How to Build the Perfect Freelance Writing Portfolio

Select less than 10 samples of your best writing., Print hard copies on good quality paper, preferably 24-pound with a brightness over 90., Leave off design elements unless you are also marketing yourself as a graphic designer., Make several copies...

10 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Select less than 10 samples of your best writing.

    If you write a variety of things (magazine articles, press releases, marketing materials, etc.), make sure you have a sample of each.

    If you're only interested in one type of work, make all your samples this type.

    Don't include anything that's less than your best just to have a sample to show.
  2. Step 2: Print hard copies on good quality paper

    Paper with some rag content will hold up best to being handled by prospective clients. , These will only be distractions to prospective clients.

    Remember that you want them to read and evaluate only your writing. , Each should include your current contact information.

    Don't rely on the information that appears with your bylines. , Include testimonials if you have them; if not, you may want to ask former clients to share their experiences. ,
  3. Step 3: preferably 24-pound with a brightness over 90.

  4. Step 4: Leave off design elements unless you are also marketing yourself as a graphic designer.

  5. Step 5: Make several copies so you can leave samples of your work with prospective clients.

  6. Step 6: Attach evidence that your writing has helped your former clients increase sales

  7. Step 7: generate traffic to their websites or improve business relationships.

  8. Step 8: Include a cover letter on stationery and place it

  9. Step 9: your samples and your business card in a color-coordinated

  10. Step 10: two-pocket portfolio.

Detailed Guide

If you write a variety of things (magazine articles, press releases, marketing materials, etc.), make sure you have a sample of each.

If you're only interested in one type of work, make all your samples this type.

Don't include anything that's less than your best just to have a sample to show.

Paper with some rag content will hold up best to being handled by prospective clients. , These will only be distractions to prospective clients.

Remember that you want them to read and evaluate only your writing. , Each should include your current contact information.

Don't rely on the information that appears with your bylines. , Include testimonials if you have them; if not, you may want to ask former clients to share their experiences. ,

About the Author

D

Douglas Harvey

Committed to making practical skills accessible and understandable for everyone.

35 articles
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