From Side Hustle to Main Gig: Transitioning into Full-Time Writing

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For nurses who have a passion for writing and a desire to share their expertise, starting a writing business as a side gig can be the best work-from-home job for nurses. It allows you to leverage your health and nursing knowledge while exploring a new career path without immediately leaving the stability of your nursing job. Transitioning from nursing to full-time freelance writing can be a rewarding and lucrative career move, especially in fields like health journalism and content marketing writing. In this post, we'll explore several strategies to help you make a smooth transition from nurse to writer and turn your side hustle into your main gig.

Why Start Your Health Writing Business as a Side Gig?

Starting a writing business on the side offers numerous advantages. It allows you to build your portfolio, establish a client base, and refine your writing skills while still having the financial security of your nursing job. This gradual transition can also help you gauge whether freelance writing is truly the right fit for you without the pressure of needing to replace your entire salary immediately - because health writing isn't a "get-rich-quick" scheme in any way. It takes time to learn the industry and build a client base, just like any other legitimate business.

Additionally, many freelance writers find that they can earn a full-time income while working part-time hours. It’s not uncommon for writers to achieve a substantial income working 24 hours a week or less, making it an appealing option for those seeking better work-life balance.

Strategies for Transitioning from Nursing to Full-Time Freelance Writing

1. Build Your Writing Portfolio

A strong portfolio is essential for attracting clients and demonstrating your writing abilities. But don't make the common mistake of creating mock samples of different types of content, such as blog posts, articles, and case studies. That's ineffective because what prospective clients and editors really want is social proof: Proof that you served another client, went through a content production process successfully, and wrote well enough for that client to publish your work. Mock samples don't provide any social proof.

RN2writer recommends (and teaches) a different method for getting your initial writing samples: Volunteer to write for a nonprofit organization. This way, you get valuable experience in serving a client, and the nonprofit receives the benefit of your writing work. Plus, you can feel good about supporting a worthy charity!

And, by the way, never, ever write for free for any for-profit entity . This includes other freelance writers. We've seen an unfortunate surge in nurse writers offering others the "opportunity" to write a post for their blog (for free) in exchange for editing and publication. That's unethical. Writers - of all people - should never ask other writers to work for free!

2. Network with Other Writers and Industry Professionals

Networking is crucial in the freelance writing world. Connect with other writers, editors, and industry professionals to learn about opportunities and gain insights into the field. Join online communities, attend writing conferences, and participate in social media groups dedicated to freelance writing and healthcare topics.

Whenever you purchase anything from RN2writer (or even download one of our free items), you receive a free, lifetime membership in our private community, the Success Society. Use this as your main online community for networking with other nurse writers, our coaches, and even our founder, Elizabeth Hanes BSN RN! Lost your Success Society invitation? No problem! Just email [email protected] for help!

Tips for effective networking:

Join professional associations: Organizations like the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) offer valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Engage on social media: Participate on LinkedIn and in and Facebook communities related to freelance writing and healthcare.
Attend webinars and workshops: These events can help you stay updated on industry trends and connect with potential clients and collaborators. (Pro tip: Watch the biweekly RN2writer newsletter for lists of these types of events for health writers!)

3. Set Realistic Goals and Create a Transition Plan

Transitioning from nursing to freelance writing requires careful planning. Set realistic goals for yourself, such as the number of clients you want to secure, the income you aim to generate, and the timeline for transitioning to full-time writing.

Steps to create a transition plan:

Assess your financial situation: Determine how much income you need to replace your nursing salary and how many writing projects you need to take on to achieve that.
Develop a timeline: Outline the steps you need to take to build your writing business and establish milestones to track your progress.
Prepare for the transition: Save an emergency fund to cover expenses during the transition period and reduce financial stress.

4. Market Yourself Effectively

Effective marketing is essential for attracting clients and growing your freelance writing business. Create a professional website that showcases your portfolio, services, and testimonials. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to highlight your writing skills and healthcare expertise.

Marketing tips for freelance health writers:

Create a professional website: Include a portfolio, a list of services, client testimonials, and a blog to demonstrate your expertise.
Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Highlight your nursing background and writing skills, and connect with potential clients and industry professionals.
Stay active on social media...but only if you have a GOAL: Share your work on platforms like LinkedIn, but don't just participate on any social media channel "because everyone says you have to do that." Start with a goal for what you want to accomplish on your social channels, and then create an action plan that moves you toward your goal.

5. Learn About Freelance Writing Business Management

Running a successful freelance writing business involves more than just writing. You’ll need to manage contracts, invoices, taxes, and client communications. Educate yourself on the business side of freelancing to ensure you operate professionally and efficiently.

Business management tips:

Use invoicing software: Tools like FreshBooks can help you manage invoices and track payments.
Understand tax requirements: Learn about tax deductions for freelancers and consider consulting with a tax professional.
Manage client relationships: Develop strong communication skills and set clear expectations with clients to maintain positive working relationships.

6. Continue Your Professional Development

To stay competitive and improve your writing skills, continue your professional development. Take online courses, attend workshops, and read industry publications to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in freelance writing and healthcare.

Professional development resources:

Online courses: Platforms like RN2writer and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on writing, marketing, and business management.
Industry publications: Subscribe to newsletters and online publications related to healthcare and freelance writing.
Writing workshops: Participate in workshops and webinars to enhance your skills and learn from experienced writers.

Transitioning to Full-Time Writing

Once you have built a strong portfolio, established a client base, and prepared financially, you’ll be ready to transition to full-time freelance writing. Remember, full-time doesn’t have to mean 40 hours a week. Many successful freelance writers work fewer hours while earning a substantial income.

Benefits of Full-Time Freelance Writing

Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to set your own schedule and work from anywhere.
Work-Life Balance: Achieve a better balance between your professional and personal life.
Financial Potential: With dedication and effective marketing, you can earn a full-time income while working part-time hours.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Transitioning from nursing to full-time freelance writing comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common obstacles and how to overcome them:

Income Stability: Freelance income can be unpredictable. One way to mitigate this is by cultivating anchor clients. You also should save up a pool of money to draw from during ebbs in your writing income. Top up the pool when the money is flowing.
Time Management: Balancing multiple clients and deadlines requires excellent time management skills. Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to stay organized.
Isolation: Working from home can be isolating. Combat this by networking with other writers, joining writing communities, and scheduling regular social activities.

Health Writing: The Best Work-from-Home Nursing Job Around

Transitioning from a nursing career to full-time freelance writing is an exciting journey that offers numerous rewards. By starting your health writing business as a side gig, you can build your portfolio, gain experience, and gradually transition to full-time writing - if that's your goal. Remember, the best work at home job for nurses is one that leverages your unique skills and expertise while offering flexibility and financial potential. With careful planning, effective marketing, and continuous professional development, you can successfully transition from nurse to writer and enjoy a fulfilling and lucrative career in freelance writing.