The Top 10 Free Ways to Get Money Online

Finding a free way to make money online isn't easy and might take a lot of time. So, I put together 10 methods of making money online in this post to help you out. I have done research

 on these money making methods. They werelegitimate and didn't cost you money to begin.

No. 10 - Paid Survey

You might already heard about paid survey if you have searched on the Internet for while. The Internet ads told you that you can make a living doing paid survey. So, is that really true? Well, the answer is of course no. The ad messages were exaggerated. But it's true that paid survey can potentially earn you extra cash in monthly basis.

How to begin?

It's simple. Just go to paid survey directory like Yellowsurveys.com and join as many market research companies listed in the directory as possible. There is also a list of companies that are listed under the 'Most Popular' in the Yellowsurveys.com directory. Make sure you join all the companies in the 'Most Popular' category.

The signing up process will take you hours of time since you are going to join many companies. But once you've have completed all the sign up, your work is done. What you need to do next is wait for the paid survey invitation emails send to you by these companies. Not every company pays cash to participants who completed survey. Some companies offer vouchers (Amazon, etc), gift and products.

Who can join?

Anyone over 18 years in US and Canada. Most companies welcome any country but the paid survey invitations are often fit for US and Canada residents only.

Patience is needed

Paid survey isn't a way to get fast money. You would have got a few surveys for the first month and earning less than $10 in total. But, when time gets longer, you might start getting more surveys regularly. At that time, you might get about $30 to $100 per month in average.

No. 9 - Reviewing Products and Services

The Internet users often want to search for supporting information before they purchase a product or a service to make sure they are making wise purchasing decision. They will go to the shopping information sites to find the supporting product information and advice.

The shopping information sites will help these Internet users by providing reviews written by those people who already tried the products or services. These product reviews are real and useful for the Internet users to make the right choice. So, the shopping info sites would hope to publish new reviews constantly. And therefore, the shopping info sites are inviting anyone to submit honest and straight forward review on the product or service they've used or tried. For each review that the shopping information site approved, the submitter will be paid.

You don't have to be a professional writer to write review. Writing product review is about sharing your experience and opinions about the product you have used. Just be straight forward and tell the truth will do.

Sites that pay for product review:

ReviewStream.com - Pay $2 per product review. But the review rate might change anytime. No registration needed to submit review. You'll earn also for each time a reader vote on your review. $0.10 per vote.

Sharedreviews.com - You'll need to register to create a profile in Shared Reviews. Then you can start review anything you like. Once you have written and published your reviews, they will be read and voted by your friends in the Shared Reviews community. Your review will be ranked based on votes and traffic. The more votes and traffic to your review, the higher your rank and the higher your earning would probably be.

SoftwareJudge.com - The site publishes reviews about software and online games. If you have something to say about a software or a game you have tried, you can share your opinion in Softwarejudge. The pay is between $1 to $50 per approved review depending on the quality.

No. 8 - Sharing Photos and Pictures 

If you are passionate about photography, then you can turn your hobby into cash.Break.com was all the while paying users for uploading pictures that get featured on their picture gallery. You'll be paid $50 for each photo that Break chose to feature in their picture gallery.

How to begin?

Only registered members of Break can upload photo. Registration is free and can be done at this page. Once you have signed up, you can start uploading your photos.

You may take a look at Break Gallery first to see what sorts of pictures and photos that Breaks like to feature before uploading your photos. This will give you an idea of what photos have a better chance to be featured. Amazing, interesting or funny pictures are often good for getting featured in Break Gallery.

Some rules to keep in mind are that the picture that you upload must be original (not copying from other site) and you have the sole ownership to it. Otherwise, you wouldn't be paid even though your pictured got featured.

Another way to make money with your photos is by selling them in the stock photography sites such as IstockPhoto and Shutterstock. The webmasters, magazine editors, web 

designers, graphic designers, bloggers and other people who involve in the publishing field are paying monthly subscription to the stock photography sites. They choose to use what pictures they like for their publishing. Every time they choose to use your picture, you'll earn a small fee. So, the more people use your pictures, the more you'll earn.

If you have good volume of pictures and images to submit constantly to IstockPhotoand ShutterStock; and a few others are BigStockPhoto, GittyImages, Fotoliaia, etc, you could be earning consistent income with your pictures.

No. 7 - Uploading Files

Have you heard of websites that allow Internet users to upload files and earn money every time their file is downloaded by someone? There were actually quite a lot of these file-sharing websites offering this service. But because the pay is too low that many people become not interested on them.

However, there is a file-sharing website which I recently come across worth mentioning. The site 

is called Share Cash. Share Cash offers the users who upload files $0.20 to $0.60 per download. That's $200 to $600 per 1,000 download. The pay rate is very much higher than most other file-sharing sites which usually offer only $1 to $3 per thousand download. If you have interesting files to share with people on the Internet, why not share them through this site and earn more cash for each download of your file.

How to Begin?

You need to become a member of Share Cash to upload files. Registration is fast and easy. All you need to do is fill out the short form at http://sharecash.org/register.phpand then you can proceed to upload your files.

To get good amount of download, you should upload something that many people will be interested to see. You'll want to share your file with as many Internet users as possible to maximize your earning. So, some marketing works are needed. You might try to post about it in related forums, invite your friends in social networking communities to download your file..... All these can add your download up and so as your earning. You can read more about tips of getting download at http://sharecash.org/tips.php.

Not every download earns

According to the users who have got paid, Share Cash is just looking for US and UK download. Users from other countries downloaded your file will most probably not counted for earning.

No. 6 – Freelancing

Nowadays, the Internet is full of freelance working opportunities. Most of these freelance job opportunities were posted on the freelance service websites by the companies and e-entrepreneurs who need help in their business.

The daily posted freelance job opportunities in these freelance websites include web design, article writing, Internet marketing, programming, editing, online data entry, accounting, admin support, database management, graphic design and many more. So you can search through these freelance websites to find the freelance jobs and projects that you can work for and make some extra money.

How to Begin?

You may just start by becoming a freelancer (member) of Guru.com (a freelance service site). You'll be asked to create a profile to include your experience, education, skill, etc. Then you can access the Guru.com job board to search for the freelance works that are right for you and bid for them. They will be other freelancers bidding the same jobs as well. So, make sure you set your price lower and write your proposal well. Who to choose for the job is solely decided by the employer.

Who can join?

Anyone can become a freelancer regardless if you are living in Asia, Europe or US.

The alternative of Guru.com

If you find hard to get a job on Guru.com because of the tough competition there, you might try in Freelancefree.com and DigitalPoint Forum. Freelancecefree works the same way as Guru.com but the marketplace is smaller and so as the competition is lowers. Digital Point (DP) on the other hand is the largest webmaster forum. As a member of DP, you can post ads about your freelance services and also find freelance works that you're interested in the Buy, Sell or Trade section of the forum. There is also competition in DP forum, but getting works is easier.

No. 5 - AssociatedContent.com

The AssociatedContent (AC) is an established huge content network welcoming anyone to participate and contribute content on any topic.

AC has been rewarding content contributors constantly. They pay the members who submit articles in two ways:

1) Upfront Payment - A one time payment to the member for every article that the member submitted and get approved by AC. Usually $3 to $10 for each approved article. Only for US residents at the moment.

2) Performance Payment - It is the payment based on the traffic that your published articles received. The current rate AC offers is $1.50 per one thousand page viewsgenerated from your articles. This payment option works well with interesting articles that attract many readers.

This is an extra income opportunity for you if you like to write or have good writing skill.

How to begin?

It's simple to start publishing on AC. Just go to the AC Sign Up page, fill out the form, hit the 'sign up now' button and you are set to publish articles on any topic in AC.

To have a better chance for your articles to get accepted for upfront payment, you are suggested to write articles that wouldn’t lose value over time. How-to articles andguide on doing something are some of the good examples for upfront payment. And you should also do some 

researches on AC. Try to find topics that still haven't had many articles in them and then submit articles on these topics. These articles are more likely to get accepted for upfront payment.

For performance payment option, it seems harder to earn money because you get only $1.50 for per one thousand views generated by your published articles. But there is a strategy you can use to take advantage on the pay per thousand option. The strategy is to keep submitting articles to AC to build up a large collection of articles of yours. Many of your articles will soon attract traffic and from time to time you articles might build up good traffic and earn you passive income of $20 to $50 each month.

No. 4 - Writing and Selling Article Pack

In Associated Content, only US residents get paid right away for approved articles. International members can only submit articles for performance payment which pay $1.50 per thousand page views of your articles.

But in Digital Point Forum, everyone has the same opportunity to make money with articles. As mentioned before, Digital Point is the largest webmaster forum with massive traffic gained. The forum has established amarketplace for people to buy and sell articles. The written articles were often made into a pack of 5 or 10 articles and posted for sales on Digital Point Marketplace at one price. There are quite a lot of buyers purchasing article pack in the forum. This is a marketplace ideal for you to sell your articles.

You don't need to be a pro-writer but you do need some writing skill to do this little business. The process is simple. You first create 5 to 10 articles on a topic, post an ad on the marketplace about it and wait for the potential buyers to contact you via private message of the forum.

Make sure you have a PayPal account to accept payment.

How to begin?

Visit http://forums.digitalpoint.com/register.php to join as a member of the forum. Then start reading the topics and threads that you're interested and post your replies. You need to reach 25 posts and at least 14 days of joining DP before you can post ad on the DP marketplace.

What articles sell often?

I noticed in the DP that the topics like Wordpress, make money online, affiliate marketing, social media marketing are selling quite well. You may start creating 5 articles in one of the topics to test sell in DP. But these are just some of the good demand topics I noticed, you might do some researches in DP to find more profitable topics that you can write for.

Certain simple rules you must keep in mind is that your article must be unique (not published anywhere before) and can only sell once - to one buyer only.

How to write the ad

It's not difficult. You can just refer the existing ads and get an idea on what you should put in. There are only ad title and ad description you need to write. Here's an example of the title"

'5 Wordpress Articles | 100% Unique | $15'

For the ad description, make sure you include the title of each articles and the length of each, the price of the article pack and mention that they were all Copyscape Pass. Tell the viewers to send 'private message' to you if they're interested.

What price to set

The price needs to be low in DP. People like to buy in DP because there were good deals they can find. For a pack of 5 articles, you are suggested to set the price at $15 or lower. You might go for a little higher the price, but if you can't get your articles sold, then cut the price down.

No. 3 - Sell Your Used Stuff

When you want to sell something online, I'm sure you think of eBay. But, you need to pay a listing fee to sell your item on eBay. The listing charge is not refundable. If your item don't sell, you still pay the fee. It costs money to make money in eBay.

However, it's different when you sell in other auction sites such as eBid andAtoncer. Both of the auction sites don't charge listing fee, meaning anything that you list for sale is free. The sites only charge you a 'final value fee' when you've sold an item.

The marketplace of eBid and Atoncer aren't big as eBay but they are quite popular on the Internet as well. Any old or used stuff in your home that you find you can sell, try listing them for sale in eBid and Atoncer. If you’ve sold something successfully, you will make profit. But if your item doesn't sell, you have nothing to lose and you can list again.

Other than free auction sites, Craiglist is another excellent online marketplace to sell your used stuff. Craiglist is a classified ad site that anyone can take advantage on. There is no cost to post ad in Craiglist except you are posting ad into the job category. The great thing about Craiglist is that it divides the ads by city or region, making it easier to find buyers in your town.

Generating sales through Craiglist is certainly possible. And you can always re-list your ad when your previous ad is getting older. But remember to always include picturewhen you list any item for sale in Craiglist and also in the auction sites. Adding product picture has proven to be effective for increasing responses dramatically.

Oh.. There is one more marketplace I almost forgot to mention. It's the famousAmazon. Like eBid and Atoncer, Amazon doesn't charge listing fee but if you sell an item, they will take a percentage of it.

Your used cell phone can bring you fast cash if you are in US

If you often change cell phone and keep a number of outdated phones over time, don't throw them away. Online company like Cell for Cash wants you old cell phones. You'll get money for 

sending (free shipping) your old cell phone to Cell for Cash.

The cash value of phones range from few dollars to over one hundred dollars, depending on your phone model, capabilities and demand.

You can right away exchange your cell phone for cash by completing three easy steps in CellforCash.com:

1) Choose your phone model in the list

2) Submit details about your phone manufacturer and model

3) Ship your phone and get cash within 45 to 60 days.

No. 2 - Blogging for Cash

Blogging is hot on the Internet now. A lot of people want to start blogging not just because they can make money with it but also they can use the blog as an ongoing self-promotion tool making them popular over time.

The most direct way to start making money blogging is by becoming a paid bloggers of a blog network. Paid blogging job opportunities seem to be growing these days. More and more were posted on the blogging job boards. The pay offers in these blogging jobs were usually in two forms which are either pay per post e.g. $10/post or pay in a monthly basis e.g. Fixed $200/month.

Here are some blogging job sites that you can search for paid blogging opportunities:

ProBlogger Job Board - A job board established by the well known blogger 'Darren Rowse'. New blogging jobs are updated regularly.

Indeed Job Search Engine - Find the latest blogging jobs listed on different websites.

Bloggerjobs.biz - A blog that updates new blogging opportunities regularly.

Besides blogging job sites, you may check out Weblogs, Inc blog network and the About content networks. Both are quality networks that have opportunities open constantly.

The downsides of blogging for other are that your earning potential is limited and there is almost no self-promotion opportunity for you if you want to build you name in the blogosphere. For this reason, you might want to start your own blog.

It's easy to start a new blog through using the Blogger platform. With just a few simple steps to take in Blogger.com, you can have your new blog up and running and start writing the topic you're passionate about. Once you've published 5 or more posts on your blog, you can start applying for Google AdSense program to have AdSense ads displaying on your blog. This is a 

very basis way to earn cash from blogging. There are plenty of other ways and programs that you can use for generating revenue from your blog. Take some time to learn them.

While your blog is small and you've earned your first $10. You should buy a custom domain for your blog. A custom name will make your blog looks more professional and it's easier to build creditability.

Blogging is a wide topic. There are many things to learn for sure. You got to put in a lot of time and effort in blog marketing and content creation if you want to turn your blog into a success. As a new blogger, I would suggest you take some free blog marketing courses:

http://www.bloggingbeginners.com

http://becomeablogger.com/roadmap

With the good blogging knowledge you pick up and hard effort on blog marketing, you could be another blogger that makes a living at home.

No. 1 - Completing Offer Online

Completing offer is an easy task that anyone can do. You don't need any writing skill or any other skills and special knowledge to do it.

The process of completing offer is pretty simple. You go to the website that is looking for people to sign up for their free offer, fill out the form on the site, confirmed your email address and done; you have completed an offer that will make you money.

Every time when you have complete an offer, you just leave it and wait for the online company to approve it. Your offer will be approved as long as you have completed it. Each approved offer will earn you $0.50 to $1.00.

There are also high paid offers that can earn you $5.00 to $50.00 per offer. But you need to enter your credit card details and probably get charge for a small fee when signing up for a high paid offer.

By completing 20 to 40 offers monthly, you can earn some nice extra cash every month.

Get paid to complete opportunity is only available to US, Canada and UK residents only.

Sites that you can join to complete offers:

Treasuretrooper.com - Registration required. Currently have over one hundred thousand members. Inside Treasure Trooper you will find hundreds of offers you can complete and earn. The majority are free offers that can be completed easily. These free offers range from $0.50 to $1.00 of earning upon completion. Payout is $20 by Check or PayPal. Treasure Trooper is a real paying site. They were started few years ago.

CashCrete.com - Works very much similar with Treasure Trooper. Registration required. Have a lot of high paid offers. Payment only by check. Another real paying site.

If you enjoy signing up offers, you may do both in Treasure Trooper and Cash Crete. This certainly will earn you more.

Both sites also offer a referral program for members to earn more by referring new member in. The referral programs are opened to US and international members.

There you have it, The Top 10 Free Ways to Get Money Online. Hope the information really helps you to earn cash on the Internet. The sites that I’ve mentioned and recommended were real and they are really paying people. So, don’t worry, you wouldn’t get scammed.

Hope you enjoy reading this article!

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Learn About Freelance SEO and Website Writing Jobs
Ever since people realized they need the right keywords in the right places to rank their websites high in search engines, freelance SEO writers have had work – and plenty of it.

SEO stands for "Search Engine Optimization." Search engines (like Yahoo! and Google) scour webpages for certain words and then order them accordingly on the "Search Results" pages. The higher a website reaches on the "Search Results" page, the more searchers will notice it.

How much can I earn as a freelance SEO writer? 

Companies hire SEO writers to turn their websites into marketing tools that increase their sales, and they're willing to pay good money. Depending on the company and your skill level, you can earn anywhere from $10-$50 per 500-750-word original article. If you can also host the company's site, write all their content, and monitor their visibility on search engines, expect a $250 to $3,500 monthly salary range. If you're just editing to incorporate keywords, expect only a few dollars per 500 words.

Who offers SEO writing jobs and what's involved? 

Anyone with a business website can benefit from a freelance SEO writer. This is especially true when there's much competition, such as in the travel or real estate industries. If people can't find these companies on the first page of search results, then potential customers are unlikely to visit their websites.

That's where you come in. A great SEO freelancer will seamlessly integrate a couple of search terms or keywords into the pages of a website so search engines can easily find it.

The key here is "seamless." A website's text still must flow naturally despite adding keywords. You shouldn't use too many keywords (no more than a couple per page) and you shouldn't write an entire paragraph just to incorporate a keyword.

How can I find freelance SEO writing jobs? 

The best place to start is freelance job websites like Online Writing Jobs and Writing Bids. You can market yourself on these websites as a freelance SEO writer and bid on dozens of SEO writing jobs. These sites receive new SEO job postings almost daily, so you'll always find freelance SEO work to bid on.

If you have experience in SEO freelancing, you can command top dollar. You should establish your own website to market your freelance services, or post of freelance portfolio at Freelance Portfolios. If you can build your own website that attracts prospective clients, then it's a good indicator you can help others find their websites too!

How do I respond to an ad for an SEO writer effectively? 

Put yourself in the shoes of the person who's looking for an SEO writer. What does he or she want to know?

Here's the answer: anyone looking for an SEO freelance writer wants to know three things:

1) you have a proven track record;

2) you have excellent grammar; and

3) you are creative enough to not make their keywords stick out like a sore thumb.

If you can show those things, you can create an enticing bid and convince clients to hire you.

Another key is providing a competitive quote. Freelance job websites make this tricky because you will always find someone who will bid less than you. The best advice is to make your bid equal your skillset and experience. If you don't have much experience, then use the opportunity to under-bid slightly to get the experience you need. Gradually your resume will grow and you'll be able to ask for more money.

An example of an SEO freelancer ad 

Below is a sample ad that you might come across on one of the freelance job sites. See if you can figure out how to respond so the client would want to hire you: 

I am a real estate agent with a large client base but very few find me via my website. I would like to update my website so it attracts more people and has more visibility on the Internet. I would prefer someone who knows how to use SEO words effectively.

This ad gives you the idea the realtor doesn't know much about SEO. In your response you'll want to assure him that you can handle SEO in his industry. A good tactic is to suggest certain keywords or keyword phrases he could use to rank his website higher. You'll also want to assure him that you'll optimize his content not just for search engines, but also for his readers. Remember, good SEO writing is not just about keywords – it's also about creative and effective marketing in general. 

Learn About Freelance Resume Writing Jobs
Resume writing may not seem difficult for a writer like you, but for the average person it can cause serious anxiety attacks. Resumes are a job seeker's first impression at a potential new job – so he wants to get it right. Many people (rightly) don't trust their own abilities to prepare a great resume, so they hire a freelance resume writer to do it for them.

Resume writing can earn you anywhere from $30 to $300 per resume, even if you're a novice. No, it's not a typo, and it's not a bad chunk of change for one or two hours of your time!
How can I get freelance resume writing gigs? 

Everyone needs a resume. Students looking for their first job, executives who want to move up the ladder, stay-at-home moms who are ready to go back to work, retirees who want a little extra cash… the list goes on.

The best way to find these jobs is to make it easy for the jobs to find you. Place an ad in the newspaper (weekends are usually best); or better yet, put one in the Yellow Pages. Even a small ad will draw much attention.

You can look online, as well, but usually the few you can find don't pay very well. A resume writing service may also hire you for your freelance services, but you'll make more money if you're in business for yourself.
What skills do I need to write a good resume? 

First, you need flawless spelling and grammar. You also need an eye for aesthetically pleasing formatting. A resume should flow logically, with lots of white space, professional fonts, that sort of thing.

Various jobs call for different resumes; if you aren't sure what goes best with what, then invest in a book on resume writing from your local bookstore. It will give you essential tips to write different resumes that, at first, may seem foreign to you.

It also helps if you're creative, especially if your client's work history is less than awe-inspiring. Have they done any volunteer work? Do they have any hobbies that may be marketable as skills? Remember, people are hiring you to showcase them in their best possible light.

Of course, it's always a good idea to have a portfolio to show your future clients. If you don't have a portfolios of samples, then make some resumes up and put them in a folder. You don't need any actual experience, as long as you're willing to put in the time to create some samples.
What should I say to potential customers? 

Okay, you've placed your ad and someone has contacted you to write a resume, but the person is wondering how much it costs. Now what?

Let's say you get an email from someone that says: 

Hi there. I am in desperate need of a new resume. I'm in a dead-end fast food job and I really want to do something else. How much does it cost to get a new resume? Thanks, Rebecca.

Do you write this poor soul back with: "Thank you for your inquiry. My fee is $75 per resume"? NO!

Although it's veiled, Rebecca's email asks much more than the price of a resume. She hates her job and she is desperate to move up in the world. Working in a fast food restaurant tells you she probably doesn't have many skills or anything better than a high school diploma (if that). She also probably doesn't have much money. In short, Rebecca wants to know if you're the person to help get her out of a depressing situation.

A response like the one below sends the message that yes, you are the person right for the task. 

Hi Rebecca. Thanks for your email. It sounds like you don't have too much job experience, but don't worry – a good resume will show your new boss how great you were at your old job and how fast you can learn new skills. For $45, I can make you a brand new resume with a real ‘wow' factor. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Remember, your clients don't just want a resume. They want a job. Show them that you can help them get that job within their budget, and you're on your way to a profitable career in freelance resume writing! 

Learn About Freelance Public Relations Jobs
Public relations is an involved field of work for freelance writers. Freelance public relations usually entails writing reports, designing presentations, putting together ad campaigns, creating press releases, writing speeches, coaching, informing employees/clients/regulatory agencies about what's going on at the office, and so on.

In short, if you want to freelance as public relations writer, you need a diverse set of skills. This includes exceptional writing ability, a knack for marketing, superior computer skills (with knowledge of presentation and desktop publishing software), and exceptional customer service.

If you don't have these skills, you can probably outsource some of your work. However, hiring others to do your job for you will seriously dwindle your profits.

Who offers freelance public relations jobs?

Every publicly traded company needs PR people, including many private businesses. Marketing and communications firms are popular examples. In addition, government and non-profit organizations always seek the services of freelance PR writers. Museums, charities, and hospitals are just a few examples that encompass the endless list of organizations needing someone to handle their public relations.

To find public relations jobs, check out employment sites like Online Writing Jobs, Writing Bids, and Yahoo! HotJobs. It's also smart to sign up with websites like WorkInPR.com that specialize in connecting PR jobseekers with employers.

Don't forget to check out websites like IFreelance.com and Guru.com. These freelance job auction sites allow you to bid on projects that suit your timeline, scope of abilities, and desired income level.

How much money can I make in freelance public relations?

That depends on the PR work that you're doing. Freelance public relations encompass many "sub-jobs," and consequently, each client will have different tasks that he or she wants you to oversee. A PR client may hire you to do everything from employee newsletters to nationwide marketing campaigns; or the client may hire you to type, copyedit, and proofread press releases. You and your client will have to agree on the list of expectations.

If you're a jack-of-all-trades public relations writer, then don't charge less than $40 an hour. If your client wants you to charge by project (which is more common for large PR campaigns), estimate the number of hours you will need and then multiply it by your hourly rate. As your list of happy PR clients grows, you may want to charge more. Many PR freelancers make $150 an hour and up.

In public relations, it is also common to charge by the day. PR professionals usually charge in the range of $300 to $1000 per day or more.

How do I properly respond to a public relations job ad?

Again, it depends on the work the client wants you to do. It also depends on the company it is. If a kids' soccer league were looking for a PR freelancer, you'd hope to quote them a far smaller fee than you would an oil and gas company!

To ensure you create the best response possible, follow these guidelines:

1. Identify yourself as an extremely capable and professional PR freelancer.

2. Assure the client that you can handle each of the items he or she listed in the ad.

3. Mention how satisfied your previous clients have been with your work.

It's obviously much easier to get this complex job with prior experience. However, if you don't have previous PR clients, remember that any job experience with any required job skill is useful. For example, you may have written website content before. It's not PR experience technically, but it shows you can handle that aspect of the job.

Sample ad

Below is a sample ad for a public relations freelance writer. What would you include in your response? 

We are a mid-sized software company that needs a public relations specialist to add energy to our existing ad campaigns. We want to be well positioned within our market to reach out to new customers and generate more sales. You will rewrite our marketing material, design slideshows, and create two press releases per month about our products.

First, let the advertiser know you're enthusiastic about this job opportunity. The company is looking for someone to reenergize their marketing efforts, so you should convey yourself as an energetic, dynamic person.

Second, address their task list. If you have relevant experience and satisfied past clients, discuss it here. If not, focus on how solid your skills are.

That's all there is to it! Getting the client excited about your abilities is the key to success in public relations. 

Learn About Freelance Proofreading and Copy Editing Jobs The terms "copyediting" and "proofreading" have distinct meanings. Copyediting is the revision right after the draft is finished. It includes correcting spelling, formatting, and grammar mistakes, as well as changing awkward sentences, ensuring that ideas flow well, eliminating ineffective portions of text, etc. Copyediting is a very involved, often lengthy process. By contrast, proofreading is the final look-through before the creator turns in the document for publication, posting, grading, etc. It still involves correcting, formatting and grammar errors, but it does not usually include much sentence or idea restructuring. Proofreading can also include ensuring the creator of the document placed all photos correctly, hyperlinks work, sources are correct, etc. What is the average pay rate for freelance proofreading/copyediting? Both copyediting and proofreading can pay very well if you're good at what you do and you have adequate experience. Freelance rates are the same for both types of work, assuming proofreading takes less time than copyediting. For both freelance jobs, it is common to charge by the hour or by the page. A brand new copyeditor or proofreader shouldn't ask for more than $2/page or $25/hour. Experienced copyeditors and proofreaders may charge up to $15/page or $75/hour or more. What type of experience do I need to get these jobs?  Most importantly, you should have excellent grammar and spelling skills. You must have a keen eye for detail. Control freaks and perfectionists make great proofreaders and copyeditors because they don't let one mistake or inconsistency slip by them. It's helpful if you have a degree in English or education, so clients will assume you have strong language skills. You'll also want to develop a strong portfolio of work that you can show to potential clients. If you don't have any relevant education or experience, think outside the box. Have you written anything at all? The answer is probably ‘yes.' Put together some of your best work, such as resumes, reports, short stories, etc. If you don't have any of this, then make some! It's okay for you to make sample documents from scratch – you're just trying to give people an idea of how good of a writer you are. How can I find freelance proofreading/copyediting jobs? Many individuals, schools, and businesses need copyeditors and proofreaders. Authors generate manuscripts, companies generate reports and presentations, students generate essays… all can and do use copyeditors and proofreaders. If you're just getting started, search freelance jobs sites likes Online Writing Jobs and Writing Bids. They've got tons of projects waiting for people to bid on them. On sites like this, price is often a factor for the buyers, so if you're inexperienced and willing to underbid a bit, this is the place for you. These sites are also good because they help you establish a reputation with buyers. One job could lead to ongoing work with that company or referrals to other businesses. Once you're more established, get your own website and make sure it's search engine optimized so that customers can find you. A dedicated website implies an additional level of credibility that will help you command higher fees. If you don't have a website, post a free portfolio at Freelance Portfolios. What's the best way to respond to an ad? When you come across an ad you like, respond to the needs and concerns of the client. Read this sample ad to see if you can spot what this client is looking for:  I've written a 200-page book. It's a fiction novel about a boy in Ancient Rome who grows up to be king. The manuscript is ready but I want one last read through before I submit it to publishers. I need mistakes fixed and maybe suggestions for parts that are hard or boring to read. Experienced editors only.  Okay, this ad asks for an experienced editor. Does that mean you shouldn't bid without a mile-long resume? It sounds like what the author really wants is someone with an eagle eye to make his manuscript perfect before he sends it out for consideration by publishing houses. If you know you can do it despite a lack of experience, then go ahead and bid. Emphasize your skills and provide examples of work you did in college or create some new samples. Do your best to include samples that relate to the author's work – in this case, fiction pieces, especially those that are historical in nature. Assure the author that you are more than capable of doing the job, and you'll have yourself a client!

Learn About Freelance Medical Writing Jobs
If healthcare and medicine interest you, you'll probably enjoy freelance health and medical writing. Even if you're not versed in technical jargon, you can still find a place for yourself in the industry.

If you do have the technical background, you might be an excellent writer for pharmaceutical companies or an editor for medical journals. Otherwise, expect to find freelance jobs writing for magazines or websites about health, or in the health sections of newspapers.

Health and medical writers without backgrounds need to be excellent researchers. Look online or – better yet – go to a university library to update yourself on what's going on in the medical world the public finds interesting. Has there been a recent vaccination controversy? Is there a new exercise trend on the horizon? Do energy bars really work? The answers to those questions appeal to people interested in health and wellness. If you can find the answers, you'll have a sellable article.
Do I need experience to be a freelance health or medical writer? 

Do you need proof that you've written these types of articles for others? Yes, almost always.

Do you also need proof that you got paid for what you wrote as a health or medical writer? Nope, absolutely not.

If you don't have the "almighty portfolio," never fear. Write a few health/wellness articles and send them to your community newsletter, those free city newspapers, hospitals, nursing homes, medical clinics, etc. You won't get paid, but editors will likely publish good articles.

Medical and health writers demand experience because you're working in a specialized area. However, two or three published articles are usually enough to get your first paid job. It'll just keep getting easier from there.
How do I find freelance medical writing jobs?

Once you have a few writing samples, it's time to start sending query letters. A query letter introduces you and your idea to an editor. Here are a few tips to write a compelling query letter: 

1. Know your editors. Read their magazines so you get a good feel for what articles editors may be looking for. 2. Always introduce your idea before you introduce yourself. You can impress editors by original ideas, not by resumes. Editors won't glance at those clips you painstakingly collected if the editor doesn't like your idea. 3. Focus on why an editor should publish your article. Yes, you need to tell the editor what you plan to write about -- your main goal is to sell the editor on the notion the magazine's readership will find your article interesting.

You may also want to approach editors of online health and medical sites, such as everydayhealth.com, healthline.com, and wellness.com. Again, make sure the nature of your article matches the content they publish.

Finally, try looking for ads on websites. Online-writing-jobs.com usually has about a dozen ads for health or medical writers, as does Freelancewriting.com and a few other sites. Do a search for "freelance health writing" to see for yourself. Visit FreelanceWriting.com's Writer's Guidelines Database where you can search for many health/medical publications that pay freelance writers for articles.
How much money can I earn?

It all depends on whom you're working for. Many magazines pay $100 to $300 for short, quality articles (they pay more if the article is longer). Websites usually pay less because they have plenty of writers trying to work for them. Editors may also pay you per word, between $0.20/word and $2.00/word and up, depending on your experience and the publication's reputation.
How should I respond to an ad?

You've come across an ad that appeals to you – congratulations! Read the sample ad below to see if you can figure out the best way to respond: 

Holistic Weekly Magazine is currently accepting articles on alternative health trends. $0.50 to $0.90 per word.

This ad doesn't tell you a lot, but it does tell you enough. Before you respond, go get a copy of Holistic Weekly and read it cover to cover. Once you have a solid grasp on what the magazine is all about, you're ready to pitch your article ideas.

This magazine seems to focus on alternative health, so you need to ask yourself whether your idea is relevant. Organic eating, "western medicine" scandals, and types of alternative health care might be ideas to get you started.

Remember: knowing your editor and your readership are important to get published. 

Learn About Freelance Magazine Writing Jobs
Did you know that freelancers write most articles you find in magazines? Many newsstand magazines have few, if any, full-time writers. Almost every topic of interest imaginable has an associated magazine; if you like writing, you can find a magazine just right for you.

Magazines pay about $0.75 to $2.00 per word for nationally distributed magazines. Expect about $0.10 to $.35 per word for smaller, local publications.
What's involved in freelance magazine writing?

The magazine market has a large window of opportunity for freelance writers, but you must follow strict guidelines about language, word count, deadlines, etc. If an editor says he wants 800 words and you submit an 850-word article, then expect a rejection letter in the mail.

You'll also need to know how to pitch your skills so you and your submission appeals to editors. Magazine editors will overlook even very talented writers if they fail to market themselves appropriately.
How can I find freelance magazine writing jobs?
The Writer's Market is the #1 source for magazines looking for freelance writers. You can access their listings online or purchase their book at most major bookstores. Check outWritersMarket.com to subscribe.

Listings such as these are indispensable for freelance writers because they give details about submission requirements. Follow them exactly for the best chance of an editor accepting your article for publication.

You can also find several no-cost resources on the Internet for writers. Freelancewriting.comis a good place to start. FreelanceWriting.com maintains a growing database of magazines seeking writers.

A word of caution: make sure any website you use is current. Submissions sent to the wrong person will tick editors off, even if you got the information from their own website. Avoid this blunder by calling to confirm submission guidelines and contact info.
How do I put together a strong article submission? 

The most common way is to submit a query letter, which means letting the magazine editor know who you are and what you'd like to submit.

Query letters are usually in writing and include a self-addressed, stamped envelope (so you're sure to get a response). A good query letter answers these questions:
1. Why is it critical for this magazine to publish your article?
2. What do you plan to include in your article?
3. What are your qualifications as a writer?

Like the article you intend to write, you should write your query letter in a concise and compelling format. Ask yourself what the editor's needs are. You need to make the editor who reads your query letter as excited about your article as you are.

You also need to outline whether you'll include quotes from experts, photos, etc. Finally, include any relevant clips you have from previous freelance writing gigs. In other words, if you're hoping to write a financial piece, don't send your clips about puppies and dessert recipes.

Proving your writing skills can be difficult if you're just getting started. If a magazine hasn't published you yet, try volunteer writing for community or school magazines. Save everything you have in print – it will get easier and easier to establish your credibility.

Another technique is simply to write the article for which you'd like to be paid and submit it to the magazine. It may take awhile to get a response, but this “shotgun” approach can help prove your writing skills without having much experience.

Whatever approach you choose, make sure to follow up in about a month if an editor hasn't replied. Editors appreciate a writer who shows he's serious about working for them.
Magazine solicitation example

Below is an example ad. See if you can spot what the magazine is looking for: 

Topix is a magazine for teens devoted to keeping teens off drugs. We are currently accepting article submissions of 450-550 words. Please send submissions to Gloria at (address).

Not much information, right? Wrong! The ad has enough information to develop a great query letter. Here's what we know:

• The magazine is for teenagers so your article should use language that appeals to teens.

• The magazine's goal is to keep teens off drugs, so think of a topic that is cool for teens and promotes drug-free living. Ideas could be coping with peer pressure or drug-free fun on the weekend.

• You've got a guideline of 450-550 words, so follow it!

Knowing the magazine's audience and what editors are looking for is important to getting published by a magazine. If you can identify those two critical points, you'll be well on your way to freelancing for magazines. | THE END |

Learn About Freelance Journalism Jobs
Breaking into journalism isn't easy. Besides polished creative writing skills, you need self-motivation and be willing to accept your share of low-paying gigs. Don't expect more than $35 an article for smaller daily newspapers. Bigger-city newspapers will pay around $200 an article for good stories.

Most full-time reporters received training at journalism schools, after they'd already earned a 4-year undergraduate degree. If you lack the education, you can still get your foot in the door by becoming a stringer (the industry term for "freelance reporter"). Many publications use stringers because they lack reporters to cover all the news at once; besides, newspapers want writers to hone their skills before they're hired full-time, or because they like the fresh perspectives of a good freelancer.
What's involved in freelance journalism / reporting? 

This is the exciting part: as a freelance journalist, you get to chase the news as it's happening. For many, this thrill is enough to keep them going through the drudgery and low pay.

You'll need to keep your wits about you. If news is happening right in front of you, you must have the presence of mind to take accurate notes and come up with questions for on-the-spot interviews. Freelance journalism is all about recreating the story on paper so readers can relive the experience you had.
Where do I find freelance journalism jobs?

Before you approach any newspapers, you should have a portfolio of articles under your belt. Five to ten sample articles is the minimum. If you don't have published samples of your work, you'll need to do some freelance stringing for free to get started.

Hunt around for some newsworthy events – an upcoming concert, a celebrity coming to town, an impending election, etc. Then, write about it and submit your article to as many free publications as you can think of. You'll want to make sure your article is relevant to what a given magazine or newspaper publishes, of course, but be as prolific as possible.

When you have samples under your belt, make the pitch. Email the publication, or send them a query letter. Tell the editor you have some good ideas and you're available for freelance writing.

Alternatively, you might call the publication and let them know you're a freelance writer and you're wondering if they use stringers. Be brief, confident, and professional. If they do use stringers, they may ask you to come in for an interview.

You can also search for freelance journalism jobs at online employment sites likeJournalismJobs.com, Online Writing Jobs, and MediaBistro.com.
How do I ace the interview?

Bring along your portfolio, a list of well thought-out ideas specifically for that publication, and a sample article that you've written for them. All of these will help the editor decide whether you're a good fit for their newspaper.

Some editors want their stringers to use their own ideas and some editors have ideas of their own. Be flexible. A good portfolio will show editors that you can handle a various subject matters.

As in all interviews, be relaxed and confident. Acting nervous and stammering over your words doesn't make a good impression. Before the interview, imagine the interview going perfectly. This technique helps calm your nerves and sets the stage for a positive interview experience.
Here's an example: 

Let's say you want to write for your city newspaper. How would you craft your query letter?

It might go like this: 

Dear (editor), The content of your newspaper is unsurpassable. As a loyal reader and enthusiastic writer, I would be honored to contribute to The Daily News. Our city is full of excitement this season. Here are some of the story ideas I have that would appeal to your readership: - How do the new pet bylaws affect downtown pet owners? - Support our agriculture: homegrown food for your family - The upcoming art show is attracting art lovers from all over North America - How neighborhoods are improving road safety for pedestrians - New schools and playgrounds encourage families to move inner city These are just a few suggestions, and of course I am open to any ideas you have. As an experienced freelance writer, I have covered a wide variety of topics. I hope you will find the enclosed clips to be compelling and well written.

Show the editor that your writing style and journalistic abilities are in line with what they're looking for, and include your relevant experience. If you have a good query letter and they need freelance reporters, expect a phone call! | THE END