Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish historical novelist and poet, referred to mercenary soldiers as “freelancers” in his book Ivanhoe. This is where the word found its genesis. Since then, the word “freelancer” has gained new meanings. It became much more figurative by the 1860’s and was finally officially recognized as a word by the English Oxford Dictionary in 1903.

The word “freelance” comes in many different forms today: It can be a noun, freelance or freelancer; it can be a verb, a photographer who freelances; or it can be an adverb, he works freelance.

People from many different markets, including copywriting, have determined that freelancing is a better option than regular employment. They feel this way because freelancing offers more control and flexibility over their work.

Here are some reasons why copywriters are becoming freelancers:

* Many Different Kinds of Projects. Freelance copywriting allows copywriters to work on different kinds of copywriting than if they were at a firm or agency. The Internet also offers more opportunities to freelancers: It helps copywriters gain access to more opportunities, better projects, and a higher income. Freelance copywriters can also work on different jobs at once. Meaning they could be writing a sales letter for one client, while they are writing web content for another.

* Projects Have Fast Turnaround. Since most freelance copywriting jobs are time based, they have to be done by a certain date. Copywriters can generally do these jobs quickly with ease, allowing them to pack in more projects per year than regular copywriters.

* More Freedom and Flexibility. A freelance copywriter can choose which projects to write, where they work, and when they work. Despite that freelancing does require contracts, freelance copywriting is still a no employee-no employer work relationship. Freelance copywriting also frees someone from the normal confines of a 9 to 5 job. Since a freelance copywriter can be their own boss, they can choose their own working hours. This freedom allows freelance copywriters to pursue other interests, take on more jobs, and help take care of their family.

* Greater Income. Because freelance copywriters are hired because of their specialized skill, and because they don’t have to split their profits with an advertising agency, they can make more money than other copywriters. Freelance copywriters usually charge by the hour, day, or per-project. Others don’t use flat rates but use value-based pricing methods instead. Payments are arranged based on the contract determined by the copywriter and client. Generally, they can pay upfront, staggered, or when the project is completed.

Freelancers can easily find work on the Internet today. The Internet helps copywriters and clients from all over the world do business. Freelance copywriters can write short sales articles, write web content, and create sales letters. There is a great demand for good freelance copywriters, so you should do some more research into freelance copywriting if it interests you.