Freelance writing job boards are online platforms that connect freelance writers with clients seeking writing services. They play a significant role in the freelance writing industry by providing a space for job listings, creating connections between writers and clients, and simplifying the hiring process.
The benefits of freelance writing job boards are that they provide access to multiple opportunities, create a space to showcase skills, simplify the application processes, and help build networking opportunities.
This article highlights various freelance writing job boards tailored to meet your personal career needs. Each board review offers the highlights, pros and cons, and target audience. An explanation of board types and how to best utilize these resources is also included.
Keep reading to expand your reach and begin taking advantage of what is out there for you to utilize!
What Are the Types of Freelance Writing Job Boards?
You can take advantage of several different types of freelance writing boards. Each offers unique resources to help highlight your skills and specialties.
Generalist Boards
A freelance generalist board is a platform or community where freelancers can connect with clients and find various job opportunities. These boards usually focus on freelancers who want a space to highlight their specialties and services. It allows them to secure freelance work across different fields and disciplines.
Examples:
- Upwork
- Freelancer
- Guru
- PeoplePerHour
- Fiverr
- FlexJobs
- TaskRabbit
- Toptal
- SimplyHired
- Hubstaff Talent
Niche-Specific Boards
Freelance niche-specific boards are dedicated to connecting freelancers with specialized skills and expertise to clients seeking services within a specific industry.
Examples:
- Problogger (writing and blogging)
- Mediabistro (media, publishing, and journalism)
- Behance (design and creative fields)
- Toptal (tech and software development)
- Contently (content marketing and branding)
- We Work Remotely (remote jobs in various industries)
- Voices.com (voiceover and audio production)
- Envato Studio (design, development, and creative services)
- Smashing Jobs (web design and development)
- Authentic Jobs (creative and tech jobs)
Aggregator Boards
Freelance aggregator boards compile job listings from various sources, including job boards, company websites, and online marketplaces, to provide freelancers with a central hub for finding work.
Examples:
- Indeed
- SimplyHired
- ZipRecruiter
- Glassdoor
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Remote.co
- Jobspresso
- Remote OK
- FlexJobs
- We Work Remotely
These boards are for all freelancers looking for comprehensive access to the job market.
Premium vs. Free Boards
Both premium and free boards can provide valuable job opportunities and networking resources for freelance writers. Ultimately, choosing a board type depends on the freelancer’s preferences, budget, and needs.
Premium Boards Explained
Premium boards for freelance writers typically require a subscription or membership fee in exchange for access to higher-quality job listings and enhanced support services. They may offer curated job listings, advanced search filters, and dedicated customer support to help freelancers find work.
Examples:
- ProBlogger Job Board
- Freelance Writing Gigs
- MediaBistro
- Contena
- FlexJobs
Free Boards Explained
On the other hand, free boards for freelance writers offer access to job listings and networking opportunities at no cost. While free boards may have a larger volume of job postings, they may also feature lower-quality listings and more competition. They also may not offer any customer support, or what is available may be very basic.
However, free boards can still be valuable resources for freelancers, especially those just starting or looking to explore a wide range of opportunities without committing to a subscription fee.
Examples:
- Upwork
- Freelancer
- Guru
- PeoplePerHour
- Fiverr
What Are the Most Popular Freelance Writing Job Boards?
In order to give you an idea of what each type of board can offer in a little more detail, we’ve compiled some of the most popular and well-reviewed for your consideration.
Upwork
Upwork is one of the largest and most popular online platforms connecting freelancers with clients seeking a wide range of services. Highlights include the flexibility to work remotely, set their schedules, and choose projects that align with their needs.
Pros
Cons
- Large client base
- Variety of projects
- Rate and project flexibility
- Payment protection
- Built-in messaging and collaboration tools
- High competition
- Service fees required
- Platform dependence
- Potential for low-paying projects
Upwork is suitable for freelancers of all skill levels and expertise seeking remote work opportunities in various industries.
Freelancer
Freelancer connects freelancers with clients seeking services across multiple industries, including writing, design, programming, and marketing. Highlights include the obvious remote work aspect and the ability to choose clients and projects. However, Freelancer also offers an extended Global Reach that fosters international collaboration and networking.
Pros
Cons
- Diverse job opportunities
- Global reach
- Rate and contract flexibility
- Competitive bidding system
- Payment protection
- High competition
- Service fees charged on earnings
- Poor quality control
- No client vetting
It’s best for beginners looking to gain experience or experienced professionals seeking new projects.
ProBlogger Job Board
The ProBlogger Job Board is a niche-specific freelance board that connects freelance writers with job opportunities in blogging, content creation, and digital media. Its highlights include specialization, quality assurance, and job listings from reputable clients and companies seeking skilled writers.
Pros
Cons
- High-quality job listings
- Niche focus
- Reputation and credibility
- Community and networking
- Limited job listings
- High competition
Contena
Contena is a specialized freelance job board designed for writers, editors, and content creators seeking high-paying and reputable freelance writing opportunities. Highlights include curated job listings from various industries, training, and community networking opportunities.
Pros
Cons
- Curated job listings
- High-paying gigs
- Training and resources
- Community and support
- Membership fee
- High competition
Textbroker
Textbroker is a content marketplace that connects freelance writers with clients seeking custom-written content for websites, blogs, articles, and other digital platforms. It offers one of the most user-friendly platforms, making browsing assignments and submitting proposals easy.
Pros
Cons
- Variety of writing assignments
- Flexibility
- Regular work
- Easy payment process
- Low pay rates
- Limited client interaction
Textbroker may appeal to writers who are just starting their freelance careers or those seeking a steady stream of work with minimal client interaction. However, experienced writers may find Textbroker’s pay rates less competitive than those of other platforms.
Fiverr
As an online marketplace, Fiverr connects freelancers with clients seeking a wide range of digital services. The platform operates on a gig-based model, where freelancers offer services, or “gigs,” starting at $5, with the option to add additional features and upgrades for higher rates.
Pros
Cons
- Diverse service offerings
- Flexibility
- Global reach
- User-friendly platform
- High competition
- Fee structure on completed transactions
It’s suitable for freelancers of all skill levels seeking opportunities to offer digital services and connect with clients worldwide. It may appeal to freelancers who are comfortable working within a gig-based model and prefer flexibility in defining their rates and service offerings.
LinkedIn Jobs & ProFinder
LinkedIn Jobs and ProFinder are sections of LinkedIn dedicated to connecting freelancers with clients and job opportunities.
LinkedIn Jobs features job listings from companies and organizations seeking full-time, part-time, and contract workers, including freelancers. ProFinder, on the other hand, is a service that matches freelancers with clients seeking professional services, such as writing, design, consulting, and more.
Pros
Cons
- Professional networking
- Reputable clients
- Built-in messaging
- Client reviews and recommendations
- High competition
- Service fees
FlexJobs
FlexJobs specializes in remote and flexible job opportunities, including freelance, part-time, and remote work positions. The platform caters to individuals seeking flexible work arrangements.
Pros
Cons
- Remote and flexible opportunities
- Vetted job listings
- Access to exclusive opportunities
- Multiple job search resources
- Membership fee
- Limited free listings
MediaBistro
MediaBistro offers job listings, resources, and networking opportunities for media, publishing, journalism, and communications professionals. The platform features job opportunities ranging from freelance gigs to full-time positions.
Pros
Cons
- Industry-specific job listings
- Reputable clients and companies
- Career resources and networking
- Freelance-friendly
- High competition
- Membership fee
We Work Remotely
We Work Remotely offers remote job opportunities, including freelance, contract, and full-time positions. It emphasizes flexibility so that freelancers can easily navigate and find suitable jobs.
Pros
Cons
- Remote work focus
- Diverse job listings
- Reputable companies
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- High competition
- Limited freelance listings
It’s suitable for freelancers and remote workers who are seeking remote job opportunities across various industries and skill sets.
What Are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Job Board?
The following are the essential factors you should consider when choosing a job board:
- Quality/quantity of listings: Look for job boards that balance quality and quantity. A board with a large number of listings increases your chances of finding suitable projects.
- Pay rates for projects: Consider the pay rates offered on the job board. Look for boards where clients are willing to pay fair rates for the work you’ll be doing.
- User interface and search functionality: Evaluate the job board’s user interface and search functionality. Look for features like advanced search options, saved searches, and email alerts for new opportunities.
- Reputation of the board: Research the job board’s reputation within the freelance community. Read reviews and testimonials from other freelancers about their experiences with the platform.
- Additional features: Consider any additional features that the job board offers, such as templates, guides, or educational materials. Others offer communities where freelancers and professionals can connect.
No single job board will meet all your requirements perfectly. So, it’s beneficial to utilize multiple job boards to maximize your chances of finding jobs that fit your criteria.
What Are Some Tips for Succeeding on Freelance Writing Job Boards?
If you’re looking for success on freelance writing job boards, here are some tips to help you stand out and increase your chances of landing gigs:
- Create a comprehensive profile: Craft a professional profile highlighting your skills, experience, and writing samples.
- Tailor your pitches: Take the time to customize your pitches for each job you apply to. Show that you’ve read the job description and understand the client’s needs.
- Highlight your portfolio: Build a portfolio with a selection of your best writing samples. Provide links or attach relevant samples to your pitches.
- Set competitive rates: Research the average rates for freelance writing in your niche and set your rates accordingly. Be flexible when starting, but avoid undervaluing your work.
- Be responsive and professional: Reply promptly to client inquiries. Demonstrate professionalism in your communication.
- Seek testimonials and reviews: Once you’ve completed projects, ask clients for testimonials or reviews to build credibility. Positive feedback from previous clients can help attract new clients.
- Network and build relationships: Engage with other freelancers and clients on job boards and social media platforms. Networking can lead to referrals and new opportunities.
- Be persistent and patient: Freelance writing job boards can be competitive, so don’t get discouraged by rejections or slow periods. Keep refining your skills and consistently applying for projects.
Conclusion
Freelance writing job boards provide an easy-to-use online platform to help connect freelance writers with job opportunities. They offer a strategic approach to focused job searches and maximize opportunities to help target pay rates, clients, and exposure.
Take a proactive step toward your freelance writing career today. Begin by researching reputable job boards that cater to your needs and interests. Evaluate their listings, pay rates, and additional features that will maximize your exposure as a writer. Select a few platforms that align with your goals, create an account, build a strong profile, and explore the available opportunities.