Writing is a dream job; well one that I always dreamed of as a young child anyway. It has always been my dream to create content, and although my ultimate mission is to write books (I’m still working on that), I have been fortunate enough to pursue my dreams as a content writer for the past 10 plus years, and that is something I’m very proud of.
While successful content writers might seem to have an enviable job with their own schedules and the chance to work from wherever they please, it is important to remember that it takes time, energy and determination to make it as a successful content writer.
Below are my top 5 tips on how to become a successful content writer!
1. Master a range of writing styles
As a content writer, I’m asked to write different types of content all the time. From press releases and formal articles to casual blog posts and persuasive social media content, I’ve created countless different types of content for an array of industries. If you want to achieve success in your content writing, you need to be able to master different styles of writing, as this is what increases your value and therefore makes you more in demand.
2. Focus on originality
When I create content, I want people to be able to identify my writing, my voice and my perspective, and I can only do this by generating original, unique writing that comes from the heart. If I’m not happy with the finished product I’ll write it and rewrite it until I’m 100% happy with it.
3. Be persistent
It can be disheartening when you’re struggling to build up your client base, especially in the beginning. Don’t give up; it takes hard work, determination and persistence to find your first set of clients, but once you land even just one client, from there you will be in the perfect position to build your client base even further.
4. Read, read, read
Yes it’s essential that you write frequently, but you also need to read voraciously. Articles, novels, social media updates – even the subtitles on a video; read as much as you can and as often as you can. This will help to expand your vocabulary, inspire thoughts and ideas, teach you about industry best practices and keep you up-to-date with goings on around the world. Staying in the loop is essential if you want to stay ahead of the game and remain valuable as a content writer.
5. Learn HTML, SEO, CSS and WordPress
Even the most basic knowledge of the above will be of value to you as a content writer. Up-to-date SEO knowledge is important because Google is constantly changing its algorithms and writers need to keep up with these changes. One factor that is not going to change anytime soon is this: high-quality will always be in demand. If you can create high-quality, original content then you will always be in demand.
As I said above, a successful career in content writing requires hard work, determination and persistence, while it’s essential that you stay ahead of the game by maintaining your knowledge of different industries.
What are your thoughts on successful content writing? Leave a comment and let me know!
HQ Content writer 