How Filipino writers can land a job in Odesk and other sites

from http://www.flickr.com/photos/matsuyuki/

The basic formula to land that dream job in Odesk and other freelance writing sites goes like this: your/client’s standard rate + perfect qualifications + perfect cover letter = dream job!

True enough, with your hard-earned studies paying off through compelling articles for your clients, you will surely land your coveted freelance writing job NOW. Read on and feel free to share your insights, too.

Factor # 1. The Rate

Ask yourself this question: “What is my worth per project or per hour of writing work?” 

Have you figured the answer yet? If not yet, you may find this site useful. Consider calculating your work’s value per hour. Remember that you, the Filipino writer, is just like any writer (wherever he/she may be located). Likewise, determine the type of writing you will be developing. Is it a blog writeup, an ebook, a keyword-rich article, etc.? How much research does it entail? How many articles should you turn in per hour? (I have encountered some clients asking if I can turn in 2 articles per hour, so that should also be considered)

Now, if you believe that you’re already set at $6 per hour for a start, go for it! However, if your experience rounds up to more than 15 years of solid writing experience (crafting top white papers, ebooks, sales letters, ad copies, etc.), then think some more and maybe a whopping $50 per hour would just fit the bill.

Factor # 2. The Qualifications

Before you apply for a particular job in Odesk, Elance, Guru, and other freelance job sites, consider weighing your credentials. Anyway you will be setting up your profile, thus, you’ll need to tick in your specialties. Whether you are a pro in writing keyword-optimized articles, mind-stirring blogs, or simply twittering, make sure that you specify your strengths very well. Were you the former editor-in-chief of your college newsletter? Show that off and let your potential client know what you can really do. 

Show your future clients what your forte is all about. Note that Filipino writers are known to be fluent in English, so don’t be shy to strut your stuff!

To aid you further, try checking out this list of possible credentials you may want to engage in to fit that dream job well.

ü       Technical writing

ü       Copywriting

ü       Creative writing

ü        Blog and article writing

ü       Website content

ü        Ebook writing

Now, as you determine which types of writing fit you best, practice, practice, and practice. You may also want to read helpful books to aid in writing. Below are some reads I’d suggest you try to pick up:

1.    1. Content Rules: How to Create Killer Blogs, Podcasts, Videos, Ebooks, Webinars (and More) That Engage Customers and Ignite Your Business (New Rules Social Media Series)
by Ann Handley and CC Chapman


    A very good read for those who would like to learn the basics and more advanced tips on creating killer content for the web. With the author’s personal approach in seeing to it that readers learn of the tips by heart, it’s sure to match the book’s goals as a whole.

I myself considered this as a handy companion to online writing. Making this my personal workshop about web writing, I just could not resist the nuggets they had to offer. From blogging, podcasting, ebook writing, white paper writing, etc. – the web writer would indeed find his haven!

2.    The Copywriting Sourcebook by Andy Maslen

Meant for the everyday writer at work, this book is sure to find its way to the hearts of those who are in need of rush-hour jobs. Although not all about web content, this can be an all-in-one solution to those looking for hints and templates for writing brochures, corporate write-ups, web articles, etc.

What I did find good about this book is its regard for the rushed lifestyle of the writer at the press. Filled with hints on how to develop headlines and other article ideas without losing one’s mind, it should surely be that trusted friend of the coffee addict in the writer.

3.    Web Copy that Sells by Maria Veloso

A sure winner for those writing sales copies, email content, and luring the emotions of readers and potential customers (of the client’s services and products), this book by A+ copywriting guru Maria Veloso ticks in the essentials to writing effective copies for sales and marketing.

True enough, with the proper mindset and approach to writing such articles, it would be a no-brainer for you, the Filipino writer, as to how you will also tickle your client’s fancies.

Factor # 3. The Perfect Cover Letter

Just as you would apply for a job, take note of putting your best foot forward as you write your cover letter when applying for a freelance writing job. Always highlight what you can do for the client based on his/her expected output. May it be a 100% copyscape-free work, an engaging tone, or a fully professional-looking, keep in mind that this would mean the world to your career. This will serve as your passport to another five-star portfolio in Odesk so dress the best that you can.  

Read the instructions of the employer very carefully, too. I have encountered some clients asking applicants to write a specific word at the topmost part of the cover letter such as “dog”. Thus, those who did not place that word would instantly be rejected. (now this calls for a keen eye, right?)

With these simple tips, hopefully, the Filipino writer won’t get lost anymore (I hope). Just prepare very well when applying as you might know already that it’s yourself that you are selling all along here. :-)