Freelance Writers: What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work

Freelance writers can't always have work all the time, so how do you fill those days (or weeks) when you don't have any work? Make sure you're using that down time productively so you can rebuild your stream of freelance writing projects. If you're at a loss, here are some tips for freelance writers who don't have any work at the moment.

What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work: Focus on Marketing

Obviously, if you don't have any clients, you need to be focusing on finding them. Spending your time marketing your freelance writing talent will earn you the greatest reward, particularly if you know how to market yourself well. Focus on free methods of advertising, such as posting message on Craigslist.org or writing articles that potential clients can read.

What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work: Take a Few Days Off

If finding clients right away isn't dire, freelance writers need some time off to recuperate. Taking your lack of work as a sign that you need to cool it for a while. Your family misses you, your friends miss you and even your favorite TV show misses you. It may be a little harder to get back in the game once more work finds its way to your doorstep, but your mental and emotional health will be better for it.

What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work: Get In Touch

Sometimes the easiest way to find new clients is to get in touch with the old ones. Send notes or e-mails to clients who have used your services in the past and see if they need anything more. You don't have to actively market yourself; just remind them that you exist and that your work is incredible. You can also send them business cards to pass around to their friends in order to earn referrals.

What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work: Update Your Website

When you don't have clients, you can work on promoting yourself and your image. Tasks like updating your website, writing new articles and posting to your blog will keep you busy. Remember that writers need some time to write for themselves rather than just their clients, and this could be the perfect opportunity to get creative and use your talents for yourself.

What to Do when You Don't Have Any Work: Handle Administrative Tasks