Writing is everywhere, in facebook, instagram, X, Linked in, even Company’s website, some writing comes in posters and informative articles. Ever wondered about the structure and way of thinking behind writing?There is somebody who did that, named content writer, and  has a starter-pack to become, yes, they play a crucial role in long form writing.

Content writer has the responsibility to educate and create a deep understanding about something. Their presence is really needed by industry nowadays, particularly for those who are going digital, to write blog posts, website copy, email newsletter, whitepaper, etc.

Source: DesignM.ag

Currently 86% of B2B marketers expand their strategy to content marketing, and it’s a proof from Content Marketing Institute. This sounds more legit, after knowing the average salary is more than 5 million rupiahs per month in Indonesia, and more than $100 per year in the United States for an experienced writer.

Those numbers shown are really tempting, no wonder, some people choose writing as their career path and would like to be a content writer. But there are some things they need to know, content writing is more than just writing, it contains niche, tools, connection, etc. Here are some starter-pack to become a content writer.

Choosing Niche and Characteristics

Before starting a career as content writer, they have to identify their personal brand. Are they a master in storytelling, or expertise in crafting informative blog posts. Also some characteristics in the writing itself, such as good sense of humor, touching emotions, or the use of good data. the purpose of choosing niche not only good for personal branding, but will help in crafting word by word to create effective writing.

Marketers knows, effective writing will create a good impression and increase website traffic. As Content Writers, they should know the objectives of Marketers. Then, they could choose the word wisely, creating a catchy headline, and explaining the products perfectly.

The Use of Tools and Resources

Like any plumber, content writers need the right tools also. Clearly they need to familiarize themselves with Content Management Systems, such as WordPress and Drupal. They can learn about Search Engine Optimization best practice to maximize their writing, and ensure it gets ranked high on search engines. 

Source: blog.hubspot

Developing this skill will make the writing factual and authoritative. The Data from Hubspot shows 61% of marketers say SEO is their top inbound marketing priority, that’s the main reason content writers need to understand the principle of SEO.

Crafting Compelling Portfolio

Portfolio is very needed for this role, and it can be a green card that shows talent and versatility. Start by creating original content to demonstrate the skills of different writing and formats, do not hesitate to put relevant samples of the chosen niche. Then continued by experimenting with different kinds of formats, like blog posts, articles, case studies, academic writing, even social media content.

Crafting the portofolio to the specific website or agencies targeted, research about their preferred writing styles and content focus, then make sure the portfolio meets their needs and suits the chosen niche.

Building Connection

Here comes the exciting part, Nobody wants to be a good content writer only for their websites right? So after making a good portfolio, content writers should sell their skills. Start building a network with professionals in content writing, attend some related events, connect with potential employees on Linked in.

After connecting with them, start promoting the skills, highlight the specific skills and niche, showcasing the portfolio, and demonstrate the understanding of their target market and content focuses.

Continue Learning

Marketing landscape includes content writing that is constantly evolving, staying ahead of the trend by reading some articles, listening to some podcasts, subscribing to a professional newsletter, attending webinars and conferences, then absorbing knowledge and practice with that.

It can expand the skillset and explore new writing formats. Enjoy the process of content writing, it is not like a sprint but a marathon, where there are some steps to be completed, so be patient to learn and grow, because the writing should engage, inspire and leave a lasting impact to the targeted audiences. Also, never forget about the starter-pack to become a content writer.

Do Collaboration

Content writing involves some role, editors, marketing performers, and other creative roles to ensure the writing aligns the brand guidelines, target audiences, and overall marketing strategy. Keeping in touch with people will help content writers develop their skills.

It doesn’t have to be experts or professionals founded in linked in, but it can be friends, colleagues, or family that have the same understanding, asking their opinion and letting them give feedback, because in this industry, feedback really matters.

Be known as a Writer

Ready to write? Start a blog.or contribute as a guest writer in some publication website, this way will help the content writer be known and learn about what articles that have high engagement. Participating in online forums and communities is another way to be known as a writer.

Then content writers can market themselves in some freelance websites such as Fiverr and Upwork to find some writing opportunities. More projects they get, more experience they will receive, and more money they make.

Adapting to Technologies

Writing formats might be different from one CMS to another, learning some formats in  different CMS will help them be more versatile. Exploring some emerging technology may help also, such as AI-powered writing tools, like ChatGPT, Word AI, and Copysmith.

Source: Peppercontent.io

Adapting to those tools will help writers see content writing in different angles, for example, the writing on lifestyle websites have a casual tone of voice,  hard news websites have structural formats, travel agent websites have more pictures, etc. The AI’s will help in research, giving more data, and creating a good structure.

The process to become a Content Writer may seem tiring, but with passion, dedication and consistency, it’s worth it.  Remember, one of the Starter-pack to Become Content Writer is learning, receive feedback then improve, never lose sight of any kind of updates and trends. Because that’s what made Professional Content writers.