Freelance Writing in the Philippines | Top 6 Things You Shouldn’t Be Afraid To Do

by Kristine

Just as I finished my internship in Europe, I went back to the Philippines with the hope of finding a job that best suits my preferences. Living 30 kms away from the city means higher fares, higher gas expenses and even toll expenses.

However, I still applied for jobs in companies. I thought of giving freelance writing a try while I wait for them to reply to my applications and queries. But of course, freelance writing jobs in the Philippines aren’t exactly that much as compared to the US. The freelance writing industry in the country is just starting to boom. Likewise, finding one may seem to be hard.

A quick search led me to Essays.ph. (See the previous blog post)

2 months into freelance writing and I could say that I’ve grown and learned so much. I have now various freelance writing gigs both in the Philippines, and even outside the Philippines. And yes – I am earning as much as most office workers do; without the hassles of transportation, of dressing up everyday, and of different salary deductions.

Although I admit, my hardest enemy is my bed and my online games…but then, that’s another story called Self-Control.

For those of you who want to start working at home through freelance writing in the Philippines, always keep these things in mind.

Do not be afraid to trust people, especially in the freelance writing industry. Surely, you may find somebody once in a while who may seem to scam you, but you’d also meet genuine people who’d treasure you as their writers.
Do not be afraid to give out samples. These samples serve as your ‘pitch’ to buyers who want to hire your services. Think of these things as investments for you to find better-paying freelance writing gigs.
Do not be afraid to get lower-priced projects. Some people think that they can charge $10/page at once – but I don’t think so. It’s good to work from the bottom, even around $2/500-word article. You’d then know how these things work, and then ‘promote’ yourself by getting higher-priced gigs. You will learn a lot this way.
Do not be afraid to ask. If a client gives you details and they aren’t clear enough, then go ahead and ask. Don’t think that you know it all, and end up doing so many rewrites and revisions.
Do not be afraid to email and apply. Because of the growing competition amongst freelance writers, you have to find more and more freelance leads to get you going.
Do not be afraid to get your own debit card. Since most payments are done through the internet, it would definitely help you validate your online accounts, and to withdraw your earnings from Paypal or Moneybookers.

Always remember that there is no easy money in the cyberspace. Every penny, and every dollar, is something that everyone works hard for.

Keep tuned as I would be posting job projects and freelance leads for those who want to try freelance writing.

Thanks for reading, and I wish you well in your journey being a freelance writer in the Philippine freelance writing industry.