Tips On Writing a Cover Letter for Freelancers 

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There are certain tips on writing a cover letter for freelancers that you should know. Business development is a process of creating new opportunities for business growth. Marketing communications are a key element of business development, and writing samples are an important tool for marketing communications. Writing samples should be included in a portfolio of relevant achievements, and the text version of the writing sample should be submitted along with the portfolio. The writing sample should be from a recently posted job, and it should include specific details about the job description, skills required, and the company’s hiring process. 

tips on writing a cover letter for freelancers

A cover letter is also an important part of the marketing communications process, and it should be included in the portfolio. The cover letter should be addressed to the hiring manager or potential client, and it should include a brief explanation of the job seeker’s relevant skills and experience. 

What Are Cover Letters?

Cover letters are documents that introduce you to potential employers. A cover letter can also be defined as a professional document that accompanies your resume and other application materials when you apply for a job. Writing a cover letter is a necessary skill you need as a freelancer to get jobs.

A cover letter’s main purpose is to explain to the employer why you would be a good fit for the position they are hiring for.

Freelance cover letters include:

  • Your name
  • Contact information
  • Summary of your qualifications
  • Statement of why you believe you would be a good fit for the job. 

When applying for a contract-to-hire job or any job, you will want to make sure that your professional cover letter is well-written and tailored to the specific job you are applying for. A generic or poorly written cover letter is likely to do more harm than good. Taking the extra time to write a personalized and targeted cover letter will show a potential employer that you are serious about the opportunity and willing to put in the extra effort. 

A freelancer cover letter allows you to highlight your relevant skills and achievements and describe your professional goals. Most job postings will list what they are looking for in a candidate. Be sure to address these requirements in your cover letter. If a job posting does not mention what they are looking for, take a look at the company’s website or social media pages to get an idea of their culture and what they value in their employees. 

A cover letter also allows you to address any questions or concerns that the employer may have about your qualifications.

what are cover letters

Finally, a cover letter gives you the chance to establish a personal connection with the hiring manager.

A cover letter is usually a one page document that comes before your resume in an attachment that details your experience and how it relates to the position you are applying for. Cover letters are usually ideal for stating why your skills are a match for the job or position that is posted.

There is a basic format for writing a cover letter that you can follow each time you submit a resume for a new position. However, each cover letter should be tailored to fit the specific job you are applying for. 

Best Items to Include When Writing a Cover Letter for Freelancers

There are several things you should keep in mind when writing a cover letter: 

  1. Keep it to one page or less
  2. Use a professional or business tone
  3. Highlight your most relevant qualifications
  4. Use concrete examples and data to back up claims about your skills
  5. Address the company’s specific needs as stated in the job posting
  6. Edit carefully for errors before sending 

A good cover letter will not only get you noticed by the hiring manager, but it will also allow you to sell yourself and explain why you are the best candidate for the job. So take the time to write a great cover letter and increase your chances of getting an interview.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter? 

Below is a list of items that should be included in most cover letters.

Opening

Address your cover letter to the proper person. A strong cover letter should be addressed to a specific person.

Salutation: Begin your cover letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name.” An opening should be friendly yet formal. Other salutation examples include:

  • Dear Hiring Manager
  • Dear Recruiting Manager
  • To Whom It May Concern

Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs are usually composed of two paragraphs. These paragraphs are key for conveying that you are a valuable asset.

First paragraph: 

The opening paragraph should be brief and include the following:

  • The position you are applying for
  • How you heard about the job
  • Your interest in the company or organization

Second paragraph: 

The second paragraph is where you will sell yourself as a candidate. This is your chance to highlight your most relevant skills and explain why you are the best candidate for the job and how your skill set matches the job requirements listed in the job posting.

Closing

Your closing paragraph should be a few sentences and briefly summarize your qualifications, and indicate that you would like to schedule an interview. Remind the recruiter of your enclosed resume.

What Not to Include in Your Cover Letter?

In addition to including the right information in your cover letter, it is just as important to avoid including irrelevant or outdated information.

Below is a list of items that should not be included in your cover letter:

1. An objective statement

An objective statement is outdated and unnecessary. Instead, use a professional summary that briefly outlines your skills and experience.

2. Your entire work history 

Only include relevant work experience that pertains to the position you are applying for. There is no need to include every single job you have ever had.

3. Personal information

There is no need to include personal information such as your age, marital status, or religious affiliation. This information is not relevant to the position you are applying for, and including it could create an unintended bias.

4. Negative information

Your cover letter should be positive and upbeat. Avoid any negative statements about yourself or your past experiences.

Freelance Writer

One quick Google search of “freelance writing jobs” will populate results of job postings from companies seeking to hire freelance writers. While this can provide job seekers with an extensive list of options, it can also be a bit overwhelming.

How Can You Make Your Letter Stand Out Among All of The Others? 

Mention Qualifications You Meet

First and foremost, take the time to read the job posting and requirements carefully. Many times, a company will specify what they are looking for in a candidate within the posting. If they have specific requirements or qualifications that you meet, be sure to mention these prominently in your letter so that the hiring manager can see them right away.  

Convey Your Skills and Interest

Next, introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. Include any relevant skills or experience that you have that would make you a good fit for the job. If you have any personal connection to the company or the person reading your letter (even if it’s just that you’re a fan of their work), mention this as well. 

If you have any relevant samples of your work or even just ideas for articles that would be a good fit for the company’s needs, include them here as well. 

Share Work Samples

When you’re applying for a freelance writing gig, it’s important to have a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. Choose a few of your best pieces and include them in your application. If you have any awards or recognition for your writing, be sure to mention this as well. Your goal is to demonstrate to the company that you have the skills and ability to produce high-quality work.

Who Hires Freelance Writers?

A freelance writer is a professional who writes for various magazines, online publications, and other sources. Freelance writers typically have extensive experience in a particular subject or field and can write about it in a detailed and engaging way. In many cases, a freelance writer will specifically state in their cover letter that they are a freelance writer

While some companies may be hesitant to hire freelancers, there are many benefits to doing so. Freelancers often have a more flexible schedule and can work from anywhere in the world. In addition, freelancers usually have extensive experience in their field and can provide high-quality work. 

Companies That Hire Freelance Writers

Some of the companies that hire freelance writers include:

  • The New York Times
  • Forbes
  • Huffington Post
  • TIME
  • The Washington Post
  • Business Insider

Being self-employed as a freelance writer has many benefits. As a freelance writer, you will have the freedom to choose your own clients and projects. You can also set your own rates and work from anywhere in the world.

Freelance Writer Sample Cover Letter Example

A cover letter is a supplemental one page document that is usually written in first person that provides additional information that is more detailed than what is found in a resume. A cover letter generally supports every resume you submit. Employers utilize cover letters as a way to select applicants for vacant positions and to certify which prospects they would like to meet.

freelance cover letter examples

As a freelancer, you may find that you need to write more cover letters than ever before. Applying for freelance work often requires more than submitting a resume. Many clients will request that you also submit a cover letter along with your other application materials. While this may seem like an unnecessary extra step, taking the time to craft a well-written perfect cover letter can make all the difference when it comes to whether or not you get hired for the job

There are a few key things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter for freelance work.

  • First, be sure to tailor your letter to the specific job listing. Each client is looking for something unique, so you must highlight those qualities in your letter that match what they are searching for.
  • Second, don’t be afraid to sell yourself. Highlight why you would be the best person for the job.
  • Finally, keep it short and sweet. Cover letter examples for freelance work don’t need to be overly long or detailed, so just hit the highlights and leave out any unnecessary information.

How To Write a Cover Letter for Freelancers

Cover letters are frequently required when applying for jobs, yet many job seekers either neglect to submit them or simply include brief, perfunctory notes. Cover letters provide job seekers with an opportunity to sell themselves to hiring managers, and should be written with care and precision. Here are a few quick tips for those who find themselves in need of writing a cover letter:

how to write a freelance cover letter

Research the Company You’re Applying To

Tailor your cover letter accordingly. Generic, one-size-fits-all letters are sure to turn off hiring managers.

Use Active Voice and Strong Verbs

Convey your professional achievements and aptitude for the freelance writer position with language that is both confident and easy to read.

Be Clear and Concise

A well-written cover letter will get straight to the point and avoid unnecessary details.

Provide project examples and soft skills

  • Provide specific examples of your experience and skills rather than making broad claims that cannot be substantiated. Also, focus on providing examples of soft skills and your work ethic.

Grab Employer’s Attention 

  • If you have a personal connection to the company or the hiring manager, be sure to mention it in your letter. This could be something as simple as sharing that you’re a longtime fan of the company’s products.

How to Write a Freelance Cover Letter with No Experience

If you need to write a freelance cover letter but don’t have enough work experience, don’t despair. There are still plenty of ways to showcase your skills and qualifications.

First, focus on the transferable skills you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for that the prospective client is looking for. A recent graduate can highlight any internships or part-time jobs they’ve held in the past. If you’re a stay-at-home parent, you can highlight any volunteer work you’ve done or mention any relevant coursework you’ve completed.

freelance cover letter for writers

Second, be sure to focus on your soft skills in your letter. These are the personal qualities and traits that make you a good fit for the job. When you’re applying for jobs, it’s important to be able to demonstrate how your skills and abilities match the requirements of the role. For example, if you’re keen on landing a freelance writing gig, make sure to mention your superb communication skills, ability to work autonomously, and focus on detail.

Finally, don’t forget to sell yourself in your letter. This is your opportunity to really shine and show the prospective client why you’re the best person for the job. Be confident in your abilities and make it clear that you’re the best candidate for the role.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your cover letter makes a positive impression on potential employers.

Conclusion 

As a business development professional, one of your key responsibilities is to generate new leads and nurture relationships with potential clients. One way to do this is through effective marketing communications. This can include writing persuasive emails, creating engaging social media posts, and developing targeted marketing collateral. If you have extensive experience in this area, then you may be wondering how to best showcase your skills when applying for jobs.

One option is to include writing samples with your resume or cover letter. These can be examples of emails, social media posts, or other marketing materials that you have created. If you have specific achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, then be sure to mention them in your cover letter or resume. You can also highlight relevant skills by including a text version of your resume with your application materials.

If you’re applying for freelance positions, then you may want to take a different approach in your cover letter. For example, you could highlight how your skills and experience would benefit the specific client that you’re hoping to work with. You could also include a link to your online portfolio or website. This will give the person reading your letter a chance to see more of your work and get a better sense of your style and approach.

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