What are the best ways to manage multiple freelance writing projects?

When you have multiple projects in your bucket, then you need to prioritise your tasks to bring out the best output. If the projects come with multiple themes, then it is advisable to take one project at a time, finish it up and move to next one. In case they are somehow around same topic, then you can begin intros and then move to research one-by-one and then finally conclusion.

In order to manage multiple freelance writing projects, you have to first plan ahead. This is so that you can finish most of it on time. You need to set up a schedule. This is so that you would be able to know when you can finish your projects. You should only accept more projects if it can be done at the same time or if it can be finished quite fast. This is to avoid you from not being able to finish any of the projects.

Also, plan behind. What I mean by this is keep a log of everything you write: the pay, the time it took, the deadline date, the word count. I use CSV files and Python to run analytics on the data because I am a developer but you could use Excel or Google Sheets. Figure out how much time it takes you to do things and you can estimate the future more accurately. Right now I know if someone needs a 1000 word article on topics I generally know that isn't too technical, I can get it done in about two hours. I also know I have about three hours a weeknight to write. Then I just do the math and fit deadlines into my week.

Get your ducks in a row! Start by mapping out each project on a calendar, highlighting deadlines and crucial milestones. Even better, use a kanban tool like those in Notion, Trello, Asana, or Clickup to break down each project into bite-sized tasks, setting realistic deadlines for each. This is a marathon, not a sprint. And remember, unexpected stuff always pops up, so pad your timeline with a bit of wiggle room. It's better to finish early and bask in the glory than to be racing against the clock.

I cannot stress enough the importance of good planning. I've had periods when I've been working on 15-20 separate writing projects at the same time. Different genres, different audiences, different needs. You need to really keep your discipline in these situations. Sit down, work out a workable plan, and stick to it!

When accepting multiple writing projects, you should prioritize and focus. This is so that the quality of your writing project wouldn't be compromised. You should prioritize projects that are urgent. This is because your credibility would be affected if you don't finish your projects. You should focus on one project at a time if possible. Don't try to multitask if it's possible as you might end up not being able to do any of the projects well.

Here's the skinny—not all tasks are created equal. Some jobs are big, hairy monsters, while others are a smooth walk in the park. Start each day by identifying the most important tasks, and tackle these beasts first when your energy's at its peak. It's tempting to multitask, but that's a one-way ticket to writing nothing but bullshit, so give each task the spotlight it deserves. Focus on one thing at a time. This way, you're not just crossing things off your list—you're nailing them.

Stay on the ball and keep your clients in the loop. Regular client updates are your safety net. If you hit a snag or need to pivot, your clients will appreciate the heads-up which builds trust. And let's be honest, surprises are great for birthdays, not so much for project timelines, especially writing projects. A quick check-in here and there can save you a lot of pissing around.

If you have to accept multiple writing projects at the same time but you can't handle it, you should delegate and outsource. This is so that all your projects can be finished. You could ask your assistants to do certain parts of your project. This is especially if it's parts like joining sentences together. You could just proofread after that. If you are delegating your work, you have to make sure that you have a good communication with them. This is so that you would be able to know about the progress of your project.

Ok so you think you're a superhero and can do it all yourself? Even superhero's need sidekicks. If your contract allows you to sub-contract out to other writers, then consider looping in someone else to knock those deadlines out of the park. It's a strategic move that can save time, ramp up efficiency, and let you get more work done. But this comes with a caveat. Make sure the people you sub-contract to are trustworthy and for god sake have them sign an Non-Disclosure Agreement.

So you've got a first draft. Congrats, now the real work starts. Refine those ideas, get into the weeds with your prose, and really figure out your messages. Revisions are the key to truly great work. It's the difference between magnificent and meh. And don't forget to be ruthless, they're only words after all!

Every project, whether it's an absolute roaring success or a complete learning experience, offers valuable insights. Take your time to reflect on what went well and what just... didn't. Don't beat yourself up over mistakes (because your client will probably do that enough for you), instead take the criticisms, understand where it went wrong, tweak your processes, then apply them to the next project. DO. LEARN. RINSE. REPEAT.