DANG! Forgot the blog URL

Now linked: 10+ freelance writers' websites we love

Author

Diana Kelly Levey
December 05, 2024

Hi again!

ICYMI yesterday, it wasn’t you, it was me. I was so focused on making sure I found some freelance jobs for you all that I didn’t include the correct links for the Top Freelance Writers’ Websites. (Thanks for the catch, Dan!)

Sorry about that! Here’s the original copy and the links below.

“Do I need a freelance writer website?” It’s one of the top three questions I get from beginner freelance writers.

In a word, yes. But you don’t have to spend a lot right away. And you don’t have to launch your site before you send your first pitch.

Why?

So you can showcase your work, curate the content you want potential clients to read, showcase photos you like, and share some information about yourself.

But, when you do decide to publish your freelancer website, make sure it has these five elements in order to make sure researchers are getting the information they seek about you:

What should a freelance writer’s website include?

Freelance writers’ websites are as variable as their owners, but there are a few key elements that should always be included as you’ll see in the following freelance writer’s website examples:

A home page

The best writer websites keep it friendly and welcoming, yet professional, and brief. Your website home page isn’t always the spot where searchers first land, but it needs to do the heavy lifting in terms of who are you and what you offer. Home pages can also highlight a handful of professional accomplishments. At the very minimum, it should say who you are (your name, not just your business name), what you offer, and a sprinkling of your experience.

About page

A compelling ‘About’ page or a freelance writer's ‘About Me’ page can set you apart from the competition. Here’s the spot to share your story, highlight relevant career history, and mention of what makes you unique. Including a ‘fun fact’ or two about yourself can reveal something of your personality, piquing a potential client’s interest. Just don’t overdo it, suggests copywriter and content strategist Tom Valcanis. “(Some writers) infuse too much of their own personality into their own website, like it’s a personal blog,” he explains. “Having a little is fine, but the website should be customer-focused.”

Services page

Spell out what you do and for whom. Whether it’s freelance journalism, content writing, content marketing, ghostwriting, blogging, or proofreading, clients need to know that you can handle the type of freelance job they have in mind. Be specific about what you bring to projects, and what clients might expect from working with you.

A common mistake among writers is not providing enough information about their services and their process says copywriter Caitlin Wright. “I try to imagine people who come to me don’t really understand what a copywriter can do so I try to educate them on my website,” she says.

A portfolio page

Why do you need a freelance writer portfolio? It’s one of the core components if not the keystone to a freelance writers website that gets clients. A portfolio lets readers ‘try before they buy.’ It should feature a curated collection of your very best work. Daniel Gorlovetsky, founder and CEO of Israel’s TLVTech says a portfolio page is “super important” for writers. “It’s your personal showcase where you can show off your best work and let potential clients see what you’re all about,” he says. “Think of it like a fun resume that really highlights your writing style and skills.”

Contact details

Is there anything more frustrating than trying to find a contact email address or form on a website and jumping through hoops to get to it? Make it easy for potential clients to reach you, by including a contact form, email address, and social media links.

 Failing to include contact details is a common mistake, especially for new writers, says freelance writer and editor Chuck Sambuchino. When writing a ‘Breaking In’ column for Writer’s Digest, he frequently had to switch to Plan B when the writer he wanted to feature couldn’t be reached. And it’s not enough to include just the publicist’s details. “You should include your own information — just in case it’s an urgent matter,” he writes.

Discover the design components that should be incorporated into your website and more tips in the blog linked below. 👇

THESE are our favorite freelance writer websites to browse for inspiration

Thanks for reading!

Diana

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

P.P.S. An editor friend wants freelancers and editors to share their thoughts on the “current state of the industry.” Fill out the form if you want to help her.

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What I’m reading: The Women by Kristin Hannah, The Holiday Honeymoon Switch by Julia McCay and I’m still reading investing books.

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New article I wrote for a B2B client: How to Build Strong Client Relationships (Squarespace)

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