Freelance writers today have two main problems.  These issues can be attributed to the imbalance between the supply and demand for writing services.  I believe that there is more supply than the demand for quality writing services.  The two main problems are:

Race to The Bottom Approach on Rates

Competition in content writing and academic essay writing is fierce.  In view of the sheer number of freelancers who are offering these services, many freelancers are compelled to lower their prices thinking that it is necessary to obtain work.  The race to the bottom approach, however, is counter-productive as it only degrades the quality of their work.

According to some freelance writers, many are willing to write articles for as long as $3 for every 300 words. This can pose a significant problem for experienced freelance writers because it forces them to lower their own rates even if its not commensurate with the quality of their work.  Afraid of losing their clients, many of them are forced to give substantial discounts just to stay competitive.

Not Getting Payment for Services Rendered

Many content writers and academic writers are exposed to the risk of not getting the payment for the services they rendered.  I am aware of the countless number of unsuspecting content writers and essay writers who were left with no choice but to accept work and submit their output to the companies which hired them expecting that they will get the payment on the date promised to them.  However, many of them will subsequently learn that the websites for which they have submitted numerous articles and essays have suddenly closed down.  Without any means of finding out the owners of these companies, content writers and essay writers are at the mercy of these unscrupulous companies/websites.

Lack of Knowledge On How to Differentiate Oneself from Other Writers and Stand Out

Despite the availability of various free tools, many freelance writers are unable to take advantage of these tools to promote themselves.  Blogs, LinkedIn Profiles, FB pages, and Twitter are free tools which freelance writers can use to their advantage.  With these tools, freelance writers should be able to showcase their skills and experiences to build their own portfolio and get their own clients.  Unfortunately, many writers are not able to use them for their own benefit.