Tips for Finding Your Niche
Are you searching for your freelance writing niche? It took me a long time to find where I belonged in the writing world. Out of college, I explored technical writing and magazine writing. But neither option suited me. Eventually, I stumbled upon copywriting. But even that led me down unexpected paths. Along this twisting, frustrating, sometimes desperate, road to find where I fit in, I learned a few things. If you’re struggling to find your writing niche, here are some tips to help you along the way.
Be Open-Minded.
Tunnel-vision often blocked me from finding my niche. While you don’t want to run in so many directions that you never get anywhere, it helps to keep your mind open to new possibilities. Don’t get so absorbed with one idea that you miss great opportunities elsewhere.
Explore Your Options.
Technical writing, copywriting, grant writing, resume writing, press release writing, and web content writing are a taste of what you can do. The health care industry needs writers who know the terminology. Grant writing is a field all its own. Even resume writing is a specialty. So look around and see what people want freelancers to write. Craigslist is a terrific resource for this. Twitter, Facebook, and other social networks can connect you with other writers to learn what they do. You’ll discover that almost everyone specializes.
Take Risks.
Whether you went to school to write or you’re learning on your own, sometimes you have to swan dive to get what you want. My first job that led me to discovering my niche was completely foreign territory to me. But I’d conquered other assignments so I buckled up and went for it.
Don’t Be a Snob.
No matter what you do, you have to start somewhere. One of my first copywriting projects was a fairly simple brochure rewrite. They weren’t expecting award-winning sales writing, they just wanted it to sound more personal. Was it the most exciting project ever? No. But I could handle it and I felt really good about how things turned out. So don’t look down your nose at certain segments of the writing industry or particular jobs. Something is always better than nothing. Even if you don’t get paid much, or at all, to begin with, you are paving the way for better opportunities in the future.
Don’t Doubt Yourself.
‘Maybe this won’t work. Maybe I’m really just no good at writing. Maybe I should just call it quits and try something else.’ You may have voiced similar doubts. Don’t let these loud voices deter you! If you, like me, dreamt about freelance writing when you were 13, don’t give in. You will find your place in this extensive industry.
Don’t Give Up.
I had many times when I felt I should just put away my pen and paper and go do bookkeeping. But I love to write and it’s a valid skill that others can benefit from. So regardless of how much trial and error you experience, don’t give up on your passion. If you want to write and you can’t live without it, keep working and you will find your niche.
In the end I found that web content, including SEO articles and blog writing, fit me very well. The opportunities are plentiful and varied. And I have time and mental energy to pursue fiction writing, which I couldn’t live without. So remember:
Be open-minded
Explore your options
Take risks
Don’t be a snob
Don’t doubt yourself
Don’t give up
Keep these tips in mind as you go on the hunt for your writing niche!
Amy, thank you so much for sharing your voice with your fellow freelancers! If you or someone you know has a voice to share, then please contact nacie (@) WantToFreelance.com to get involved!
