Featured Freelance Writers — Angie Murillo

One of the main reasons I started No Hustle Freelancer is to create a community. I am excited to continue this Featured Freelance Writer series. :) Today, I want to introduce you to Angie Murillo. Angie is a freelance SEO copywriter who writes in a variety of niches. She talks about the strategies that help her to run a successful business, including moving away from Upwork and asking for a 50% deposit. I hope you will enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

Tell us about yourself. What kind of freelance writing do you do/what's your niche?

Hi! I’m Angie, a freelance SEO copywriter. I’ve worked in a variety of niches: parenting, maternity, beauty, health, wellness, and more. I’m comfortable and confident as a team player or independent worker. I always make my deadlines a priority and meet them accordingly. 

My work includes: consumer/topic research, topic pitches, SEO, CTA, meta descriptions, formatting, and editing. 

Where do you write? On your couch? A nice home office? Cafes? Coworking spaces?

I have a small home office to work in, but I also enjoy working in local coffee shops or libraries. 

When and why did you decide to start freelancing? How long have you been freelancing?

I’ve been freelancing for over 5 years. As a mom of 3, I wanted to have the freedom to provide an income while also being the mother I want to be. 

How did you find your first clients? How do you find your clients now?

My first client came from Upwork. I’ve since learned about scams and low-ballers, so now I do cold outreach or acquire clients from my website/referrals. 

What is your favorite thing about freelancing? Anything you don't like?

The freedom to work remotely is definitely my favorite part. I don’t like the taxes process, but only because it still confuses me!

What is the most valuable lesson you've learned so far?

Always have a deposit and contract. I learned this lesson from being ghosted once or twice. Now I require a 50% deposit per project/month and a simple contract outlining dates for payment and deliverables. 

Let's keep it real, there is always something to work on. Is there anything you are currently struggling with or working to improve on as a freelance writer?

I’m working on gaining retainer clients. I typically work on a 3-month contract, but would like to expand that time frame.

BIPOC writers, writers from marginalized communities, and non-native speaker writer face certain challenges that others do not. Are you part of any of these groups? If yes, can you tell a bit about the challenges you are facing, how you are dealing with them, and any tips you have. 

I am a POC, but as of right now I’m not facing any personal challenges. Thankfully!

A lot of parents choose the freelancing path so they can stay at home with their kids or spend more time with their families. Are you a parent that choose freelancing for these reasons? If yes, how are you navigating your role as a parent and do you have any tips for other parents. Did you choose freelancing even before become a parent? How did parenting change your freelancing journey? Eg. maternity/paternity leave, working less hours, budget etc. 

This is exactly why I started freelancing. There is no juggling motherhood and freelancing. I am always a mother and only sometimes a freelancer. What I mean by this is that momming is from kids wake up through bedtime. My freelancing schedule is structured around the times they are asleep or I'm lucky enough to find a sitter for daytime work when needed. I wouldn’t have it any other way bits hard, yes. Tiring, of course. But finding a good rhythm is key and getting to witness every milestone in my kids’ lives is the best!

What advice would you give freelance writers that are just starting out?

Study your skillset and never stop. Get your feet wet! Even if the first projects are free or low. Focus on building your portfolio with mock-ups, testimonials, and work from those low-paying clients to start off. 

Where can we find you? Feel free to share your website, portfolio, Linkedin, other social media.

www.angiemurilloagency.com

Are you interested in creating a sustainable freelance writing business without the hustle? Check out my freelance writing course with a step-by-step process of exactly what you need.