Welcome to Writers SA’s member-only literary advice column, where our experts respond to your questions about writing, publishing, the literary life and beyond. Got a question? Ask us here. For our very first installment of Agony Author, Rachel asks:“I am trying to get into freelance writing. How do I get myself published? I have both submitted my own writing and put my name forward to be given writing assignments. No luck. Do you have any advice? I also often see calls for writers that ask you to submit a writer’s profile or proof of other published works. How do you start as a writer if you don’t have any previous credits or experience. How do you get that first opportunity?” Dear Rachel, It can be hard to get started as a freelancer, because editors do like to be able to see your work and see if you would be a