Online Writing Jobs the Easy Way - 5 Tips

Want to get online writing jobs? These five tips will help. Writing skills are in huge demand; set up your own home business and prosper.
1. Samples and Testimonials Sell
Your first step is to get four to five writing jobs - any writing jobs at all. Your clients will want to see examples of your writing; they also want to know that you're reliable, and that you will deliver what they paid for.
The easiest way to get these initial jobs is on the out-sourcing sites, or by visiting busy forums where Webmasters and online marketers congregate.
Remember that your primary aim is to get testimonials, so don't be shy of asking for them. People are more than pleased to say that they're happy with the services you provide - just ask.
Here's a tip; provide a "sample" testimonial for your buyers to use. They can add their own words, or simply tell you they're happy to go with what you've written. Writing a sample testimonial ensures that you'll get a testimonial fast - otherwise you may be waiting for weeks, because people are busy.
2. You Must Have a Web Site
These days, there's no excuse for not having a Web site. A Blogger blog takes seconds to set up, and it's free.
3. Ask Questions - Give Buyers Exactly What They Want
Here's my most important tip: ASK questions about any writing job you're given. No, it won't make you look stupid - it will make you look competent. Repeat, in your own words, what the writing job is - this ensures you've got it right. Since some writing jobs' brief (description) may be just a couple of sentences, this is vital.
If you're unsure about anything at all, please remember to ask. When you know exactly what the job is, not only can you get it done faster, but you'll eliminate procrastination, which often stems from uncertainty.
4. Offer Guarantees - They Give Buyers Confidence
You're an unknown quantity to your buyers. They may have been burned by online "writers" in the past. Offer a money-back guarantee, and mean it.
Online writing jobs are usually paid on retainer; that is, you get 50 per cent up front, before you start the job. Therefore, offering a full guarantee ensures that you get trust and more buyers of your writing services.
5. Become a "Writer on Retainer" for Businesses and Get Paid in Advance
I write on retainer for several businesses; I've been their writer for years. Once you get some writing jobs, offer to write on retainer. This is money in the bank for you, and it's easy for the businesses - you're on retainer, so they know you'll drop everything else and write a project for them, because you've been paid already.
If you're not familiar with retainers, here's how they work. A business pays you a sum, each month, for writing a specific project, or simply to hold yourself ready to write for them - to keep a clear space in your calendar.
This is good for them, and of course it's good for you, too.