Freelancing can be a crowded space. For some writers I know, the rise of the gig economy means they feel their position as a freelancer is precarious. At a time when it seems like there are freelance writers everywhere and freelancing is uber competitive, how can you set yourself apart? I’ve found 5 easy ways that you can add value to the editors and clients you work with.

So often when I listen to a freelancing podcast, go to a seminar or read a business blog, presenters and experts highlight the importance of networking. But

I was listening to a podcast the other day about how the professional lifespan of many freelance writers is only a couple of years. The burnout rate of freelancers is incredibly high – the constant hustling, the rejection, the isolation … the list goes on. I’m someone who tends to give up on things at the drop of a hat, so it got me thinking about why I’ve been able to stick with freelancing for nine years. And why I can’t even think of doing anything else. I slowly realised it’s because I treat freelance writing like a garden. No, I’m not 78 years old and about to wax lyrical about the properties of petunias. Stay with me here.

It would be easy to read this blog and think that I’m all about money. I share my income, I talk about how to find high-paying clients and the importance of having a monthly income target. But the truth is, money doesn’t drive me. It never has. But what does drive me (and what money gives me) is time, freedom and flexibility. And that’s why I’m always going to share ways in which writers can boost their income.

Recently I’ve had some great opportunities come my way. International press trips, speaking gigs, offers of work from editors and high-paying corporate gigs. These are things that a year ago or even six months ago I would have jumped at. But lately, I’ve realised something very important about these opportunities.