So, you landed that freelance writing gig … now what? If you think the answer is simply to turn in what you were hired to write, you’d be mistaken. A freelance writer who wants positive word-of-mouth publicity and continued work will do more than just the assignment.

If you want to impress your editor – otherwise known as your client — you will put these important steps into your work:

1. Be thorough. Meet every aspect of the assignment, especially the word count and the format for turning in your work (i.e., Google doc, attached Word doc, etc.). Read the assignment again before turning things in – you never know what you might have lost sight of along the way.

2. Be your own editor and proofreader. Writers accustomed to a good editor can get lazy. In the freelance world your work often goes straight to press, so when you finish a project get out your style guide and put on your editing cap. Don’t skimp on quality.

3. Think ahead of your work. Depending on what you are writing, extra steps may need to take place after it’s done. These may include getting permission for copyrighted material or fact-checking information the client gave you. Be responsible for these things, don’t assume the editor/client will do them unless it’s been specified.

4. Meet your deadlines. This is a tough one for some of us, but it makes the best impression. Always get a clear deadline from your client or editor, and always meet it. (Meet it early — or “over-deliver” as Freelancer Magazine suggests – and you might just turn that client into your number one fan.)

5. Stay available. Nobody wants a writer who goes MIA the  minute the assignment is turned in. Check your emails and stay on top of communication, following Wake Up Later’s communication guide. There may be questions to answer and things to clarify before the assignment is really finished.

6. Be flexible. You’re an expert. However, you can’t underestimate the importance of customer service. Face it, the client is always right — even if his taste is horrific. Do your best to satisfy the client, because the client’s satisfaction will further your career. (Need a pep talk? Read this freelancer’s bits of wisdom.)

7. Be humble. Don’t let an editor’s criticism get to you. Take it, learn from it  and move on. (You can start screaming after you hang up the phone.) Will the editor notice your patience? Probably not, but the editor would most certainly notice your lack of it. An inability to deal with criticism is the mark of an amateur writer. Take Amber Weinberg’s advice here.

8. Say thanks. When it’s all wrapped up and the job is done, send a quick note of thanks for the opportunity to work together. Don’t schmooze, but as this smart freelancer suggests just follow up in a positive way.

For more on making the best impression, check out these 6 Email Tips for Freelancers!

Tamara Rice is one of several freelance writers on the oDesk Blog team. She joined the oDesk marketplace in 2009, after more than six years on staff at an award-winning national magazine. On Mondays, Tamara shares her years of experience through tips, insights and resources to help you succeed in your freelance writing and editing career.