Freelancer Portfolio Writing

Looking for a freelance writing job?  A well prepared freelancer portfolio can mean a constant stream of writing gigs.  It can lead to longstanding contracts to write for best paying clients and a reputation as a leading freelancer.  But what makes a freelancer portfolio necessary?

Writer’s clients want to know the fellow who wants to write for them.  They want to have a look at your professional background.  To experience some of your writing successes and writing style; and the way to achieve this is through a resume, portfolio or curriculum vitae.  Whatever you call it, some form of introductory document will make your prospects better.  The portfolio will project you as a professional writer.  It should show your kind of writing, some important freelance projects that you have done, ongoing writing projects and your specialization or versatility as a freelance writer.  Having photos of some of the published materials that you have produced adds to your credibility as a writer.

Unfortunately, many freelance writers assume that stating with confidence that they are writers is all that is required by potential clients.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  There are many people claiming to be writers who cannot write a simple comment.  Clients who have been duped are unlikely to take anybody at their words.  They want to see evidence of your writing.  This explains why many potential clients are willing to pay potential freelance contractors to write test articles.  These are cases of once bitten twice shy.  So, what should your freelancer portfolio contain?

Introduction
Write a brief introduction of yourself.  Concentrate on your writing life; why you write, what your writing goals are, your full time or part time writer status.

You Best Writing
Give a summary of your best writing: kind of writing jobs, length, time spent on projects, additional jobs as a direct result of the previous assignments.  Including photos of the documents, books, magazines will enhance your statement.  Try to personalize your portfolio to the job you are applying for. 

Membership to Writers Organizations
State which writer’s or other professional organizations you belong to.  This displays your commitment to the freelance writing profession.

Include Your Photo
Remember the classic statement that a picture is worth a thousand words?  It does even in a freelance writer’s portfolio.   A photograph or at least a portrait is a humanizing addition.  It allows potential clients to physically “interact” with their future writer.  Make sure your likeness is friendly, yet professional looking.  No client wants a writer whose looks are suggestive of gloomy writing. 

Update Your Writing Portfolio
Keep your writing portfolio up-to-date.  Remember that nothing remains the same.  Your freelancer portfolio needs to conform to the dynamics of your profession and to show you in good light always.