Posted on May 26, 2010 by Suzanne Alicie

I have been freelance writing as a way to earn additional money for almost two years. During that time I have found some excellent paying sites, job boards and private clients to help support my family. Yes, there are scams out there. Here are some basic tips to help you avoid the scams and find real employment as a freelance writer online.
1. Some bidding sites and job boards have a membership fee- however basically you should not be paying for a job. If you are looking for legitimate freelance writing sites try the trial membership and decide if you feel that it is worth it to pay a membership for that site. There are many which do not have fees.
2. Always read the FAQ’s for any site you are considering writing for. It is important that you understand the pay situation, the publishing and copyright information and all the terms and conditions of the site.
3. Visit the forums- most writing sites have forums to help new and experienced writers- this is the place to ask questions and learn more about your position as a freelance writer.
4. Don’t write for pennies. Many of the bidding sites have jobs posted that want 10 articles of 500 words for $10, this is way below what you should earn for a project such as this. But don’t pass up good opportunities such as sites that pay you based upon page views- those residual earnings can add up.
5. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversify, write for several sites, maintain a blog, advertise your work, that way if something falls through on one site and you aren’t earning with them anymore, you have other work to fall back on.
I have a website called Freelance Writer Online which includes a page of sites which pay, another for job boards, and lots of advice and information about freelance writing online. I am also always ready to help someone get started as a freelance writer.