In this episode, we’re diving into the wonderful world of freelance writing! It’s one of the longest running freelance trades and is still popular today. But how do you discover your ideal freelance writing niche when there are so many things you can do? Today we’re joined by Melanie Padgett Powers, a freelance writer and editor who is the owner of MelEdits. She shares a simple three-step process that includes strategies you can use to figure out the what, who, and where of your ideal niche and clients!   Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Melanie Padgett Powers and the topic of discovering your freelance writing niche - Melanie describes how she got started in the freelance writing space. [4:21] The best freelance niches in 2022 - Melanie lists examples of in-demand niches that pay well. She also shares advice on how to leverage a niche you’re interested in. [6:40] The challenges of working remotely - Melanie explains how she helped others figure out how to work from home. [7:37] Opportunities for writing jobs or gigs - Melanie suggests valuable ways you can help clients with writing tasks, strategies, and digital marketing. [10:16] Craig explains how podcasters require writers to repurpose podcasts into long-form blog posts - Melanie discusses why this is a great opportunity for writers.   How to Figure Out Your Writing Niche [11:33] #1 Do what you like to do - Melanie describes the negative effects of writing about something you’re not interested in. She also shares practical advice to help you brainstorm topics you’ll love. [13:08] #2 Think about who your ideal clients are - Melanie describes examples of niches you could write for and suggests how to brainstorm possible clients. [14:28] #3 Think about where your ideal clients are - Melanie explains how to reach clients by posting content in social networks. [15:24] The need for structure and strategy - Melanie stresses the importance of following the three steps. [16:00] How to find clients on LinkedIn - Melanie emphasizes content marketing and lists other effective strategies to help build your network and make more connections. [18:00] How to search for your “dream client” or “dream 100” on LinkedIn - Craig describes the benefits of LinkedIn newsletters. Melanie adds crucial advice to ensure your newsletters provide high value.    Final Tips for Finding Your Writing Niche [20:04] #1 Embrace and lean into networking and marketing - Melanie suggests reframing those two activities as “relationship building.”  [21:07] #2 Remember you’re not “just a freelancer” - Melanie emphasizes the importance of thinking and acting like a business. [21:57] How marketing may not necessarily be your natural skill set - Craig provides encouragement about offering value and making connections. [22:47] How to get to know Melanie  [23:51] How to learn more about Freelance University and its membership-based offer   Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Freelance University  FreeU’s “Freelance Friday” newsletter on LinkedIn   Learn more about Melanie Padgett Powers: Website: MelEdits    Podcasts:  Deliberate Freelancer  Association Station    Connect with Melanie: Twitter: @MelEdits  LinkedIn: Melanie Padgett Powers    Resources and Tools: Help a Reporter Out (HARO)  Instagram  Twitter  LinkedIn Reddit  Facebook Groups  Zoom