The Number 1 Tip to Becoming a Successful Freelance Writer

Did the title get your attention? Wouldn't you like to know there's just one thing you need to do to have a successful freelance writing career? While it's not exactly true, there is one thing that is so important, you shouldn't overlook it. I can sum it up in one sentence: Put yourself in their shoes.

It doesn't matter whether you're writing copy for a Fortune 500 business, creating website content for a small Mom-and-Pop company or writing a pitch for a magazine. If you want to be successful at anything you write, you must put yourself in their shoes.

Define "They"

First, you must know who they are. The answer will change based on what you're writing. If you're writing a blog post, it will be the people who read it. If you're writing copy for a clothing company, it will be the customers or potential customers for that store.

You should get a clear picture in your mind of "them." Get specific and give this person a name, features and a personality. The more detailed you can be, the better you will be able to write for them. Think about what they like and dislike, their pet peeves and what makes them upset or uncomfortable. Know what matters to them. As you create a character for your writing, it will be easier to create content that is relevant and valuable.

Put Yourself in Their Shoes

Now that you have a person in mind, you should be able to figure out why they will care about what you're writing. (Hint - if you can't do this, you're writing probably won't appeal to them.) Go back to that clothing store. Is the person looking for affordable clothing for work? Are they interested in the latest name brands or styles? The person you're writing for will influence what you say and how you say it.

The same is true when you're pitching to a potential client. Instead of rambling on about how great you are or what experience you have, think about the other person. What are they most likely interested in? What are their needs, and how can you meet them? If you shift your focus from yourself or your interests in writing and think about the other person, you'll notice that your tone changes. And more importantly, the results will change. Suddenly, people are interested in what you have to say. Why? Because you get it.