different types of writers.
1. Upwork
Upwork is one of the largest freelance platforms, if not the largest. It connects writers with clients looking for blog posts, articles, product descriptions, and more. You create a profile, bid on projects, and get paid through the platform. You can learn more about Upwork on our blog on “How to Win Your First Upwork Gig.”
Key Features:
- Bidding System: Writers submit proposals for projects by highlighting their skills and experience.
- Long-Term Opportunities: Many clients offer ongoing work if they’re impressed with your performance.
- Verified Payments: Funds are held in escrow, ensuring secure transactions.
Pros:
- Huge variety of writing gigs.
- Opportunity to build long-term client relationships.
- Secure payment system.
Cons:
- High competition.
- Platform fees can take a significant cut.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr has a similar system to Upwork, but writers create “gigs” advertising their services, and clients browse these gigs and hire writers based on their needs. This platform is great for writers who want to set their own rates.
Key Features:
- Customizable Gigs: Writers can offer services at different price points, depending on the type.
- Client Reviews: Positive feedback improves your visibility and helps attract more clients.
- Add-On Services: You can charge extra for premium services.
Pros:
- Freedom to price your services.
- Good for beginners to gain experience.
Cons:
- Some gigs are low-paying.
- Writers handle their own marketing, which can be time-consuming.
3. ProBlogger Job Board
ProBlogger is perfect for writers seeking high-quality clients or long-term projects. The platform focuses on professional blogging and content writing jobs.
Key Features:
- Curated Job Listings: ProBlogger handpicks opportunities from reputable companies.
- Direct Client Interaction: Writers apply directly to clients, bypassing platform fees.
- Focus on Blogging: Ideal for writers specializing in blog content.
Pros:
- Jobs often pay above-average rates.
- Straightforward application process.
Cons:
- Fewer gigs compared to other platforms.
- Best suited for experienced writers.
4. Freelancer
Freelancer is a freelancing platform very similar to Upwork. It also uses a bidding system, where writers can browse job listings and compete for projects.
Key Features:
- Contests: Writers can participate in competitions to win projects and earn recognition.
- Milestone Payments: Payments are released at different stages of a project.
- Wide Range of Jobs: There are different types of writing jobs, from creative writing to technical projects.
Pros:
- Wide range of job types.
- Beginner-friendly.
Cons:
- Can be hard to win bids as a new writer.
- Platform fees can be expensive.
5. Contently
Contently is the best option for experienced writers in my opinion. Not only does it match writers with verified clients, but it also offers high-paying assignments.
Key Features:
- Content Management Platform: Writers manage their portfolios and communicate with clients personally.
- High Rates: Clients on Contently typically pay much more than the market rate.
- Editorial Support: Contently offers guidance to writers during projects.
Pros:
- High-quality clients with professional expectations.
- Strong writer support and resources.
Cons:
- Limited access for beginners.
- Requires a strong portfolio to get started.
6. iWriter
iWriter is designed for writers at all levels, making it an excellent starting point. Writers can choose from available assignments and earn based on their ratings. This is the only platform where you don’t need to ‘apply’ or ‘bid’ for gigs, however, they have a very stringent application process.
Key Features:
- Four Writing Levels: Writers progress from Standard to Elite Plus based on client ratings.
- Wide Range of Niches: Assignments include articles, blog posts, and SEO content.
- Instant Work Availability: You don’t have to wait for client approval to start working.
Pros:
- Easy to join and start working.
- Gigs are available in different niches.
Cons:
- Pay rates are low initially.
- High competition for top-tier jobs.
7. Medium Partner Program
Medium is a bit of an outlier in this list but it allows writers to earn money based on how much readers engage with their stories. It’s a platform for personal creativity rather than client-driven work.
Key Features:
- Reader-Based Earnings: Income depends on how many readers interact with your stories.
- Freedom of Expression: Writers choose their topics and style.
- Built-In Audience: Medium has a large readership eager for fresh content.
Pros:
- Great for building a personal audience.
- No client expectations to manage.
Cons:
- Earnings can be inconsistent.
- Requires consistent publishing for success.
Which is the better Freelance Writing Platform for You?
Choosing the best freelance writing platform depends on your needs. Beginners might thrive on platforms like Fiverr or iWriter, where it’s easier to get started. While experienced writers looking for high-paying gigs might prefer Contently or ProBlogger.
To make the right choice:
- Think about your career stage.
- Identify your niche and preferred job types.
- Balance potential earnings against platform fees.
Experimenting with a couple of platforms can also help you find the best fit over time.
Tips for Getting Jobs on Freelance Writing Platforms
Making the most of freelance platforms takes effort. Here are some tips:
- Build a strong profile and portfolio: Highlight your skills and showcase your best work.
- Communicate clearly with clients: Good communication builds trust and leads to repeat work.
- Deliver quality work on time: Meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations can earn you high ratings.
- Diversify your platforms: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, try out different platforms. This spreads out your risks and increases your income opportunities.
How to Succeed in Freelance Writing Long-term
It is important to know that freelance writing has its challenges and to succeed you need to overcome them. Here’s how to tackle them:
- Low-paying gigs: Focus on building a portfolio, then move to higher-paying platforms like ProBlogger or Contently.
- Competition: Stand out by tailoring your applications to each job and showing examples of your best work.
- Platform fees: Factor in fees when pricing your services to ensure you still make a profit.
This is not a conclusive list, but by staying persistent and learning from experience, you can overcome these obstacles and any that come your way.
Conclusion
So, what is the best freelance writing platform for writers? The answer depends on your experience, goals, and preferred work style. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and iWriter are great for beginners, while Contently and ProBlogger cater to experienced professionals. Finding the right platform may take time, but it’s worth the effort.
