Startup freelance writers find it difficult to jumpstart a career that is unknown to them because I’ve been asked several times on how to start a freelance work or a part-time job for extra income.

As I look back, I remember the hard work and sleepless nights I endured, and they are worth it. I’ve learned many things from different clients. Above all, I learned the art of preparation.

So I made a list of 10 must-have things for you to prepare you. I started my freelance writing career without a mentor. It’s a DIY (do-it-yourself) quest, and it’s pretty hard. So, if you’re really serious, you should make a checklist on these items.

1. Portfolio

   I mentioned this item on my earlier post, and hopefully by now you had compiled your literary portfolio. Try to recall all your written projects.

   

   1. Personal Projects – blogs, poems, short stories, articles, etc.
   2. Academic Projects – newspapers, school publications, business letters, resumes, etc.
   3. Profit and Non-Profit Organization Projects – ministry projects, church publications, etc.

   If you want an online portfolio for writers, Writer’s Residence offers free accounts. Furthermore, you might want to update your blog’s entries if you have your own Web space.

2. Computer

   You need a heavy-duty computer to maximize your writing career. Either you get a supercharged desktop or laptop.

   Desktop Computer

   Advantages:

   • It is cheaper. You can buy a brand-new package at 10,000 pesos. It depends on your preferred specifications.
   • It is easy to replace the components when damaged.
   • Upgradeable.

   Disadvantages:

   • It is not portable. You can’t carry it anywhere.
   • You need space to set it up.
   • It requires setting up a number of wires for connection to routers, modem, and other devices.

   Laptop Computer

   Advantages:

   • It’s portable.
   • Supercharge battery for backup for unexpected power outages.
   • You don’t need large space for setup.

   Disadvantages:

   • It’s more expensive.
   • Limited upgrades on specifications.
   • It’s difficult to repair and replace parts for void warranty.

   

   MacBook Air or MacBook Pro is highly recommended if you can afford one. For wise buys on supercharged laptops at best prices, I recommend trusted brands such as Dell, Acer, Sony, Toshiba, and HP.

3. Fast Internet Connection

   I’ll be subjective when it comes to broadband services. The speed of the Internet is dependent on your area, the memory of your computer, and the medium. Wireless broadband is recommended for those living within the proximity of cell towers. To test your Internet speed, go to Speedtest.Net. Accept that there’s no perfect Internet connection.

   

   • PLDT – (ADSL) 384 kbit/s to 5Mbit/s
   • Bayan Telecommunication – Bayan Telecommunication
   • ComClark Network and Technology Corp – Cable Internet and Wireless Fixed Broadband
   • Globe Telecom – (ADSL) 512 kbit/s to 4 Mbit/s
   • Smart Communications – Wireless Fixed Broadband 384 kbit/s and 512 kbit/s
   • Sun Cellular – 3.5G Wireless up to 2 Mbit/s
   • Wi-Tribe Wi-Max – up to 2Mbit/s and 4 Mbit/s

4. Email Accounts

   

   I recommend full updates of e-mail accounts because you’ll need them when you sign up for freelance writing jobs and outsourcing Web sites. I recommend Google’s mail account Gmail. This is the most widely used email account by clients and professionals.

5. Social Media Accounts

   

   Freelance writers should have the same account information on various social media sites for credibility. Usually, Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ are the top three social media accounts used by freelance writers. Social media is an effective way to expand your network and meet new professionals and a chance to get freelance writing gigs. However, just a reminder: make sure you don’t fully disclose everything about you. Basics will do: name, profession, age, blog, and e-mail, that’s it.

6. Skype

   

   This is the medium for communication in the freelance world. You’ll be working remotely. Employers and clients conduct discussion on work specifications, interviews, and conferences on Skype. It’s not a typical messenger. You can sign up for Skype here.

7. File-sharing Accounts

   

   So what are file sharing accounts? These accounts allow users to share content and files remotely. The data are exchanged between two users with computers connected to the Internet. You don’t have to send it over the e-mail. File-sharing services automatically sync document changes. Dropbox is one of the most popular file sharing tools used by freelance writers and bloggers. Sign up for 2GB-free storage.

8. PayPal Account

   

   This is how clients and employers pay freelance writers. You need to set up your own PayPal account to receive payments. This is the easiest and safest way for online payments and other e-commerce transactions. You can sign up here.

9. Debit Cards

   

   Debit cards link your account to PayPal for withdrawals. You can also use your ATM card to receive payment. I use my BPI ATM card and to receive wire transfer payments, but it requires a minimal service charge. I also recommend Smart Money, EON card , for cash withdrawals.

10. Extra Cash

    

    You should have some extra cash as emergency funds. Most freelance Web sites and job boards offer free sign ups to get writing jobs. However, it is wise to have petty cash to sustain you for your startup journey. I had my $100 emergency startup fund.

    Did I miss some items?

    I hope the list helps. For more tips on writing tips and freelance writing jobs, subscribe on my newsletter.

krisettecapati@yahoo.com