Is becoming a content writer right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
Still unsure if becoming a content writer is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a content writer or another similar career!
Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.
How to become a Content Writer
If you're interested in pursuing a career in content writing, here are some steps you can take:
- Develop your writing skills: Content writing requires a strong foundation in writing skills, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and punctuation. To develop these skills, start by reading extensively, both within and outside your niche. Reading will help you become familiar with different writing styles, techniques, and voice. Additionally, practice writing every day, whether it's a blog post, article, or social media update. Set aside time each day to write, and experiment with different writing styles, voices, and tones. Get feedback from others by sharing your writing with peers or joining a writing group.
- Formal education: Content writing is a field that doesn't necessarily require a specific formal education. However, having a degree or certification in writing, journalism, English, communications, or a related field can be beneficial.
- Find your niche: Choosing a niche is essential for content writers. Your niche should be something that you're passionate about, knowledgeable in, and that has a market demand. When choosing a niche, consider your interests, hobbies, and professional experience. Research the market demand for the niche by analyzing the competition and the type of content being produced. It's essential to choose a niche that you can write about consistently and that has a broad audience.
- Build a portfolio: Your portfolio is your calling card as a content writer. It showcases your writing skills, expertise, and niche. Start building your portfolio by creating samples of your writing in your niche. If you don't have any writing experience, start by creating a blog or a website where you can publish your work. Your portfolio should include at least five writing samples that showcase your writing style, voice, and expertise. Additionally, your portfolio should have a professional design and be easy to navigate.
- Network and market yourself: Networking and marketing are crucial for content writers. Networking helps you connect with other writers, industry professionals, and potential clients. Join online communities, attend workshops, and participate in events related to your niche. Create a website and social media profiles to showcase your writing and expertise. Market yourself by sending pitches to potential clients, creating a content marketing plan, and building relationships with other professionals in your niche.
- Keep learning: Content writing is a constantly evolving field, and it's essential to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques. Attend workshops, read industry blogs and publications, and take online courses to enhance your skills. Additionally, keep practicing writing, experimenting with different styles and techniques, and seeking feedback from peers and professionals.
Workshops and Bootcamps
There are many workshops and bootcamps available for content writers. When choosing a workshop or bootcamp, consider your goals and what specific skills or topics you want to learn. Some programs may focus more on technical skills like SEO or social media, while others may focus more on storytelling and creative writing. Here are some examples:
- Content Marketing Conference: This conference offers workshops and sessions on content creation, SEO, social media, and other related topics.
- Copyblogger Content Certification: This online course teaches content writers how to create effective content for blogs, websites, and social media.
- American Writers & Artists Inc.: AWAI offers online and in-person training programs for content writers, including courses on copywriting, email marketing, and web writing.
- HubSpot Academy: HubSpot offers a range of free online courses, including content marketing courses that cover topics like blogging, social media, and lead generation.
- Udemy: Udemy is an online learning platform that offers many courses for content writers, including courses on copywriting, blogging, and content marketing.
- The Content Marketing Institute: CMI offers training and workshops for content marketers, including courses on content creation, storytelling, and content distribution.
- ProBlogger: ProBlogger offers online courses and resources for bloggers and content creators, covering topics like content creation, SEO, and social media.
- The Writer's Workshop: This online workshop offers a four-week course on content writing, covering topics such as audience analysis, storytelling, and style. The course is led by experienced writers and includes personalized feedback on assignments.
- The Content Lab: This online training program from CoSchedule offers a range of courses on content creation, including courses on writing headlines, creating video content, and optimizing content for search engines.
- The Copywriter Club: This online community for copywriters offers a range of resources and training programs, including courses on email marketing, persuasive writing, and creating a profitable freelance business.
- The School of Freelance Writing: This online course offers training and support for freelance writers, covering topics such as finding clients, negotiating rates, and developing a portfolio.
- Writing Workshops Dallas: This organization offers in-person and online workshops on a range of writing topics, including content writing, memoir writing, and screenwriting.
- Mediabistro: This online learning platform offers a range of courses for content writers and editors, including courses on SEO writing, social media marketing, and podcasting.
- Masterclass: This online platform offers courses taught by industry professionals, including courses on writing and storytelling taught by authors like Margaret Atwood, Neil Gaiman, and Dan Brown.