WHAT IS A FREELANCE FEATURES WRITER JOB?
A freelance features writer job is a type of position where individuals work on a freelance basis to create engaging and informative content for various publications. These writers specialize in writing feature articles, which are longer, in-depth pieces that explore a specific topic or tell a compelling story. Unlike news articles, which focus on reporting facts and events, features articles allow writers to delve deeper into a subject, providing analysis, insight, and storytelling elements.
WHAT DO INDIVIDUALS USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION?
In a freelance features writer job, individuals are responsible for conducting thorough research on the assigned topic to gather relevant information. They then use their creativity and writing skills to craft engaging and well-structured feature articles. This involves brainstorming ideas, outlining the article, conducting interviews with experts or individuals related to the topic, and synthesizing all the gathered information into a cohesive piece. Freelance features writers also collaborate with editors to ensure that the articles meet the publication's standards and guidelines.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR THIS POSITION
To excel in a freelance features writer job, individuals should possess the following skills:
1. Excellent Writing Skills: Strong writing skills are vital for a features writer to effectively communicate ideas, engage readers, and maintain a consistent tone throughout the article.
2. Research Skills: Thorough research is essential to gather accurate and reliable information for feature articles. Freelance features writers should be skilled in conducting in-depth research using credible sources.
3. Creativity: Features articles often require a creative approach to present information in an engaging and unique way. Freelance features writers should have the ability to think outside the box and bring fresh perspectives to their writing.
4. Time Management: Freelancers need to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work. Good time management skills are crucial for a freelance features writer to juggle multiple assignments and prioritize tasks.
5. Adaptability: Freelance features writers often work with different publications and topics, requiring them to adapt their writing style and tone to suit the specific audience and publication guidelines.
HOW TO BECOME A FREELANCE FEATURES WRITER
Becoming a freelance features writer requires a combination of education, experience, and a strong portfolio. Here are the steps to pursue a career in this field:
1. Education: While a formal degree in journalism, English, or a related field is not always mandatory, it can provide a solid foundation in writing skills and journalistic principles. Consider pursuing a degree or taking relevant courses to enhance your knowledge and skills.
2. Gain Experience: Building a portfolio of writing samples is crucial to showcase your abilities to potential clients or employers. Start by writing for student publications, blogs, or websites to gain practical experience and create a diverse range of writing samples.
3. Specialize in Features Writing: Focus on honing your skills in writing feature articles. Read and analyze feature articles from reputable publications to understand their structure, style, and storytelling techniques. Practice writing features articles on various topics to develop your own unique voice and approach.
4. Networking: Establish connections within the industry by attending writing conferences, joining professional organizations, and networking with other writers, editors, and publishers. Networking can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations in the field of freelance features writing.
5. Build an Online Presence: Create a professional website or online portfolio to showcase your work and attract potential clients. Maintain an active presence on social media platforms related to writing and journalism to connect with industry professionals and stay updated on industry trends.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary of a freelance features writer can vary depending on factors such as experience, expertise, location, and the publication they work for. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for writers and authors was $67,120 as of May 2020. However, it's important to note that freelance writers often charge per article or project, and rates can vary significantly.
ROLES AND TYPES
Freelance features writers can work in various roles and specialize in different types of feature articles. Some common roles include:
1. Magazine Features Writer: These writers contribute feature articles to magazines on a wide range of topics, including lifestyle, travel, fashion, health, and more.
2. Newspaper Features Writer: Newspaper features writers create in-depth articles for newspaper publications that explore local or national issues, human interest stories, or investigative reports.
3. Online Features Writer: With the rise of online publications and blogs, freelance features writers can specialize in creating content for digital platforms. This includes writing long-form articles, listicles, and opinion pieces for online magazines and websites.
4. Trade Publication Features Writer: Trade publications focus on specific industries or professional fields. Freelance features writers can specialize in writing feature articles for these publications, catering to a niche audience.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Freelance features writing opportunities can be found across the United States, but certain locations tend to have a higher concentration of job opportunities. Some of the most popular cities for freelance features writer jobs in the USA include:
1. New York City, NY: Known as a hub for media and publishing, New York City offers numerous opportunities for freelance features writers with its abundance of magazines, newspapers, and digital publications.
2. Los Angeles, CA: The entertainment industry in Los Angeles provides freelance features writers with opportunities to write about film, television, music, and celebrity culture.
3. San Francisco, CA: With a thriving tech industry, San Francisco offers freelance features writers the chance to write about technology, startups, and innovation.
4. Washington, D.C.: As the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. is a hotspot for political and policy-related feature articles, making it an attractive location for freelance features writers with an interest in these topics.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS USED BY FREELANCE FEATURES WRITERS?
Freelance features writers rely on various tools to enhance their productivity and streamline their work. Some typical tools used by freelance features writers include:
1. Word Processing Software: Writers often use word processing software such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs to draft, edit, and format their articles.
2. Research Databases: Online research databases like JSTOR, ProQuest, and Google Scholar provide access to academic journals, articles, and research papers, aiding writers in gathering reliable information.
3. Grammar and Editing Tools: Tools like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor help freelance features writers improve their writing by providing grammar and style suggestions, enhancing readability and clarity.
4. Project Management Tools: To stay organized and manage deadlines, freelance features writers may use project management tools such as Trello or Asana to keep track of their assignments, collaborate with clients or editors, and prioritize tasks.
IN CONCLUSION
Freelance features writing is an exciting and rewarding career path for individuals who have a passion for storytelling, research, and writing. By developing the necessary skills, gaining experience, and building a strong portfolio, aspiring freelance features writers can thrive in this dynamic field. With the freedom and flexibility of freelance work, individuals can explore diverse topics, collaborate with various publications, and make their mark as skilled and sought-after features writers.