If you’re a freelance writer, the question of how much to charge for writing an article can be a tough one. It’s not enough to simply write and churn out content for clients; you need to figure out how much to charge based on your skillset, the type of work you do, and the industry you’re in.
The best way to figure out how much you should charge for an article is by calculating how long it takes you to write an article. This means considering both the time spent researching and drafting your article as well as the time it takes you to edit, proofread, and format the content.
To get a sense of how long it takes to write an article, you can use a free tool like Clockify or an app that tracks your writing time. You’ll want to keep track of this time to ensure that you don’t end up quoting low prices for articles that aren’t worth the time you put into them.
Once you’ve got an idea of how long it takes to write an article, it’s important to figure out if you should charge by the hour or by project. Many writers start off charging by the hour because it’s easier to determine the time required for an article.
As you gain experience, however, it’s a good idea to move away from the hourly rate and instead focus on providing quality content that is priced fairly. This will enable you to make more money per hour and build a strong base for your freelance business.
How much to charge for an article varies widely, depending on the skill level of the freelancer and the industry they’re in. You’ll also want to consider the cost of additional services, such as SEO or content marketing consulting.
Entry-level professionals or students who are building a portfolio, non-native English speakers, and small businesses typically charge lower rates. Professionals with results to show and experience in a niche, B2B or online publication typically charge higher rates.
Often, these writers are new to the world of freelance writing and aren’t accustomed to pricing their services. They may be hesitant to advertise their prices on their websites because they don’t want to scare off potential clients.
On the other hand, experienced writers who have a good reputation and have built relationships with clients know how to charge competitively. These writers are also typically able to price their services based on the amount of research, interviewing, and writing they need to do.
If you’re working with a client on a retainer basis, then it’s a good idea to offer slightly lower rates for ongoing work. You can take 10% or 15% off your standard hourly rate for a retainer contract.
In the end, you should charge a reasonable rate that covers your time, editing, and research costs. You can also include an optional rate for distribution, if necessary. This can help you cover expenses and increase your income.
