As a freelance writer how much should I charge
for my writing?
This frequently asked question doesn’t have a simple answer. Most intermediate to advanced freelance writers charge between $0.10 and $1 per word, depending on the amount of work they will have to put into the project. By the way in which they bill, that average range will vary. Freeland writers pitch to all markets. Some are one-time articles. Others are contracted.
Your options for billing.
Flat Rate
Just like it sounds, one flat rate is negotiated per project. With that said, the editor may make changes and you suffer the results. This could be anything from altering voice to nixing the article altogether and paying a kill fee. Or, you may find yourself editing multiple times. The longer the project, the more chances for rewrite requests or changes in direction. Consider editing parameters when deciding on a flat rate. Calculate time for these changes. It might be necessary to tell the client there will be add-on costs after a certain point.
Hourly Rate
Material for newsletters, business copy, or commercial scripts can pay per hour. Companies hire all sorts of writing and editing. In this case bill hourly to avoid a lengthy contract with different prices for different items. Know what you are worth and be sure to be attentive to travel, research, and collaboration meetings in the mix.
Per Word
Getting paid per word is conducive to editing, writing a script, translating, or ghostwriting. It’s a simple method. Be prepared to have a word count range up front so nobody gets surprised. Experience would determine how long it will take you to complete that count.
Per Page
Some magazines pay per page, giving you a sense, up front, how much goes on a page. They are paying based on the cost it takes them to print, which is often defined per page. The task doesn’t merit a lot of back and forth, and isn’t difficult to negotiate. With a longer, more complicated project, work in some back-and-forth time for discussions.
Per Post
Social media updates, product reviews, or blogging can pay per post. Try to learn ahead of time an estimated range of work. Blogging can be time consuming.
Retainer or Monthly
Being on retainer is a handsome gig demonstrating confidence in your work. You still need a handle on your other rates. They may need to be articulated clearly in your bill. Hammer down a contract with a clear understanding as to what is expected. There are always moments when the work exceeds or does not meet expectations. Retainers can seriously level out the uncertainty of a freelancer’s income.
Added Value
Geared toward more seasoned freelancers with years of experience. Strong negotiations might be involved. Emphasize the results you can guarantee the project based upon your track record. Your proven skillset builds value over time. The better you know the client, the better you can calibrate your proposal. Don’t promise something you cannot deliver.
Commission
You must have a solid idea of what you are worth in terms of aiding a client in being successful. A commission is more attuned to writing a sales campaign or website sales page, then asking for a percentage of the sales.
Unleash the novel inside you
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“Linda has published twenty books. She blogs about the publishing world, posts useful tips on the challenges a writer faces, including marketing and promoting your work, how to build your online platform, how to get reviews and how to self-publish. She has mentored many authors and edited their work.”
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