Freelance work is often touted as the ultimate dream for
marketing writers.
The promise of flexible hours, being your own boss, taking
home the full fee rather than just a fraction, and having complete control over
your career can be incredibly alluring. These benefits are often the
cornerstone of why so many copy and content writers consider taking the leap
into freelancing.
But while freelancing offers many appealing aspects, it's
important to recognize that it’s not the perfect fit for everyone. Here are seven key reasons why some marketing writers might find that freelancing
isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
1. Constant Need for Self-Promotion
As a freelancer, you’re not just a writer—you’re also your own marketing team. This means constantly promoting yourself, which can be uncomfortable or draining for some.
Instead of focusing solely on creating compelling content, a significant portion of your time will be spent building your brand, networking, and chasing leads.
Self-promotion requires a different set of skills, including salesmanship and the ability to pitch yourself confidently. If the idea of constantly selling your services and putting yourself out there makes you cringe, freelancing might not be the best path. Some writers prefer the structure of an in-house or agency role where their work speaks for itself, without the need for continuous self-promotion.
2. Financial Instability
Freelancing can be financially unstable, especially in the beginning.
While in a traditional job, you receive a consistent paycheck, freelancing income can vary wildly from month to month. You may have periods of feast followed by long stretches of famine. This inconsistency can be stressful, especially if you have significant financial responsibilities like a mortgage or family to support.
Freelancers also need to account for expenses like health insurance, retirement savings, and taxes, which can add up quickly. If you’re someone who thrives on financial stability and predictability, the uncertainty of freelancing might be more of a burden than a benefit.
3. Administrative Overhead
Freelancers have to wear many hats beyond just writing. You’re responsible for invoicing, contracts, taxes, bookkeeping, and other administrative tasks. These tasks can eat up a lot of time—time that you could be spending on client work or refining your craft.
While some writers enjoy the entrepreneurial aspects of freelancing, others find the administrative burden overwhelming. If you prefer to focus solely on the creative side of writing without getting bogged down in the minutiae of running a business, freelancing might not be the best fit.
4. Lack of Creative Collaboration
Working in-house or with an agency often means being part of a team where you can bounce ideas off others, get feedback, and collaborate on projects. This collaborative environment can lead to more creative and effective work.
Freelancers, on the other hand, often work in isolation. While some writers thrive in solitude, others miss the creative energy that comes from working with a team. If you’re someone who values collaboration and the creative stimulation of a team environment, freelancing might leave you feeling isolated or creatively stifled.
5. Difficulty Setting Boundaries
When you’re a freelancer, your work-life balance can easily get out of whack.
Without clear boundaries, work can bleed into your personal life, leading to burnout. Clients may expect you to be available at all hours, and the pressure to take on every project can make it hard to say no, even when you’re overwhelmed. In contrast, a traditional job typically offers clearer boundaries between work and personal time, with set hours and expectations.
If you struggle with setting boundaries and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, freelancing could exacerbate these challenges rather than offering the freedom you desire.
6. Uncertain Career Progression
Freelancing doesn’t come with a clear career path. There’s no ladder to climb or promotions to strive for.
While you have the freedom to set your rates and choose your projects, your career progression is largely in your hands. For some writers, this autonomy is empowering. For others, the lack of a structured career path can feel disorienting or demotivating.
If you’re someone who values clear goals, mentorship, and the opportunity to advance within a company, you might find freelancing lacks the career development opportunities that come with more traditional employment.
7. Limited Access to Resources and Benefits
When you work for a company, you often have access to resources that can enhance your work—whether it’s software, research tools, training, or a team of professionals like designers and strategists. Freelancers typically have to pay for these resources out of pocket or make do without.
Additionally, traditional employment usually comes with benefits like health insurance and paid time off. Freelancers must not only fund these benefits themselves but also manage them. If you value the support and security that comes with these resources and benefits, you might find freelancing to be more costly and complicated than you anticipated.
To Sum Up
Freelancing offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges. For some marketing writers, it’s the perfect path to independence and creative freedom. For others, the realities of financial instability, self-promotion, administrative burdens, and lack of resources can outweigh the benefits.
Weigh these factors carefully and consider what environment will help you thrive. Whether you choose to go freelance or stick with a more traditional career path, the most important thing is to find a work style that supports your goals, values, and lifestyle.
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For more information about freelance writing, check out:
30 Resources for Freelance Writers (including 7 Free Courses)
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Picture Credit: Liz Fosslien and Molly West Duffy: lizandmollie.com
