I was reading this post by Jennifer Margulis about becoming a freelance writer. She offers some great points about getting started as a freelance writer.

As a freelance writer, I wanted to add to her article. Freelance writing as a whole doesn't just include magazines and newspapers--it can include copywriting, too, which is what I do. Copywriting can be more lucrative in most cases, and when a copywriting business is established, it can provide a viable salary. There are low-paying markets in both fields, so the key is to build up and get the better clients and markets. (Copywriting is writing business marketing collateral...websites and brochures, etc.)

But whatever aspect of writing you get into, Jennifer's advice holds true. Not everyone can be a freelance writer. You have to have some writing talent. And, like she says, it does take time to build up a writing career.

And, I think, if you want it to be a business it needs to be treated as such. Maybe that's because I do more copywriting than journalism, but business basics are needed if you venture into this exciting field.

So if you're looking to break into the exciting world of magazine and newspaper article writing, identify and hone your skills--and enjoy all the perks!