It’s no secret that freelance writing and journalism careers can be fickle things: your pitches may be coming back cold, or you will suddenly find your inbox flooded with an avalanche of requests - and meanwhile, you’ve just seen on social media that such-and-such a beginner has skyrocketed to fame after just one commission.
Equipping yourself with survival skills such as a hustle mindset, an ear to the ground and a robust suite of organisational skills are essential for freelance career longevity - as is an ability to source work that challenges you as much as it brings you fulfillment, and expanding your portfolio with pieces that make you feel as though you’re truly thriving.
In this workshop with features writer and columnist Coco Khan, you will learn the difference between surviving and thriving as a freelance writer - and why they are equally as important as the other. She will touch on the practical skills of pitching to editors and finding your voice as a writer, while also digging into the art of sustaining yourself.
This masterclass is ripe with hard-earned advice on how to make a living in journalism and writing as a freelancer, and how to do it while retaining your authenticity.
Course content
Transitioning from citizen or student journalism to professional writing
What to expect from life as a freelance journalist
How to spot and pitch strong stories to editors - and then get paid to write them
Building and maintaining relationships with editors
The difference between surviving and thriving - and why both matter
Expanding your portfolio without compromising your values or self
Q&A
This course is for…
Beginners who want to take their first steps into professional writing
Early-career writers who are looking to diversify their work to make their career more financially sustainable
You will be sent a link to the webinar 2hrs before the start time of 6pm (BST).
Tutor profiles
Coco Khan is a columnist, feature writer and commissioning editor. Before arriving at The Guardian she was a freelancer for many years, and continues to work with magazine titles in the UK and US. She tweets @cocobyname.
Details
Date: Thursday 27 May 2021
Times: 6pm-8.30pm (BST)
Price £49 (plus booking fee)
This masterclass is available globally. If you are joining us from outside the United Kingdom, please use this time zone converter to check your local live streaming time.
6pm BST | 7pm CEST | 10am PDT | 1pm EDT
Information on Guardian Masterclasses
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Returns policy
Once a purchase is complete we will not be able to refund you where you do not attend or if you cancel your event booking. Please see our terms and conditions for more information on our refund policy.
