The most common mistake freelancers make is selling themselves short, underestimating the value of good writing and editing skills to business and others in need of such services. On the other hand, you don't want to price yourself out of the market. Networking with other writers in your area is the best way to learn how much to charge for your level of expertise and location. Not only can talking to other writers help you determine how much you can charge for a particular service, it can also help you learn of new opportunities as well as combat the isolation that can come from working alone. The grapevine is also very useful in identifying problem clients and areas of concern.
Most freelancers belong to at least one writers' or freelancers' organization.
The National Writers Association and the Freelance Editorial Association are two national groups working for the best interests of freelance writers and editors. If you specialize in a particular area such as translation or indexing there are a number of professional organizations for those working in these areas. Check the Organizations of Interest section in Writer's Market or in the Literary Market Place publishing trade directory for names and addresses of writers' organizations. Williams is a member of the National Writers Association, her local Chamber of Commerce, the Denver Women's Press Club and the Colorado Independent Publishers Association, where she meets many self-publishers looking for help with promotion. In this business it's better to be open to working with and referring others rather than to be highly competitive.