Starting out in paid writing and figuring out how to land writing contracts might seem tough especially as the industry seems like every other writer already has a ‘connection.’ The reality is you don’t have to know someone before you succeed as a writer. What matters shows up clearly: purpose, planning, steady effort.
This guide shows clear steps to get your first writing job – maybe even more – with real help along the way, especially when beginning fresh. Whether you want to write for blogs, companies, magazines, or brands, each path opens with one solid move after another.
ALSO READ: How to Finish Reading a Creative Work
Decide Your Writing Style Before Approaching Anyone
A common error? New writers aiming to do too much all at once.
Pick what you write about before chasing any contract work.
Ask yourself:
Do I enjoy blog writing, storytelling, copywriting, or technical writing?
Do I want to write for brands, individuals, publications, or startups?
Do I prefer long-form content or short persuasive copy?
Examples of writing niches:
SEO blog writer
Creative storyteller / fiction writer
Content writer for brands
Email newsletter writer
Scriptwriter or ghostwriter
Build a basic writing portfolio even if you’re starting out
It takes just three or four solid examples to land a deal. Not fifty tries. What matters is proof you bring results. A few wins speak louder than endless attempts.
If you’re new:
Write sample blog posts on Medium or your own blog
Create mock pieces for imaginary brands
Repurpose high-quality social media threads into articles
Your portfolio should include:
A short bio (who you are + what you write)
Writing samples
Contact information
A simple Google Doc or Notion page works perfectly at the beginning.
Understand Fundamental Concepts in Search Engine Optimization and Planning for Online Content
Most writing contracts today are SEO-driven.
When it comes to job opportunities, knowing SEO helps people see your worth faster. It opens doors without extra effort because skills speak clearly on their own.
It’s not about knowing everything. Still, a bit of awareness helps out. What matters is getting the idea without stress. Just grasp what’s going on around you on:
Keywords and search intent
Headings
Internal and external linking
Writing for humans and search engines
Folks that write well while knowing how search engines work tend to land better pay and steady gigs.
Find Hidden Contract Opportunities
Finding deals means showing up where buyers spend their time. Not waiting around for papers to land on your desk.
Best places to find writing contracts:
Look up LinkedIn, type in “content writer needed” to find listings
Twitter/X writing communities
Job Boards like ProBlogger, Indeed, Upwork, and Fiverr
Brand websites (check “Careers” or “Write for Us” pages)
Cold emailing blogs and startups
Write a pitch people actually read
A strong pitch is short, personalized, and value-focused.
Avoid generic messages like:
“Hi, I’m a writer looking for opportunities.”
Instead, try:
- Introduce yourself briefly
- Mention why you’re reaching out specifically to them
- Explain how your writing helps their goals
- Link to relevant samples
Example pitch opening:
“Hi [Name], I enjoyed your recent article on [topic]. I’m a content writer who helps brands increase organic traffic through SEO-optimized blog posts…”
Personalization wins contracts.
Pricing Your Work Confidently
Writers often charge too little because they’re afraid.
Your rate depends on:
Experience
Niche
Project scope
Value provided
Common pricing models:
Each word might cost between five cents and thirty cents
Per article
Monthly retainer
Project-based contracts
Should someone value what you do, their regard for your pricing follows naturally. A fair eye on effort brings alignment with cost. When appreciation exists, numbers stop feeling sharp. Respect travels from craft to charge without push. What matters in labor echoes in worth.
Always Use a Contract Even for Small Gigs
Never rely on verbal agreements.
A writing contract protects:
Your payment
Deadlines
Ownership rights
Scope of work
A simple contract should include:
Payment terms
Revisions policy
Delivery timelines
Usage rights
Deliver Quality Work and Share Updates Early
Staying on board matters just as much as getting hired. Success grows when clients stick around.
To stand out:
Meet deadlines
Ask clarifying questions
Be open to feedback
Communicate clearly
A happy customer returns next time – then tells a friend. What matters most? They come back, also bring others along.
Turn one contract into many opportunities
After completing a project:
Ask for a testimonial
Request referrals
Pitch ongoing work
Offer additional services (editing, SEO updates, content strategy)
This is how writers move from “freelancer” to in-demand professional.
Build visibility while doing contract work
Finding work often begins when others see what you write out in the open. Public sharing pulls opportunity without force.
Try a single thing. Pick anything. Give it a go once
Blog regularly
Post thoughts on social platforms
Build an email newsletter
Publish personal essays or stories
Visibility builds trust.
Trust attracts contracts.
Final Thoughts
Landing writing contracts isn’t about talent alone. It’s about:
Positioning
Consistency
Strategic outreach
Clear writing pulls people in. When thoughts come out clean, trust builds fast. Problems get fixed easier with sharp sentences. Pay follows those who shape language well.
Some writers found their start through a single deal. One agreement opened doors for many who write now.
Far off might not be the next one after all.
