10 Key traits of successful freelance writers

Do you have 'em?

Author

Diana Kelly Levey
January 15, 2025

In partnership with GetResponse

Person typing on laptop

READY TO WIN 2025?

Check out GetResponse’s FREE side hustler's starter kit.

The kit includes a 100+ items checklist, free online courses, a free Canva template, and a list of top AI tools you can use to launch your business in 2025.

I've been doing this job for nearly two decades and I still experience bouts of 'imposter syndrome.'

My “success” goal posts keep changing—from more money, to a higher hourly rate, to less time working—depending on the life stage I’m in.

Each freelancer’s version of “success” should be unique to them.

That being said, I think there are certain traits thriving full-time freelance writers have that indicators they can make it for the long haul, through recessions, natural disasters, and AI tools.

Here are some qualities that many successful freelancers have. Adopt them so you can stand out amongst the competition and secure high-paying clients.

10 Important traits of successful freelance writers

1. They’re good writers.
You don’t need to start as a great writer. Writing improves with practice and feedback. Keep honing your craft, learn what resonates with your audience, and never stop writing.

2. They’re strong marketers.
Marketing yourself isn’t boasting—it’s sharing the value you bring. Build a portfolio, network online and offline, and get comfortable showcasing your expertise. It gets easier over time!

3. They’re organized.
Successful freelancers have systems for everything: tracking deadlines, managing invoices, and staying on top of pitches. Use tools like Trello or Notion to keep projects running smoothly.

4. They’re lifelong learners.
Every project is an opportunity to learn. Dive into topics with curiosity and a desire to discover something new. Building expertise across niches makes you more valuable to clients.

5. They manage time like pros.
Freelancers who master time management can take on more projects and earn more. Prioritize tasks, set timers, and cut distractions during work hours (yes, that means social media).

6. They’re easy to work with.
No one wants to hire a freelancer who’s a “PITA” (pain in the @ss.)Beyond skill, clients love freelancers who meet deadlines, communicate clearly, and deliver great work consistently. Be the go-to writer they can’t stop recommending.

7. They’re determined.
Freelancing isn’t always easy. Sick kids? School closed due to lightening striking it? (Just my kids?!) Deadlines piling up? It happens. Push through the tough days—work mornings, nights and weekends when you have to—show up for your clients, and keep building your business.

8. They embrace feedback.
Rejections and critiques come with the territory, but they’re not personal. (Repeat that again or write it on a sticky note to post on your computer screen.) Learn from them, improve, and move on. Your next big win could be one pitch away.

9. They stay adaptable.
Freelancers know the market can shift—trends change (Google makes a change and you lose business!), industries evolve, and client needs vary. Be flexible and willing to pivot your services or learn new skills to stay relevant.

10. They invest in themselves.
Whether it’s upgrading tools, taking a writing course, or attending a networking event, successful freelancers see personal growth as a smart business decision. Your career is worth the investment.

Thanks for reading!

Diana

P.S. Missed last week’s newsletter or a recent post? Check them out here.

P.P.S. Keep scrolling for jobs.

Liking What You Read?

I try to add value to every reader with each newsletter I send. If you don’t click on a link at all, no biggie. Hopefully, you learned something by opening this newsletter and reading it.

Three of the best ways to show your support?

 📢 A testimonial: Feel free to reply to me here about what you like about the newsletter, how long you’ve been reading, etc., and if I can use your name if I share it. (FREE!)

Share this newsletter with a friend: Hit forward and send to a few people in your network you think would benefit from the content. Encourage them to subscribe.👇

You could also share this link to subscribe on your social media channels and tag me.

Feeling extra generous? You can buy me a coffee over at Buy Me a Coffee. ☕️ (Think of it as a monetary tip.💰) It helps cover newsletter costs, website maintenance, the time it takes me to write these each week, and paying awesome freelancers who write for the blog.

Every little bit means the world—thank you! 💖

📧Receive this email from a friend?

(Thanks, friend!)

Subscribe to the weekly freelance writing tips email here. You’ll get a freelance “pitching tips” PDF resource as a thank you for subscribing.

What’s Happening in My Business

  • I’m going to be judging some content categories for the Azbees (The American Society of Business Publication Editors ASBPE) awards. Check out the organization and previous award winners.

  • I’m working on improving my websites’ SEO and trying to improve the older content on both sites. If you’re new to me, I have a ton of freelance writing content I wrote on DianaKelly.com and fresh content on freelancer topics written by a number of freelance professionals on BestFreelanceTips.com

  • I’m reading this Nieman Lab article about how Beehiiv is trying to lure journalists with perks.

  • I’m considering adding a conference to my calendar this year. Are there any that you love and recommend? (Reply back, I’d love to hear from you.)

  • ICYMI freelance writer Denise Cullen worked on an article about how to get started freelance travel writing. I think you’ll love it!

Freelance Jobs, Contract Jobs, or Remote Jobs I Found

(These were active and available within a few days of this newsletter going out. I have no connection with them.)