An online writer creates content and copy for use on websites, social media and other digital platforms. The goal is to drive traffic and increase conversions for the client or business that hires the writer. A background in writing or experience with marketing can help. Many online writers work freelance, although some have full-time jobs at agencies or other businesses.
Online writing requires a steady internet connection, which is necessary to find clients, research topics and submit work for payment. This can be a problem for people who live in rural areas, but it is possible to make a good living as an online writer by using the right tools and finding the right gigs.
Having the ability to adapt your content for different formats is another important skill for an online writer to have. Whether it’s an article that’s repurposed for a blog post, tweet or newsletter, or even turned into an infographic, being able to make your content re-usable can save you time and get more mileage out of each piece of content you write.
The skills you need to be an effective online writer can vary depending on your niche and the type of content you’re producing. But a few key elements are universal:
A solid understanding of your audience and the types of content they enjoy reading can give you the best chance at making a successful career as an online writer. Understanding what kind of tone and voice to use will also help your articles connect with readers and convey your message more effectively.
It’s essential to do your homework when researching the subjects you write about. It’s usually pretty obvious when an article has been written by someone who doesn’t know much about the subject. For example, if you’re writing about a particular technology, it helps to be familiar with the basics of that tech before writing about it in detail.
In addition to doing your own research, you can also look up experts in the field and interview them. This can be a great way to add credibility to your articles and keep your content fresh. Just be sure to avoid ping-ponging between your sources and quotes too much – this can confuse readers and make them lose interest in your article.
One of the biggest mistakes that new writers make is trying to take on too many projects at once. This can lead to frustration and burnout, so it’s important to be able to delegate tasks and prioritize your work. Having a clear plan for each day can help you stay on track and meet deadlines. And remember to take breaks!
