Why some freelancers always get hired

Build these 7 skills for consistent work

Author

Diana Kelly Levey
August 27, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

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I’ve coached over 50 freelance writing students on a one-on-one basis, and addressed hundreds through my courses, webinars, podcasts, and speaking opportunities. I’ve also chatted up hundreds in person and online through social media, answering questions and addressing their questions around“why can’t I find work?”

These are some of the most important traits thriving full-time freelance writers have that indicate they can make it for the long haul, through recessions, economic uncertainty, political upheaval, natural disasters, and AI tools.

IMO, there are some of the most important habits (and traits) of successful freelance writers.

Don’t have ‘em? Start working on a few each week.

1. They write often.
Success isn’t about being born a great writer (Lord knows I don’t think I am). It’s about practicing often, improving fast, writing even when it’s hard because, well, it’s your job.

2. They sell without sounding salesy.
Successful freelancers talk about what they do in a way that feels helpful, not pushy. They aren’t afraid to market themselves. Build a freelance writer portfolio, network online and offline, and get WAY more comfortable showcasing your expertise.

3. They keep it together.
From pitch tracking to invoice reminders, successful freelancers use systems to avoid chaos. Their business runs like a business.

4. They’re sponges.
They soak up new topics, tools, and trends. Whether it’s AI, a new niche, or SEO updates, even if they don’t like it (GAH, another algorithm update?) they stay curious and sharp.

5. They protect their time.
They don’t multitask their mornings into oblivion. They know when to write, when to rest, and when to shut down distractions. They do this to maintain focus without burnout.

6. They’re nice (and reliable).
Freelancers who continuously get hired are well, enjoyable to work with. Clients rave about them not just for great work, but for fast replies, meeting deadlines, and being a breeze to work with.

7. They keep going.
When rejections hit, edits come back and make them feel like crap, or life gets messy, they show up anyway. They’re determined, scrappy and they aren’t afraid to put themselves out there again and again and again.

What would you add to this? Reply and I’ll add some to a future LinkedIn post and tag you if you’re over there.

Diana

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What I’m Reading / Listening to / Doing / Publishing

Freelance / Content / Media Jobs I Found

This roundup includes freelance writing jobs, media jobs, FT jobs, creative jobs, and content writing jobs for creatives I found. Good luck!

  • Copywriter for Wren Kitchens in CT, FT role from $83-103k/year with benefits

  • Marketing manager for Storyful Hybrid NY, $100-$125K/year

  • Healthcare writer for Essen in Da Bronx 😁, NY, up to $100k/year with benefits

  • Freelance video editor $400/day (40 hrs a week up to 3 months) for FLO

  • Content marketing manager for Clerri in Pennsylvania, $87K/year with benefits

  • Content strategist for Wealth Enhancement $95K-152K (FULLY REMOTE!)

Let’s Work Together!

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