A lot of freelance writers get confused when they are asked how much are their going rates per article, per word, or per project batch. Letting your client set how much he'd pay may leave you on the losing end because he'd probably bargain with you with the lowest possible rates.

But why do freelancers need to set their own rates?

If you are offered $2 for a 500-word work, should you accept it? For a new freelance writer, it might be enough.

Looking at the amount, it isn't really much. But if you are just starting in the industry, building on your profile, building on your clients' trust and building on your skills will help you to know how much you are worth. It will help you determine how much you need to charge for your writings.

Think of that $2 per article gig as a writing sample. New freelance writers take them because they want to prove themselves. They want to see how and what they can do.

Starting at a low rate lets you criticize yourself and let yourself be criticized by your clients, as well. If you continue to do great pieces of work, then consider giving yourself a promotion. Gradually raising your going rate as you build on your reputation and your portfolio helps as lot.

Ask yourself this question: How much is my writing worth? Surely, it might be hard to answer, but once you set the line and evaluate your own work, everything else follows.

A portfolio is a good reason for you to start promoting yourself as a freelance writer. It allows you to showcase your best works to show to potential clients, thereby giving them a clear proof as to why your rate is like that.

If you feel that your writing is worth $1 per 100 word, then show it - and prove it. Likewise, if you feel that your writing is worth $25 for every 500-word article, then showcase your best works and prove why you are worth like that.

You cannot just start your freelance writing career with a $25/article gig at once. Like other jobs, freelance writing has growth. Even if you work at home, it helps you grow and develop yourself as one of the most coveted and respectable writers in the industry.

So the next time you get a gig and you must send your expected salary, then don't be afraid to bid over the budget (or maybe below.) It just goes to say that your bid or rates measure the quality of your writings and works.