Starting a new career as a freelance writer can be a tad overwhelming. You might not know where to start or how to get your first client. Most clients will want to see a writing portfolio or samples of your past work. If you’re just starting out. You may not have these readily available.
One of the best ways to get started as a new freelance writer is by signing up for a freelance writing site. Many websites cater to both new and seasoned article writers. While these websites may not make you rich, they can help you develop your writing skills and gain confidence.
If you want to make money writing online in 2023, check out our list of the best freelance writing sites for beginners:
Online Freelance Writing Jobs for Beginners
1. WriterAccess
WriterAccess by Rock Content is the self-proclaimed “#1 fastest growing platform for businesses and agencies to connect with content creators.” The platform currently has more than 15,000 writers, 500 editors, 500 translators, and 200 copywriters.
When you sign up for WriterAccess, you’ll be required to complete a brief application and create a free online portfolio. WriterAccess will then assign you a star rating from one to six, depending on your skill level. Once you’re a member, you can connect with clients via advanced search, quote requests, casting calls, Love Lists, or Solo orders.
The Basic Marketplace at WriterAccess pays between 2 and 10 cents per word. Access to the Pro Marketplace earns you between 11 cents and $2 per word, an hourly rate, or a flat fee.
2. Upwork
Upwork is essentially a marketplace for freelancers. While the job board offers hundreds of writing jobs, there are also jobs open in other categories, such as Development & IT, Finance & Accounting, Legal, Sales & Marketing, Admin & Customer Support, and Design & Creative, among others.
There is no cost to join Upwork. Simply register and start browsing jobs posted by businesses all over the world. When a client posts a job on Upwork, you’ll have the opportunity to apply alongside other freelancers and the client will pick from among the applicants.
3. iWriter
While iWriter tends to pay less than other freelance writing sites for beginners, it is a great place to get your feet wet. The fast and reliable freelance writing site does offer some positives, such as frequent payments for work completed.
To become a member of iWriter, you must complete an application. You’ll then be assigned a star rating which dictates what type of assignments you can take. You can work your way up levels to get more writing jobs. For example, you need to write 30 articles with a star rating of 4 or more to reach the next level.
At iWriter, payments are based on a tiered system that includes four main categories: Standard, Premium, Elite, and Elite Plus. The amount you’ll earn is based on several factors with Standard writer pay starting at $1.40 for 150 words up to $31 for 4,000 words.
4. Fiverr
Fiverr is a global online marketplace that connects freelancers to individuals or businesses in need of services. Along with freelance writers, Fiverr is home to countless graphic designers, digital marketing experts, music and audio pros, business leaders, and more.
If you’re looking to grow your brand in the industry and develop your skills as an article writer, Fiverr is a great place to start. As the name suggests, most jobs pay out $5; however, you can increase how much you charge based on the type of content you write, the word count, and other factors.
In addition to writing articles and blogs, you can write other types of content on Fiverr, such as eBooks, scripts, podcasts, speeches, or anything else that businesses need written.
5. Contently
Contently is known as an industry-leading content marketing platform. The writing platform offers higher pay than most other freelance writing sites for beginners. Unlike other sites that require clients to accept the work before pay, writers at Contently are paid before the content is approved.
The downside of Contently is that it can take a while for editors to “find” you. When you sign up for this platform, you’ll need to make a writing portfolio that showcases your skills and experience. The talent search team will reach out to you if your portfolio matches their needs for content. The editing process can also be tough and may involve a number of revisions.
6. Textbroker
Textbroker is a great freelance writing site for beginners. New writers have the option to write a wide range of content, such as blog posts, product descriptions, and advertising copy. The platform is free to sign up and members have access to more than 100,000 content orders each month.
The pay at Textbroker is relatively low but you can make more as you climb star levels. Textbroker offers several payment options, including payment every Friday. Editors provide feedback on orders to help you better understand what mistakes you’re making to improve your writing skills.
7. nDash
nDash is a content creation platform where freelance writers can sign up and connect with writing projects. While nDash does accept beginner writers, they are a little more selective than other content mills. However, this can be an advantage if you are accepted as you won’t have to compete with countless other writers for jobs.
You can significantly increase your odds of getting selected for a job at nDash by writing quality samples in your chosen niche, filling out a detailed profile, and linking to your LinkedIn profile and other social media, including your related work experience, education history, and recommendations from previous clients.
8. Verblio
Verblio is a freelance writing platform made up of more than 3,000 U.S.-based content writers. When you apply as a freelancer at Verblio, you’ll be required to complete tests that are personally reviewed by their in-house writing team.
At Verblio, members have the opportunity to write a range of content, such as web copy, blog posts, eBooks, and more. The platform claims to have 1,300 clients across 40 industries, meaning work is usually readily available. Writers can gain access to higher-payer jobs by selling content and earning 5-star reviews from clients.
9. Scripted
Scripted considers itself to be the “best platform for freelancers on the internet.” They guarantee payments on time and directly to your bank account or other payment method of your choosing. Unlike many other content mills, members can propose their own rates or choose from projects with set pricing.
Scripted offers writing opportunities for both new and experienced writers. After you sign up, you can build a portfolio that showcases your skills and helps you stand out from other writers. The platform offers writers the ability to work anywhere, anytime, allowing them the freedom to create their own schedules.
10. Constant Content
Constant Content is an established network that connects businesses and brands with thousands of top-tier freelance writers. This freelance writing site has been around since 2004 and has partnered with countless businesses to deliver articles, marketing copy, blog posts, product descriptions, and more to clients around the world.
Writing for Constant Content certainly has its advantages. Writers can set their own prices, write about almost anything they’d like, and receive timely payments. The platform also offers opportunities for long-term writing gigs. There are some downsides to the platform, including a long review process, sometimes vague editorial feedback, strict grammar rules, and uncertainty that your content will sell.
Need more help establishing yourself as a new freelance writer? Check out our list of Top 10 Writing Portfolio Websites or learn how to create SEO-friendly content with our SEO for Beginners guide.
Online Writing Gigs 