LinkedIn is an invaluable platform for freelance writers. With over 740 million users worldwide, it provides access to a vast professional network and many potential clients. Determining what to post on LinkedIn as a freelance writer is key to presenting yourself professionally, attracting the right clients, and growing your business.
Post examples of your best work
One of the most effective things you can post on LinkedIn as a freelance writer is high-quality writing samples. These provide concrete evidence of your skills and experience to prospective clients. For instance, you could post:
- A recent blog post or article you wrote for a client
- An excerpt from a white paper, case study, or other long-form content
- A short, engaging social media post you crafted
When sharing samples, be sure to choose pieces that represent your best work and are relevant to your target clients. For example, if you want to attract more B2B technology clients, post samples of your technology writing rather than health or lifestyle pieces.
Share thought leadership content
Publishing thought leadership content positions you as an expert in your niche. Share articles providing tips, insights, or analysis related to your field. For instance, if you specialize in financial writing, you could post articles like:
- The Biggest Content Marketing Trends for Financial Services Brands
- How to Explain Complex Financial Topics to a Mainstream Audience
- Top 10 Finance Thought Leaders You Should Follow on LinkedIn
This presents you as knowledgeable and establishes your credibility with potential clients in your sector. Aim to share 1-2 thoughtful, original posts per week.
Post multimedia content
Don’t limit yourself to text-based updates. Diversify your LinkedIn feed by posting multimedia as well, such as:
- A video showing your writing and editing process
- A podcast or interview discussing effective freelance writing techniques
- An infographic displaying writing and editing statistics
- Photos and videos from relevant industry events you attended
Multimedia stands out in the LinkedIn feed and enables you to demonstrate your skills in multiple formats. Just make sure the content ultimately connects back to your services and expertise.
Share client testimonials and reviews
Positive client testimonials and reviews are social proof that you deliver great service. Ask satisfied clients if you can post their feedback on LinkedIn and link to more extensive reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, or Yelp. For example:
“It was a pleasure working with [Your Name]. They quickly understood what I was looking for and produced an excellent white paper for our startup’s launch. I would gladly hire them again for future content projects!”
– Sarah Davis, Founder, SmartTravel
Repurpose content from other platforms
To fill your LinkedIn feed, repurpose content you’ve already created elsewhere. For instance, turn blog posts into shorter LinkedIn articles, share your latest newsletter issue as a post, or repost top-performing updates from Twitter or Facebook. This amplifies the reach of your high-quality content.
Engage with your network
Actively engage with your connections by commenting on their posts, sharing their content, and joining relevant LinkedIn Groups. This expands your reach and positions you as an active participant in the LinkedIn community.
You can also post questions and polls to spark discussion. For example, as a freelance writer you could ask:
- What’s your top tip for writing engaging social media copy?
- What’s the #1 thing you look for when hiring a freelance writer?
- [Poll] What types of content do you most often outsource?
This engages your connections and provides insights into your audience’s needs.
Share industry news and trends
Stay plugged into your niche by posting relevant industry news, articles, and trends. This shows prospects you have your finger on the pulse of the latest developments. Useful content to share includes:
- Reports on industry growth, mergers, etc.
- Lists of top influencers and thought leaders to follow
- Roundups of new technologies or tactics impacting your field
- Links to webinars, virtual events, and conferences
Aim to share 1-2 industry-related posts per week to establish yourself as a trusted source who keeps clients in the know.
Post job openings and calls for contributors
If you need to hire freelance writers or are looking for guest contributors, post these opportunities in your LinkedIn feed. Reach qualified candidates by sharing:
- Full or part-time job openings
- One-off gigs and short-term projects
- Calls for guest posts, including topic and submission guidelines
Clearly lay out compensation details, requirements, and instructions to apply. This taps into the huge LinkedIn talent pool.
Run special offers and promotions
Run limited-time discounts, bundles, contests, or other special offers to attract new business. For example, you might post:
- 50% off your first blog post package for new clients
- Book three infographics and get the fourth one free
- Retweet this post for a chance to win a 1-hour consulting session with me
Sweeten the deal by tying promotions to holidays, events, or the season. But avoid overdoing it, as constant sales pitches can damage your brand.
Join LinkedIn Groups
Joining relevant LinkedIn Groups lets you connect with prospects, demonstrate expertise, and build relationships. Good Groups to join as a freelance writer include:
- Freelance Writers
- Content Marketing Professionals
- B2B Marketing Network
- [Your Niche] Writers
Consider starting your own Group if existing ones don’t fully align with your specialty. Post regularly without overt self-promotion to establish yourself as a valued group member.
Conclusion
Posting high-quality, relevant content on LinkedIn is key to succeeding as a freelance writer. Share your best writing samples, thought leadership articles, multimedia, testimonials, and industry news. Engage your network through comments, questions, and Groups. Run occasional promotions to attract new leads. By following these tips, you can leverage LinkedIn to connect with clients and grow your business.