Guest posting has a bad rap in the freelance writing world. It’s typically associated with “writing for exposure” or trading your time for a backlink and a byline. Yes, many opportunities fall into that category.
But getting paid for guest posting isn’t unheard of.
Although most guest contributions are unpaid, there’s demand for niche-specific, high-quality content. Many agencies and online publications pay for strong guest posts. If you’re a freelance writer with lived experiences or expertise in a specific area, you’re a prime candidate.
I find guest posting is also one of the most satisfying ways to get paid to write. You’re not just writing an SEO article or some web copy. You often get to write about something you actually care about or know well. Most times, that means less stress and less research.
Lots of writers overlook guest posting. Don’t let that stop you.
Let’s break down how to make paid contributions happen.
Why Guest Posting is Worth It
Even when it’s unpaid, guest posting can be a valuable move for your freelance writing career. On the right platforms, a byline can help you:
- Gain visibility in your niche or industry
- Build relationships with editors, content leads, and potential clients
- Establish authority that makes future pitches and projects easier to land
You know I’m a huge advocate for building your authority as a niche expert. Doing so lets you charge higher rates and stand out from a horde of generalist writers.
Clients appreciate working with experts in their field. Guest posting in respected publications or on trusted industry websites is a chance to add an extra bit of authority to your portfolio.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Paid
Although writing for exposure can be worth your time, getting paid with money is even better. Here are three ways to increase your chances of landing a paid guest posting gig:
1. Write in Niches That Pay
Not all niches are the same. Some are far more likely to pay guest contributors, especially ones where content directly supports business goals. Think B2B SaaS, marketing, health and wellness, personal finance, and tech. Brands in these areas need expert content and have budgets to acquire it.
2. Lead with Experience
This one is a double-edged sword, I know. Editors are more likely to pay for posts that bring something tangible to the table. Maybe it’s a lesson learned from firsthand experience or a strategy you’ve tested. It could be a nuanced take on something you’ve lived, studied, or worked on. If you have that experience, say so. It helps your pitch stand out and justifies your request for compensation.
3. Ask For It
Many writers miss this part. Don’t be afraid of being rejected or coming off as transactional. It’s okay to ask for payment when negotiating a guest posting opportunity.
Something simple like “Do you offer a contributor fee for this type of post?” goes a long way. That one sentence is often the difference between getting paid and writing for free.
Where to Find Paid Guest Posting Opportunities
Since guest posting opportunities are often buried deep within niches and sub-niches, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all list. But here are a few places I recommend looking:
- Job Boards: ProBlogger, Who Pays Writers, All Things Freelance Writing
- Industry Sites: Some niche blogs openly advertise contributor guidelines and pay rates. (Tip: Google “[your niche] + write for us + paid.”)
- LinkedIn: Follow content managers and editors in your niche. Many post calls for contributors.
- Agencies & Content Studios: These teams often manage blogs for multiple brands and pay freelancers for guest-style contributions.
Final Thoughts
Guest posting probably won’t replace your income earned by writing for clients. However, it can become a rewarding stream of both credibility and cash if you’re interested in it.
It’s especially valuable if you:
- Love writing about a particular topic
- Want to build authority in a niche
- Are looking to land better clients with stronger samples
Start with what you know, and don’t be afraid to ask for what your writing is worth. Cheers!
