A Guide to Writing on Spec as a New Freelancer
If you’re new to freelance writing, you may have heard about writing on spec, but you might be wondering what it means.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what writing on spec is, discuss the pros and cons of doing this type of work, and provide a step-by-step guide for how to write on spec as a new freelance writer.
What Is Writing on Spec?
The “spec” in on-spec writing is short for “speculative.” This means that you write a piece without the assurance that someone will pay you for it but with the expectation of finding a buyer once it’s completed.
Speculative writing is an alternative to cold pitching, where you typically propose an article to a publication and write it only after it’s accepted.
Pros and Cons of Writing on Spec
When you write on spec, you’re working for free, but it’s with the hope of securing future paid work.
For new freelance writers especially, on-spec writing carries a lot of benefits:
- It’s a great way to get started in the industry and add to your portfolio.
- It provides a source of work when business is slow.
- You can use on-spec pieces to apply for jobs.
- It showcases your skill to potential clients.
- It helps you gain experience with a new topic or niche.
But keep in mind that there are a few drawbacks to writing on spec as well:
- There is no guarantee that your article will get picked up.
- It could take time away from projects with guaranteed pay.
- Working for free can devalue your work.
- Writing on spec increases the chances of plagiarism or theft.
How to Write on Spec
While speculative writing should not make up the bulk of your work as a freelancer, it’s helpful to know how to tackle a spec piece so you’re prepared for any situation. Let’s go over the six steps to writing on spec:
- Choose a niche
- Identify your ideal client
- Research the topic
- Draft the piece
- Edit the piece
- Pitch the piece
1. Choose a Niche
It’s tempting to think you’ll generate more work opportunities if you stay open to writing about anything. But focusing on a specific industry will increase your expertise in that field and make marketing your writing services easier.
To choose a niche, start by examining your own interests, strengths, and experience. If you have knowledge or skill in a particular area, it will likely make a great niche. Once you’ve decided on a specialty, research the typical characteristics of articles in that niche so you’re familiar with industry expectations.
2. Identify Your Ideal Client
When you have a niche, it’s much easier to find clients. Look up popular businesses or start-ups that you’d love to work with. Most businesses need regular content, but focus on those that have already established blogs, as they’ll be more likely to pay for your articles.
If you’re writing a spec piece for a specific company, research them thoroughly. Read their website and blog to make sure you understand their brand, voice, audience, and goals. The more targeted the piece, the more likely they will purchase it from you.
3. Research the Topic
Now that you’ve narrowed down the industry and the client, select a topic for your piece. This might be a how-to article, a personal essay, or an in-depth exposé. But it should be something that hasn’t been written about recently for that same publication (unless it has a unique angle that hasn’t been covered yet).
As you research your topic, read similar articles and take notes. Try to see what they might have missed and how you could fill in those gaps. Consult experts if necessary, and use reliable sources and current statistics to support any claims you make. This is also a good time to make an outline for your piece as you determine which direction to take.
4. Draft the Piece
With all the groundwork you’ve laid, actually writing the piece should be a lot easier. Follow your outline, making sure to break the content up with headings and other visual elements such as lists. Include an introduction that will catch the reader’s attention and a call to action in the conclusion that prompts them to engage with the company further.
5. Edit the Piece
You don’t want to send a sloppy spec piece to potential clients, so editing is essential. Once the first draft is done, give it some space. Then come back with fresh eyes and examine the content objectively to see if it meets the original goal and tone.
When you’re satisfied with the article as a whole, proofread for any typos or errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. You can also use editing software like Grammarly or hire a professional editor with our partner company, Proofed.
6. Pitch the Piece
Once your spec article is finished, it’s time to send it out. Some publications have submission guidelines on their website, and you’ll need to follow these closely. For example, The New York Times has specific guidelines for opinion guest essays. Otherwise, send a short email to the editor. Explain who you are and why the article you’ve written will be perfect for their business.
Follow up in a week or two. If you don’t hear back, don’t give up! Try pitching to similar companies, even if that means tweaking the piece a bit, or publish a version of the article on your own blog. Every spec piece or writing sample will get you closer to your dream client.
Becoming A Freelance Writer
If writing on spec sounds exciting but a little daunting, we’re here to support you. Take our Becoming A Freelance Writer course to learn everything you need to know to get started as a freelance writer. And with our publishing guarantee for those who pass the course with distinction, you’ll already have a few sample pieces to show potential clients.
Not sure if this course is right for you? That’s why we offer two free lessons. Sign up today!
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