Member-only story

Why I Stopped Calling Myself a “Freelance Writer”

The gift and the curse of an often-underestimated job title

Herbert Lui
Index

Photo: Julien L/Unsplash

Several years ago, the CEO of a prominent product development services company approached me to help out with copywriting and publicity. I had started my own editorial studio, Wonder Shuttle, and gave myself the job title of creative director. That didn’t matter much, because most of my network still knew me as a freelance writer.

After some proof of work and a small discounted project, we started talking numbers for my actual rates, and when I gave him mine ($250 per hour or so, my rate has multiplied since).

He said that was way beyond the market rate for freelance writers.

I’d heard this before, hence why I’d changed my job title. I hadn’t perfected my response, so at that moment I’d blurted out, “I’m not just a writer. I’ve worked with you on publicity and marketing. I work on strategy. My rate reflects the value I bring to the table.”

Probably working in services himself and having to do a version of that explanation (product development companies offer more expertise, and are often pricier, than offshore or outsourcing app development studios), he understood. I joined his team as a fractional marketing leader.

Create an account to read the full story.

The author made this story available to Medium members only.
If you’re new to Medium, create a new account to read this story on us.

Or, continue in mobile web

Already have an account? Sign in

Responses (9)

Write a response

I use freelance business writer to set me apart from personal bloggers and content mills. It's a small shift, but it sets a tone for professional rates.
As you pointed out, you have to back your title up with knowledge. In my case, that is purchase…

51

This is very insightful, and helpful for newish writers considering getting into freelance. There is a lot more that goes into it than what it seems like. You have a much bigger skillset than someone just starting out, which is really clear from…

3

Great piece. Thanks for sharing. I recently landed my first client as a freelance writer, and I know my skill set is so much deeper, more creative, analytical, and strategic, in large part thanks to my MBA and overall critical thinking abilities…

2