Dear Accidentally Qualified: Self-Promotion and Breaking Up With A Client

“Accidentally Qualified” is an advice column from Study Hall written by Sonia Weiser, a freelance journalist and the founder of the journalism opportunities newsletter, “Opportunities of the Week.” Questions can be submitted through our anonymous form for consideration: https://forms.gle/pwUbNgwTBaGKATyu5. 

Dear Accidentally Qualified, 

I keep hearing it’s important as a freelance writer to “raise my profile,” but what does that even mean? Does it mean writing more for a single publication or getting into as many high-profile outlets as possible? Does it mean starting my own podcast or appearing on others? Or am I just overthinking what is basic, unhelpful advice along the lines of “if you want to be more successful, have you considered becoming famous and beloved?”? 

-Not Almost Famous

Dear Not Almost Famous, 

Here’s the thing: right now, being a successful freelancer means getting work. Period. I think we’ve all thrown out strategizing in favor of landing articles wherever we can, so I’d worry less about “raising your profile” in any specific way and more about continuing to get your work published. The industry isn’t what it was 10+ years ago when we all had the luxury of being choosy. Most of us can’t guarantee where we’ll secure bylines. Yes, you’ll hear about the lucky ones who get frequent assignments from the same editors or have a regularly published column or newsletter gig or have a book deal keeping them afloat for a year or two, but at least as far as I know, they’re in the minority. And remember: the people who seem to have it all figured out may not be telling you everything. There’s definitely been an increase in transparency in the industry, but not everyone has bought into sharing their failures publicly. 

So set intentions all you want, but there’s always going to be an editor (or two) between you and an acceptance. 

So yes, you could be overthinking this. But it’s also not the worst thing to be thinking about. Name recognition can be a real factor in elevating your career. So sure, appear on podcasts if you think they’re worth your time (which can mean anything from “will get you exposure” to “it’ll be fun!”) I wouldn’t bank on them to elevate your career—unless it’s a big one—but it may lead to a few more people knowing who you are, some more social media followers, and a few more google results for your name. Same goes for blog interviews, TikTok appearances, and any other chance for publicity that may come your way; pick the ones that appeal to you. But also, don’t stress about not doing any of this.