You’ve decided to be an HR writer! Congratulations! Now it’s time to find your first assignments and get paid to write articles, posts, and other content related to HR.
Network
My first paid gig came from someone in my network. Let the people in your network know that you’re starting a writing career, and ask them for referrals. Ask them to keep you in mind if they hear of anyone needing an HR writer or assignments that may be a good fit for you.
Be sure to reciprocate and build a network built on helping others. Ask your connections if they’re looking for referrals and who would be a good connection for them. Follow up, especially if you can help them out, and keep in touch.
Online Job Boards
These aren’t always the highest paying assignments, but they can help you get your foot in the door and provide some exposure and work samples. Check out sites like Fiverr, UpWork, Freelance Writing Jobs, ProBlogger, MediaBistro, CraigsList, and The Mom Project.
Blogs and Online Publications
There are plenty of blogs and other websites that will pay for posts or articles. Do a Google search for “blogs that pay writers” and you’ll have a ton of information to sift through.
Make sure you review their content and guidelines to make sure you’re pitching correctly and not suggesting a topic they recently covered. Different sites will have different requirements and pay ranges. Know what they’re looking for so that you’re not wasting time sending a pitch that will just get tossed out.
Showcase Your Work
Let potential clients know how talented you are. Keep your blog and portfolio updated with current articles. Don’t forget to add HR keywords to make sure your website pops up in relevant searches.
Put your social media channels to work for you. Add articles to your LinkedIn profile and make sure your status is set to “Open to Work.” Share your articles, blog posts, and achievements in your feed. Comment and share other information as well so that your profile isn’t too “one-sided.”
Pitch and Follow Up
When you’ve found a potential client that you’d like to partner with, don’t just stop at one email or connection! Follow up with helpful information, updates to your business, or even referrals.
I’ve heard of many cases when writers have followed up with a potential client for a year before they received an assignment or started partnering with a client. It’s all about getting the right info in front of a prospect at the right time. Keep track of when you reach out and schedule a reminder when you want to reach out again.
Again, congratulations on making the move to HR writing! I know you’re excited to get paid to write articles, blog posts, website content and other marketing materials. There are endless options and opportunities.
By the way…whenever you’re ready, get your copy of the Complete Guide to Becoming a Professional HR Writer, my comprehensive guide on how to launch and grow your HR writing career. Click Here to Learn More.