Content marketing can generate approximately three times the number of leads compared to outbound marketing, all while costing a whopping 62% less. That puts into perspective how important it is that your content can engage and retain readers.
However, another challenge arises: where can you find exceptional writers capable of producing such high-quality content? We searched for reliable platforms that connect businesses with talented and skilled writers.
Let's have a look at some of the best picks.
13 websites to hire writers
Before we go into the deep dive, here's a quick rundown of our top job posting sites to find writers:
- ProBlogger Job Board
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Guru
- Freelancer
- WriterAccess
- WeWorkRemotely
- Swipefiles
- Scripted
- Contently
- Cult of Copy
- Your careers page
What is a freelance content writer?
A freelance content writer is an independent professional who takes on writing projects from various clients, working on their own schedule to complete them. Freelance writers have the freedom to select assignments, organize their own schedules, and operate outside the confines of traditional employment.
Hiring freelancers allows employers to select from a wider talent pool, rather than limiting themselves to a specific area. This flexible approach eliminates the need for full-time employees, offering companies the opportunity to engage skilled professionals as needed, reducing overhead costs.
Where to find freelance content writers
Whether you're a company in need of compelling written content or an individual seeking writing assistance, we'll explore some fantastic places to connect with skilled freelance content writers who can help you shine.
ProBlogger Job Board
ProBlogger is one of the best, if not the best, freelance writing job board to hire writers. While it may not have the same expansive reach as some other platforms, what makes it so special is that it only exclusively caters to writers.
The platform boasts an impressive and ever-growing community of over 22,000 registered writers, with the number steadily increasing on a weekly basis.
It mainly consists of experienced applicants who have honed their skills over time and developed expertise in specific areas. So if you need niche experts instead of the usual jack-of-all-trades the content writing field is brimming with, ProBlogger is the place to be.
The pricing structure is straightforward: for a Standard Listing, you pay an upfront fee of $80, while a Featured Listing, which enjoys prime visibility at the top of the job board, costs $160. Whichever option you choose, your listing remains active for a generous 15-day period.
Upwork
Upwork is one of the most popular and widely recognized freelance platforms. It has freelancers based all over the world, so if you need someone to get work done for cheap, you can choose to select applicants from non-native countries where the average rate per word is lower.
Listing freelance writing gigs is free and you can do so as many times as you wish. Each job post on Upwork typically attracts an average of 20–50 applicants and you have the option to invite up to 30 writers of your choice to apply. And here's the best part: if you don't find your ideal candidate in the first round, you can always create another gig without any additional cost.
You are required to stay on the platform once you've hired your writer. However, this requirement comes with a valuable benefit: Upwork's Escrow payment protection service. With this service, your payment is securely held by the platform until the project is successfully completed and you are satisfied with the results.
Since you aren't charged for posting the job, Upwork applies a nominal fee of 5% with each payment to the freelancer.
Fiverr
Fiverr is another popular name you may have come across. The platform offers a slightly different approach when it comes to connecting freelancers with employers. Rather than the conventional method where you make a job posting and wait for candidates to apply, with Fiverr, you search for the right freelancer yourself.
Search for a content writer specializing in your niche using the search bar. As you scroll through the candidates, you'll have the opportunity to assess their profiles, taking into account their past ratings and the cover letter displayed on their profiles.
Once you have a list of relevant candidates that might be a good fit, you can further shortlist by messaging them and inquiring about their expertise, discussing specific details, and clarifying any questions you may have.
Fiverr charges a 5.5% fee on the purchase amount.
Guru
Guru is similar to Upwork and Fiverr, where you can either post job ads and wait for applicants to apply or search for relevant candidates who're offering content writing services yourself.
Although adding a listing is free if you verify your identity and add a payment method, you can also choose to pay $29.95 for your job to be highlighted for more exposure.
Currently, the platform has more the 300,000 applicants listed as content writers, so there's no shortage of talent to choose from. Guru offers a refreshing array of in-depth filters that allow you to fine-tune your search, enabling you to find the perfect candidate who matches your budget and desired experience level.
It is as cheap as they come, Guru only charges a 2.5% fee for each invoice you pay to your hired writer.
Freelancer
Freelancer is another fantastic platform that connects employers with skilled professionals from around the world.
You have the option to either manually draft a job post, providing all the necessary details yourself, or take advantage of the platform's convenient AI feature where you can have to provide specific information and preferences regarding the role, and based on your input, Freelancer can generate a job post automatically for you.
Plus, you can choose an add-on for candidates to sign an NDA or IP agreement if the role requires extra discretion. Although these come at an additional cost, the process is a lot more convenient than many other platforms where you would need to handle such details manually.
For fixed-price projects, there is a fee of 3% or $3.00 USD (whichever is higher) when the project is awarded, with an additional fee on any payments exceeding the original bid amount. For hourly projects, a 3% fee is applied to each payment made to the freelancer. Employers have the option to cancel a project within seven days of acceptance and receive a full-fee refund.
WriterAccess
WriterAccess is not your ordinary freelance platform. As the name suggests, it is primarily for content creation services.
They only hire from native countries so the overall quality of content by applicants is significantly higher than most other platforms. However, it's important to note that this emphasis on high-standard content is reflected in their pricing structure as well.
Writers on the platform are ranked on a scale of 2 to 6 stars, with 2-star writers being the least experienced but also the most cost-effective option. If you're looking for top-notch quality content, you can expect to shell out 6 to 10 cents per word.
But the fees don't end there. You will need a monthly subscription to stay on the platform, which starts at just $39 per month but goes all the way up to $499 a month.
WeWorkRemotely
WeWorkRemotely is a highly popular job board platform that attracts candidates with a diverse range of expertise.
It's great if you already have a remote working model in place and are looking to hire freelance writers on a contract basis. Although there aren't many freelance writing jobs, the platform is huge and averages around 1.8 million visitors per month, so there are more than enough eligible candidates.
The pricing reflects the platform's popularity. WWR charges $299 for a job post that stays up for 30 days. You can further choose one of the optional upgrades, aptly named "Good", "Better", and "Best" for additional benefits.
Or if you have multiple job postings to make, WeWorkRemotely offers various packages that provide discounted prices based on the number of posts you wish to publish.
Swipefiles
While Swipefiles is primarily a newsletter and community of marketing professionals, it also offers a job board specifically for marketing positions.
What sets Swipefiles apart is its niche focus on marketing. The platform attracts professionals who are passionate about the field and have a deep understanding of marketing strategies and techniques. So if you're looking for a writer specifically for this niche, then it's safe to give it a shot.
However, if you require a writer with expertise in a different area, we recommend exploring other platforms that have a broader focus and cater to a wider range of specialties.
The starting plan is priced at $300 per month, allowing you to post up to 3 job listings. If you require the ability to post more gigs, Swipefiles offers the "Bulk" plan priced at $500 per month, and the "Featured" plan priced at $900 per month.
LinkedIn isn't just a professional networking site; it's also a fantastic platform for finding and hiring great writers. The best part? Since it's such a well-known platform, you'll find a wide range of professionals from all walks of life. That means the odds of finding the right writer for your role are considerably higher.
If you aren't already familiar with the platform, LinkedIn can be described as an enhanced and comprehensive version of an applicant's resume plus a social media tool similar to Twitter, but for work.
You can use the platform's advanced search filters to find writers and review their profiles, which typically showcase their education, work history, and endorsements from previous employers.
Or you could also make a job post with details about the role and wait for applicants to apply, all for free!
Scripted
Scripted is an online platform that connects businesses and individuals with a network of professional freelance writers.
However, it is not like the other platforms we've talked about so far, Scripted is a content creation agency. But even for an agency they stand out. Rather than simply assigning your requirements to a random writer on their team, Scripted goes the extra mile. They let the screened list of applicants hired by Scripted apply to your job if they're interested, you then have the freedom to decide which candidate you want to go with.
Plus, they have freelancers for all kinds of content, including press releases, blog articles, web pages, product descriptions, and more. So no matter what you're looking for, Scripted has you covered.
For those with a monthly content budget of up to $500, the pricing starts at $199 per month. As your content budget increases, you can upgrade to a more relevant plan.
Contently
Contently is a writing agency that offers a range of services to businesses and individuals seeking high-quality written content. They provide a platform where clients can connect with professional freelance writers and manage their content projects efficiently.
Agencies like Contently take care of all the nitty-gritty like contracts, payments, and project management, which means that you can focus on what really matters—running the core business activities.
Contetly is the entire package, the platform gives you access to a complete suite of services. You'll receive a content strategy, a platform to manage your content (including a content calendar and process flow), and a team of writers and editors to develop your content.
However, we wouldn't recommend Contently for individuals. Their pricing is on the higher end, and they don't openly disclose it on their website. The cost can range from $50,000 to $200,000 yearly, depending on your company's needs.
Cult of Copy
Cult of Copy is a Facebook group/copywriting job board. Simply make a hiring announcement within the group and wait for the applications to pour in.
The group currently has more than 49,000 members, so it even rivals many of the paid job boards we've previously discussed. There are more than enough talented copywriters to go around, ensuring you'll have a high likelihood of finding the right candidate for your gig.
However, if you need a writer for blog posts or other services, you'll not have much luck with Cult of Copy. You can search Facebook or even Slack for more relevant communities.
You can use a Facebook scraper to quickly find the most relevant pages.
Additionally, if you have a low budget, Facebook can be particularly advantageous as you'll find specific groups like Content Writers and Content Writers: Pakistan where talented writers from South Asia offer their services at rates as low as $0.01 per word.
However, as with all ESL writers, it's important to exercise due diligence before finalizing your hiring decision.
Your careers page
The careers page on your website is another tool you can utilize to get the word out about potential openings. Doing so also allows you to tap into the organic traffic already visiting your site and attract potential candidates for the job.
This has the added advantage that the applicants will likely be experienced in the field and have the right samples to show for it since they're already engaging with your website.
Additionally, a short "Were Hiring" message on your home page can go a long way toward attracting writers that might be interested in the role.
How to assess the quality of freelance content writers
Once you have received a substantial number of applications for a job post, the next step is to filter and identify the best candidates among them. Let's have a look at what makes a good writer and what factors you should be looking out for when making your hiring decision.
Portfolio
When you hire content writers, it's essential to review their portfolio and ensure it includes relevant samples highlighting their writing skills and expertise, preferably within your industry.
Look for a variety of samples showcasing different writing styles, formats, and topics. Keep an eye out for the quality of the provided content, placing particular emphasis on the clarity, coherence, and engagement of the written text.
When evaluating freelance content writer candidates, prioritize those who provide bylines and demonstrate proven work experience. Bylines indicate that the writer's content has been published, offering tangible proof of their expertise and credibility.
Testimonials/Reviews
Testimonials can provide valuable insights into a freelance content writer's capabilities and professionalism. When assessing candidates, take the time to read through any testimonials or reviews they have received from previous clients or employers.
If they have provided their LinkedIn profile, these will likely show up beneath the "Experience" tab. However, if the candidate hasn't provided any, you can always reach out and ask them directly.
Positive testimonials can offer reassurance and be the final push you might need to confirm that the writer is a good fit for the role.
Responsiveness
The candidate's responsiveness during the hiring process usually sets the tone for how your communication will go throughout the employment period. So it's crucial you keep a look out for this factor when talking to the potential recruit.
Pay attention to how promptly and professionally the candidates respond to your initial inquiries or messages. A writer who is responsive and attentive from the beginning indicates their commitment to open and clear communication throughout the project.
SEO knowledge
SEO knowledge is a valuable asset for freelance content writers, especially since SEO and writing often go hand in hand. When assessing candidates, consider their understanding of SEO best practices and their ability to optimize content for search engines.
While it's acceptable to choose a writer without specific SEO experience, keep in mind that you'll need to provide detailed instructions in advance to ensure they meet your optimization requirements. However, selecting a writer with existing SEO knowledge can save you time and effort, as they will be well-versed in optimizing content for better visibility and organic reach.
Writing style
When evaluating freelance content writers, consider their style when writing articles and whether it aligns with your brand voice and target audience.
While finding a perfect match may be challenging, it's important to assess whether the writer can quickly grasp and adapt to your brand guidelines. Even if their initial style differs slightly, have a look at their samples and see if they can manage to switch their tones between different types of articles.
Specialization
Having a writer with experience and knowledge in your particular field can be a significant advantage. They are likely to have a deeper understanding of industry-specific terminology, trends, and audience preferences, enabling them to create more targeted and impactful content.
While specialization is not always a requirement, it can certainly contribute to the quality and relevance of the content produced.
This is particularly true for many technical fields, as newcomers often require more time to familiarize themselves with the subject matter compared to those who are already well-versed in it.
Benefits of hiring freelance content writers
Wondering if you need to hire a writer on a freelance basis and if it would be better to go the employment route? Here are a few key reasons why a freelance writer can be a valuable asset to your company.
Cost-Effectiveness
When you engage freelancers, you have the advantage of paying only for the specific work you require, precisely when you need it.
Unlike hiring full-time staff, where you bear the costs of salaries, benefits, and overhead expenses, freelancers operate on an as-needed basis, allowing you to allocate your budget more efficiently.
Just to put into perspective how cost-effective freelancers are, a recent report revealed employers saved around 30% on each hire by opting for freelancers instead of permanent employees.
Flexibility
Hiring freelance content writers grants you unparalleled flexibility in managing your projects. Freelancers can be engaged on a project-by-project basis, allowing you to scale your content needs up or down as per your requirements.
Whether you have a short-term project or an ongoing content strategy, freelancers offer the adaptability to accommodate your changing needs.
Access to a wide range of skills and expertise
When you hire freelance content writers, you gain access to a vast pool of talent with diverse backgrounds and specialized skill sets.
Whether you require technical writing, creative writing, SEO optimization, or industry-specific knowledge, freelancers can offer the expertise you need.
Fresh perspectives
The diverse background of your candidates also means that you bring in new ideas and perspectives into your business.
They are not limited to the norms of your company and can offer insights that you might not have thought of even after years of working in the field.
Time savings
By outsourcing your content needs, you free up your internal team to focus on other important tasks that require your attention.
Freelancers don't need to be micro-managed, that is not to say that your full-time employee might need it, but freelancers have experience working on their own time and delivering content without needing comprehensive input from you on every step, so you can trust them to do so.
Conclusion
Finding exceptional freelance content writers can be a game-changer for your business. Whether you choose platforms like ProBlogger, Upwork, Fiverr, or explore other options, the key is to assess writers based on their portfolio, testimonials, responsiveness, and SEO knowledge.
Remember, hiring freelancers allows you to tap into a wider talent pool and work with experts in specific niches, all while reducing overhead costs.
