First, learn the basics of document and graphic design. I'm not talking about learning Flash and getting a degree in graphic design. Instead of reading content only on those sales letters you put in your files, look at their design. Think about what visual elements caught your eye. When someone hands you a pamphlet, flier, or menu on the street, take it. What are your impressions of it? Did it make you want to read it or was it difficult to read because of the way the text was laid out? Check out newsletters, both online and paper based - there's a reason why people like (or don't like) to read them. American Writers and Artists, Inc. (AWAI) even offers an affordable Desktop Marketing Course, which shows you how to design marketing materials for clients. Before you know it, you can offer a "content only" prospect the ability to be a one-stop shop. Plus, you can write content with the graphic elements in mind.

Second, and in relation to learning design, learn how to use a desktop publishing software. Microsoft Publisher and Apple Pages are the most common and even come with some computer setups. I personally use a MacBook - after many years as a PC user. Pages, which is part of Apple's iWork productivity suite, gives you the choice of crisp, professional templates for brochures, letters, newsletters, postcards, posters, etc. After I started using Pages, I designed an identity for my freelance writing business, from envelopes to letters to postcards. Plus, it's fun to learn a new application. Don't let the complexity scare you - just practice in whichever software you use. Even if you don't use it for clients, use your publishing software to create your portfolio pieces - they look fantastic and will enhance your great writing skills.

Third, try learning about Instructional Design. I'm lucky that developing training courses was my "real job" before I started freelancing. I've had a ten-year career in training and development, so I've learned not only by the book but also through application. I did take a certification course in Instructional Design from a university, and that's what I recommend. You'll learn the basics of how to design training courses along with adult learning principles. When I'm looking for a project here and there online, I often see businesses searching for a training designer among the writers. Some writers have a natural ability to write training, but think about the extra credibility you can add when you call yourself an Instructional Designer. When you can go in and show the prospect that you're a good writer but that you also understand the principles of adult education and training design, they'll be more inclined to hire you.

Fourth, work in the Web 2.0 environment. By this I mean leave your Internet connection open all the time and really be ready to use it. If you run across a fact or figure, research it immediately. As creative people, many of us don't shut our brains off. I'm the guy who can be right in the middle of balancing my checkbook when I'll think: gee, I wonder how many cars pass through the Lincoln Tunnel every day? I'll go right on the Internet, find my statistic, and go back to work. These kinds of facts and trivia come in handy. Not only should you be ready to research in a flash, you should use the resources that the new Internet has to offer for your business. Join some chat groups or Internet forums - look for things you might be interested in and see what kind of discussion happens. You'll be able to show yourself as an expert or a fan or whatever - and then you may be able to find extra business.

These are just a few ways to increase your freelance writing success. I'm by no means an expert, but I've found these four keys to be very helpful while continuously building my business.