From tone to research depth, blog posts and articles frequently get mixed up. Even seasoned professionals sometimes blur the lines.

This discussion creates confusion around format and value. Is a blog post an article? Can an article also be a blog post? What separates one from the other? Should one type of writing earn less? Is writing an article more profitable? Can I make money writing either articles or blogs?

This guide explores how blog posts and articles serve different goals, follow different structures, and speak to different readers. Understanding those differences helps writers build better content and potentially earn more.

Writing an article vs. writing a blog post

For years, blog posts and nonfiction articles were distinctly different:

Then something happened, and over the past few years, the lines became blurred.

What is a blog post?

The word blog comes from a blend of web and log—a digital logbook or journal published on the internet. Most blog posts live on personal or business websites and offer short, focused content built around one main idea.

Unlike traditional articles, blog posts often follow a relaxed, conversational tone. Many focus on stories, insights or updates. This narrative form helps writers build trust and spark interest without overwhelming readers with heavy research or formal structure.

Blog article writing serves different purposes. Some posts share personal reflections. Others teach a skill, explain a process or promote a product. No matter the topic, strong blog posts connect with a specific audience and speak directly to their needs.

Most blog posts fall within the 300-word to 2,000-word range. Short paragraphs, SEO optimized headings and bullet points help readers scan content. Blog writing works best when built around connection, clarity and community.

Pro tip: If you’re passionate about blogging, create your own blog and monetize it.

What is an article?

An article is a formal piece of writing built around information, logic and structure. Unlike blog posts, articles dive deeper into a topic, often covering multiple key points rather than focusing on just one.

The article writing process starts with topic selection and thorough research. Writers gather facts, expert quotes and references to support each point. Articles often follow a deductive structure—beginning with a main idea or hypothesis, then building toward a conclusion using evidence and analysis.

Length varies widely depending on the industry, but many articles stretch beyond 2,500 words. This format works well for topics that require depth, such as industry trends, technical breakdowns or academic insights. Strong structure, organized paragraph flow and proper formatting guide the reader through each section with clarity.

Writers usually edit and review articles carefully, checking for grammatical errors, relevance and accuracy. Quality content and backed-up facts set good articles apart.

These pieces often appear in print publications, digital magazines or professional websites.

While blog articles speak more casually to potential customers or general readers, articles tend to target a specific audience with subject knowledge, such as researchers, industry experts or professionals seeking in-depth information.

Whether written for a corporate platform or a scholarly journal, article writing calls for focus, research and precision.

What is the difference between blogs and articles?

Although many use blog and article interchangeably, each style of writing has a different purpose, structure, tone and research level. Understanding the difference between blogs and articles helps writers create better content and choose the right format for each goal.

1. Point of view and tone

Blog article writing usually follows a personal tone. Writers often use a first-person or second-person voice to build a connection with readers. The tone stays casual, warm and sometimes playful, which is ideal for storytelling, sharing updates, or simplifying complex topics.

On the other hand, articles follow a formal tone and third-person structure. Writers avoid personal opinions and instead rely on evidence, data and expert voices. This style creates distance, letting facts take the lead.

2. Purpose and audience

Blogs and articles both educate, but their goals and readers differ.

A blog post aims to attract potential customers, build brand personality, boost engagement and simplify big ideas. Blog content supports search engine visibility and encourages interaction. Readers often include curious individuals, general audiences or early-stage buyers.

Articles focus on delivering deep, structured knowledge. These pieces may appear in journals, publications or professional sites. Readers expect clarity, supporting evidence, and subject expertise.

3. Structure and length

Structure plays a big role in the difference between article and blog formats.

Blog posts usually follow a loose outline: an introduction, a few key points and a conclusion. Lists, bullet points and subheadings help readers scan. The average word count falls between 300 and 2,000.

Articles follow a stricter format: thesis or hypothesis, followed by evidence, analysis, and a logical conclusion. These texts often exceed 2,500 words and may stretch to 5,000 or more, especially when supported by interviews or case studies.

4. Research and sources

Blog writing may include personal experiences, industry trends, or informal sources. While research plays a role, fact-checking isn’t always rigorous. Blog posts often focus on sharing insights or tips in the writer’s own words.

Articles rely on detailed research, expert interviews, academic citations and structured arguments. Every claim demands support from credible data or published studies. Many articles include footnotes, references or linked sources.

5. Publication and editing process

Blogs live mostly on websites, especially in the form of blog feeds or update sections. Writers publish their content, often without outside proofreading and editing. This direct route allows fast publishing and flexible updates.

Articles go through formal channels. Editors review, revise, and approve content before publication. These pieces may appear in digital magazines, newspapers, academic journals or trade publications.

6. Language and style

Blog language leans toward simplicity and relatability. Writers choose short sentences, plain language and often use questions or humor.

Article writing uses precise language, technical terms and a structured flow. This tone helps professionals and specialists understand deeper concepts.

7. SEO, visibility, and engagement

Blog articles often include SEO keywords to help search engines index content. Writers use titles, subheadings and links to improve visibility. Comments, shares, and likes contribute to reader interaction and long-term traffic.

Articles rarely focus on keyword placement. Instead, they highlight authority, trust and depth. Engagement stays limited to expert circles or academic responses.

Pro tip: If you’re not familiar with SEO, explore SEO websites to improve your SEO skills.

8. Monetary value

Pay varies between the two formats. Blog writing jobs often pay less, especially when the content is produced in bulk for marketing purposes. Some freelance writers report rates as low as $10–$20 per post.

Articles typically pay more, especially when published by media outlets or academic platforms. Rates range from $0.10 to $1 per word or more, depending on research, subject matter and publication reputation.

Why is the line between article and blog writing blurred?

Over time, the distinction between blogs and articles has begun to fade. What started as two distinct writing forms has slowly converged, creating confusion in content creation, particularly in pricing. This is one of the reasons why freelance writers don’t earn more money.

Blog-article convergence

As blog article writing matured, many blog posts adopted the qualities once reserved for article posts. Short, casual updates gave way to in-depth content, complete with interviews, case studies, and supporting data. Writers extended word counts, sometimes reaching 2,000 words or more, to provide real value and depth. Basic keyword stuffing became ineffective, and quality began to matter more than search-engine tricks.

Meanwhile, blog content began going through editors before publishing. Companies started treating blog posts more like articles—focused, structured and polished.

On the article side, change happened too. Print magazines went digital or reduced word count to fit shrinking space. Some adopted more informal, blog-style writing. Headlines needed to grab attention online, leading to titles that resembled blog formats. Even traditionally formal publications began accepting opinion-driven pieces from professionals and thought leaders.

In some cases, outlets created separate blogs on their websites, giving contributors access to post content directly, like bloggers.

The result: blogs and articles started to look and sound the same.

Client confusion

This shift led to uncertainty in the freelance writing space. Many clients now use the terms blog post and article interchangeably, even when the project scope demands more effort.

Some clients request short, informal posts and call them articles, despite offering low blog-level pay. Others ask for 1,000-word blog articles that include research, interviews, and a structure typical of full articles, then suggest a rate that barely covers basic blog writing.

For writers, this can create tension during project negotiation. Clear expectations often get lost under vague labels.

How writers can earn more

Although confusion exists, the shift in standards creates opportunities. Today, many blog posts look like articles, and the best ones meet high expectations, just like professional content in magazines or trade publications.

Freelancers who understand the difference between blogs and articles and know how to explain that difference can help clients understand what they’re truly requesting. This becomes a critical step toward better pay.

Writers who treat each blog article like a quality content piece with structure, research, clarity, and editing can confidently negotiate higher rates. As blog writing evolves, blog content should no longer be treated as a lesser form.

Which one pays better and why?

In the world of freelance writing, article posts usually command higher rates than blog articles. Blog content often falls in the lower price range, with many writers earning between $50 and $100 per post. For those focused on professional blog article writing, setting a minimum rate, such as $100 per piece, can help maintain value and avoid underpayment.

However, article writing tends to offer greater earning potential. Rates often range from $300 to $500, with some reaching $600 or more, depending on length, subject complexity, and the publication. Business publications, magazines and trade journals frequently invest in quality content that informs and educates a targeted audience. This opens the door for higher compensation.

Smaller newspapers or local media outlets may offer modest rates, sometimes between $75 and $100 per article, but bring other benefits. These projects help writers build strong portfolios and gain experience in structured reporting. Over time, this foundation can lead to premium writing assignments and long-term client relationships.

In short, writing articles tends to pay more than blog posts because of higher expectations around research, structure and editorial quality. For freelance writers, choosing the right type of writing and educating clients about project scope can make a significant difference in earnings.

4 ways to navigate writing an article vs. a blog post

With blurred lines between blogs and articles, clarity becomes a critical step in working with clients or finding better-paying ones. Writers who define project scope clearly, structure their content effectively and explain value with confidence can earn more and deliver better quality content.

1. Define the assignment

Whether clients request an article or a blog post, get specific about the assignment. Ask questions about the target audience, expected word count, structure and whether interviews or external sources will be included. Understanding content length, tone and required research helps avoid confusion.

For example:

• Does the content need expert quotes?
• Should the tone feel casual or professional?
• Will the piece follow a step-by-step guide or an in-depth explanation?

Getting clarity at the outset saves time and improves workflow, especially when writing articles that demand more detail and a stronger structure.

2. Reframe the request

Some clients may label something a blog post, even when the project looks like a well-developed article. In that case, make the case for writing an article. Use examples to show the difference between a short post and a structured, informative piece with key details, interviews and analysis.

Explain how articles help build credibility and support long-term content goals. A good article connects with potential customers, answers questions with authority and increases trust.

3. Sell the right format

If a client seems unsure of what their asking for, guide them toward the format that fits their goals. For deeper subjects, data or high-stakes messaging, recommend article writing. Present it as a smart move for thought leadership, professional reputation and search visibility.

Writing articles positions businesses as experts. When well-written in your own words, edited carefully and structured with a clear introduction, body and conclusion, this type of content offers long-term value and stronger engagement.

4. Offer blog upgrades

If the goal involves regular blog posts, suggest taking the blog to the next level. Recommend expanding post length, including real-life examples, or using a magazine-style approach with stronger outlines and more polished language.

Turning casual blog posts into quality content enhances a brand’s online presence. With better formatting, stronger narrative flow and editing, even simple blog article writing can lead to higher visibility and better reader retention.

How do you start writing an article?

Writing an article involves following a process that helps produce quality content, engage readers and meet client goals. Using a structured approach makes the task manageable and effective.

1. Understand the purpose and target audience

Before starting, identify the article’s purpose. Is it to inform, educate or persuade? Knowing this guides the tone, style and research depth. Also, pinpoint the target audience. Understanding their needs, interests and knowledge level helps tailor the content precisely.

2. Choose a strong topic and develop a unique angle

Select a relevant subject that fits the publication or client’s goals. Then find a unique angle or main idea to make the article stand out. This focus helps keep writing on track and provides value to readers.

Pro tip: Use keyword research tools to discover trending topics and popular questions in your niche.

3. Conduct thorough research

Research articles carefully using credible sources, expert opinions, and up-to-date data. Gather facts and examples to support each point. Note key details to reference during writing, which adds authority and credibility.

Pro tip: Keep a research journal or document to organize facts, quotes, and source links for easy access.

4. Create an outline or structure

Outline the article before drafting. Break content into sections: introduction, body and conclusion. List key points under each heading to organize ideas logically. This step improves flow and readability.

5. Write the first draft

Start writing your first rough draft without worrying about perfection. Focus on conveying ideas using your own words. Use paragraphs and subheadings to make the article easy to scan. Include examples or quotes where needed to strengthen points.

Pro tip: Set a timer for focused writing sessions (like 25 minutes) to maintain momentum and reduce distractions.

6. Edit and review thoroughly

Editing articles involves checking grammar, sentence structure and overall clarity. Fact-check all claims and ensure consistency. Trim unnecessary words and improve transitions between paragraphs. Polished language and error-free content boost professionalism.

7. Add final touches and submit

Format the article according to publication guidelines: add links, citations or images if required. Write a compelling title and meta description that summarizes the main idea and entices readers. Submit the article confidently, knowing it meets quality standards.

How to get the win when writing an article or a blog post

The fact is, while you can make serious money blogging, articles and article-style blog posts convey more authority. They impress more of your client’s customers. The projects will result in greater success, and those clients will be more likely to hire you back. It’s a classic win-win: you can charge more at the start, and will likely end up getting more work from the client too, because they’ll be happier with the results they get.

This all sets you up to go after better-paying magazine markets, if this is your goal.

FAQs

What is the format for writing an article?

Writing an article follows a structured format: introduction, body and conclusion. Begin with a strong first draft that presents the main point. Then, organize supporting sections to discuss key ideas. Whether it’s a personal essay or a professional paper, formatting helps highlight important things and ensures the final draft reads smoothly and feels relevant to the audience.

What is the proper structure of an article?

A good article begins with a hook, follows with organized paragraphs, and ends with a clear conclusion. Each section should contribute to the story or subject in focus. The structure supports clarity in writing and allows readers to follow the course of ideas. Before submission, writers should review the draft to polish transitions and remove distractions from the main message.

What is an example of an article?

A single article may look like a detailed guide on how to care for a family member with Alzheimer’s. It starts with a first draft, includes relevant facts and ends with practical steps. Compared to informal blog content, this type of writing contributes depth and earns more money. Articles like this often appear in medical journals, nonprofit newsletters or lifestyle publications.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

The best part? LinkedIn isn’t limited to those seeking full-time jobs anymore. For writers and creative freelancers, this is one of the best places to grow a personal brand, connect with like-minded colleagues and land new clients.

LinkedIn has over 1 billion members from all corners of the world. This means there’s huge potential to reach your target audience, share valuable insights, build real business relationships and find freelance writing jobs.

It’s not about selling hard, it’s about showcasing your skill, offering value and building trust through content and thoughtful interaction.

What is LinkedIn marketing?

Simply put, LinkedIn marketing is a strategy that helps freelancers grow by using the social platform to gain visibility. Think of it as a way to reach the right audience, share valuable content, boost your personal brand and conduct real conversations.

LinkedIn offers tools for lead generation and content sharing. With features like analytics, campaign manager, LinkedIn advertising and sponsored content, freelancers can sharpen marketing goals, test ideas and reach more prospects.

Many people bypass LinkedIn in favor of platforms like Instagram or X (Twitter), but that’s a missed opportunity. With its unique targeting and focus on business connections, this can be a gold mine for connecting with the right audience.

In fact, many marketers choose LinkedIn over other social platforms for lead generation. It works well for those who want to build real connections, join specific industry groups and create a strategy that supports long-term growth.

Whether you’re building a marketing LinkedIn profile or trying to drive website visitors, this platform gives you space to show skill, connect with professionals, and build strong relationships.

10 steps for a successful LinkedIn marketing strategy for freelancers

Having a LinkedIn profile alone won’t do much. What matters is how it’s used. With the right approach, freelancers, including writers, can use the platform to find freelance writing jobs, research clients, grow their online presence, and generate leads without spending hours each day.

Here’s a step-by-step way to do it right:

1. Optimize your profile

First things first, update your LinkedIn profile. Think of it as your digital storefront and one of the first things prospects see. A few optimizations can help you show up in search results, stand out in your niche and support your LinkedIn marketing efforts.

Start here:

• Use a clear, high-quality photo that looks professional and fits your brand. Keep visibility set to public so profile visitors don’t miss it
• Create a strong professional headline for freelancer work. Include terms clients might search, such as freelance writer, marketing freelancer or B2B content creator
• Add a short, niche-specific summary under your name. Use this space to highlight a job title that makes sense to your prospect, the problems you solve and why they should choose you
• Check your privacy and SEO settings. Make sure your profile shows up on search engines. That helps more people find you, even outside the social platform
• List all freelance projects that fit your goals. Your goal is to show your range, skills and experience. If a brand or client checks your profile, real examples help build trust

This step sets the base for the rest of your LinkedIn strategy. The stronger your profile looks, the better your chances of turning views into conversations and conversations into new work.

2. Use LinkedIn endorsements and recommendations

An easy way to increase your brand equity on LinkedIn is through endorsements and recommendations. Both help demonstrate how the work you do delivers value and deeper understanding of why you’re the right person for the job.

Endorsements

Endorsements allow others to vouch for specific skills you have, such as content strategy, marketing or lead generation. These show up on your profile and help prospects understand what you offer without needing to scroll too far. Endorsing others is also a smart move. It keeps you active on their radar and strengthens your LinkedIn relationships.

Recommendations

Recommendations go a step further. They work like quick reviews, written by people you’ve worked with, like clients, partners, or teammates. A thoughtful note from a happy client gives your profile a personal touch and supports your lead generation strategy. That kind of social proof can help you stand out from other freelancers in your niche.

Here’s how to make the most of this feature:

• Reach out to clients after a successful project and ask for a short LinkedIn recommendation. If they’ve already praised your work in messages or emails, it’s a natural next step
• Make a habit of writing recommendations for others, especially people you’ve worked closely with. This builds goodwill and makes it easier to request a recommendation later
• Endorse your contacts for skills that match what they do best. It’s easy to do and is something they’ll appreciate

Over time, these small actions strengthen your profile and show new visitors that you’re active and trusted.

3. Post various types of niche-focused content regularly

Writing LinkedIn posts can help freelancers create a professional brand and boost their online presence in the feeds of prospects. Sharing the right mix of content supports a strong LinkedIn marketing strategy, one that drives engagement and builds trust.

Try these content ideas:

• Share links to your articles, guest posts or other pieces to show your experience and expertise
• Use LinkedIn’s publishing tools to create short, valuable LinkedIn posts that speak directly to your target audience
• Repurpose blog posts or longer content into quick LinkedIn updates, like pulling a key quote or insight
• Share relevant third-party articles or videos that your LinkedIn audience will find useful
• Mix in video and image posts, such as how-to tutorials, interviews or infographics with data your audience will appreciate
• Data-backed content gets more attention. Use stats, surveys, or study results to create eye-catching visuals or carousel ads that boost engagement

Bonus tips:

• Timing matters. Posting on weekdays, especially Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4pm, Wednesdays at 2pm and Fridays at 1pm, can help reach more users when they’re active
• Vary post length. Short punchy updates grab attention, while longer posts can position you as a thought leader by sharing deeper insights
• Link to external articles. LinkedIn’s algorithm supports sharing links to external blogs and websites. Posting useful content from others (and tagging them!) can extend your reach and tap into new audiences
• Use hashtags. Maybe hashtags are over on some platforms, but on LinkedIn you can use three to five hashtags to increase your visibility. Mix popular and niche hashtags to reach your ideal industries. You can even create your own branded hashtag series to boost brand awareness if it makes sense

Creating content is just the start. Posting content that provides value will ultimately build your brand.

4. Engage with others—individuals and companies

Networking on LinkedIn means more than just adding connections. It requires interaction. Engaging with posts, articles and leaving comments helps build your online presence and helps you develop name recognition.

Check your notifications

LinkedIn sends notifications when someone in your network posts or reacts to content. These alerts are a great starting point for making connections, especially since they often include posts outside your immediate network

Engagement doesn’t have to be complicated

A simple like or share keeps your profile active and visible to others. When you want to add to the conversation, leave thoughtful comments on posts in your feed. Reposting with a few added thoughts doesn’t hurt either

Focus on the content your ideal clients share

Read their articles and announcements, then join in the discussion with meaningful comments or questions. This approach helps build mutually beneficial relationships, increases your visibility and positions you as a collaborative and creative LinkedIn freelancer.

For example, a question on a post might attract responses or connection requests, showing how genuine engagement can help you grow your business.

5. Join relevant LinkedIn Groups

LinkedIn Groups bring together like-minded professionals around a specific industry or topic. For freelancers, joining the right groups means more networking opportunities, better brand recognition and chances to share your thoughts with your target audience.

Look for active groups with discussions that match your interests or future career goals.

To make the most of LinkedIn Groups:

• Start meaningful conversations by posting questions or sharing helpful articles and resources
• Share your expertise and insights to show thought leadership and support fellow professionals
• Engage with members, connect with promising prospects and keep up with posts to build stronger relationships
• Create a group around your specialty to boost your brand and engage prospects

Joining and actively participating in LinkedIn groups is a powerful way to expand your network. It brings you closer to industry leaders and prospective clients, helping you increase your company’s reach and grow your freelance business.

6. Connect with other professionals and potential clients

Treat LinkedIn marketing like a daily appointment. Just 30 minutes of focused time can lead to strong connections and qualified leads over time. Focus on quality, not quantity, when building your network.

• Start by connecting with people you already know, like friends and former coworkers. Expand from there. LinkedIn suggests connections based on your job title, location and industry, making it easier to connect with the right people
• Always include a personalized message with your connection requests. Use those 300 characters wisely to introduce yourself and make a positive impression
• Follow company pages in your niche and engage with their posts. Also, follow industry leaders and influencers who can help you connect with the right audience
• Use LinkedIn to research leads. Companies often share news like job openings, mergers or branding updates. Look for businesses with at least 50 employees—smaller companies without a digital presence might not be ready to bring on a freelancer
• Use LinkedIn’s search filters to find connections: Search > People > All Filters > Industries > Title. Look for roles like Marketing Director or Creative Director if you write marketing content
• Check if you share mutual connections, such as alumni from your school, former colleagues or Group members. These links can open doors for introductions
• Pay attention to LinkedIn job postings for writing opportunities. Some companies might prefer hiring freelancers instead of full-time writers. Reach out to explore these opportunities when you see them
• Keep your direct messages polite and personable. Make your purpose clear, offer value and avoid generic sales pitches. Direct messages give you a personal, one-on-one way to strengthen relationships, nurture leads and grow your brand. Consistently sending well-crafted messages shows you’re a person worth staying connected with

7. Share LinkedIn updates on other social media platforms

Cross-posting your social media content helps increase your connections and engagement across the Internet. Since most people are only active on a few platforms, sharing your LinkedIn updates in other places gives your content a boost.

Another idea is to add your X (Twitter) or Instagram handle to your LinkedIn profile. This makes sharing easier and allows you to connect with your LinkedIn audience elsewhere. If a multi-platform approach supports your overall marketing strategy then it’s a worthwhile investment.

8. Consider creating a LinkedIn Page

If your goal is to scale your freelance business or brand, setting up a LinkedIn Page can help.

Personal profiles focus on building connections and private messages. LinkedIn Pages are for businesses and allow people to follow you without requesting a connection first. This helps your content reach more people and increases your company’s brand awareness.

LinkedIn Pages and profiles work together in your LinkedIn marketing strategy, but they have different purposes. Pages are public and good for sharing updates, running LinkedIn ads and reaching a wider audience. Profiles focus on personal networking, direct messages and building your professional brand as a freelancer.

By linking your personal profile to your LinkedIn Page, such as listing your business as your employer, you create a holistic marketing ecosystem.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to LinkedIn pages: Click “Work” on LinkedIn’s top menu, then scroll down to “Create a Company Page.” You’ll need a company name and business email. Once created, you become the admin and can assign others as admins later
2. Choose your business category: Options include small business (under 200 employees), medium to large business (200+ employees), educational institutions or Showcase Pages (subpages for specific campaigns)
3. Fill out page details: Provide your business name, public URL, website link, company size and legal entity type. This info helps with brand recognition and lead generation by making your Page easy to find and understand
4. Add company logo and tagline: These are key brand elements that make your Page memorable and recognizable. Think of logos like the golden arches for McDonald’s and taglines that capture your brand’s essence
5. Complete business information: Include your company description, location, branded hashtags and a cover photo. Adding call-to-action buttons like “Visit Website” or “Contact Us” encourages further engagement

Boost your reach with LinkedIn ads

LinkedIn advertising offers direct ways to target and reach your ideal audience beyond your network. Use the Campaign Manager to create ad campaigns with specific marketing goals like lead generation or brand awareness.

LinkedIn ad types include:

• Sponsored content (promoted posts)
• Message ads (direct messages to prospects)
• Text ads (small ads on the sidebar)
• Dynamic ads (personalized ads for users)

Using LinkedIn ads supports your goal of generating qualified leads and growing your business.

Amplify your LinkedIn content with boosting

Boosting helps you promote valuable posts like thought leadership content, product launches or customer spotlights to a wider audience. Boosted posts can drive website visits, increase video views or add engagement to a post, making your LinkedIn marketing efforts more effective.

Expand with Showcase Pages

Showcase Pages are subpages linked to your main business Page. Use them to highlight specific projects, products or campaigns. They help you target specific niches within your audience and can help you attract new followers outside your immediate network.

Creating and managing a LinkedIn Page alongside your personal profile provides a powerful marketing combo. It helps you build brand awareness, supports your social media marketing efforts and drives leads.

Keep track of progress

One of LinkedIn’s unique features is showing who viewed your profile. Use this information to learn more about your network and see who is interested in you or what you’re doing.

To check, click the “Me” icon on the LinkedIn homepage, then “View Profile,” and select “Who Viewed Your Profile” in your dashboard.

For LinkedIn Pages, dive into analytics to measure your marketing efforts. LinkedIn provides detailed reports showing visitors, followers and engagement metrics. If you run LinkedIn ads, you can track clicks, impressions and social actions to see what’s working and what isn’t.

Set your key performance indicators (KPIs) ahead of time, such as website visitors, lead generation or brand awareness, so you have a benchmark for success. Tracking these numbers helps you improve your LinkedIn marketing and grow your freelance business more efficiently.

9. Use a social media marketing tool

The right tools can make a big difference in your LinkedIn marketing strategy.

As a freelancer, managing your time well while still engaging with the right audience is important, which is where social media marketing tools come in.

At the very least, you’ll want a tool that helps schedule and publish your LinkedIn posts. This keeps your content plan on track without needing to live post at the right time every day. A good tool should also provide analytics to help you measure performance, track engagement and help you improve your content and posting strategy over time.

Another helpful feature of social media schedulers is centralized messaging. Some tools organize your inbox so you can respond to messages across platforms without missing leads or potential networking opportunities.

10. Use LinkedIn’s “Open to” feature

An interesting way to attract potential clients and additional freelance work is by turning on LinkedIn’s “Open to” feature. This tool makes your profile easier to discover and helps you show up in LinkedIn Search, which is a big plus for freelancers focused on prospecting.

To use this feature, navigate to your LinkedIn profile, tap the “Open to” button under your job title and choose what fits:

• Finding a new job: This adds a frame to your profile picture saying “Open to work,” which signals that you’re available for new projects
• Hiring: This lets others know you’re looking for talent, which is helpful if you manage teams or outsource work to subcontractors

This feature boosts your visibility in search engines and inside LinkedIn itself, so people looking for your services can find you faster. It’s also a quick way to open the door to new networking opportunities without having to message anyone first.

Join Freelance Writers Den

While LinkedIn is powerful for building your professional network, joining dedicated writing communities can provide the support you need to grow faster and smarter. Freelance Writers Den is a community created to support writers with ongoing training, expert advice and peer connection.

Inside Freelance Writers Den, you’ll find opportunities to sharpen your skills, stay motivated and get help with pitching or pricing, all of which translate into more confidence and clarity in your freelance journey. They also have a LinkedIn Marketing Bootcamp!

As you grow inside a writing community, you’ll have fresh content ideas and insights to bring back to LinkedIn. You can share takeaways as posts, build thought leadership content and list your membership in your professional headline. Joining a community is also a great way to meet other like-minded professionals and strengthen your niche authority.

Tapping into active writing communities like this gives your LinkedIn strategy more depth, fuels your organic content and helps you show up consistently as a trusted expert in your field, all while opening doors for additional work.

Is LinkedIn marketing worth it?

With so many platforms and strategies out there, finding clients as a freelance writer can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to. If there’s one place that blends branding, lead generation and long-term business growth, it’s LinkedIn.

You don’t need to do everything at once. Start with a few profile improvements, share helpful content and connect with someone new. Every small action helps you build a stronger presence and attract the kind of work you actually want to do.

LinkedIn marketing FAQs

How to use LinkedIn for business marketing?

Using LinkedIn for business marketing means creating a strategic LinkedIn strategy that aligns with your business objectives. Start by optimizing your profile or company LinkedIn page with compelling descriptions and visuals. Regularly post content that provides value to your LinkedIn target audience, including people’s posts and collaborative articles.

Use a content calendar to plan consistent updates, and if your budget allows try video ads or conversation ads. Join relevant LinkedIn Groups to build relationships and increase visibility. Leveraging tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator helps identify potential clients and send targeted messages.

Running LinkedIn ad campaigns with a mix of LinkedIn ads can boost brand awareness and generate leads within your audience members. Employee advocacy also amplifies your reach by encouraging team members to share your posts. Using a premium account unlocks deeper insights into audience behavior, improving your marketing efforts.

What is the 5:3:2 rule on LinkedIn?

The 5:3:2 rule guides a balanced LinkedIn marketing approach for effective content sharing. It suggests that out of every 10 posts, five should be valuable content from other people’s posts that resonate with your audience.

Three should be your original compelling content that you create, showcasing your expertise or sharing insights related to your niche. The remaining two posts are personal or informal, helping build authentic relationships and showing your personality.

This mix keeps your feed diverse and engaging, avoiding overly promotional content. By following this rule, you maintain a good balance between educating your LinkedIn target audience, participating in conversations and creating genuine connections, which is key to a successful LinkedIn marketing strategy.

How do I use LinkedIn for B2B marketing?

LinkedIn is ideal for B2B marketing due to its professional network and targeting features. Start by defining your business objectives and identifying your target audience using tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator. Develop a strong profile or company page optimized for B2B, emphasizing your value proposition.

Share compelling content regularly, such as collaborative articles, case studies or video ads, to showcase your expertise. Participate in joining groups and engage with other posts to build trust and grow your network. Use LinkedIn ad campaigns strategically, employing formats like single-image ads to drive qualified leads.

Implement a content calendar to keep your posting consistent. Finally, nurture relationships by sending messages and leveraging employee advocacy to amplify your brand within the B2B community.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published by Emily Jacobs, a freelance health care writer and medical content strategist. She lives in in Toledo, Ohio, with a bearded dragon, too many books, and a KitchenAid mixer. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

New freelance writers and experienced industry professionals alike doubt their writing skills or worry their resume isn’t impressive enough for potential clients from time to time.

But guess what? Anyone can start freelance writing without special credentials.

A strong freelance writing career depends more on confidence, practice, and a captivating writing style than a diploma. With persistence, even beginners can land freelance writing jobs, build a sustainable freelance business, and have a rewarding career.

Keep reading to learn how to become a freelance writer and make money writing.

What do freelance writers do exactly?

A freelance writer handles many types of freelance writing work. Common projects include writing articles for media websites, creating blog posts and white papers for businesses, developing website copy, sales pages, email marketing copy or ghostwriting books.

You can even get paid to write essays or poetry. Some freelance copywriters also work on branding projects or landing pages for marketing departments.

Beyond client work, a professional writer also manages a freelance writing business behind the scenes. That means bookkeeping, tracking invoices, handling client relationships, answering emails, pitching prospective clients and promoting writing services on social media or a personal blog.

Many freelance writers discover that running the freelance business side takes just as much time as writing itself, so developing solid business skills helps maintain a profitable online business.

Does freelance writing pay well?

Freelance writing can provide impressive income for those who develop strong writing skills and treat their freelance profession seriously. Skilled freelance writers have the potential to earn $10,000 per month or more, depending on experience, niche and client base. For example, professional writers with a steady freelance writing client list can charge $150 per hour or more, creating a flexible career that supports a healthy work–life balance.

New freelance writers may start with modest rates while building a freelance writing portfolio, but once confident in their writing abilities and business skills, they can raise rates and attract higher-paying clients.

Is there a demand for freelance writers?

Demand for high-quality writing services continues to grow. Brands invest heavily in content marketing to keep up with search engine optimization and industry trends. Most marketing departments do not employ full-time writers, which opens opportunities for freelance writing work.

Freelance writing job boards and online communities offer plenty of opportunities, and many companies rely on freelance writers to create blog posts, web copy, technical writing or other specialized content. For those with a captivating writing style and professional experience, countless prospective clients need help developing content.

How do freelancers find work?

While bidding sites like Upwork and Fiverr can offer some projects for those just getting started, you’ll often find higher paying clients from cold pitching. Reaching out directly to prospective clients helps build confidence, sharpen pitching skills and stand out from other writers.

Once a freelance writer builds a portfolio, job boards and online freelance marketplaces can provide even more freelance writing opportunities. In addition, networking with fellow writers and industry professionals opens doors to referrals and more projects.

How much should freelance writers charge?

Rates for freelance writing vary. For a 500-word article, beginner rates might land around $40–$60, while experienced freelance writers often charge $200 or more, depending on niche, audience and topic complexity.

A simple way to set rates is to calculate monthly expenses, desired work hours and savings targets, then divide that amount by the hours available for freelance writing work. That provides a baseline freelance writing rate to charge future clients.

As their writing improves and professional writing experience grows, freelance writers can confidently raise rates with previous clients and pitch new, higher-paying projects.

Can someone become a freelance writer without a degree?

Making it as a freelance writer is a dream for many people, yet some feel unqualified without a journalism degree or formal education.

A degree is not necessary to get paid to write. Clients usually focus on writing samples, professionalism and the ability to deliver quality writing services on time.

Many freelance writers build careers without journalism or English degrees by showcasing strong past articles, maintaining consistent client communication, and continually improving their writing skills.

With dedication, persistence, and a willingness to pitch clients directly, anyone can build a successful freelance writing career, degree or no degree.

How to become a freelance writer and make money from your craft

Before exploring how to become a freelance writer and get paid for your skills, make sure you have these core traits that help build a strong freelance writing career:

• Curiosity: Curiosity drives great writing. It encourages freelance writers to research, ask questions, and discover new topics for blogs, client projects, or technical writing. Curiosity helps craft a more engaging writing style that attracts potential clients and stands out on job boards
• Courage: Courage helps writers face rejection and keep pitching. Building a business takes confidence to show articles, pitch prospective clients, and market writing services, even with little professional writing experience
• Hunger: Hunger is essential for success in freelance writing work. A motivated freelance writer stays driven to find freelance writing jobs, strengthen client relationships, and build a sustainable freelance business over time. That determination creates a flexible online career with opportunities for growth and higher pay

If these qualities resonate, you’re ready to start your journey to become a freelance writer and build the rewarding, flexible freelance profession you want.

Step 1: Choose your niche and freelance writing services

To build a sustainable freelance writing career, start by choosing a niche and a service to offer. A niche means the particular industry you write for, like beauty, technology or healthcare, while your service could be blog writing, freelance copywriting, technical writing or content marketing.

Being a generalist freelance writer may help you find some freelance writing jobs quickly, but it’s rarely a long-term strategy. High-paying prospective clients want writers who specialize and have deep knowledge in their industry.

For example, a skincare company would prefer a freelance writer with proven experience writing blog posts and marketing copy specifically for the beauty industry, rather than someone who writes about everything.

Choose a niche that fits these three criteria:

• You’re passionate about the industry and related trends
• You have professional experience or knowledge related to that niche (optional but helpful)
• You can easily identify clients in the industry who need writing services

Focusing on a niche makes your business attractive to prospective clients and helps you become a better copywriter or content writer in that field.

Step 2: Build a strong portfolio

Beginners don’t need professional writing experience to start landing writing work. Publishing articles on your own blog to demonstrate your skills and range can be enough to jumpstart your writing portfolio.

Craft three to five high-quality samples that showcase your captivating writing style within your chosen niche. These samples should reflect the type of freelance writing jobs you want, whether blog posts, articles, or marketing copy.

Organize them in PDFs or a digital portfolio and keep the links handy to share with new clients. Your portfolio is often the first proof of your writing abilities, so it’s critical for building trust and landing your first freelance clients.

Step 3: Develop essential skills and tools

To succeed in freelance writing and build a professional freelance business, sharpening specific skills and mastering tools is key.

• Writing: Focus on clarity, grammar, and adapting tone to different audiences. Practice blog writing, SEO content and persuasive copy, and read e-books on freelance writing
• Organizational skills: Use tools like Google Sheets, Trello or Asana to track projects, pitches, invoices and deadlines
• Content marketing knowledge: Understand how businesses use blogs, email copy and white papers to attract and convert leads. This knowledge helps you tailor your writing services to client needs
• Editing apps: Use Grammarly or Hemingway to polish your writing before submitting to clients
• Image editing: Basic skills with Canva or Photoshop can add value, as some clients request images for articles or landing pages

Step 4: Practice writing regularly and consider starting your own blog

Practice improves writing abilities and builds confidence. Many content creators start personal sites to refine their writing, experiment with different styles, demonstrate their expertise and even earn money by monetizing their blogs.

Running a blog also helps with marketing your freelance writing business by showcasing your skills to prospective clients. Blogging teaches important skills like formatting for online readers, incorporating SEO strategies and producing engaging content regularly.

Reading widely in your niche and beyond also enriches vocabulary and keeps you informed about industry trends.

Step 5: Pitch potential clients through cold outreach

For beginners, cold pitching often beats applying to freelance writing job boards initially. Why? Competition on job boards can be fierce, with many writers offering low rates. Cold pitching allows you to directly contact businesses or marketing departments you want to work with—a better way to find writing opportunities and build client relationships.

Research companies in your niche, personalize your pitch emails, and attach relevant articles. Consistent pitching helps you build a freelance client list and gain valuable professional experience.

Step 6: Network with other freelance writers and industry professionals

Joining online communities and social media groups focused on freelance writing or your niche exposes you to industry trends, job leads and advice from others. Platforms like Bluesky or X (formerly Twitter) can be excellent for connecting with fellow writers and learning about writing opportunities.

Engaging with other writers builds your freelance business network and often leads to referrals or collaborations.

Step 7: Set rates and manage your freelance business

Start by determining how much to charge based on your expenses, desired income and time available for writing work. Begin with competitive yet fair rates, and adjust them as your skills and professional experience improve.

Keep organized records of invoices, client communications, and deadlines using project management tools. Business skills like these help build a sustainable online business and a flexible career with more projects and better-paying freelance clients.

With persistence, improving writing skills and focused effort on pitching and client work, newbies can build a thriving career. Remember, every professional writer started somewhere. The key is to start freelancing now, keep learning and stay confident.

Step 8: Build credentials and keep learning

While formal education isn’t required to become a freelance writer, gaining credentials through online courses or certifications can boost your credibility and sharpen your skills. Many take classes in SEO, content marketing or technical writing to expand their writing services and attract more clients. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy and LinkedIn Learning offer excellent courses tailored to freelance writers.

Credentials help beginners stand out on job boards and in pitches to prospective clients, showing professionalism and commitment to their career. Lifelong learning through webinars, books, and workshops keeps you updated on industry trends and improves your writing abilities, helping you grow a sustainable online business.

Step 9: Manage finances and chasing invoices

A sustainable writing business demands good business skills. Managing your finances means tracking income, expenses and deadlines for client payments carefully.

Many use simple tools like spreadsheets or apps to organize invoices and follow up when payments are late. This process is called chasing invoices. Staying on top of your payments ensures steady cash flow, allowing you to focus on writing content and growing client relationships.

Proper financial management is a key part of turning freelance writing into a successful, flexible career that supports your goals and lifestyle.

Join Freelance Writers Den

Freelance Writers Den is an online community created to support freelance writers at every stage of their career. It offers training videos, live sessions and a helpful forum where writers can connect with other writers and industry professionals.

By joining, newbies get access to valuable writing services, tutorials, advice on pitching clients and tips for becoming a successful writer. The Den helps enthusiasts build client relationships and improve their skills while navigating online job boards and writing work.

Being part of this community means you’re never alone on your freelance career path. You get support, accountability, and connections to fellow writers who understand what it takes to become a freelance writer and grow a successful freelance business.

Start freelance writing today!

Starting a freelance writing career may seem overwhelming at first, but the most important thing is to begin and keep going. Choosing a profitable niche that matches your interests and knowledge is key. This focus helps you become a better content writer and attracts more freelance clients who need your specific writing services.

Launching your own blog in that niche is a powerful way to practice your skills, build a great portfolio, and develop a unique voice. Hosting your blog on platforms like WordPress or Wix, combined with simple marketing strategies through social media channels like Reddit or Pinterest, can help you grow your online presence and reach potential clients.

Aiming to publish a few writings each week is one of the best ways to improve your writing abilities and get noticed. Reading widely also sharpens your skills; consider books like On Writing by Stephen King and The Elements of Style by Strunk and White.

Beyond blogging, actively seek jobs by pitching guest posts to blogs in your niche, applying for freelance work with local marketing departments or agencies and optimizing your LinkedIn profile to showcase your portfolio. Cold pitching remains a valuable way to build client relationships and find writing opportunities that fit your career path.

Remember, being a successful freelancer requires persistence, ongoing learning and smart marketing of your writing services.

Keep writing, keep learning, and your online business will grow into the flexible, rewarding career you dream of.

FAQs

How do I start freelancing as a writer?

To start online writing, focus on building strong writing abilities and identifying your niche. Many beginners begin by creating writing samples or starting their blogs to showcase their abilities. Use job boards to find your first jobs and start pitching potential clients directly. Networking with other writers in online communities and on social media can open doors to more writing opportunities. It’s also important to learn basic business skills, like managing client relationships and invoicing. With persistence and a clear career path, you can become a successful online writer and grow your career.

Can I make $1,000 a month freelance writing?

Yes, making $1,000 a month freelance writing is achievable, especially when you focus on gaining consistent writing work and building client relationships. Start by offering writing services that match your skills, such as blog writing or copywriting. Using freelance job boards and cold pitching can help you find potential clients willing to pay well. As your writing abilities improve and your portfolio grows, you can increase your rates and take on more projects. Many reach this milestone early in their online career by balancing steady client work with marketing themselves effectively.

How much money do freelance writers make?

The income varies widely depending on experience, niche and business skills. Some beginners earn only a token amount at first, while professional writers with a strong business can make six figures. Rates differ by writing job, from content writing and technical writing to freelance copywriter projects. Factors like client relationships, writing skills and your ability to pitch clients also affect earnings. To boost income, focus on niches with high demand and improve your writing abilities through online courses and reading industry trends. With time, you can turn online writing into a flexible career that meets your financial goals.

Can I be a freelance writer with no experience?

Absolutely! Many successful freelance writers started with no professional experience. The key is to build a portfolio by creating articles or blog posts on your own or for imaginary clients. Starting a free blog helps demonstrate your writing abilities and a creative writing style to prospective clients. Use freelance writing job boards and cold pitching to land beginner positions. Joining online communities and learning from others can boost your confidence and skills. Remember, becoming a freelance writer is more about persistence and improving your writing and business skills than formal education.

How to become a freelance writer as a student?

Students can start freelance writing by balancing studies with writing work and focusing on manageable projects. Start by developing your writing abilities through blog writing or contributing guest posts on platforms related to your field. Use freelance writing job boards to find part-time jobs or internships with marketing departments or content writers. Creating your own blog helps showcase your writing abilities to potential clients. Students should also network on social media and connect with other writers for support and advice. Online writing can be a side hustle that builds valuable professional experience and a future career path.

How to become a freelance writer for free?

Becoming a freelance writer for free means using no-cost resources to develop your skills and build a portfolio. Start by writing articles or blog posts for your free blog on platforms like Medium or WordPress. Use free online courses to improve your writing abilities and learn about content marketing and SEO. Join online communities to get advice and pitch clients without spending money. Look for jobs on free job boards and practice cold pitching to potential clients. With determination and consistent writing, you can start freelancing without upfront investment and grow a successful online business.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Without structure, days vanish in a haze of emails, social media, research, and task switching. This is a drain, delaying assignment delivery and potentially risking income!

Between client projects, deadlines, marketing and a never-ending to-do list, staying on top of the day to day may feel impossible. But it’s not! Keep reading to discover 15 strategies and tools to transform the daily grind into a productive, sustainable freelance workflow.

16 time management tools and other valuable solutions for freelance writers

Time management tools and others, such as project management tools and social media management tools, help content creators balance juggling multiple clients with real life.

During a Freelance Writers Den discussion, members described struggles fitting in marketing while meeting deadlines, handling family duties and protecting self-care. Packed schedules often push marketing aside, causing freelancers to spend valuable time on repetitive tasks instead of growth strategies.

The Den group recommended project management features, collaboration tools and time tracking to organize manageable tasks, support team projects and deliver detailed reports.

Below, we’ve listed our favorites to help you measure progress and block our distractions so you can make more money writing.

Calendly

Calendly is a scheduling and time management tool that helps people manage scheduling meetings without the hassle of going back and forth in email. This productivity tool lets users share their availability, allowing clients and collaborators to book meetings during open time slots.

Calendly is a superb time management tool because it helps reduce time spent setting up meetings, helping writers focus on money-making activities. The intuitive interface and calendar integration of this solution improve team collaboration and task progress.

With features like setting reminders and managing multiple schedules, Calendly helps freelancers stay organized and on schedule across different time zones and projects. Available on mobile devices and desktops, it’s a valuable management tool for streamlining communication and keeping project progress on track.

Google Calendar

Google Calendar is a powerful time management tool that helps writers schedule interviews, set reminders and organize daily tasks with ease. This popular calendar app syncs with mobile devices and communication tools like Slack, providing timely notifications to keep writers on track.

With features like time blocking and color-coded events, Google Calendar helps prioritize important tasks to boost productivity. Integration with tools like Calendly further streamlines scheduling and team collaboration.

Google Calendar’s intuitive interface makes it easy to track progress on projects and stay focused on deadlines. It helps freelance writers and small teams manage their time entry and daily tasks effectively, ensuring valuable time is used efficiently across multiple projects.

Toggl Track

Toggl Track is a simple time tracking app that helps freelance writers and small teams log time spent on daily tasks and projects. With just a click of the play button, users can start tracking time on specific tasks and organize projects by client for streamlined and accurate project time tracking.

Toggl’s intuitive interface supports billable hours tracking and detailed timesheets, helping writers and project managers see how much time is spent on brainstorming, drafting and editing. The app’s reminders and time log features help avoid bad habits like forgetting to track time, improving time management and tracking task progress.

Integration with other productivity tools enhances team collaboration and project progress. Toggl’s detailed reports give in-depth insight into time spent, supporting better planning and tracking of important tasks.

SmartSuite

SmartSuite is a top time management tool for freelance writers and content teams. This all-in-one project management tool offers task management, project time tracking and time tracking software to help measure progress and manage daily tasks easily. The simple interface supports manageable tasks, Kanban boards and priority levels, helping writers organize their to-do list and stay focused.

SmartSuite’s native time tracking app automatically records time spent on billable hours and creates detailed timesheets and time logs, making it simple to separate billable from non-billable work. Team collaboration improves with built-in communication tools like group chats, task comments and @mentions, boosting team productivity.

Key features for project management include project phases, milestones, file attachments and version control, all supported by detailed reports and project progress dashboards. With unlimited users and mobile device support, SmartSuite helps small teams streamline workflows, block distracting websites and automate repetitive tasks—a user-friendly management tool for better employee time and task entry.

Trello

Trello is a versatile project management tool that helps freelance writers and small teams manage editorial workflows using Kanban boards. This time management tool organizes daily tasks visually with boards, lists, and cards, making it easy to monitor progress and focus on the most important tasks.

Trello’s beginner-friendly interface supports task management with customizable fields, to-do lists and priority levels. Writers can create manageable tasks, set reminders and use time tracking tools through Power-ups—integrations that improve project time tracking and automate repetitive tasks.

Collaboration tools enable real-time communication, note-taking and easy file attachments, boosting team productivity and supporting project progress. Trello connects with other apps such as Google Docs, Slack and Evernote to streamline workflows across desktop and mobile devices.

Trello’s flexible project management features include calendar, timeline and dashboard views, helping writers stay focused and block distracting websites.

Asana

Asana is a strong project management tool designed for medium to large editorial teams. This time management software combines task management, time tracking, and collaboration tools to keep project progress on track.

Writers and managers can use customizable templates to collect client info, detailed task lists with dependencies and time blocking to manage time spent on daily tasks. Asana’s project management features include work portfolios that organize multiple projects, showing a detailed view of content status, deadlines and milestones.

Team collaboration improves with task assignments, comments and integrations with popular apps like Slack, Dropbox and Google Calendar. Automatic tracking of billable hours and detailed reports help teams manage resources and avoid bad habits like losing track of repetitive tasks.

Asana’s intuitive interface works best for teams needing full control over task progress and employee time entry.

ClickUp

ClickUp is a flexible project management tool for large editorial teams that need a customizable interface to manage complex projects. This time management software combines task management, time tracking tools and collaboration features to boost team productivity and streamline workflows.

Writers can track project progress with Gantt charts, Kanban boards and calendar views. Custom fields, dependencies and task comments help manage important daily tasks and priority levels. ClickUp’s whiteboards provide a virtual space to plan workflows and map task progress.

Built-in time tracking apps support automatic tracking, time entry and detailed timesheets, making it easy to separate billable hours and track time spent on each task. With mobile device support and integrations with favorite productivity tools, teams can stay focused and manage employee time from anywhere.

ClickUp supports unlimited users and offers detailed reports, making it a user-friendly project management tool for automating repetitive tasks and keeping the bigger picture in view.

Todoist

Todoist is a straightforward task management tool perfect for freelance writers and small teams looking to organize daily tasks and improve productivity. The intuitive interface lets users create manageable tasks, set priority levels and build detailed to-do lists to track progress and focus on the most important tasks.

Features like due dates, reminders and task comments help avoid bad habits such as procrastination and multitasking. Integration with popular apps like Google Calendar, Gmail and Slack supports smooth communication and collaboration tools within team projects.

Available on mobile devices, desktops and web, Todoist supports time blocking and task scheduling, making time management easier. While it lacks additional features for project management, Todoist’s simplicity and extra productivity tools make it a favorite app for personal use and small teams.

Clockify

Clockify is a comprehensive time tracker that combines project management and team collaboration tools. It offers unlimited users, making it perfect for freelancers and small teams managing multiple client projects.

With Clockify, writers can track time spent on each project and task, organize daily tasks, and maintain detailed timesheets. The platform’s project time tracking and task management features help measure progress and billable hours accurately.

Clockify provides detailed reports and analytics that show how valuable time is allocated across projects, helping users avoid bad habits and focus on the most important tasks.

Notion

Notion is a flexible project management platform with a user-friendly interface, ideal for individual writers and small editorial teams. Notion’s customizable workspace combines task management, note-taking and collaboration tools to create a centralized hub for writing projects and educational resources.

Writers can organize daily tasks and to-do lists using Kanban boards, Gallery, List or Timeline views to track project progress and focus on the most important tasks. Notion’s native formulas and functions automate task updates, supporting smooth time blocking and project time tracking.

Collaboration tools boost team productivity with shared documents, tagging and feedback features, while detailed reports and time logs help monitor time spent and employee time entry. Integration with favorite apps enables seamless workflow management across mobile devices and desktops.

Monday.com

Monday.com is a comprehensive project management solution designed for writing teams seeking advanced reporting and customizable workflows. This platform combines managing tasks, tracking time and automation to help editorial teams plan resources, manage budgets and track project progress efficiently.

With a simple interface, Monday.com allows teams to break projects into manageable tasks, organize to-do lists and set priority levels. The no-code automation builder automates repetitive tasks, sends reminders and updates status in real time, boosting team productivity and helping writers stay focused on the most important tasks.

Portfolio management features provide a detailed view of multiple projects, enabling project managers to allocate employee time and monitor task progress through Gantt charts, Kanban boards and timeline views.

Custom feedback forms streamline communication between clients and writers, while integrations with popular productivity tools enhance collaboration and simplify workflow.

Wave Accounting

While not a time management tool per se, Wave Accounting helps freelancers and small teams organize invoices, expenses and payments efficiently. This user-friendly platform helps writers create professional invoices with custom logos and brand colors, making billing look polished and trustworthy.

With Wave’s mobile app, tracking expenses is easy—users can take pictures of receipts and keep detailed records for taxes and budgeting. The software supports managing billable hours, time entry and generating detailed reports, giving freelancers a full view of their finances and cash flow.

Wave Accounting helps freelance writers stay on top of their business tasks by streamlining invoicing and payment tracking, reducing time spent on repetitive financial tasks.

Google Docs

Google Docs is a user-friendly collaboration tool that helps writers and teams manage tasks and projects together. It allows easy note-taking, task lists and sharing documents with clients or team members.

With features like real-time comments and suggestions, Google Docs improves team collaboration and communication tools. The platform’s version history tracks task progress and lets users restore deleted content, keeping important work safe.

Google Docs supports managing daily tasks and smaller tasks with a highly intuitive interface accessible on mobile devices and desktops. It helps writers stay focused, organize valuable time and avoid bad habits like losing track of repetitive tasks.

Integrations with other favorite apps make it easy to connect workflows, manage time and track project progress efficiently.

Teamwork

Teamwork excels as a comprehensive project management solution combining time management with client operations, tailored for content marketing agencies and freelance writers managing multiple clients. This platform offers robust project management features alongside client onboarding, budget planning and time tracking to streamline workflows.

Writers and project managers benefit from collaboration tools such as built-in messaging, comments and mentions, which facilitate communication and client approvals. The intuitive interface supports task management, enabling teams to measure progress on daily tasks and manage important deadlines efficiently.

Teamwork’s time tracking app monitors billable hours and time spent, generating detailed timesheets and invoices directly within the platform. Project reporting features include burndown charts, profitability reports and resource allocation insights, helping teams maintain high productivity and avoid bad habits like losing track of repetitive tasks.

RescueTime

RescueTime is a time tracking tool that runs in the background on your computer and mobile device. It automatically tracks time spent on writing and other daily tasks, giving detailed reports on how time is used.

With this time management tool, writers can see how much time is spent on distractions like social media and set limits to block distractions. The app’s productivity scores and activity reports help track progress and improve time management.

This time tracking software makes it easy to monitor billable hours, avoid bad habits, and stay focused on important tasks. The simple interface and automatic tracking help freelancers and teams manage employee time and task entry more efficiently.

AppBlock

AppBlock is a productivity and time management tool that helps writers stay focused by blocking distracting websites and mobile apps during scheduled times. The user-friendly interface allows setting custom blocks, including strict modes that prevent uninstalling the app or bypassing restrictions, ideal for avoiding bad habits and staying on task.

By limiting access to social media and messaging apps, AppBlock supports time management and time blocking, helping freelance writers protect valuable time for important and daily tasks. The app’s schedule and reminder features keep users on track, improving task progress and overall project productivity.

Available on mobile devices, AppBlock works well for individuals who need help managing repetitive distractions and maintaining focus in both personal use and team projects.

How to manage your time as a writer

Just because you’ve got a new time management tool to play with doesn’t mean you’re automatically going to become a productive freelance writer. You’ve got to put some practices into place that go along with tech tools to get results. Here’s a list of helpful time-management tips from our Freelance Writers Den insiders.

Block time for important tasks

Use time blocking to schedule daily tasks like writing, pitching, marketing and client calls. Track time spent on each task to improve your estimates and build a manageable to-do list.

Turn off notifications

Minimize distractions by disabling alerts on your mobile device and computer. This helps you stay focused and avoid bad habits that reduce team productivity and personal output.

Use task management tools

Leverage project management solutions like Trello or Todoist to organize your task list, set priority levels and track task progress visually using Kanban boards or lists.

Work from dedicated spaces

Change your environment to increase focus. Consider co-working spaces or quiet cafes to separate work from home distractions, helping maintain valuable time and reduce interruptions.

Set reminders and deadlines

Utilize reminders in your time tracking app or calendar tools like Google Calendar to keep on top of daily tasks and prevent procrastination.

Track billable hours and time logs

Use time tracking software such as Toggl or Clockify to log billable hours and analyze how you spend your working day, improving future scheduling and project time tracking.

Automate repetitive tasks

Apply automation through platforms like SmartSuite or Monday.com to handle routine actions, saving time for creative work and improving team collaboration.

Prioritize smaller tasks

Break larger projects into smaller tasks and tackle the most important tasks first, ensuring steady project progress without feeling overwhelmed.

Use collaboration and communication tools

Stay connected with editors, clients or teammates via integrated communication tools to get quick feedback and keep all project updates centralized.

Review and adjust regularly

Analyze detailed reports from your time tracking tools to spot inefficiencies and refine your time management strategy continually. Also, consider using AI writing tools and proofreading tools to save even more time!

Work smarter, not harder

Mastering time management is essential for writers who want to boost productivity and meet deadlines consistently. Using the right project management solution and productivity tools helps streamline workflows, organize daily tasks and manage billable hours effectively.

Whether you prefer simple apps for managing tasks or advanced platforms with automation and detailed reports, the key is to find what fits your style and team size. Stay consistent, review your progress, and keep improving. By working smarter, not harder, with these tools and strategies, you’ll enhance your writing career and enjoy better control over your time and projects.

FAQs

What are the 5 Ps of time management?

The 5 Ps of time management include Prioritize, Plan, Prepare, Perform and Pause. These key features help writers and teams stay focused on important tasks by building a clear to-do list and managing daily tasks efficiently.

1. Prioritizing ensures manageable tasks receive attention first
2. Planning involves scheduling and using time-blocking techniques
3. Preparation readies resources
4. Perform focuses on executing tasks
5. Pause prevents burnout by managing valuable time

These principles support better management of tasks and improve overall project progress with the right tools.

What is the 7-8-9 rule for time management?

The 7-8-9 rule suggests allocating seven hours for work, eight hours for sleep and nine hours for personal time daily. This balance helps maintain productivity and avoid bad habits like overworking or multitasking. Using time management tools and a project management solution can help track time spent on tasks, ensuring the 7-8-9 balance is respected. By managing time and setting priority levels, writers can stay focused, improve team productivity and optimize their daily tasks effectively.

What is the 6-12-6 rule for time management?

The 6-12-6 rule breaks the day into three blocks: six hours for work, 12 hours for personal life and rest and six hours for sleep. This method promotes a healthy work-life balance, supporting better focus on the most important tasks during work hours. Freelancers can utilize time tracking apps and software to monitor time entry and time spent, ensuring that valuable time is not wasted on distractions. Integrating collaboration tools and task lists helps maintain project progress and manage repetitive tasks efficiently.

If you want to move up and earn more as a freelance writer, learning how to manage your time, set priorities and avoid distractions can dramatically improve your productivity and earning potential. Create a plan, use these time-management tools and get to work.

Evan Jensen is a past editor for Make a Living Writing. When he’s not on a writing deadline or catching up on emails, he’s training to run another 100-mile ultra-marathon.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Best social media management tools for freelance writers

Social media helps freelancers grow a social media presence, connect with a target audience and land clients.

But let’s face it: managing multiple social media accounts across various platforms can eat up hours you could be spending making money writing.

That’s where the best social media management tools come in.

With the right social media management platform, you can schedule posts, track social media performance and stay consistent without risking burnout or spending time on tasks that aren’t revenue generating.

What is a social media management tool?

A social media management tool is software that helps streamline your social media marketing by handling everything in one place. Instead of jumping between social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn, you can manage multiple social media profiles, schedule posts, monitor mentions and track social media metrics all from a single web app or desktop app.

Many tools offer features like social media scheduling, social media listening, content assistance, detailed analytics and reporting tools to measure social media performance. Whether you’re managing clients or building your brand, these tools simplify your social media management tasks.

Why use a social media management tool?

Running a brand or freelance business means wearing a lot of hats, social media manager included. A social media management tool helps save time, keeps you organized, and maintains your social media strategy.

Instead of scrambling to post in real-time, you can schedule posts across platforms, monitor social media channels and respond to your followers in one dashboard.

These tools also help track key metrics, create social media reports, and improve your overall social media performance. Whether you’re working solo or with a team, they make social media management smarter, not harder.

10 best free social media management tools for freelancers

Looking for the best social media management tools to boost your social media presence while you grow your blog or look for freelance writing jobs?

Whether you’re managing multiple social networks, juggling social media posts or handling content for multiple clients, these tools simplify your workflow.

1. Buffer

Buffer ranks among the best free social media management tools for creators and freelancers. This user-friendly social media management platform helps schedule posts, track performance and manage social media accounts without hassle. It supports multiple platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and newer channels like Threads and Bluesky.

Pros include a clean interface, solid post-scheduling, and helpful features like a Start Page for link-in-bio needs. The AI Assistant generates captions, rephrases content and assists with content creation. Features like Streaks boost posting consistency, while Zapier integration unlocks automation.

Limitations include fewer advanced analytics tools, no CRM and basic automation. Larger teams may find the available features lacking.

Buffer suits anyone focused on a flexible social media strategy, light collaboration and consistent content delivery without complexity.

Key features:

• Schedule posts across various platforms
• Visual planning for Instagram
• Engagement and detailed analytics
• Team collaboration
• AI-assisted content creation
• Start Page bio link builder
• RSS feeds and Zapier integration

2. HelloWoofy

HelloWoofy brings a fresh spin to social media management with smart features tailored for businesses and creative teams. This platform connects with multiple social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google Business, Medium, TikTok, X, WordPress and more, supporting a wide range of content strategies.

Designed to assist with media management and visual planning, HelloWoofy also includes advanced integrations rarely seen in other social media tools, such as Amazon Alexa. This opens up new automation and engagement features beyond traditional scheduling.

Users can create and schedule posts, use a browser extension for faster content sharing, and manage multiple platforms from a single dashboard. Though less known than larger platforms, HelloWoofy packs power into every feature set.

Pros include cutting-edge integrations, visual scheduling tools, and a focus on smart content creation. For teams seeking flexible social media management software, HelloWoofy stands out.

Key features:

• Connects to multiple platforms, including TikTok and WordPress
• Alexa voice assistant integration
• Smart visual scheduling
• Browser extension for quick posting
• Google Business Profile support

3. Tailwind

Tailwind focuses on visual platforms—Pinterest and Instagram—making it a strong choice for brands aiming to grow their social presence through engaging, eye-catching content.

Ideal for Instagram users and Pinterest account managers running multiple accounts, this tool helps schedule pins, design content and generate captions using pre-made templates tailored for each platform.

For those building a content strategy around Instagram Stories or Pinterest boards, Tailwind simplifies media planning. Upload a photo, and Tailwind instantly generates stylish layouts—no graphic design background needed. You also get hashtag suggestions, platform-specific image sizes and smart social media scheduling based on audience habits.

SmartGuide delivers real-time tips to optimize Pinterest performance, helping creators fine-tune their social media strategy for their target audience.

While the free plan offers only five posts per month, paid plans unlock broader scheduling and basic analytics.

Key features:

• Pinterest-first social media management tool
• Auto-design for visuals
• SmartGuide for Pinterest strategy
• Caption generation and hashtag support
• One calendar for visual platforms

4. Vista Social

Vista Social is a great fit for small teams that want to streamline their social media process without blowing the budget. It supports over a dozen platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Threads, Pinterest and Tumblr. Vista Social gives people new to social media the basics: scheduling, inbox management, analytics and task tracking. You can assign writing and scheduling tasks, review content and create workflows that align with your team’s specific focus.

In addition to a free plan, Vista Social offers multi-user access at a low cost so you don’t have to sacrifice data safety or efficiency to stay on budget. The interface isn’t flashy, but it gets the job done, saving you free time to focus on results.

The support team is responsive, and integrations with tools like Zapier help automate the process from start to order completion.

Key features:

• Affordable plans with built-in team access
• AI assistant for writing and planning
• Task management for smoother collaboration
• Strong platform coverage

5. Agorapulse

Agorapulse offers a solid mix of scheduling, engagement and analytics designed for teams, brands and agencies. It features a unified social inbox that makes managing comments, messages and mentions across platforms easy, all from one dashboard.

Users can schedule posts, set up queues for automated publishing and track performance with detailed analytics and reports. Collaboration shines through approval workflows and role-based permissions, helping keep content on point and timely.

Though advanced features require paid plans rather than the free plan and integrations fall short of some competitors, Agorapulse delivers powerful tools for agencies and marketing teams needing seamless social media automation with teamwork in mind.

Key features:

• Unified inbox for all social interactions
• Automated post-scheduling and queuing
• Detailed analytics and performance reports
• Approval workflows and role-based access
• Designed for team collaboration

6. CoSchedule

CoSchedule fits perfectly for content marketers, bloggers and businesses looking to combine social media scheduling with wider marketing strategies. The drag-and-drop marketing calendar helps plan, publish and automate posts across blogs, social media and email campaigns—all from one spot.

Users can schedule social posts alongside other content, automate resharing of top-performing posts using ReQueue and collaborate easily with teams on approvals and content management.

While social media listening and real-time engagement tools remain limited and advanced marketing features are not available on the free plan, CoSchedule offers a strong all-in-one solution for managing blogs, social accounts and email in one streamlined workflow.

Key features:

• Unified marketing calendar for social, blog, and email
• Automated content recycling with ReQueue
• Team collaboration and approval workflows
• Scheduling and automation across multiple channels

7. Later

Later suits brands, influencers and content creators focused on Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest. The drag-and-drop content calendar allows users to plan visually engaging posts and optimize posting schedules effortlessly.

Later bundles social media management, influencer marketing, social listening and dedicated agency support into one package. The Media Library stores images, posts and all planned content in one place, while automatic creator attribution tags posts imported from Instagram.

While Later’s free plan with scheduling and analytics cover the basics well, the paid agency services steal the spotlight. Their team handles organic social media from strategy to execution, including managing audience interactions like comments and DMs.

For those wanting to outsource social marketing but keep oversight, Later offers a hands-off solution. Just keep in mind that agency services cost extra.

Key features:

• A drag-and-drop visual content calendar
• Media Library for storing and organizing content
• Automatic creator attribution for Instagram posts
• Full agency support, including strategy, execution, and audience management
• Combines social management, influencer marketing, and social listening

8. Publer

Publer fits freelancers and marketers seeking a budget-friendly yet capable social media scheduler to enhance their social media presence. It blends AI-driven content automation, bulk scheduling and basic collaboration tools into one easy platform.

Publer allows users to schedule and automate posts across multiple social media accounts. AI helps craft captions and hashtags that boost engagement. Evergreen content recycling keeps posts fresh and extends reach. Branded watermarks and link previews add a polished, professional touch.

While it lacks advanced CRM and social listening, Publer offers smart AI tools and efficient scheduling at a fraction of enterprise costs. Lower-tier and free plans have limited team collaboration, and analytics don’t go as deep as some competitors’, but they still deliver strong value.

Key features:

• AI-generated captions and hashtags
• Bulk scheduling and automation
• Evergreen content recycling for wider reach
• Branded watermarks and link previews
• Affordable plans tailored to small teams and freelancers

9. n8n

n8n suits marketers and businesses that want complete control over their social media accounts and workflow automation. This low-code platform goes beyond basic scheduling by enabling tailored automation to fit unique marketing needs.

Users can create workflows that automatically publish posts triggered by events like blog updates, monitor brand mentions with instant alerts to Slack or CRM tools, aggregate user-generated content for scheduling, auto-respond to comments and pull analytics data to generate reports.

While n8n requires some initial setup and there is a learning curve, it connects to hundreds of apps through APIs and scales smoothly for individuals who want to grow into an agency or hire a team. The platform doesn’t include a built-in analytics dashboard, but compensates with unparalleled flexibility.

Key features:

• Fully customizable social media workflow automation
• Drag-and-drop builder for easy workflow creation
• Integrations with hundreds of apps and services
• Automated publishing triggered by external events
• Auto-response and engagement tools
• Scalable for businesses and agencies

10. Metricool

Metricool is ideal for data-driven marketers, freelancers and small teams who want a streamlined hub for social media scheduling, performance tracking and ad management all in one place. It supports major platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest and Google Business.

Its standout feature is a unified dashboard that combines scheduling with real-time analytics, allowing users to monitor what’s working and tweak campaigns accordingly. Metricool also enables ad creation and tracking across Google Ads and Meta, making it a rare all-in-one tool even on the free plan.

Users can plan posts via a visual calendar, bulk schedule content and track competitors without toggling between tools. While the interface is less flashy than some, it’s built for efficiency and depth. The free plan covers one brand and up to 50 posts per month, which suits many solopreneurs and freelancers.

For those who want a lightweight but powerful alternative to more bloated schedulers, Metricool is a sharp choice (especially if you care about data).

Key features:

• Visual content calendar with drag-and-drop post scheduling
• Real-time analytics across platforms
• Google Ads and Meta ad management
• Competitor tracking and hashtag analysis
• Free plan includes up to 50 scheduled posts per month across platforms

What about social media management software with free trials but no free plan?

If you’re open to investing in a premium tool but want to test the waters first, several top-tier social media schedulers offer free trials instead of ongoing free plans.

These platforms tend to focus on scalability, advanced analytics, and deeper integrations—ideal if you manage many clients, need team workflows or want an all-in-one solution for content, engagement and reporting.

Here are six high-performing tools worth exploring during their trial period to see if the added features match your needs and justify the spend.

1. MeetEdgar

While there’s no free plan, you can access a 14-day free trial for paid plans.

MeetEdgar stands out among the best social media management tools by offering automated scheduling powered by content categories. Instead of manually deciding when to post, you set themes like blog updates, quotes or promotions, then MeetEdgar fills your calendar based on that structure.

Perfect for small businesses and creators juggling multiple social media profiles, this web app helps keep your feed active with less effort. Content is pulled from synced sources like blogs, YouTube channels or podcasts, making it easy to maintain a strong social media presence.

Pros include consistent post-recycling, content suggestions and auto-filled schedules. The tool works across multiple platforms and supports audience engagement without constant manual input.

Key features:

• Auto-filled schedules based on post categories
• Post suggestions and recycling
• Syncs with blogs, podcasts, and YouTube
• Works across multiple social media platforms

2. Sendible

While there’s no free plan, you can access a 14-day free trial for paid plans.

Sendible delivers reliable social media management for agencies, consultants and small businesses juggling clients. This scheduling tool supports LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Google Business Profile, X (formerly Twitter) and your Instagram account, covering all the essentials without complexity.

Users can schedule posts, respond to comments, automate content from RSS feeds and collaborate through customizable dashboards. With integrations for Canva, Google Drive and Dropbox, media management for multiple social channels become seamless.

Sendible’s reporting tools help generate polished, white-label social media reports, ideal for teams needing client-ready deliverables. While some analytics tools feel basic compared to pricier platforms, Google Analytics integration helps fill the gap. The interface might seem busy at first, and AI features feel limited, but overall usability remains strong.

Pros include multi-client workflows, detailed reports, and streamlined post-scheduling. For teams focused on scalable social media, Sendible offers efficient media management and engagement tools.

Key features:

• Bulk scheduling and queue automation
• Custom reports and dashboards
• RSS and AI caption support
• Media library and design integrations
• Multi-client management with white-label options

3. Hootsuite

While there’s no free plan, you can access a 30-day free trial for paid plans.

Hootsuite is one of the most comprehensive social media scheduling tools for teams with specific requirements and complex workflows. It’s perfect for brands focused on writing assignments like blog repurposing, content series and campaigns, thanks to strong AI features that help create, review and polish every story before submitting.

You’ll find robust tools to manage each account, respond in real-time and track performance across platforms. Need help during the process? Hootsuite’s support team is responsive and helpful.

From social listening to deep analytics, Hootsuite meets enterprise-level guidelines with ease. Still, the powerful dashboard may overwhelm new users, and pricing is steep compared to simpler tools.

If your focus is on high-volume publishing, detailed benchmarks or industry analysis, Hootsuite provides the answer with everything in one place.

Key features:

• Advanced social listening and AI writing tools
• Industry benchmark analytics
• Granular team access controls
• Best-in-class X (formerly Twitter) integration
• Deep platform support and reporting

4. Sprout Social

While there’s no free plan, there is a 30-day free trial for new users.

Sprout Social serves businesses, enterprises and agencies needing powerful social media automation software with robust scheduling, engagement tracking and customer relationship management (CRM) tools.

Combining social media management and influencer marketing into a single platform saves time and simplifies workflows for social media managers juggling multiple strategies and trying to write posts for several social channels.

Key features include influencer marketing software that helps discover and collaborate with influencers seamlessly, alongside beautifully designed reports featuring interactive charts and graphs to visualize analytics. The AI assistant supports post creation and scheduling, boosting productivity across teams.

Ideal for big companies with substantial budgets, Sprout Social offers employee advocacy features that enable curated feeds specifically designed for workforce engagement. While pricing may exceed the budgets of small businesses or creators, this platform excels in delivering in-depth analytics and engagement insights, empowering marketing teams to optimize campaigns effectively.

Key features:

• Combined social media marketing automation and influencer marketing software
• Scheduling posts across major platforms
• Engagement tracking with comprehensive analytics
• Customer relationship management (CRM) integration
• AI assistant for creation and planning
• Employee advocacy tools for internal communications
• Interactive, aesthetic reporting with data visualization

5. SocialBee

While there’s no free plan, you can access a 14-day free trial for paid plans.

SocialBee helps marketers, agencies and small businesses manage social media more easily. It uses category-based scheduling, so you can organize posts by topic and automatically share them on a schedule that keeps your feed balanced and active.

The best part? SocialBee is excellent at evergreen content recycling. Your posts get shared again without extra work, saving you time. You can also create different versions of posts for each social platform and use AI tools to write catchy captions.

While SocialBee doesn’t include social listening or live features, it offers great value for those who want simple automation. More detailed analytics come with higher plans, making it a good fit for small teams wanting to grow without spending too much.

SocialBee is a smart choice for anyone looking to schedule posts, manage social accounts and save time with automation.

Key features:

• Organize posts into categories for better planning
• Automatically recycle evergreen content
• Customize posts for different platforms
• AI-powered caption writing
• Affordable for small businesses and agencies

6. SocialPilot

While there’s no free plan, you can access a 14-day free trial for paid plans.

SocialPilot fits social media agencies that manage many clients and need smooth workflows. It lets users create separate dashboards for each client, which can be white-labeled with custom colors and logos to give clients a premium, branded experience.

Sharing for approvals happens through personalized, easy-to-use links—no client sign-ups needed. Plus, SocialPilot can automatically send branded performance reports to various clients, saving time and boosting professionalism.

The dashboard keeps client accounts clearly separated, making management simple. While offering granular team permission controls like Hootsuite, SocialPilot stays affordable and easy to use. Alongside scheduling, reporting, and a helpful AI assistant, it covers all the essential social media management features agencies expect.

Key features:

• Client-specific dashboards with white-label branding
• Simple, sign-up-free approval links
• Automated branded social media reports
• Granular team permissions and task management
• A helpful AI assistant, scheduling, and reporting

How to choose the best social media management tool

Not every social media management platform fits every workflow and has all the features you need. Some offer all the bells and whistles, while others keep things simple. Here’s what to consider when picking the right one for your needs as a freelance writer:

• User-friendly design: Look for tools with intuitive dashboards, especially if you’re new to media management
• Free version or free trial: Test-drive the features before committing to paid plans
• Unlimited scheduling: Perfect if you want to plan weeks of social media posts
• Engagement features: Respond to messages, comments, and brand mentions across social media channels from one place
• Content creation tools: Bonus points if the platform helps generate captions, offers pre-made templates, or supports visual content
• Platform support: Need to manage a Pinterest account, your Google Business Profile, or Instagram Stories? Make sure those social media platforms are included
• Browser extension or RSS feeds: Handy for curating content on the fly or sharing blog updates automatically
• Reporting features: Good basic analytics or advanced social media reports help you measure growth and fine-tune your social media strategy

Choosing the right tool comes down to matching features with your goals. Whether you’re a solo creator or running a team, the right fit will make your social media management tasks faster, smoother and way less stressful.

Pro tip: If you need advice or want to connect with other freelance writers to swap social media marketing tips, check out Freelance Writers Den. It’s a great place to ask questions, share experiences and learn what’s working for others.

Final tips on managing social media accounts

Finding the right social media management tool can make a huge difference in how you handle your social media presence. From simplifying the content process to improving audience engagement, the right tool with a few features helps you stay organized, save time and get better results across your social media channels.

Whether you’re focused on social listening, managing clients or growing a small brand, these social media tools offer something for every workflow. Many include helpful extras like collaboration, reporting or built-in design tools, so you’re not juggling apps just to keep things running.

Explore a few, test out those free plans and find the one that clicks. Strong social media management starts with the right platform.

Want more social media tips? Check out our posts on the topic here.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

The pay scale for print magazines can vary. Many smaller or regional publications pay between $50 and $150 for articles. These types of rates can be good stepping stones for new writers to build a portfolio and gain experience.

To write for magazines and land the higher-paying freelance rates and gain a prestigious byline, focus on magazines that work with freelancers, study their submission guidelines, and develop fresh, unique story ideas.

Whether you’re covering cultural issues, business trends or writing personal essays, mastering the pitching process is the gateway to magazines that pay writers well. Keep reading to find magazines that pay writers.

How can I start writing for magazines?

If you want to get paid to write for magazines, here’s a simple plan to help you get started and reduce pitch anxiety.

Build your writing portfolio

Many online magazines that pay for articles want to see examples of your work first. Start by writing personal essays, feature stories or short articles on topics like mental health, cultural issues or current events. These samples show editors you can write well and understand how to write for a specific audience.

Become familiar with submission guidelines

Every magazine has guidelines for pitching and submitting articles. Some want a query with a clear headline, others ask for full stories on spec and some simply ask for a few ideas. Reading submission guidelines carefully and following instructions gives you a much better chance of having your article accepted.

Pitch good story ideas

To write articles that editors want to publish, pitch stories that fit the magazine’s topics and style. Whether it’s environmental issues, business trends or service journalism, make sure your pitches are clear and focused. A strong query letter with a solid story idea grabs the attention of editors.

Keep pitching and improving

Successfully pitching and writing for magazines takes practice. Don’t get discouraged by rejections—use these experiences to improve your pitches. Keep writing and submitting to find the right fit and get paid for your work.

Following these steps helps you start writing for magazines and find publications that pay freelance writers well. Ready to send your first pitch?

How much does it pay to write for a magazine?

Payment for writing articles can vary widely depending on the magazine, topic and your experience as a freelance writer. You’ll find some magazines offering a flat rate of $50 and others paying upwards of $500 or more per assignment.

Smaller publications often pay on the lower end due to having small budgets and limited funding. In contrast, larger magazines like National Geographic, Business Insider, Entrepreneur Magazine or Smithsonian Magazine can pay freelance contributors higher rates for well-researched, in-depth articles or feature stories.

Trade magazines and literary magazines also provide opportunities to pay writers well, especially for stories covering industry topics, publishing literary fiction or showcasing personal essays. Some women’s magazines or men’s health publications pay well for reported features or personal stories related to health, fashion trends or personal growth.

Magazines that pay freelance writers typically publish a rate chart or provide payment details in their submission guidelines. Knowing where to look and how to pitch stories that fit the magazine’s preferred topics and readers will increase your chances of landing assignments.

So if you want to write for many magazines and get paid, focus on pitching strong story ideas, following submission guidelines and aiming for publications known to pay writers fairly.

What online magazines pay $1 per word?

For writers aiming to write for magazines that pay well, hitting $1 per word can feel like a major milestone. There are magazines that pay this rate or more, but keep in mind this is for well-researched feature articles, essays or in-depth reported pieces.

Magazines like The New York Times Magazine and The Paris Review pay competitive rates for high-quality writing that covers cultural issues, political topics and literary fiction. Trade magazines or specialty publications focusing on business, environmental issues or mental health sometimes also offer this level of pay for expert freelance contributors.

Keep in mind that magazines paying $1 per word usually expect pitches to be polished, tailored for their target readership and carefully adhering to their submission guidelines.

50 magazines that pay for articles

If you want to earn money by writing for magazines, aim for publications with clear pay rates and a strong editorial reputation. It takes effort, but for the writers who stick with it and keep practicing, this dream can become a reality.

Here is a list of a few magazines and publications that pay for articles to get you started.

1. AARP, The Magazine

AARP The Magazine welcomes freelance submissions, but only pitches, not full drafts (unless it’s a personal essay). Focus on issues relevant to readers over 50, including healthy eating, retirement, relationships and inspiring stories.

Writers must submit pitches via email, with no attachments. This is one of those few publications that still pay writers and cover topics ranging from personal growth to consumer trends.

NOTE: No pitches accepted from outside North America.

2. Alaska Magazine

Alaska Magazine invites freelance submissions that spotlight authentic Alaskan life, including wildlife, culture, outdoor adventure and off-the-beaten-path travel. This literary magazine accepts both pitches and completed pieces, plus photos. Writers must include samples and follow each issue’s theme.

3. The Atlantic

The Atlantic accepts freelance pitches covering valuable information like politics, foreign affairs, science, education, culture and global issues. This is one of the more prominent magazines that welcomes articles, especially well-researched, reported features and essays.

Additionally, they welcome both fiction and poetry—submit via email as a Word doc or PDF. Freelance writers should study the magazine’s submission guidelines and past work before pitching stories on cultural issues or current events.

4. Chatelaine Magazine

Chatelaine is a top women’s magazine in Canada, covering personal stories, fashion trends, mental health and current events. This publication pays writers who pitch timely, tailored ideas rather than completed articles. Submit a one-page query via email, along with links to previous work. Use Canadian stats and diverse sources. Chatelaine is a strong pick for those seeking women’s magazines that accept pitches on social issues, personal growth or cultural criticism.

5. Hoof Beats

Hoof Beats focuses on Standardbreds and harness racing, making it a great fit for writers passionate about the sport. They accept both pitches and manuscripts, plus photos. Topics include equipment innovations, veterinary care, personal stories and historical pieces.

This is one of those trade magazines that pay freelance writers up to $500 for features. Query by email with writing samples, and get familiar with the magazine’s voice before sending your story idea.

6. Discover Magazine

Discover looks for exciting science stories with strong narratives and wide appeal. Pitches should be concise, highlight fresh research, and show your science-writing chops. Web stories pay $300 for 600–1,000 words; print pays up to $1/word.

7. Earth Island Journal

Earth Island Journal publishes deeply reported environmental journalism with a focus on justice, advocacy and solutions. Topics include climate change, biodiversity, agriculture, energy, conservation policy, eco-innovation, animal rights and environmental activism.

This publication is especially interested in global stories, frontline reporting and underrepresented voices. Pay is $0.50/word for print (typically 2,800–4,000 words) and $400 per online article.

NOTE: No poetry, fiction or AI-generated submissions.

8. Eating Well

EatingWell is a trusted digital destination for food lovers who care about health, sustainability and science-backed nutrition. While the print version has closed, the website reaches 10+ million monthly readers with deeply reported features, wellness tips, healthy recipes and special edition issues on stands.

They’re known for celebrating global cuisine, seasonal ingredients and culinary traditions, with a strong focus on dietitian-approved meal plans (examples include heart health, diabetes or inflammation) and farm-to-table values. Based in Vermont, the team includes award-winning journalists, chefs and nutrition experts. Writers interested in food writing, sustainable agriculture and nutrition science may find freelance opportunities here.

9. enRoute

Air Canada enRoute is a travel magazine that reaches over one million monthly readers aboard Air Canada flights and in lounges. Writers should pitch original, narrative-driven stories with a strong sense of place focused on Air Canada or Star Alliance destinations.

This airline publication seeks timely, first-hand travel features—both short (200–550 words) and long (1,200–1,700 words), covering food, culture, design, technology and social trends.

10. The Open Notebook

The Open Notebook is a non-profit providing essential tools and resources for science, health and environment journalists. They welcome pitches for reported features and story-behind-the-story interviews, especially for their Diverse Voices in Science Journalism series. They pay $1,800–$2,400 for 1,500- to 2,000-word pieces.

11. KITPLANES

KITPLANES loves hearing from both professional journalists and hands-on aircraft builders! If you’ve got a story about kit or amateur-built aircraft, whether it’s design tips, flight trials or construction techniques, send a quick query first. They’re looking for focused articles (around 2,000 words) and good photos showing your process. AI-generated content is not accepted.

12. Sierra

Sierra Magazine seeks writers passionate about environmental justice and cultural issues. Pitches for feature articles, essays and reported stories must follow the submission guidelines, focusing on well-researched, in-depth pieces that spark conversation. Emerging writers who want to write may find Sierra a rewarding publication to work with.

13. Smithsonian

Smithsonian Magazine welcomes freelance submissions with a focus on cultural criticism, current events and stories ranging from historical insights to environmental issues. Writers interested in pitching feature stories or short-reported pieces should carefully follow the submission guidelines and tailor their pitches to fit the target audience.

14. The Sun

The Sun invites freelance writers to submit personal stories, essays and literary fiction with emotional depth and honesty. First-time authors and marginalized voices find a welcoming platform here. Submission guidelines highlight pay rates and focus on narrative writing that sparks personal growth and meaningful cultural criticism.

15. Teen Vogue

Teen Vogue seeks freelance pitches on youth culture, pop culture criticism, mental health reporting, reproductive rights and social justice. Focus on reported stories or op-eds on culture, identity, style, beauty and politics. Submit clear, timely pitches highlighting unique angles and expert sources. Ideal topics include fast fashion ethics, climate change coverage and long-form investigative journalism.

16. Long Now

Long Now seeks pitches on long-term thinking, civilizational perspectives, climate change, AI, science history and speculative fiction. Submit essays, reported features, interviews, poetry or fiction focused on deep time and future foresight. Payment starts at $600 for features. Email your ideas with headlines, bios and story relevance to temporal and cultural themes for best consideration.

17. PublicSource

PublicSource invites local freelancers and community members to pitch story ideas, essays, tips and questions. Use their detailed pitch form to submit reported stories or a short form for first-person essays. Payment varies by story. If you don’t hear back in a week, your pitch wasn’t selected.

18. The Objective

The Objective is a nonprofit newsroom focused on journalism equity, newsroom culture, media power and underrepresented voices. Freelance writers can pitch original stories, investigations and critiques that align with these themes. Payment is $0.50 per word, with varied project rates. Response time may be slow due to a volunteer leadership team. Pitch clearly and wait one week before following up.

19. Wellbeing

WellBeing Magazine loves soulful, surprising stories about holistic health, spirituality, sustainability and natural therapies. They don’t accept promotional or advertorial pieces, so focus on empowering, well-researched articles that inform and inspire. Submissions usually range from 800 to 2,500 words. Send your original work with proper references and a short bio in a Word file.

20. Amazonas Magazine

AMAZONAS is a top freshwater aquarium magazine accepting expert-level freelance articles and underwater photography. Writers must pitch first—send a short email with your idea, qualifications and low-res images. Articles pay $100–$600 and photos pay up to $150. Blog posts pay $25. Focus on fishkeeping, aquatic science or aquarium technology.

21. Stanford Social Innovation Review

Stanford Social Innovation Review accepts pitches from freelance writers and professional writers on political and cultural issues or environmental justice with fresh perspectives. Submission categories include Field Report ($1,500), What’s Next ($600) and Case Study ($3,500).

22. American Craft Council

The American Craft Council is one of those publications that celebrates creativity and connection. Writers can pitch essays, reported features or personal stories on handmade art, community and craft culture. It’s perfect for writers who want to write articles with meaning. Pay ranges from $0.50 to $1 per word.

23. Analog

Analog publishes articles focused on science fiction and fact-based content. Freelance writers can pitch short stories where science or tech drives the plot and features smart, strong storytelling. This literary magazine pays up to $0.10 per word.

NOTE: AI-written content will not be accepted.

24. Audubon

Perfect for writers who want to write articles on topics related to environmental justice, birds and cultural issues. Audubon pays up to $1.50 per word for well-researched feature stories. They are looking for personal essays, reported features and fresh perspectives.

25. Discover

Discover accepts freelance pitches year-round. This magazine is looking for fresh, engaging science stories for broad audiences. Keep your pitches short, one idea per email, and include your background and writing samples. Discover pays up to $1 per word or $300 per web piece.

26. WIRED

WIRED seeks long-form features about how science, tech or innovation shapes our world. Pitches should tell a clear, compelling narrative with strong characters and a clear arc. This publication pays $2,500 for most features of about 5,000 words. Include clips and a brief bio with your pitch and make sure to send it to the appropriate editor. Shorter freelance work for science, business or gear sections is accepted but limited.

NOTE: WIRED doesn’t assign breaking news stories to freelancers.

27. Writer’s Digest

Writer’s Digest accepts article and pitch submissions focused on the writing craft, publishing business and writer inspiration. Submit full manuscripts or detailed pitches with bios and clips. Key sections include Inkwell, technique pieces, author profiles, market reports and new columns on nonfiction and kidlit writing. Pay is $0.50 per word for print. Web pieces may be unpaid.

28. The American Gardener

The American Gardener seeks article proposals focused on sustainable, regionally appropriate gardening, plant profiles, garden design, horticultural history and community impacts. Submit a detailed pitch with your topic, relevance to a national audience and key points. Include writing samples and your gardening experience. Features run 1,500–2,500 words and columns are 900–1,000. Payment ranges from $150–$700 upon publication.

29. Science

Science is accepting freelance pitches for breaking news, features, profiles and investigative stories in all areas of science and science policy. Submit tight pitches (three to four paragraphs) outlining story scope, key characters or places and why it matters. Include relevant clips if new. Pay starts at $1 per word for online stories and $1.25 per word for print stories.

NOTE: Some stories pay flat fees.

30. Herizons

Herizons accepts pitches from women, non-binary and Two-Spirit writers based in Canada. This feminist magazine pays $125–$600 CAD for features, essays and reviews on gender, culture or politics. Writers can get paid to write for magazines with strong feminist views by submitting pitches year-round.

NOTE: No simultaneous submissions.

31. Gray’s Sporting Journal

Gray’s Sporting Journal accepts complete manuscripts—no queries—on hunting, fishing or travel adventures. Writers can get paid to write for magazines with vivid stories or yarns. Pay ranges from $600–$1,250 for features, $600 for yarns and $100 for poetry.

32. Backcountry Magazine

Backcountry Magazine invites writers to pitch sharp, relevant stories with a strong backcountry hook. If you want to write for magazines that cover mountain skills, travel, profiles and mishaps then make sure to check out this magazine. Pay is typically $0.35 per word.

33. JSTOR Daily

JSTOR Daily pays writers for well-researched, engaging stories grounded in scholarly sources. Pitch ideas that use JSTOR, Reveal Digital or JSTOR Collections to explore current events, historical moments or classroom use. Submit detailed pitches via the site’s Contact the Editors form. Stories run about 2,000 words.

34. The New Yorker

The New Yorker accepts fiction, poetry, Shouts & Murmurs and cartoons. Fiction and humor pieces must be PDF attachments sent via email. Poetry and cartoons go through Submittable. Submit only unpublished work.

35. New York Times Magazine

New York Times Opinion welcomes guest essays that present strong arguments grounded in fact and personal expertise. Essays should focus on newsworthy topics or issues of public concern. They accept submissions covering current events in text, video, audio, illustration or data.

36. Bon Appétit

Bon Appétit invites pitches for food stories with strong angles, personal voice and cultural relevance. Writers should propose specific, timely ideas with sample headlines and a brief explanation of the story, angle and reporting plan. Rates start at $250 for short pieces. Include writing clips and optional social media ideas.

NOTE: Bon Appétit encourages submissions from BIPOC and LGBTQ+ writers.

37. Longreads

Longreads accepts original nonfiction pitches that sustain reader interest over long-form storytelling, typically between 2,000 and 6,000 words. They publish reported features, critical essays, personal essays (completed drafts only) and curated reading lists.

Pitches should clearly outline the story’s shape, evidence, reporting plan and relevance to Longreads’ audience. Essays require polished drafts and pay $500. Reading lists focus on timely or unique themes and pay $350. Reported features start at $0.50 per word, while critical essays start at $500, depending on length and research. Fiction is not accepted.

38. Good Housekeeping

Good Housekeeping seeks writers with fresh voices and strong ideas for long-form narratives, deeply reported service pieces and essays rooted in home, health, family and personal struggles. Stories should offer compelling points of view, personal stories behind the news or practical guides that improve readers’ everyday lives.

The tone is positive, hopeful, smart, often funny and approachable, avoiding preachiness or judgment. Topics range from timely social issues and personal experiences to home-centered stories and service guides.

39. The Paris Review

The Paris Review accepts unsolicited prose submissions in February, June and October, and poetry in January, April, July and October. All work must be in English and unpublished. They allow simultaneous submissions with notification upon acceptance elsewhere. Prose should be under 40 pages. Submit up to six poems or one prose piece per period.

40. The Rumpus

The Rumpus publishes original fiction, poetry, essays, literary humor, comics, interviews and book reviews. All work must be unpublished and submitted during open reading periods, which occur several times yearly. Writers may submit simultaneously elsewhere but must notify if accepted. Contributors earn $50 per published piece.

41. Animal Wellness Magazine

Animal Wellness, North America’s top natural pet health magazine, welcomes unsolicited articles and story outlines focused on holistic healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual. Articles should be 500–1,500 words. Familiarize yourself with the magazine before submitting, and ensure health facts come from reliable sources. Send original, unpublished work (no multiple submissions unless cleared). Include contact info and a brief bio.

42. The Horse

The Horse does not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Writers must submit a resume and samples to the managing editor before pitching article ideas. The magazine prefers how-tos, technical topics and interviews for horse owners, avoiding first-person stories unless assigned or from veterinary professionals. Articles range from 250 to 1,800 words, with payment based on length.

43. Family Business Magazine

Family Business Magazine seeks practical, insightful articles from advisers and consultants focused on family business issues in large, multigenerational companies with revenues in the tens of millions and above. They do not accept general business advice, promotional content or small business topics.

Articles (up to 1,800 words) should offer fresh perspectives on succession, governance, family policies, and leadership. Writers must conduct candid interviews with multiple family members and non-family executives. Manuscripts must be exclusive, unpublished and submitted via email as Word files (no embedded images).

44. ADDitude

ADDitude seeks blog posts from parents, adults with ADHD, educators, spouses and experts sharing unique, personal experiences and helpful strategies in 500–800 words. For webinars, contributors must hold advanced degrees, be recognized ADHD authorities, and propose relevant, non-promotional topics. Webinars reach large audiences and become on-demand podcasts. Writers should focus on fresh, practical content that supports and informs the ADHD community.

45. SELF

SELF publishes service-focused health and wellness stories, with strong reporting and practical tips readers can apply. Freelancers can pitch reported advice, personal experience with takeaways or opinion pieces backed by insight. Stories should fit core topics like health, fitness, food, beauty and relationships. No general personal essays, Q&As or diet content. Pay starts at $450.

46. Bustle

Bustle seeks timely, voice-driven pitches, essays, experiments, interviews and cultural features, covering lifestyle, wellness, fashion and entertainment. Pitches must include a headline, summary, access to sources, why it matters now and a rate.

This publication doesn’t accept listicles, how-tos or roundup-style pieces. Writers should show familiarity with Bustle’s tone and include clips. Stories should start conversations, offer fresh angles and resonate with Bustle’s millennial and Gen Z audience.

47. HuffPost

HuffPost seeks diverse voices to tell original, inclusive stories across politics, essays, culture, wellness, life, food and style. Pitches should include a headline, a two or three paragraph paragraph summary, a reporting plan, timeliness and why you’re the right writer. They welcome first-person stories, reported features and unique cultural takes.

NOTE: No PR or agent pitches.

48. Mental Floss

Mental Floss accepts short pitches for quirky, well-researched lists and reporting features in areas like history, science, pop culture, language and art. Include a possible headline, story summary, examples (for lists) or angle and sources (for features), plus a short bio and links to clips. No news stories, essays or political takes. Email only one relevant editor. Payment starts at $125–$200+, depending on story type and length.

49. Cosmopolitan

Cosmopolitan rarely accepts unsolicited pitches and typically assigns stories to regular contributors. However, new writers may still submit 1,000–1,500-word articles by email or mail and can expect a response within a month. Print features pay $200–$400, with additional payment for high-quality photos. Online submissions earn around $100.

50. BuzzFeed News

BuzzFeed News Culture Desk is open to freelance pitches. They’re looking for cultural criticism that explains trends and offers clear insights, feature stories about people, places or events with strong storytelling, and essays that have a unique voice and relevant message. Essays should be 1,500 to 2,500 words, while features run 2,500 to 4,000 words. They offer competitive pay.

Final tips on how to write for magazines

Want to write for magazines and get paid? Publications like National Geographic accept submissions and pay freelance writers $500 or more per article, with some offering $1 per word for the right story.

If you’ve only written for small publications up until now, don’t stop there—bigger opportunities open quickly with the right pitch and solid research.

Use tools like this website to find freelance writing jobs that pay professional rates, especially for well-researched features, book reviews, foreign affairs or in-depth articles.

Don’t overlook custom publications! These types of magazines also accept submissions from freelancers and can pay top dollar for articles on business, fashion trends, outdoor adventure, political and cultural issues and more. Whether writing about cultural criticism, mental health or current events, focus on story ideas that deliver new ideas and spark conversation.

To increase your chances of getting an assignment, find a few magazines in your area of interest or expertise that accept freelance pitches. Then study their submission guidelines and craft your pitch. Your email query should include a strong subject line, hook, links to similar articles you’ve written and a bio. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back.

If you want to write for magazines just remember it takes patience and persistence. With focused pitching and following submission guidelines, you will find yourself turning ideas into paid assignments in no time.

Join Freelance Writers Den

If you’re looking for a community to support you, consider Freelance Writers Den! This community offers advice on pitching (and will help you polish that National Geographic pitch!), finding magazines that pay good rates and courses on pitching. It’s a great place to find likeminded colleagues and improve your writing skills.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Many bloggers find creative ways to turn blog posts into profit and make money writing, whether it’s through running a niche site, monetizing with an ad network, developing brand partnerships or building a loyal buying audience.

Ready to earn from your blog? This guide covers smart, sustainable methods to generate income and drive blog traffic. Keep reading to explore proven ways to monetize a blog and build momentum with high-impact content.

15 proven blog monetization strategies and tactics

After starting your blog, you don’t need to hustle nonstop to make it profitable. Despite what countless blogs and videos suggest, smart blog monetization doesn’t mean working 24/7.

With the right mix of monetization tactics, your blog can start earning money within a few weeks.

The key? Choose ways to monetize a blog that fit your specific interests and help you deliver content your audience values. Here are 15 tactics to consider.

1. Add display ads for passive income

Most bloggers start here because this is the classic “make money while you sleep” method. Once your blog has steady traffic, display ads can generate income in the background with minimal effort.

Google AdSense is a popular starting point for most bloggers, but higher-traffic blogs can join networks such as Mediavine or AdThrive for better rates.

If you’re in a niche market, you might also sell ad space directly to relevant businesses. This won’t be your highest-earning method early on, but it’s low-effort and keeps adding up over time.

2. Earn by becoming an affiliate marketer

One of the easiest ways to monetize your blog when you’re just starting out is to link out to affiliates within your regular blog posts.

The concept is simple: publish articles that recommend a product or service and if someone purchases through your custom link, you earn a commission.

This strategy is powerful because it’s scalable. The more traffic your website receives to monetized blog posts, the more potential income you can earn. Thanks to tactics like affiliate marketing, you can generate passive income from content that continues attracting visitors long after it’s published.

To get started, check out existing affiliate networks:

• Amazon Associates
• ShareASale
• Impact
• Awin
• Commission Junction
• FlexOffers
• Etsy Affiliates

There is an application process and if you’re approved, then you’ll find the most success by focusing on writing content that genuinely helps readers and suggests affiliate resources as a solution to a problem they’re facing.

Think tutorials, comparisons or personal experiences that naturally include the affiliate product. These types of posts tend to convert far better than simply inserting links into unrelated topics.

If you want to go a step further, create a “Favorites” or “Recommended Tools” page that curates all your top affiliate picks in one place. Just be sure you’re only promoting tools or products you’ve actually used—authenticity leads to better trust and higher conversions.

3. Publish paid posts for brands

Publishing paid posts can be a lucrative way to earn from your blog. These typically come in the form of sponsored posts, where a company pays you to write a dedicated article featuring their product, service or tool. If you have a lot of traffic or a niche, loyal audience, brands could be willing to pay hundreds or even thousands for a single post. It all depends how you’re positioned.

To get started, showcase brands organically by using affiliate links and writing content that highlights their value. Once you’ve got some engagement data—clicks, conversions or positive reader feedback—you can approach the brand with a pitch. Be sure to share your audience demographics, blog stats and any results from your affiliate activity to build credibility.

Sometimes brands will approach you directly, especially if your blog is on their radar, but don’t be afraid to make the first move. When you pitch, make sure it’s aligned with both their goals and your audience’s interests.

4. Form strategic brand partnerships

Think of this as next-level collaboration. When you form strategic partnerships with others in your niche, you’re not just co-creating—you’re co-marketing.

Maybe you host a joint webinar, launch a course together or co-author a guide. You both benefit from being in front of the other’s audiences, which can lead to a spike in traffic, sales and email subscribers.

Brand deals don’t have to be huge to be effective. You can start by reaching out to like-minded creators or small businesses with a similar target audience.

One piece of advice: make sure your agreement outlines ownership, revenue sharing and promotion responsibilities. It’s a professional relationship so treat it like one.

5. Score long-term sponsorship deals

Once your blog is established, it can become a valuable space for long-term sponsorships. These contracts will often pay more than display ads or one-off affiliate commissions (and will be less intrusive for your readers as well).

Think of this as exclusive advertising: a company pays to be the only brand mentioned in your sidebar, newsletter, podcast, or on specific high-performing blog posts.

You don’t have to wait for brands to find you. Create a media kit with your audience stats and pitch your website as a sponsorship opportunity. Reach out directly to companies aligned with your niche and values, especially their marketing departments or partnership managers.

Some sponsors may also want to be featured in a branded content series, event or course. If you host webinars or online summits, sponsorship packages can include logo placement, product mentions or co-promotion rights.

This type of blog monetization strategy rewards creators with niche authority and a loyal readership. It works best when there’s trust, both with your readers and the brand.

6. Turn your expertise into a book

Developing digital products, such as ebooks and audio books, is one of the easiest paths to monetizing a blog.

If you’re a professional freelance writer, you already have high-quality writing skills so putting together an ebook is an obvious next step. Having products gives you a huge edge over people who stop at selling writing services.

Your blog posts, especially when written around a topic, often outline a comprehensive book outline without you realizing it.

If you aren’t sure if your blog has the right content to develop into a book, or you want some extra guidance, hiring a book writing coach can help you in this process. Book coaches guide you through shaping your ideas into something you can be proud of publishing and selling.

Here’s how to earn from a blog-based book:

• Self-publish on Amazon and drive traffic using your special Amazon affiliate link
• Sell your books directly on your website as downloadable files

Self-publishing on Amazon expands your reach to readers outside your regular blog audience. You’ll need to format your manuscript, create a standout cover, research keyword-rich categories and promote the book using search engine results or social media marketing.

In order to stand out on Amazon, you may find investing in Amazon ads for authors is the best way to promote your work on this platform. The upside? If you get your ad targeting right, you’ll grow your blog’s reach, establish credibility and build a direct line to new readers.

7. Create and sell digital products

Selling other digital creations is another excellent way to diversify your blog income.

Digital products can include:

• Ebooks or guides
• Online courses or mini-workshops
• Printable planners or worksheets
• Templates or design kits
• Webinars or recorded training

Selling directly from your website gives you full control. Checkout software such as WooCommerce, ThriveCart or SamCart allow you to accept payments and deliver digital files instantly. Best of all, cart checkout software is built to securely handle financial transactions legally and safely.

If you’re looking for more than a cart checkout, then consider options such as Gumroad, SendOwl or Shopify.

You can productize your teaching with courses or programs using tools such as Teachable, Kajabi or Podia.

You can also consider physical products if they make sense, but for simplicity and lower overhead, many bloggers start with digital offers or drop shipping.

If you’re interesting in drop shipping, then check out services such as Printful or Spocket. These websites allow you to design and list items on your website and once an order is placed, they handle production and fulfillment.

Unlike affiliate marketing, where you earn a commission for recommending a product, you receive the bulk of the revenue when you sell digital products on your site.

8. Add a Services page to your website

Once your blog showcases your expertise, offering paid services becomes a natural extension. Add a Services or a “Work With Me” page. This is your invitation for potential clients to hire you for freelance writing jobs, consulting or creative services.

List what you offer clearly, showcase testimonials or results, and include a way to get in touch. Your blog posts themselves serve as proof that you can write, engage readers and understand how to write for an online audience.

Bonus points if you’ve got strong SEO, a niche focus, and a solid social presence—it all helps clients see the value you bring.

In short: write every post like it’s a $1,000 assignment. Because it just might land you one.

9. Recruit affiliates to sell your products

If you’re already selling digital products, courses or other downloads, why not let others help you make the sale? Instead of promoting someone else’s affiliate link, flip the script: create your own affiliate program and let other bloggers or creators earn a commission by selling your products.

Platforms like ClickBank, Gumroad and Podia allow you to manage affiliates easily. We recommend offering a generous commission—40–50%—to attract motivated partners. Just be sure to enforce a no-discount rule to protect your pricing. Running an affiliate program is a fantastic way to monetize your audience indirectly, gaining reach you couldn’t have on your own.

10. Accept reader donations to support your work

While not a guaranteed income stream, accepting donations can play a meaningful role in your monetization mix, especially if your content provides deep value, shares personal stories or fills a niche underserved by traditional media.

Think of it as a reader-supported blog model, similar to what many indie journalists and creators use today.

Tools like Buy Me a Coffee, Ko-fi and PayPal donations make it simple to add this to your site. Platforms like Substack and Ghost also integrate tipping features directly into email content.

While you shouldn’t rely on donations as your main source of revenue, this can help you gauge how much your audience values your work and build goodwill that supports future product or subscription launches.

11. Offer premium content for paid subscribers

If you’re looking for a more predictable, month-to-month income, consider subscriptions and memberships. For a small fee—for example, $5 to $15 per month—your audience can access exclusive content not available anywhere else.

While affiliate links and sponsored posts generate income per sale, a subscription model creates ongoing value. You can offer members-only blog posts, downloadable resources, videos, Q&As or a private community.

Platforms like Patreon make this easy, but you can also use WordPress plugins (like WishList Member) to build your own setup. With consistent value, small recurring payments add up quickly.

12. Create a money-making email list

If you haven’t started growing your email list yet, you’re missing one of the highest-converting ways to generate income from your blog. Your list is built from individuals who trust you and want to hear more from you by email.

To get started:

• Choose a reliable email marketing service (some examples are ConvertKit, Flodesk and Mailerlite)
• Offer gated content, such as a guide, checklist or email series, in exchange for list sign-ups
• Add opt-in forms across your mobile-friendly site
• Deliver your content in a consistent, value-packed flow

Once you build your list, you unlock multiple blog monetization strategies. Promote your products, share affiliate products, or send sponsored posts. Email keeps your blog top of mind and builds a steady stream of income.

13. Send sponsored emails that pay

Once you have a healthy email list in place, you can land sponsored content deals through email alone. Brands will often pay to be featured directly in your newsletter, especially if your list is niche and engaged.

You can monetize your emails in two main ways:

• Dedicated email blasts: One brand, one email. These command higher rates and may include product tutorials or service spotlights
• Featured placements: Include two or three sponsored items in a round-up or newsletter. The payout is smaller, but it adds up across multiple deals

A tip for new bloggers and email marketers: For long-term success, only work with companies you’ve vetted. Promoting low-quality products or services can reduce trust and tank your engagement. Keep your quality content and reader trust front and center—and you’ll continue to earn money through email long after the post is published.

14. Get paid to speak about what you know

Booking paid speaking at events happens because of your blog (not on it), but it can be a powerful revenue stream all the same. Once you’ve built up content expertise and industry credibility, speaking at related events, conferences or workshops can become a natural next step. And it can pay well once you’re established.

If you’ve published a book, this can significantly boost your chances of being seen as an authority worth booking to speak. Event organizers are always looking for knowledgeable speakers who have something interesting to say.

Start by reaching out to events in your niche, offering a sample talk if possible, and highlighting your existing platform and experience.

15. Sell your blog as a digital asset

Here’s a powerful exit strategy few creators consider: sell your blog.

If your site has built up consistent traffic, engaged email subscribers and some passive income streams (ads, affiliates, digital products, etc.), it becomes a sellable asset.

Marketplaces like Flippa, Empire Flippers and Motion Invest specialize in buying and selling online businesses, including blogs. To increase your valuation, focus on building recurring revenue (like subscriptions or affiliate commissions), growing your traffic and maintaining clean site architecture.

Yes, some bloggers build with this goal in mind: launch, grow, exit. Even if you never sell, thinking this way helps you build a stronger, more valuable site from day one.

How to market your blog successfully and make money blogging

Imagine you walk into a hardware store and buy a hammer. You don’t expect it to automatically hammer nails for you, it’s a tool you need to pick up and use. Your blog works the same way.

Each blog post you publish is a tool, but it won’t generate traffic or earn money on its own. Individual posts on your own blog aren’t enough. You need to actively market your blog to build an established audience, increase your blog’s reach, and drive visitors from search engines, social media, and other channels to your site.

Once you have more traffic, you can implement a strong strategy to make money through multiple income streams, such as selling your products, placing ad space, offering exclusive content or creating sponsored posts.

However, none of this happens by accident. Marketing your blog can take your site from a hobby that doesn’t make much money to a source of income or a way to sell other services.

Creating high-quality content and quality backlinks is only the first step. Here are a few tips for driving traffic, building your own blog’s audience and maximizing profits.

Build relationships with celebrity bloggers and influencers

Networking with other bloggers and niche influencers can rapidly increase your blog’s visibility. By being active on social media platforms, you can attract new readers.

Genuine interaction—sharing their posts, commenting on their content or collaborating—helps build relationships that lead to links and shares. This boosts your visibility and helps to grow your blog’s reach organically.

Choose the right blogging platform for your blog

The platform you choose for your website influences your ability to integrate ad networks, Google AdSense or sell your own products and services. A free WordPress site offers limited flexibility for ad placements or creating content behind paywalls.

Opting for self-hosted WordPress gives you full control to customize your blog, add banner ads, implement push notifications and manage email marketing lists (even from mobile devices). Owning your blog domain also builds credibility with your target audience.

Build and engage your email subscribers

Your email list is a powerful direct line to your audience and an essential part of your monetization strategy. Offer a free guide or free information, such as a detailed product review, how-to or checklist, in exchange for an email subscription.

Use professional tools to manage subscribers and send out newsletters. Regular emails announcing new blog posts, exclusive gated content or upcoming online courses keep your community engaged and encourage them to become paying members or customers of your consulting services.

Publish a regular newsletter

If you’re also a newsletter writer, publish one consistently. A well-crafted newsletter strengthens your connection with your established audience by delivering valuable blog content directly to their inbox. Your newsletter could include highlights of recent posts, exclusive affiliate product deals and updates on your products or services.

Newsletters also allow you to promote recurring fee offerings like memberships or premium content. This steady engagement is key to building a steady stream of revenue.

Comment on and link to other blogs

Active participation in your niche through blog comments can attract attention to your blog. When you leave thoughtful comments on other blogs, you build relationships with other freelance writers and bloggers, increasing chances for collaborations or a potential product review down the road.

Linking to other sites also signals to search engines that you’re a valuable part of the blogging ecosystem, improving your search engine results.

Join blogging communities and forums

Joining writing communities (like Freelance Writers Den) or blogging forums (like Reddit blogging subreddits) or niche-specific communities helps you stay updated on best practices for monetization and SEO.

Sharing your blog content here allows you to attract targeted readers interested in your specific interests. These communities often offer opportunities for collaboration, sponsored post partnerships, and advice on how to monetize your blog more effectively and make money online.

Write guest posts on other sites

Guest post writing is a win-win. This provides valuable content to other blogs while exposing your brand to new readers. Most bloggers use guest posting as a key strategy to drive traffic back to their blogs and gain quality backlinks. Even if you’re not paid immediately, guest posts can lead to paid opportunities such as sponsored posts or consultations down the road.

Invite guest bloggers to your blog

Featuring guest writers on your blog adds fresh perspectives and attracts their audience to your site. Guest bloggers bring new readers who might subscribe to your newsletter or purchase your affiliate products, or your own products. It also allows you to focus on creating high-quality content by sharing the workload.

Create high-quality content that resonates

Creating great content or online courses tailored to your target audience’s needs and interests is the cornerstone of a successful blog. Valuable, in-depth posts solve problems, answer questions and engage readers, increasing shares and repeat visits.

Content that resonates improves your chances of being featured in search engine results, getting linked by other websites and being approved. This attracts organic traffic, essential for being approved by ad networks and other monetization strategies.

Optimize for search engines (SEO)

Use keyword research tools to find topics your audience is searching for and naturally include these keywords in your own blogs. Optimize titles, headings, meta descriptions, and images to improve rankings on search engines.

Try various SEO writing strategies because higher rankings mean more organic blog traffic, which is critical for getting paid based on ad networks, affiliate products or your offerings.

Tip: If you don’t have SEO skills, educate yourself on how to optimize your content online and explore SEO websites that can help you become better at SEO writing.

Craft strong headlines

There’s no second chance to make a first impression, so write headlines to impress. Remember that headlines that promise value or address a pain point increase clicks and shares. Strong headlines attract more visitors who may stay longer, subscribe, and help you monetize a blog by increasing overall traffic and engagement.

Leverage social media marketing

Use social media platforms to share your articles, engage with followers, and join conversations related to your niche. Paid ads can promote special offers like online courses, consulting services or exclusive content to help you make money.

Social media also drives referral traffic and helps build a loyal audience that supports your monetization efforts. Additionally, consider using social media management tools to ease your workload.

Design product landing pages that convert

If you sell products, online courses or consulting services, create dedicated advice blogs, landing pages or sales pages that communicate their benefits and features. Use testimonials, clear calls to action and pricing details to convert casual readers into paying customers. Well-designed pages help maximize profits from your blog’s reach.

Attend events and network in person when possible

Blogging conferences and niche meetups provide opportunities to connect with influencers, sponsors and fellow bloggers.

Face-to-face networking can lead to lucrative deals like sponsored posts, partnerships or advertising network collaborations. Events also offer chances to learn the latest strategies for monetizing your blog.

Say “yes” to public speaking opportunities

Speaking at industry events or on webinars builds your authority and blog’s reach. It can lead to paid work, consulting contracts and increased readership on your blog. Public speaking expands your professional network and creates new opportunities to promote your products or sell services.

Sell ad space and sponsored content

Once you have consistent blog traffic, monetize by selling ad placements or banner ads directly or through advertising networks like Google AdSense. You can also create sponsored posts with brands aligned to your niche.

These revenue streams can become a significant part of your monetization strategy, helping you build a steady stream of income.

Final tips on making money blogging

Now that you know how to monetize a blog and tap into the many blogging income streams available, it’s just as important to know what to avoid. Not every method is worth your time or will retain your audience’s trust. If your goal is to create a blog that earns long-term and builds trust with readers, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

Overloading your blog with ads

Sure, placing ads can technically help you make much money blogging. You’ll earn a little per impression or click, but it often comes at a cost. Too many ads can clutter your site, slow down load times and frustrate your visitors.

If someone clicks away from your content because a video auto-played or a pop-up blocked the screen, that’s blogging revenue lost.

Ads might be one of the oldest ways to earn money online, but for many bloggers, they’re also the least effective. Focus instead on monetization methods that keep readers engaged, not annoyed.

Selling low-quality products

Merchandise can be a smart online side hustle, especially if your brand has a loyal audience. But slapping your logo on a flimsy T-shirt just to make a quick buck? That’s a fast way to lose trust and tarnish your reputation.

Always test your products before selling them. Many drop shipping services let you order samples, so take advantage of that option. Remember, every product your reader receives is a reflection of your standards. Write great content, sell great merch—it all adds up to a trustworthy brand that can generate income.

Taking every sponsorship that comes your way

It can be tempting to accept every paid offer you get—after all, this is part of how to earn money from blogging. But pushing unrelated products just to make money can alienate your core audience. If you blog about wellness, promoting fast fashion or crypto deals won’t resonate.

The best sponsors are those aligned with your content and your readers’ interests. Stay selective. As your authority grows, better partnership opportunities will come your way, and your blogging revenue will be more sustainable in the long run.

• Focus on creating high-quality, relevant content
• Grow your audience organically to make money blogging
• Stick to blog monetization strategies that reflect your values

When you create a blog that earns trust first, the money follows naturally. Whether you’re in it for a creative outlet or a serious online side hustle, staying true to your audience is the most profitable move you can make.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Many editors, online platforms and content creators want humor-infused writing. From spec scripts to social media posts, comedy writing fits in all kinds of formats. Magazines like Reader’s Digest and sites like Cracked still publish humorous content.

A wild moment, a clever word or a new angle can spark ideas. Use writing skills to connect, entertain and deliver laughs. These gigs show up in culture, politics, family and even food.

Ready to pitch and make money writing? Comedy writing jobs pop up often—just bring your best jokes and signature style.

What is a comedy writer?

Comedians who write for a living focus on making people laugh through funny stories, dialogue or jokes. A comedy writer creates characters, scenes and moments that bring stories to life.

Some humor writers focus on sketch shows, sitcoms, talk shows or cartoons. Others write stand-up routines, social media posts or light-hearted content for magazines and websites.

Where do comedy writers work?

Most comedy writers work for television or film production companies, online platforms, theaters, newspapers or advertising teams. New York and Los Angeles often give the most chances for people in the comedy industry, but cities like Chicago and Atlanta also offer strong opportunities. Freelance writers may write spec scripts or sell story ideas to editors, producers or clients.

Humor writing can also include work for theme parks, marketing campaigns or columns that blend comedy with news reporting, culture or relationships. Some writers produce short content for social media, while others focus on long-form scripts or stage plays.

Writers with solid writing skills, a unique style and fresh content ideas can pitch gigs directly or post samples online. A blog, YouTube channel or Medium page can show potential employers or clients what kind of jokes you write and if they’re a fit for their platform. Freelancers often get hired by sharing personal experiences, using strong characters and delivering great punchlines with a clear point of view.

How do you become a comedy writer?

Pursuing comedy writing jobs blends creativity, sharp observation, and a love for making people laugh. Whether crafting jokes for social media posts, scripting characters for television or writing satirical pieces, comedy writers bring humor to various platforms.

Here’s how to become a freelance writer and make comedy writing your part-time or full-time job.

Study the concept

The best way to become a comedy writer is to immerse yourself in comedy writing. Read books like Comedy Writing Secrets by Melvin Helitzer and How to Write Funny by Scott Dikkers.

These resources teach nuances of humor, character development and comedic timing. Watching stand-up specials, sitcoms and sketch shows can also provide insight into different comedic styles.

Practice regularly

Write daily to hone your writing skills. Experiment with various formats—be it short jokes, humorous essays, spec scripts, etc. Drawing from personal experience can add authenticity to your work. Remember, practice is key to improvement.

Build a portfolio

Create a collection of your best comedic pieces to prove your expertise. This portfolio can include blog posts, scripts or social media content. Platforms like Substack or personal websites serve as great tools for showcasing your work to potential clients or employers.

Engage with the comedy community

Join local improv groups, attend open mic nights or participate in online forums dedicated to this type of writing. Networking with fellow writers and performers can provide feedback, inspiration and potential job leads.

Seek opportunities

Look for freelance comedy writing jobs on online platforms and job boards. Publishers like The Funny Times or Cracked often accept submissions from freelance writers. Tailor your pitches to match the publication’s style and audience.

Learn the industry

Comedy writers work in various settings, including television, film, theater and digital media. Roles can range from staff writers in writers’ rooms to freelance contributors for magazines or online platforms. Understanding the industry’s structure can help you identify where your skills fit best.

Be persistent

Rejections come with the territory. Use feedback to refine your work and continue submitting to different outlets. Persistence, coupled with continuous learning, increases your chances of success in the comedy writing field.

Consider joining supportive communities

For structured guidance and resources, consider joining communities like the Freelance Writers Den. This membership community offers boot camps, webinars and forums to help writers improve their craft and navigate the freelance landscape. Engaging with such communities can provide valuable insights and support.

15 Sites that post freelance comedy writing jobs

Some people think comedy writing means fewer job options. The truth is, the comedy industry keeps growing. Many writers get paid to make people laugh, and now’s a great time to carve out your place in this niche.

Want to find freelance writing jobs? Start with this list of publications that pay writers for their humor pieces.

1. Clubhouse

Clubhouse Magazine, aimed at children ages 8–12, seeks creative writers who can blend humor with Christian values. Writers can submit fiction (1,800–2,000 words) or nonfiction (400–1,000 words) that entertains and educates.

Payment ranges from $0.15–$0.25 per word, based on editing needs. They do not accept reprints or simultaneous submissions. Expect responses within 12 weeks.

Submissions should include a cover letter, word count, and genre. Seasonal content should be sent at least eight months ahead. Writers maintain non-exclusive rights, and payment is issued upon acceptance.

2. Cracked

Cracked, a leading humor site since 2007, offers paid opportunities for writers, both experienced and beginners. Writers can submit entries for “Pictofacts” or “Photoplasty” contests (up to $100) or pitch feature articles (paying $100 to $250) by emailing workshop@cracked.com.

Feature topics range from funny takes on pop culture to deep dives into bizarre theories. For experienced writers, Cracked also offers column opportunities with pay ranging from $100 to $250.

Freelancers should be skilled in writing, humor, and engaging content. Responses may take up to 12 weeks, and simultaneous submissions aren’t accepted.

3. enRoute

Air Canada enRoute is a travel magazine with a Canadian perspective, reaching over one million readers each month. It covers topics like food, design and culture, offering intelligent, humorous and insightful stories.

To pitch, provide a clear, specific idea with a unique angle, focused on first-hand experiences and a strong sense of place. Keep your pitch to one page, and submit a maximum of two per email each month.

Stories should fit the magazine’s style, with short features (200–550 words) or long features (1,200–1,700 words). Send queries to pitch@aircanadaenroute.com. No unsolicited manuscripts or PR pitches.

4. FundsforWriters

FundsforWriters accepts freelance submissions that focus on earning a living as a writer. Articles should be between 550 and 650 words and provide practical advice, real examples, and actionable tips for writers.

Avoid general or theoretical content and instead focus on how to generate writing income, such as unique market opportunities or tips on winning contests.

Submissions should be original and not AI-generated. Payment is $100 for unpublished articles and $25 for reprints older than 90 days. Include your word count, title, article, brief bio and PayPal address when submitting to hope@chopeclark.com.

5. The Funny Times

Ray Lesser and Susan Wolpert have spent over 30 years publishing laughs in The Funny Times—no ads, just pure humor. This print magazine pokes fun at politics, relationships, tech, pets, food, work, and even religion. Most stories run 500 to 700 words. Writers get $75 for each piece published.

6. Minnesota Monthly

Minnesota Monthly is focused on the life and culture of the Twin Cities, Minnesota, and the Upper Midwest. When pitching a story, it must have a strong local connection, such as a book by a local author or a product made in the state. Your pitch should outline the subject, describe your angle, and explain why the topic is timely and important. Include two or three published clips that demonstrate your writing style.

Newer writers should pitch for departments, while feature assignments typically go to experienced writers with national magazine or newspaper clips. Submit your pitch to Editor-in-Chief Alesha Taylor at ataylor@greenspring.com.

7. The New Yorker

The New Yorker offers exciting comedy writing jobs for talented writers hoping to contribute to iconic humor sections like Shouts & Murmurs and Daily Shouts. Freelance comedy writers can send original spec scripts or humorous fiction to TNY_Shouts@newyorker.com.

This publication provides a professional platform that values fresh, engaging comedy and continues a long tradition of delivering humor with sharp wit. Whether you’re based in New York or writing from anywhere else, these freelance opportunities give writers a chance to reach a global audience.

8. Mother.ly

MotherlyStories offers a unique platform for freelance writers to share their personal experiences through first-person stories of motherhood. These 700- to 900-word narratives reflect the pain points and challenges that many moms face, offering relatable insights and wisdom.

Comedy writers with a knack for humor will find opportunities to inspire with funny yet meaningful stories that help others feel less alone in their journey.

Motherly also welcomes expert contributors from a range of fields, like pediatricians, family therapists and more. Whether your story addresses jokes or serious issues, this platform connects writers with a supportive community of mothers.

9. Sasee

Sasee welcomes freelance writers interested in contributing to a women’s lifestyle magazine that covers fashion, food, travel and family life. Writers can submit essays, humor, satire and personal stories that resonate with women’s experiences, especially those related to life near Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

The magazine seeks comedy writers with the ability to craft engaging, funny, and insightful content that explores women’s lives in relatable and humorous ways. These writing jobs offer a great opportunity to reach a dedicated audience while earning competitive rates based on the assignment.

10. Saturday Evening Post

The Saturday Evening Post is looking for comedy writers to submit humor and satire to their fiction, nonfiction and cartoon categories.

Writers can submit funny essays, stories, or cartoons reflecting unique perspectives on the American scene. The magazine values fresh ideas that capture the humor in everyday life, culture and current events.

Comedy writers can submit electronically in Microsoft Word, PDF or RTF formats, and should include contact information for easy communication.

11. Reader’s Digest

Reader’s Digest offers freelance opportunities for writers with funny stories, jokes, gags and humorous quotes. Pay is $25 for a joke, gag or funny quote, and $100 for a true funny story published in the print edition.

Submissions may be used in both print and digital formats, and all selected original material becomes the property of Reader’s Digest. Writers should note that material cannot be submitted to other publications after being paid for by Reader’s Digest.

12. Entertainment Careers

This job board lists work in film, TV, music, digital media, and publishing. Roles include writing, editing and content creation for studios, production houses, and media companies.

Jobs at Entertainment Careers often come directly from industry insiders. A solid choice for writers looking to break into entertainment or build careers behind the scenes.

13. Indeed

Indeed helps freelance writers find remote and contract writing jobs across industries. Search by keyword, location or job type to discover paid gigs that match your skills. Upload a resume, set alerts and apply directly through the site. From copywriting to journalism and technical writing, thousands of listings appear daily.

Useful for writers looking for steady freelance work or long-term remote positions with trusted companies. Easy navigation and job-matching tools help speed up the application process

14. Freelancer

Freelancer offers thousands of writing projects posted by businesses around the world. The bidding system allows writers to compete for jobs, but profiles, experience, and samples help stand out. From simple blog writing to complex documentation, many options exist.

Features include milestone payments, project tracking, and client feedback. A global marketplace for committed freelance writers.

15. Upwork

Upwork connects freelancers with clients seeking writers for short or long-term projects. Create a profile, submit proposals, and land jobs that fit your skills. Jobs range from ghostwriting to technical manuals and white papers.

Clients post clear budgets and timelines. Trust builds through reviews, work history, and communication. A strong option for building a steady income over time.

Final tips on how to get a comedy writing job

You’ve seen where to send comedy writing, but money doesn’t only come from pitching humor pieces. Many writers build careers through less traditional paths.

More ways to get paid for comedy writing

• Write clever ad copy for brands with funny voices
• Start a comedy blog to showcase your humor
• Script sketches for theater groups or online creators
• Help stand-up comedians craft fresh material
• Write scripts for podcasts, YouTube videos, or games
• Create punchy content for greeting card companies
• Ghostwrite memoirs or social posts for public figures
• Each path lets you explore different styles and boost your income.

A few tips to keep momentum

• Pitch smarter: choose places that match your tone
• Build a network of writers, performers, and editors
• Track every pitch, follow up, and stay organized
• Keep a folder of ideas, funny thoughts, or headlines
• Keep writing—even when responses feel slow

Freelance comedy writing takes time, grit, and a lot of ideas. If comedy fuels your writing, keep going. Freelance Writers Den helps many writers stay focused, improve pitches, and find new opportunities. With steady effort, strong samples, and good timing, laughs lead to paychecks and new doors open.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

From affiliate marketing and sponsored posts to selling digital products and offering consulting services, today’s bloggers use multiple income streams to earn money online.

Choosing a profitable blog niche, knowing the target audience, and creating consistent content all help drive traffic and boost income.

Whether running one blog or multiple blogs, building a money-making blog starts with smart monetization strategies and the right blogging platform.

Ready to make money blogging? Keep reading to learn how successful bloggers make it happen.

Is it realistic to expect to make money blogging?

Great news, expecting to make money writing an online blog is realistic, especially when you’re focusing on a profitable niche and using proven monetization methods.

Many bloggers monetize their website by utilizing a variety of income streams such as affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, advertising and selling digital products or online courses.

Success depends on driving more traffic with quality online content and building a strong relationship with your target audience.

But maybe you don’t want to run your own blog. You can still make money blogging! For example, if you charge around $300 per blog post, writing just 15–17 posts a month could bring in $5K monthly.

While not every blog brings in a full-time income, consistent effort, smart use of ad networks and leveraging multiple income streams can lead to sustainable earnings and even a successful blogging business.

21 ways to make money blogging

Blogging is an excellent way to earn money online, especially for freelance writers looking to diversify their income. From using the right blogging platform to building a website that attracts readers, every step plays a role.

Want to learn how to make money writing and become a well-paid freelance blogger? These proven strategies help turn online content into steady income

1. Share your blogging wins with prospects

Clients want results, not empty words. The best way in? Build a track record of blog content that performs—track blog stats, create portfolio samples and build relationships.

Do you have a blog post with more than 1,000 shares or 100 comments? Build a link archive or portfolio to showcase these wins. These case study examples prove that your blogging skills drive engagement, nurture readers, and are deserving of higher rates.

No big stats yet? Guest post on popular sites or blogs in your niche to build credibility. Many bloggers get discovered this way, especially when blog posts go viral across blog networks or social media. Successful bloggers lead with proof, not promises.

2. Get retainer blog clients

Reliable blogging income starts with smart client agreements. Good blogging clients value consistency and know results take time.

Here’s a suggestion: Propose a 90-day deal—12 posts minimum—with built-in renewal options. Blog retainers keep monthly freelance income steady and reduce pressure to chase smaller assignments.

These retainer arrangements often evolve into long-term freelance blogging jobs, helping you focus on quality over quantity.

3. Find better-paying clients

Not every blogging assignment is equal. Some clients pay $50 for basic SEO content while others invest $300+ per post and want longform, in-depth coverage. This vast difference defines whether writing blog articles for clients is your main thing or your side thing.

If you’re looking to write blogs for clients, skip the mass job boards. Find companies with live but underused blogs. These often signal a need for quality writers. Focus on blog websites run by organizations with $10M–$100M in sales. Many already use multiple blogs, have growing traffic and a budget for freelance writers.

4. Write longer, detailed posts

Finding the right clients that pay more often means shifting focus away from quick turnaround projects and investing in a client that will assign you regular longform pieces.

Businesses want writers who understand their core subject matter as well as page rank, keyword research, multimedia add-ons and blogging best practices. In other words, they need someone who is a subject matter expert and a high-quality SEO writer.

Explore niche-specific blog networks and industry blog rankings to find companies publishing evergreen, high-traffic articles. These sites often pay $300–$600 per post, with freelance blogging jobs growing fast in sectors like SaaS, healthcare or legal tech.

5. Stick to a niche

Sticking to one subject on your blog is a win-win-win.

• You become known as an expert in that topic, which gives potential clients confidence that you’re the best fit for their project
• Search engines understand what your site is about and index your articles for others to discover
• Your readers view you as an authority on that topic and think of you as their go-to

Bloggers working in niche industries often boost their freelance writing income fast, leveraging their specialized expertise and commanding more per assignment as a result.

6. Write sponsored posts

Many bloggers wait for their posts to go viral to monetize through ad networks, but if you’re looking for a quick cash-injection, then you may want to consider sponsored posts.

As soon as you launch your blog, you likely started receiving pitches from marketing agencies looking to place content on your website with do-follow links. Many of these pitches won’t be a good fit, but you never know. There are also networks you can join that bring brands and bloggers together to work on sponsored posts or create affiliate relationships.

Quick blogging tip: Remember to write for your readers first so you don’t alienate your audience with promo for companies or products that don’t make sense.

7. Work with content agencies

There are content agencies that bridge the gap between freelance bloggers and businesses needing expert-level posts. Unlike content mills, agencies vet writers, offer flat fees (often $300–$500 per post) and manage the clients and workflows.

These agencies value writers who understand what makes a good blog post—think shareable content, compelling quotes and clear structure. Blog writing is often outsourced by companies, and these agencies end up handling everything from strategy and monetization to editing and posting, so there may be additional ways you can earn money in addition to writing the post itself.

8. Increase your client load

Blogging for one site often opens doors to more, similar work. Many agencies manage multiple sites or client blogs across niches, including education, finance, wellness and more. Once you’ve developed a good relationship with the agency, ask about other content projects or connected clients that could use your skillset.

Great freelancers don’t just stick with one type of writing or client. They tend to grow within their existing networks. Use every job to gain visibility, referrals and future writing assignments.

9. Offer additional services

Once you’re in a good flow with your blog posts, suggest add-on services as appropriate. Clients love freelancers who offer a range of services. Think about your skills and what your client would appreciate outsourcing to you. This could be editing, internal linking, creating downloads, writing case studies, etc. This strategy allows you to increase your base blogging income fast!

Professional freelance writers who pitch full-stack content support often add $1,000+ per client each month. Offer to repurpose blog posts into newsletters, LinkedIn articles or scripts for videos and podcasts. Content writing is just the beginning. Show your clients you understand the bigger picture and turn your contract into something bigger.

Quick blogging tip: don’t forget about content formats like videos, podcasts or infographics—these are great ways to boost traffic and engagement.

10. Turn blog posts into videos or podcasts

Repurposing your blog post into YouTube videos or podcasts is a smart way to earn money and get more traffic. Successful blog owners use multiple content formats to reach wider audiences and boost organic traffic. Launch a YouTube channel, discuss your own products and plug-in affiliate links to make money blogging.

Many bloggers expand their online business this way, especially in profitable blog niches. Podcast sponsorships and brand sponsorships provide another income stream.

If your blogging voice resonates, this strategy brings in more readers, higher search results and money online all from the same source content.

11. Conduct blog audits

If a blog is struggling to pick up traction, identifying what’s not working can feel like a mystery. That’s where blog audits come in. Offer to review strategy, SEO, voice, monetization tactics, etc. Your audit should highlight areas in need of improvement, such as headlines, calls-to-action, formatting, indexing and more.

Position your blog audit as a premium service (starting around $200–$500) that gives website owners a roadmap they can follow to increase traffic, boost engagement and earn more. Include screenshots, traffic insights and a clear list of next steps.

Quick tip: Combine audits with a follow-up content plan or coaching session to increase revenue.

12. Teach blogging

Want to earn consistent money online? Package your knowledge into workshops or online courses that teach others how to blog professionally.

Cover everything from writing posts and content marketing to pitching editors and managing client workflows. You can host live classes or create evergreen courses using platforms like Teachable or Podia.

Quick Blogging Tip: Promote your course in writer forums or share on social media along with your blogging success stories to build trust. Teaching helps you build authority and generate passive income over time.

13. Host online events

Hosting online events is a great way to make money blogging while letting your personality shine. Many successful bloggers use webinars, Q&As or live workshops to connect with their target audience and offer consulting services or digital products.

Promote through email marketing and your blog website to drive traffic. This blogging business model gives you more control over your online content.

Use affiliate links or Amazon affiliate link during the event for bonus income. When most bloggers diversify income streams, their blog depends less on ad networks or a single monetization method.

14. Sell blog templates

If you have web design or graphic design skills, why not add an income stream by selling blog post templates? Think outlines for how-tos, listicles, product roundups or long-form expert interviews.

Bloggers (especially beginners) will pay for shortcuts that make creating content faster and easier. Sell them on your website or through marketplaces like Etsy or Gumroad. Include bonuses like headline formulas or SEO checklists to increase the perceived value.

15. Let others use your content

Do you have draft blog posts collecting digital dust? Repurpose this existing content by licensing it to non-competing websites or newsletters.

Content licensing allows others to reuse your writing legally while also allowing you to get paid for articles you’ve already written. If the article has been published in the past, you can offer reprint rights for a flat fee, or pitch syndication deals to content-hungry platforms.

You can bundle several related posts (for example, “small business SEO tips”) and pitch them as a ready-made content series to companies in that niche. This could generate recurring income with zero extra work.

16. Start a paid group

Building a community can boost your income. Launch a private group (on Facebook, Discord, Slack, etc.) focused on blogging success in your area and charge a monthly or annual fee for access to your expertise, your resources and general networking opportunities.

Add tiered pricing or bonus content to increase earnings. A group with 50 members at $20 per month will earn $1,000 monthly while also positioning you as a leader in your niche.

17. Send a paid newsletter

A paid newsletter can transform your blog into a money-making business without ever joining an ad network. Offer exclusive content that your target audience can’t access anywhere else. This monetization strategy works especially well for niche profitability. Think mental health, geek culture or food bloggers.

For additional income, include affiliate marketing recommendations and sell digital products directly. Many bloggers and newsletter writers who started out blogging now earn a full-time income through a paid newsletter.

18. Aim to earn $5K a month from blogging

Here’s a math equation to use if your goal is to make $5,000 per month from blogging.

Start with four posts for one client at $300 each—this equals $1,200.

Multiply this by four clients, and you’ve hit your goal.

Not every niche will pay these rates, but freelance bloggers working in B2B, SaaS or financial services are often able to reach these numbers without searching too hard for good clients.

Top blog writing services often pay more too. Focus on longform content, strong conversions and strategic content planning. Build authority, get repeat clients and watch that blogging income climb…without writing 60 posts a month.

19. Make a niche resource list

Creating a curated niche resource list is one of the most overlooked monetization methods to start making money.

Whether your blog focuses on mental health, food or lifestyle, a helpful list with affiliate links can start displaying ads and earn passive income. This is how many profitable blogs convert organic traffic into money.

Promote your list across multiple blogs or in a guest post. Be sure to include your own money-making blog links and a few physical products too. This can be a smart business model that helps more bloggers and earns more money.

20. Run giveaways with sponsors

Hosting a sponsored giveaway could help bring traffic and build engagement on your blog. This is a monetization strategy that works even on a new site.

Giveaways help you drive traffic, improve search results and attract affiliate partnerships. Use your giveaway page to create content that showcases affiliate links, ad space and your blogging services. Most websites can do this with little setup, and it’s a great way to start building a profitable blog from day one.

Partner with brands to offer physical products, sell digital products as add-ons and increase more readers and email marketing signups.

21. Start a blog and monetize it

Starting your own blog isn’t just a passion project. It can become a consistent source of income if you approach it strategically.

Whether your goal is to write personal essays for money, land magazine writing assignments or build a personal brand, your blog can become your portfolio, your business card and an additional income stream all in one.

How to start a blog

Choose a niche with money potential

Decide on a topic you can write about often, one with a clear path to monetization. For example, some blog niches that perform well at the academic level include:

• Writing tips for students
• Personal essay inspiration
• Productivity and time management for writers
• Freelance income strategies

Your focus area should align with your knowledge, skills and interests while also appealing to others.

Build a professional blog

There are so many blogging platforms out there, you can be up and running almost right away thanks to platforms like WordPress, ShowIt, Wix or SquareSpace.

After you install your theme, make sure to create:

• A solid About page
• A portfolio or Services page
• At least five helpful blog posts before launching

Write each post like it’s a sample for a prospective client. Your blog should reflect the quality of the final draft you’d submit to a client or editor.

Monetize in multiple ways

Once your blog is live and has some traffic, you can monetize it in different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Sell digital products: writing templates, editorial calendars, or guides
• Offer services: editing, coaching, academic writing help, or ghostwriting
• Use affiliate links: recommend writing tools, books, or courses
• Promote paid platforms: if you’re in a writing program, you can recommend it through affiliate links and earn while helping others

Many bloggers also pick up writing assignments as a result of their blog, especially from clients who need help crafting content at a professional level.

Learn and grow faster

Need help building traffic, creating a content plan, or understanding SEO? Freelance Writers Den is packed with resources on how to get paid to write, not just for clients but through your own site as well.

Den members get access to:

• Live group training calls
• Marketing checklists
• Writing resources
• A private forum for feedback, accountability and idea-sharing

If you’re serious about turning your blog into a money-maker, don’t go it alone. Join a community that understands both freelance writing and blog monetization, and can help you build both at the same time.

5 tools to streamline your freelance blogging business

Behind the scenes of every successful freelance writer, there are tools that make their business more effective and time-efficient. Tools for finding leads, keeping their writer website running smoothly and tracking queries, expenses and payments.

1. The Writer’s Market—This remains the essential and most complete guide to where to get published. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of the Writer’s Market
2. Time Machine—To retrieve from the ashes that one, key file you accidentally deleted, there’s Time Machine for Mac computers. It is awesome and free. You set up a backup external hard drive, and then Time Machine periodically backs everything up. Realize you killed something important a week ago? Enter the Time Machine, and flip back through the daily pages  until you find the day when the file was still on your hard drive. Copy it back to your current hard drive, and presto!
3. Freshbooks—Can you find out instantly who your biggest client is? Know what your profit margin was this month? Know whose payment is overdue? Freshbooks is a user-friendly bookkeeping and invoicing service and has good support
4. e-junkie—Creating your own digital products is a great way to add another income stream to your freelance business. When you do, you need a shopping cart like e-junkie
5. WordPress—New bloggers often ask if it’s cool to keep using Blogger, Movable Type, TypePad, Drupal, Yola or whatever else they’re blogging on. Honestly? Many of those platforms are outdated, look amateurish or compel you to use a goofy template. WordPress is by far the dominant platform being used in business. Companies want to know you already understand this platform and using it for your own blog gives you an edge in getting hired. Your blog (with paid hosting) shows prospects you have experience with WordPress and know its features

Ready to make money blogging?

Earning a living through blogging is a realistic and achievable goal with the right strategies and mindset. From sharing your blogging wins and finding better-paying clients to sticking to a niche and writing detailed, high-value posts, each step builds toward sustainable freelance income.

Securing monthly blog deals and growing your client work ensures steady paychecks while offering additional services and working with content agencies can significantly boost earnings.

Don’t overlook the power of diversifying your income streams, conducting blog audits, teaching blogging skills, selling blog templates and even creating paid groups can open new doors. And of course, starting your own blog and monetizing it provides a valuable platform to showcase your writing, attract clients and generate passive income.

Successful blogging takes consistent effort, but reaching milestones like $1,000 or $5,000 per month is within reach, especially as you refine your craft and build your portfolio. For writers looking to accelerate growth, join communities like Freelance Writers Den where access to expert training and peer support can help transform your one-off writing assignments into a profitable freelance career.

With focus, patience and strategic action, making money blogging can become a rewarding addition to your freelance business.

FAQs

Can you make $1,000 a month with a blog?

Yes, many bloggers earn $1,000 or more monthly by combining smart strategies like affiliate marketing, blog writing services, selling digital products and recurring freelance blogging gigs. One of the fastest ways to reach this income is by writing blog posts for clients.

Whether you’re writing SEO blog content or helping businesses with content marketing, it’s doable and faster with the right tools and network.

Do beginner bloggers make money?

Beginner bloggers can make money, especially when they focus on freelance blogging instead of just trying to monetize their blog right away. Writing paid blog posts for clients is one of the most accessible ways to start earning while learning.

You don’t need a huge audience, just solid writing skills and a professional pitch. Inside Freelance Writers Den, beginners find pitch reviews, rate guides and community support that help them land their first (and better) paying clients. You’ll also learn how to avoid content mills and build a portfolio that attracts higher-paying work.

How long does it take to make $500 per month blogging?

With the right strategy, you could hit $500 per month in three months through freelance blog writing alone, especially if you’re charging $200+ per post. Trying to earn that from ads or affiliate links on a new blog will take longer, sometimes a year or more.

The fastest path? Start pitching blog clients directly and use job boards that cater to serious freelancers.

Which blog pays the most?

It’s not usually the blog itself, it’s the clients behind it. Corporate blogs in finance, B2B tech or healthcare often pay the most, sometimes $500–$800 per post, because they have larger marketing budgets and need high-quality content that drives leads.

A strong presence on a visible blogging platform gives freelancers more control and makes pitching easier. Create content that proves value: embed an Amazon affiliate link, drive affiliate partnerships or showcase organic traffic boosts.

Even without big-name bylines, consistent value builds authority. Clients seeking freelance blogging support often browse blog content before hiring, looking for personality, structure and results. Blogging depends on visibility, so create content worth sharing and position it where paying clients look.

With clients in non-competing industries like small business finance or healthcare tech, one writer can reuse core ideas, experts and supporting links across multiple posts. Tailor each piece with a fresh angle but save time by recycling structure and research.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Whether you’re pitching articles to travel magazines or blogging from New York or Washington, travel writer jobs exist for every experience level.

Many editors of travel blogs accept pitches based on past journeys—no need to go live on location. From freelance assignments to full-time contracts, there are travel writing jobs for everything from exploring local culture to teaching travel history.

Ready to join the world of travel writing? Let’s talk next steps.

How much do travel writers get paid?

Pay for travel writing jobs depends on the outlet, topic and experience. Small blogs might offer $50–$200 per post, while print magazines, such as National Geographic or Lonely Planet, pay $0.50 to $1+ per word for feature articles.

Freelance writer rates also vary by assignment type. Writing web content, guidebooks or travel copy for clients can bring steady money, especially with an ongoing contract. New writers may start small, but quality stories, strong research and consistent performance help build trust (and additional assignments) with editors.

Some sites pay per article, others after completing multiple pieces. Remote work, volunteer writing and niche blogs help build a solid travel portfolio.

With time, feedback and networking, writers gain access to better-paying freelance writing jobs and exciting travel writer opportunities around the world.

How do you become a travel writer?

Becoming a travel writer doesn’t require a degree or years of experience, but it does take strong writing, curiosity and commitment. Many start by creating travel blogs or short articles about their hometown, weekend trips or unique cultural experiences. Those early stories help build a portfolio, teach what editors look for, and prepare you for working with paying clients later on.

Looking for a place to sharpen your skills and connect with others? Freelance Writers Den is a paid membership site packed with writing courses, expert interviews, pitch examples and a private forum where you can ask questions, get feedback and grow your freelance writing career. Whether you’re exploring this path or looking to become a full-time freelancer, this community helps you earn more from your writing.

Are travel writers in demand?

Travel writers remain in demand as the world reopens and readers crave fresh stories about destinations, cultures and journeys. With the rise of digital platforms, blogs and websites, editors constantly seek talented freelance writers who can deliver quality articles, engaging travel tips and unique perspectives.

Travel writing jobs include everything from creating content for travel writing magazines to writing web copy for travel brands. Demand also grows for writers who can combine storytelling with research and interviews, helping clients reach readers hungry for authentic travel experiences.

Building a strong portfolio and networking with editors boosts chances of landing paid gigs in this competitive but exciting career.

20+ travel writer jobs

Looking to join the world of travel writing? Below, you’ll find travel writer jobs offering paid opportunities for freelance writers at all levels.

These sites and publications accept pitches, assign stories, and provide chances to build a strong portfolio. Whether writing blogs, travel articles or web content, this list covers a variety of contracts and remote gigs to help you start or grow your career.

Dive in, explore new destinations through your writing, and take the next steps toward turning your passion into a fulfilling freelance career.

1. Backpacker

Backpacker offers freelance writing jobs focused on hiking, backpacking, and outdoor travel across North America. This print and digital magazine accepts pitches—no full articles. Writers get a real shot here, nearly half of the stories come from freelancers. Pay can hit $0.50 per word. Pitch short, strong stories with a clear takeaway. Editors look for passion, good research and voice. Want to grow your portfolio or writing career? This could be your next step.

2. Backroads USA

Backroads USA offers travel writer jobs for those into motorcycle touring and road trip adventures. This monthly mag wants freelance writing focused on hidden gems—quirky diners, odd attractions, cool destinations. Writers must send strong articles plus high-quality photos. Pay starts at $75. If your passion involves remote roads, local stories and exploring offbeat stuff, this opportunity might fit. Great for building your portfolio and reaching readers who love life on two wheels.

3. My Itchy Travel Feet

My Itchy Travel Feet welcomes original travel stories crafted for active Baby Boomers. Submissions must stay engaging and insightful, and reach at least 1,200 words with headings and helpful reference links. Provide high-quality photos with proper attribution. The payment gets negotiated and sent via PayPal upon publication. Timely delivery and professionalism remain essential.

4. Escapees Magazine

Escapees focuses on RV travel and lifestyle, making it perfect for freelance writers who love exploring the open road. They prefer well-researched, how-to and personal stories with photos. While member content gets the first look, the Escapees Magazine welcomes nonmember pitches. Pay ranges from $25 to $200 per story, plus assignment expenses sometimes covered. Writers with a passion for RV life, plain writing and good research will find this a great chance to build a portfolio and connect with readers who love adventure.

5. International Living

Want to write essays or personal stories about your life abroad? International Living pays for fresh content on retiring overseas, healthcare, cost of living and hidden gems around the world. They welcome submissions from content creators, freelance writers and expats with strong writing skills. Ideal for professional writers or those seeking freelance writing jobs with global appeal. If you can offer practical advice and inspiring stories, this is your chance to write for money on a well-known platform that values real experience. Payment varies per piece and includes pay for accepted photos.

6. Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet offers incredible freelance opportunities for professional writers, skilled writers and content creators with strong writing skills. Although currently closed to new pitches, it’s worth preparing for future openings. They look for well-written pieces with fresh content, from personal essays to researched features. Ideal for those seeking freelance writing jobs with a global audience, including social media posts and long-form travel writing. Topics include identity, nature, sustainability and cultural events. Rates range from $275 to $400+, depending on word count and expertise. A great fit if you’re passionate about storytelling and writing for top platforms.

7. Oregon Coast Magazine

Want to write essays or first-person adventures that capture the Pacific Northwest’s charm? Oregon Coast Magazine offers freelance writing jobs for skilled writers passionate about nature, history and community. They seek well-written, research-based stories with vivid details and a strong narrative voice. Typical topics include scenic drives, outdoor experiences, and notable coastal residents. Articles range from 450 to 3,000 words and pay $100 to $650. Payment depends on quality and length. They also accept photos—ideal for content creators with a visual eye. A great fit for those who want to write essays that inform and inspire.

8. Porthole Magazine

Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine offers freelance comedy writing jobs, travel writing jobs and opportunities for content creators who can bring fresh content to cruise-focused stories. They’re looking for professional writers with sharp writing skills and a unique angle—think quirky onboard experiences, offbeat shore excursions, or train journeys tied to cruise ports. Avoid clichés and generic cruise reviews. Instead, write essays that include quotes, vivid detail and unusual anecdotes. Submissions must be cruise-passenger accessible. Payment is upon publication. A great platform for social media posts, blog-style storytelling or anyone looking to write essays with personality.

9. Rova

ROVA Magazine is a great place to write essays for money if you’re into RV adventures, scenic drives and offbeat U.S. destinations. They want personal, well-written papers with heart—think first-person essays or photo essays that spotlight life on the road. They’re especially interested in stories that feel authentic and grounded, so AI-generated content is a no-go. If accepted, you’ll earn $200 per piece and get published in a glossy, well-loved travel magazine. Ideal for skilled writers with a passion for storytelling and a love of the open road.

10. RVTravel

Are you a skilled writer with a passion for RV living, travel tips, or camping hacks? RV Life Network invites contributors to submit short articles, essays, tips, poems and press releases. If your piece is accepted, you could land a spot as a regular paid contributor or columnist. Articles can be up to 700 words, and you can include photos as well. Whether you’re offering road-tested advice or heartfelt stories from the road, this platform is a great option if you’re looking to write essays for money and connect with a wide RVing audience.

11. Transitions Abroad

Transitions Abroad welcomes travel writers eager to share inspiring travel articles and freelance travel writing jobs. Submit articles up to 2,000 words on cultural immersion, volunteering abroad or gap year adventures. We seek engaging stories that offer practical travel advice and fresh content for our global audience. All submissions should be original and tailored for our online platform. Whether you’re a seasoned travel writer or exploring freelance travel writing jobs, Transitions Abroad offers a great opportunity to grow your writing skills and connect with like-minded content creators.

12. Wanderlust

Wanderlust, a UK-based website and print publication, seeks travel writers and content creators to submit fresh content focused on unique, intriguing destinations worldwide. Ideal for freelance comedy writing jobs or travel writing assignments, topics include destination features, trip planner guides, travel advice plus short “pocket guide” and “dispatch” pieces. Payment averages around $0.25 per word. Writers with strong writing skills and a passion for storytelling can connect with a professional writer community and gain exposure on top online platforms, reaching engaged audiences.

13. Matador Network

Matador Network looks for unique stories with strong angles that haven’t been widely covered. Pitches must offer clear reasons for covering a destination, event or topic, focusing on travel, culture or outdoor experiences relevant to their audience. Stories should include practical tips to help readers engage with the subject. Avoid broad topics, promotional content or profiles. Submissions based on personal experience, niche communities or fresh cultural insights work well. Photo essays and family travel stories do not fit current needs. Wait until after trips to pitch destination-based stories. Transparency about press trips or affiliations is required.

14. Sustainable Travel International

Sustainable Travel International seeks experienced freelance writers to produce educational, high-quality blog content focused on sustainability, climate action, environmental science and tourism management. Writers craft articles of 1,000+ words based on provided briefs, emphasizing accuracy, engaging storytelling and SEO best practices. Compensation is per piece. Consistent contributors may earn regular assignments. This opportunity suits professional writers passionate about sustainable tourism, environmental impact, and responsible travel.

15. GoNOMAD

GoNOMAD invites professional travel writers, photographers, and researchers to submit unique, well-researched feature articles about cultural and natural destinations. Preferred topics include destination guides, local culture, museums, hotels and transport stories. Writers should provide detailed, accurate content with photos and captions, adhering to GoNOMAD’s style—short paragraphs, subheads and practical travel details. Articles typically run 1,700–2,200 words. Compensation and rights cover the first worldwide electronic rights with four-year archiving.

16. Canadian Geographic Magazine

Canadian Geographic seeks skilled freelance writers with strong writing skills and original ideas for feature stories, essays and travel content. Pitch proposals should reflect deep research, current topics, and alignment with editorial priorities. Writers must understand audience needs and magazine architecture to deliver quality pitches. Only written queries sent via email will be considered. Patience is essential due to limited publication slots and editorial timelines. Successful pitches contribute fresh perspectives, enhancing Canadian Geographic’s reputation as a professional writer’s platform.

17. WestJet Magazine

WestJet invites content creators and professional writers to submit original work for use on their online platforms. By sharing your content, you grant WestJet a non-exclusive, perpetual license to use, modify and publish your work worldwide. Submissions must be truthful and original, reflecting strong writing skills. WestJet retains all rights to materials and requires indemnity against claims.

18. Go World Travel Magazine

Go World Travel seeks passionate travel writers and content creators with strong writing skills to submit vivid, first-person stories exploring unique destinations and local culture. Articles (850–1,600 words) should offer fresh content and professional insight. Submit your pitch with photos to submissions@goworldtravel.com for freelance travel writing jobs and online publication.

19. In The Know Traveler

In The Know Traveler seeks first-person travel stories, photos, and videos (500–2,500 words) focused on culture, sustainable tourism, unique destinations and practical travel tips. Submit polished content to editor@intheknowtraveler.com. Contributors gain exposure, writing experience and credibility.

20. Hidden Compass

Hidden Compass invites passionate travel writers, photographers and content creators to submit original stories blending travel, culture, history and discovery. We seek vivid, well-researched narratives with strong storytelling and unique perspectives. Collaborate with us through editing, fact-checking and promotion. Share your true journeys, photo essays or artwork to inspire readers. Submit pitches or work to submissions@hiddencompass.net and join a community that values authentic, cinematic travel content.

21. Cruising World

Cruising World invites travel writers and photographers to share stories about sailing adventures and cruising life. Articles should be 1,500 to 2,500 words and include real travel experiences. Writers must send high-quality photos showing cruising scenes and beautiful places. Each submission needs boat details and a short author bio. Payment happens after publication, with All World Rights licensing. Stories should inspire and excite cruising fans with fresh content and honest travel tips. You can send your work anytime by email or file-sharing services.

22. HitTheRoad

HitTheRoad welcomes travel writers, photographers and videographers passionate about road trips across Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada. Stories should highlight adventures with rented campervans or motorhomes, focusing on the road journey itself. Contributors submit original drafts of up to 1,500 words with clear spelling, grammar and accurate facts. Photos or videos aren’t required inside drafts, but must be linked via personal accounts with usage rights confirmed. Accepted submissions earn $50 (USD) paid via PayPal after publication, plus a personal profile link. Due to volume, responses may take time and publication can’t be guaranteed.

23. World Nomads

World Nomads seeks experienced, professional travel writers to contribute fresh content with wellness tips, travel hacks and practical advice for smarter, safer and better-prepared travelers. Writers should provide first-hand expertise, incorporate humor and promote responsible travel. Payment averages AUD 0.70 per word for 800–1,200 words. Although not accepting pitches currently, writers should watch TravMedia for calls on online platforms to submit freelance comedy writing jobs and other travel-related articles.

Bonus: DesertUSA

DesertUSA offers a great platform for freelance writers passionate about desert travel, nature, history and lore. It’s perfect for writers who love exploring unique destinations and sharing personal stories. They accept travel articles, wildlife pieces, cultural history and adventure stories with photos. Sadly, no pay is offered, but your writing reaches 250,000 monthly web readers. It’s a solid step for building your portfolio, testing ideas, and joining a network of writers focused on desert life.

Start your travel writing career today!

If you’re ready to launch your career as a travel writer, dive right in with this list as your starting point. While competition for top travel magazines can be tough, pitching to lesser-known publications or online platforms gives you a better shot at success.

Sharpen your writing skills by starting with shorter articles, and always follow submission guidelines closely. Content creators, including comedy writers and professional writers, know that fresh content and clear pitches open doors. Freelance comedy writing jobs and social media posts show how versatile writing can be.

Study each client, research thoroughly, and keep submitting pitches. Persistence helps turn freelance writing jobs into a rewarding travel writing career.

FAQs

How much do travel writers make?

Pay varies widely in travel writing jobs. Freelance writers might earn anywhere from $50 per article for blogs to $1 per word for major magazines. Building a strong portfolio, focusing on quality, and networking with editors increases the chances of higher-paying gigs. Some writers supplement their income through contracts, web content and travel copywriting assignments.

Can you make money from travel writing?

Yes! Travel writing offers plenty of freelance writing jobs that pay for stories, tips and destination guides. Writers can get paid for articles, blogs, web content and contracts. Consistent quality, pitching the right editors and building a diverse portfolio help turn travel writing into a rewarding career.

Do travel writers get free trips?

Sometimes. Established travel writers may receive free trips from tourism boards or brands in exchange for stories, but most start with paid assignments that don’t include travel perks. Gaining trust through strong writing and completing quality assignments increases the chances of scoring sponsored trips or paid travel opportunities.

How do I start as a travel writer?

Begin by creating travel stories, blogs, or articles about local destinations to build your portfolio. Pitch ideas to editors, focusing on unique angles and strong research, and wait for them to respond before proceeding. Joining communities like Freelance Writers Den provides courses, pitch guidance and feedback to improve writing and connect with clients.

What degree do you need to be a travel writer?

No specific degree is required to become a travel writer. Strong writing skills, curiosity and dedication matter most. Many successful travel writers come from diverse educational backgrounds. Building a portfolio, networking with editors and completing freelance writing jobs lead to opportunities in this field.

How do I become a travel writer with no experience?

Start by writing for blogs or volunteering to create travel content. Build a portfolio by completing assignments and exploring different writing styles. Joining Freelance Writers Den can help with courses, feedback, and connecting to clients, accelerating the path from beginner to paid travel writer.

Is travel writing in demand?

Yes, travel writing remains in demand across magazines, websites and blogs. Editors seek writers with fresh ideas, quality stories, and a unique style. Freelance writing jobs related to travel, destinations and cultural experiences keep growing, offering chances to build a fulfilling career with remote and contract assignments.

Do travel writers make good money?

Travel writers can make good money, especially after building a strong portfolio and network. Combining articles, blogs, interviews and web content for clients increases income. Quality and consistency matter most. Some writers reach full-time careers with paid contracts, while others enjoy freelance writing jobs on the side.

Christin Nielsen is a freelance writer based in Virginia. She specializes in writing for digital and print publications as well as nonprofit organizations.

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.