Freelance writing is a lucrative career.
Since businesses discovered that content marketing is the best alternative to traditional marketing methods, tech companies have gone ahead to develop useful freelance writing tools that have increased productivity.
An efficient worker must have great tools. Let’s see what you can use as a freelance writer. But first…
Why should I use freelance writing tools while I can just start writing?
Simple answer: Productivity.
My first rule in the industry is to be productive. Being productive doesn’t come easily; you must use several tools to reach there.
Freelance writing tools will help you to consistently craft high-quality content and allow you to entirely keep your focus on important matters at a given time.
Which one would you prefer?
Running to social media daily to promote your services or scheduling a series of posts across various social media platforms weekly or monthly?
Spending hours on the internet to get your next blog post title or being able to do it within minutes using the right tools?
Searching endlessly on the internet for the email addresses of prospects you want to target or getting them within the click of a button when you use some resources? –Jeff Bullas
Of course, the simple and quickest way works best for me. I’d instead use an email collection form to collect emails for my newsletter instead of asking them to send their details to me, and later start organizing them in MS Excel.
Let us embrace technology. We are blessed to have smart devices and software at our disposal. Technology has reduced the struggles of becoming a freelance writer.
So if you are looking forward to success in the industry, here are the 12 freelance writing tools you must have before your writing career.
If you need to make it freelancing, it begins here. As they say, you cannot go hunting without arrows.
This brings us to our client hunting tool:
1. Computer Access and Internet Connection
If you don’t have these two things, then you may terribly fail. If someone ever told you that a smartphone would do, forget it.
To become an expert freelance writer, there are just some things you cannot do on the phone.
I will keep it simple and clear:
Invest in computer access and internet connection before you dive in.
2. Premium Freelance Writing Course
This sounds funny, right?
You are now asking yourself if a writing course is a tool. If you asked me, I would tell you this in capital letters:
YES IT IS!
Not many will let this cat out of the bug.
Here’s proof:
Take, for instance, you want to start your freelance writing career, and you know nothing about writing. Then somebody accidentally drops an ebook titled How to Become a Competent Freelance Writer in 2020 in your mailbox. Will you read it or not?
Reading will get you one step ahead of that guy who didn’t get a copy, especially if it has valuable tips.
What do I mean?
Enrolling in a premium/full freelance writing course will do the trick. It is the best tool you will ever have because it will be your guide as you progress. You will get access to top-notch tips that you won’t easily find on the internet.
Even though there are freelancers who have made a good amount of money from researching, asking on social media or taking free mini-courses, don’t over-rely on them because you will miss out on a lot.
The good thing about premium courses is that they can take you from zero to profit within a short time. You may make way more money than what you used to buy the course.
3. Project Management Tool
Well, I came to learn about project management tools after missing deadlines for two projects. It was way too late because one client ended the project, and I had to rebuild my trust with the other one from scratch.
You genuinely don’t want to find yourself in such a crappy situation.
You realize that you are on your way to becoming a full-time writer, right? If you want to manage your time well and never miss a date, I recommend using Basecamp.
Why?
It is easy to use – user-friendly and makes it pretty easy to meet deadlines.
The tool will take off the overwhelm of having to work blindly, not knowing how much time you have spent on a particular project.
4. Budget Balancing and Management Tool
Now you are like, “Whoa slow down, James. A budget management tool and I have not even started earning? What for?”
Here is the reason.
I have a personal motto, which states that “I can afford anything through freelance writing.” That is my driving force.
You are your own boss, your own accountant (unless you make enough to hire an accountant). It might be tough to handle some accounting calculations, but thanks to the technology that we have a free tool called Wave.
Don’t tell me that getting rich is not why you chose freelance writing.
Oooh, hold on, I get it; it might be because of that cruel supervisor who was always at your workstation to observe your work behavior.
Whatever the case, the best way to keep money is to manage it properly. A tool like Wave Apps will help you do that.
Wave is a web-based integrated accounting application that is designed for small businesses and freelancers as well.
Here are some of the features that Wave provides:
- Accounting
- Invoicing
- Billing
- Payment tracking
- Finance management
- Receipts.
This tool is just what you need to keep track of your cash flow — freelance writing revenue.
You can also read about the things that can make you have zero financial progress as a freelance writer just to make sure that you don’t make any mistakes in the industry.
5. Communication Tools
It is time to face reality.
I am not trying to scare you, but you are going to dive deep into a massive pool of clients.
For you to stay on top of your finances, you will need clients from all sources — job boards, pitching, and freelancing sites. Most sites have a messaging area where all communications are carried out.
But what about job boards that don’t? How about direct clients? How will you manage your conversations and make sure that you stay consistent and easy to reach?
The success of a freelance writing career depends on being consistent and easy to contact. As a freelance writer, you will be working remotely. You’ll have clients in different countries, timezones, and continents.
Having a reliable mode of communication is essential to gain the respect that you deserve from clients.
Use Contactually, which is a more robust CRM tool that will help you stay in touch with your clients.
I would also recommend going the extra mile and set up Messenger, Zoom, and Skype accounts, which other clients prefer.
6. Notes Taking App
When I heard about this tool, I was like, what for? I can buy a shorthand notebook and jot down my thoughts.
I was wrong.
It was on a Boxing day when I went to the beach in Malindi. A content idea came up, but I didn’t have that notebook. I said to myself that I would remember when I get home, and so I continued having fun.
Guess what happened?
I faced it rough, I was caught up in several activities, and the topic was gone by the time I wanted to note it down.
That’s when I remembered Evernote.
I now use it to take notes, brainstorm ideas, and outline client projects. Sometimes, I use it to write drafts for my blog posts. There’s so much you can do with this powerful notes app.
I use it anytime and anywhere, using my mobile phone.
Install Evernote on your computer and phone and you’ll always have your notes with you.
Editor’s note: There are raving reviews out there about Milanote as well. It works great for people who prefer visual apps.
Freelance writing tools you’ll need during writing
I am glad you are still following. We’re almost there.
The six tools mentioned above are the tools you’ll need before sending any job application. Once everything is set, focus on the tools below.
7. Content Writing and Storage Software
Get it: A content writing and storage software. If you don’t set this up today, be sure of facing it rough during power surges and blackouts if you’re using a desktop. Or a laptop with a poor battery.
Don’t be the kind of people that will be sending messages like “I am sorry I couldn’t submit your article on time, there was a blackout at my place, and I had to start it all over again. Please give me an extension.“
The client will be disappointed in you.
Instead of using the MS Word software, use Google Drive, a free online storage system.
It is one of the top freelance writing tools you will encounter because it allows you to use Google Docs to create content. The best thing about it is that it automatically saves your documents immediately as you type.
It also allows you to submit your work as links, which make it easier for clients to navigate to rather than having to download a Microsoft Word document.
Google Docs provides for easy editing in case the client asks for revisions. The same link will be used rather than having to send another attachment.
If there was a blackout, you would be better placed if you sent a message like:
“Hello [Client Name],
I was supposed to submit the article today, but there was a blackout! Here is a link to the article so that you can see my progress [Article Link].
Please give me two more hours to wrap it up.
Thank you!“
The client might consider you.
8. Grammar Checking Tools
It takes time to read through lengthy posts, just like this one, to get rid of typos, spelling mistakes, grammar, and punctuation mistakes.
After spending three to four hours researching and writing, you will be exhausted. I use Grammarly to do housekeeping on my posts.
You will need it, too. You can use the free version to get you started. Install it on MS Word so that you can edit using both MS Word’s spelling and grammar checker and Grammarly’s superior editing insights.
9. Readability Score Checking Tool
Clients will need articles that are easy to read.
Paragraphs and sentences that are complex and too wordy may spoil your content. You should convey your message effectively. Simplicity cuts through everything.
If you’re just starting or you need to polish on your writing in general, Hemingway App is the ideal friend you should journey with.
It will tell you the gibberish words to omit, making your article more concise and easy to understand.
10. Image Creation Tool
We all know how boring a post without graphics can be.
Also, it will not be fun to have an image that has been used or which can be used by someone else in your article.
By this, I mean that you should avoid stock images, and if you must use them, then tweak the images using Canva or PicMonkey to come up with a unique image.
You can use stock images from Unsplash, Pexels, Death to the Stock Photo, and Pixabay but carefully pick the right images for each post.
11. Plagiarism Checker
Most search engines like Google discourage copied or duplicate content, and since Google does, clients will also reject it – even if they are rewrites.
What’s worse? Your client will fire you if you send them plagiarized work.
All the information you need is on the web, why then should you write new content?
It is simple; we write new content based on existing ones to improve or add additional information. We try to add a different and unique angle.
Copyscape will check your work for plagiarism. However, it is a paid service. If you don’t have a budget for that, use free tools like DupliChecker or SmallSEOTools as alternatives to Copyscape.
The ultimate tip here, though, is that you shouldn’t plagiarize. If you learn how not to, then you may not need tools for this.
Use these tools as a beginner but learn how to research, learn and write in your own words without an ounce of plagiarism.
I have all the above in place what next?
Great, now the real hunting begins. Having the above 11 tools is great progress. Some tools are our arrows, and some are traps.
There are many places we can go hunting. As I said earlier, you will need a couple of platforms for you to stay on top of your finances.
I refer to them as the Client Hunting Arenas. They are tools as well because without them, then both you and the client who mutually need each other would not meet.
Think of them as bridges. Here we go.
12. Client Hunting Arenas
Finding work or landing freelance writing jobs is the most crucial thing in freelancing.
I have eight client hunting arenas I use to find work
Don’t neglect LinkedIn. Head over there and list your services. The power of LinkedIn cannot be ignored!
Wrap Up
I believe that this article has shed light where there was darkness. Hopefully, you will reach a stage where you will just sit and count your blessings. This will only happen if you start using all of the above freelance writing tools.
However, until that time, keep grinding and don’t over-rely on freelance writing alone. While you will be writing for clients, use your skills to also have a blog that will supplement your freelance writing revenue. If you are wondering how. Here is a guide on how to make money blogging.
What tools are you currently using in your freelance writing career? Which one here are you getting started with right away? Let us know in the comments!
Thank you so much James. Nice write up!
Very informative. Thanks Walter
hey man, after visiting your site am motivated to take a step of investing in this self…..am impressed with your site…i will sign up for training. am a mathematician by profession but hope this works for me. all i have is the will to try.
This is indeed an eyeopener. As a newbie, I have learnt alot and will definitely apply the tools. Thank you James and Walter.
Wow! I’ve learnt a lot from your article,i only knew about grammarly. Thanks.
Nice work there guys. Keep the fire burning. It was a great writeup.
A very informative article ,i have a lot of interest in writing learning a lot.
Hi Caroline,
Thanks for your comment.
Learning never stops. Keep on adding up to your skills and you will have a success story to tell.
I would like to have skills on the writing industry
Thanks Walter. This is very helpful.
Best
Very informative, thank you Walter.
Hello Walter and James,
This is such an informative article. I am a newbie and I will immediately apply what I have learnt here. That was quite a learning lesson.
Is it the way you write your articles or what? They all seem very informative and interesting to read. I always long to read an article from you Walter.
I really have to put a lot of time and effort in my new endevour. I am telling myself that, there is no Plan B this year for me, Freelancing has to be the plan A only and achieve the goal.
Thank you for this article, James and Walter.
Regards,
Maryann
Thanks Maryann! Yes, James did great here! I appreciate your kind words about my content as well. Keep taking action with what you learn!
Hi Maryann,
I am glad the article reached you and that you loved its content.
Keep grinding and don’t lose hope.
You can also find more informative articles like the one you just read on my blog https://affordany.com/blog/.
Share the article with your friends and help me create awareness among writers.
Am really encouraged ! Guess am gonna give it a trial, thou l would prefer the medical field having done a Diploma ,Higher Diploma and Degree in Nursing
Hello Eugine,
The health niche is among the most profitable niches you’ll find. Just implement whats in this prose and things will go your way.
Wow….I learnt a lot….thenks so much Walter….is your training still available?
Hi Mary,
We are glad that the post was helpful.
The complete writing training is still available. You are welcomed to join.
James did a great job indeed with the post.
Yes, my training is still available. Full details here https://freelancerkenya.com/article-writing-and-blogging-training/
Thank you for the engaging and informative message. You have shared really great information. I’m sure to use them.
You’re welcome 🙂 Patrick
Thank you very much Mr. Walter Akolo. I just realized that you are a very helpful and selfless person and I see God’s blessings raining on you. Your name seems to be on any writer or freelancers around. It’s like you’ve become a basic tool recommended for anyone involved in online writing. That’s great. That’s a piece of blessing from God. Every piece I get from you is always informative. I’m a newbie in this field and I’m out here trying whatever I can, so that I can enroll myself for the article writing course. I’m very much hopeful that I’ll be able to join you soon. God bless you.
Thanks Jeff!
The article was actually an amazing post from James Abuti as shown in the author’s name and bio above.
It’s not an individual’s effort. It takes a whole community to raise successful people.
God takes all the glory.
God bless you amazingly!
Thanks Walter. As always ready to help. I am grateful for the tips.
God bless.
Esther.
Wonderful and insightful information.
I am glad the post was of help ? Susan
Hi James,
Thanks for such an informative piece. Grammarly has been really helpful in my freelancing career. As for the “client hunting arenas”, as you call them, I am currently using Upwork but I think I will widen my net a little bit and try out some of the ones you’ve listed.
Hi Charity,
Grammarly is indeed helpful.
It is great news to hear that you are going to widen your net. I am sure if we not only rely on one freelancing site, we will increase our revenue. ?
This is great. As an upcoming writer, I am learning something new every day. I will be sure to check out these tools.
Thank you for sharing this information.
You are welcome Kevin.
I find ProWritingAid quite helpful in grammar checking as well as and style editing. It has helped me eliminate errors, optimize word choice and edit my grammar and punctuation faster. Combines many functions in one tool!
Hello Zachary,
Thanks for the additional tool ProWritingAid. This is another great tool an alternative to Grammarly. Its power cannot be underestimated as well. Thank you.
This is great. Thanks a lot and currently am looking for some work, am kinda new to the field.
A well thought out article and definitely with a lot to learn from. Thanks a lot brother for this.
You are most welcomed Mathews please feel free to share the post with your friends.
This is just wonderful , what more can i say !
Just a lot of thanks Walter
I agree James did an amazing job on the post!
Wow! This is a goldmine of information for beginners and seasoned writers. Very clear and straight to the point. May God bless you Walter!
Thanks Geoffrey!
The post was written by James Abuti as shown in the author’s name above.
I agree he did a wonderful job.
Make sure you take action with what you’ve learned.
God bless you, too!
Very informative, taking action immidiately
Thanks so much.
Your advice on people not to ignore LinkedIn is timely.
I have never landed any job using All the other platforms except LinkedIn late last month.
The payment was very good.
Thanks.
Hi Waragu,
At one point I was ignoring LinkedIn but after I read some success stories that’s when I started being active in it,
So far so good since I started hunting for clients in this platform.
Keep on grinding.
Thank you Walter for sharing this informative article.
For me, I find it quite disturbing after using a premium Grammarly that results to 99%, only to be told that your work had grammar error. Is Hemingway better in this case?
Lucy,
I found out that Grammarly never awards a 100% score when you work with it. I believe that the 1% is left for the author to polish on some other issues and that is where Hemingway comes in because it gives you different options like readability grades and complexity of phrases.
If you combine the two and set your preferences well depending on the audience in question, then great results will be achieved.
hello.
thank you so much. this is important information. I will most definitely use the list of places to get jobs.
Hi Isabell,
Use those hunting arenas to hunt for clients and I am sure that your client conversion rate will increase. I will update the list when I find other great sites.
Very informative, thank you. I needed such kind of infor,perfect timing.k
You are welcomed Kandaria. Help me create awareness among upcoming writers by sharing this with your network.
Dear Walter and Team,
Thank you for sharing this information. It is very helpful and encouraging.
Keep it up! Team and all the best.
Hi Angela,
We are humbled, and we will keep up with the same zeal
Hi,
Highly appreciate the advice you guys keep dishing out. Is there any chance you might have pointers on academic writing.
Hello Walter. This is very helpful. Thank you
Very informative Walter as always. Thank you.
Hi Walter,
Very powerful and informative post, as usual. Thanks a lot for guiding beginners like us.
Hi Victor,
It is for sure informative. There are some things newbies don’t have knowledge about and they just struggle in the dark. It is our pleasure to show them the way to success.
How about sharing this with your friends.
Hi Walter
I have to leave a comment and i think you were expecting it… Anyway thanks so much for the time spend empowering upcoming writers. This information i needed., This writing is not just writing it comes along with many skills. My question is how do i install grammarly in Ms-word?
Just what i learned from Jeff Goins. What do writers do? Answer: they write. AM writing and hunting for jobs!
Many Thanks
Anne
Hello Anne,
Thanks for your comment and I am humbled that you got the information that you’ve been longing for.
Please follow this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWfkLumMuR8) link to a YouTube video that will take you through all the steps you need to install and use Grammarly with MS Word editor.
Keep on hunting for jobs and I believe you will reach your goals.
Please keep me posted if the video was of help too.
Thank you so much for the information. God bless you
Hi Sharon,
You are welcomed any time. I am happy this got to you on time.
Walter, I always say you are selfless. Information is power. Thank you so much for it.
Hi Rebeccah,
Indeed information is power, and It’s all about freelance writing awareness.
Feel free to share this info with your circle. You never know, you might help a soul.
This is such a list James. Thanks for sharing
When it comes to content writing, I am a stickler of Microsoft word. While Google docs is great collaborative tool, I don’t like the fact that it does introduce undesired formating on copying to WordPress.
I am currently testing Storychiefs for content writing but I think with time, I will start drafting article directly in the block editor, especially now that it uses Ajax capability to save content without reloading the page
In managing tasks, I use free Microsoft To do app. This tool is great. I also have Google Tasks, as it allows me to easily create a new task from an email.. so if I receive a guest post request, I can easily create a new task by sending it to Google Tasks. Both of these tools work well with Google calendar, so I only have to set due date and enable notifications when the due date is approaching
I had not started using Upwork yet, yes am still new in the freelancing world. After I graduated last year December, I decided to give it a go. Three proposals so far but am hopeful. I am sure there’s a lot to learn on this space.
Thanks again for this comprehensive tool
Hello Mysson,
I am glad this post reached you.
It is true that when you compy text from Google Docs to WordPress editor it tends to tamper with the formatting. I hope they fix this soon. However, it is helpful when you are creating samples that you don’t want to publish. It allows one to share the sample link to a client rather than sending an MS Word Document samples. Clients will easily navigate to the article instead of having to download it as it is the case with Word Documents.
Its good that you are using Microsoft To-Do App an alternative to Basecamp
Also, welcome to UpWork. Make good use of it to earn some bucks when it is still a goldmine.