by Ray Edwards

Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish historical novelist and poet, referred to mercenary soldiers as “freelancers” in his book Ivanhoe. This is where the word found its genesis. Since then, the word “freelancer” has gained new meanings. It became much more figurative by the 1860′s and was finally officially recognized as a word by the English Oxford Dictionary in 1903.

The word “freelance” comes in many different forms today: It can be a noun, freelance or freelancer; it can be a verb, a photographer who freelances; or it can be an adverb, he works freelance.

Working freelance has become a career and lifestyle choice in many different markets, including copywriting. It has given more copywriters a variety of benefits over regular employed positions at advertising agencies and firms. These copywriters feel that freelancing is the best career option because of the flexibility and control they have over their work.

Today, more and more copywriters are leaving the security of their day jobs and engaging in freelance copywriting work because of the following factors:

* Many Different Kinds of Projects. Freelance copywriting allows copywriters to work on different kinds of copywriting than if they were at a firm or agency. The Internet also offers more opportunities to freelancers: It helps copywriters gain access to more opportunities, better projects, and a higher income. Freelance copywriters can also work on different jobs at once. Meaning they could be writing a sales letter for one client, while they are writing web content for another.

* Fast Turnaround. Most freelance copywriting projects are based upon a timetable and have to be completed within a certain period. These timetables are quite often done quickly, allowing a freelancer to take on more projects throughout the year.

* More Freedom, More Flexibility. Becoming a freelance copywriter can give a person the freedom to choose the place, date, and manner in which they do their work. Though some freelancing does require contracts, freelance copywriting is still a no employer-no employee relationship. Freelance work offers more freedom for someone who does not want to be confined to an 8 to 5 or 9 to 6 work schedule. A freelance copywriter is free to choose their working hours and is their own boss. Because of this freedom, freelance copywriting gives a person more time to pursue other interests or take on more jobs. Many freelancers feel that they can take care of their families easier as well.

* Improved Income. Freelance copywriters can usually bring in higher income for their projects because they are hired for their specific talents and skills. This is a plus because they are paid well but do not have to work full-time at a firm, nor do they have to give some of it to an advertising agency. Though income for freelancers can vary, most freelancers still benefit from it. Freelance copywriters charge by the hour, by the day, or on per-project basis. Others use value-based pricing methods instead of imposing a flat rate. Payments are arranged based on the agreement between the copywriter and client. The payment could be done upfront, staggered, or paid when the project is completed.

The Internet immensely helps freelance copywriters today. It helps copywriters and clients do business with each other from all over the world. Projects range from writing short articles to web content or sales letters. You should do some more research into freelance copywriting to see if it is right for your life.

About the Author:
For tips, tricks, and tactics of a top direct response copywriter, visit the site of Copywriter Ray Edwards. Claim your podcasts, marketing tips, videos and copywriting advice.

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