Writing jobs

Writing Jobs Overview

What would the world be like without written content? How would important information or compelling stories reach an audience, educate, inform, and change lives? In writing jobs, writing professionals create content for a wide range of media types and purposes. They also sort through complex information and break it down for the average reader.

As a writer, you'll develop compelling topics, research sources for credibility, proofread, and make revisions when necessary. You may work for a newspaper, publishing company, magazine, online media outlet, private company, or educational service. If you're entering a career as a technical writer, you're in luck. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technical writer positions are expected to increase by 7% within the next decade. To learn more about the most common types of writing positions, read Monster's article on writing jobs for prose pros.

Want to increase your search for media jobs? Check out these similar positions:

• columnist jobs
• creative writing jobs
• freelance writing jobs

Writer Education and Skills

Full-time and salaried writing positions usually require at least a bachelor's degree in English, communications, or journalism. Some advanced writing positions (such as senior writer) may require a master's degree and/or several years of professional writing experience. Grant writers and technical writers can benefit from being certified. For grant writers, the American Grant Writers' Association offers the Certified Grant Writer program. Technical writers can get certified by the Society for Technical Communication and the American Medical Writers Association. Read our article on how to become a technical writer for more information on the credentials and skills you need.

The most important skills and qualities employers look for include:

• Adaptability, including staying updated on changes in content management systems and software.
• Creativity and the ability to write compelling and persuasive content.
• Critical-thinking and analytical skills.
• The ability to meet deadlines.
• The ability to connect with an audience on a social and emotional level.
• Exceptional grammatical skills and the ability to write clear and concise content.
• Keen attention to detail.
• The ability to break down complex data into simple text.

For more details on writing positions, see Monster's job descriptions for technical writers, grant writers and content managers.

Update Your Writer Resume

Even the most seasoned writers can experience writer's block when putting together a resume. Luckily, Monster has resume tips just for writers. Start by telling employers why you're the right candidate for the job by listing your skills and accomplishments. You should also include a brief summary of your writing background and related experience.

Many full-time writing positions require a cover letter when you apply, which can also serve as a writing sample. Put your writing skills to work by providing a brief introduction of yourself, your accomplishments, and your reasons for applying. If you need help, take a look at our cover letter samples and writing tips for easy, practical steps.

Many employers will ask you to submit writing samples from previous employment, an internship, or your personal blog. It’s best to choose samples that are as closely related to a potential employer’s business as possible. For example, if you’re applying for a job writing blogs for a law firm, try submitting samples that cover law topics.

Interviewing for a Writing Job

Working in a writing position involves more than the writing process. You have to be a team player and be willing to help a company meet its goals. This is an aspect of the job you'll likely discuss during your interview. The best way to prepare for your interview is to research the company you're applying for and read Monster's list of potential interview questions. Some questions you may encounter include:

• What do you think makes good content?
• Tell us about how you would start and finish a written project.
• How do you know which sources are credible?
• Are you able to meet tight deadlines?

How Much Do Writing Jobs Pay?

Writers in the U.S. earn an average of $25.19 per hour. Pay often differs by the job type, however. For example, technical writers typically make $33.68 per hour, while copywriters earn an average yearly salary of $60,461. Try entering your job title and location into Monster's Salary Estimator to find out how much money you can expect to earn. Additionally, you'll find a list of U.S. cities where writers are in high demand, as well as next steps you can take to move up in your career.

Sign Up With Monster to Be the Wordsmith You Were Meant to Be!

Are you ready to put your pen to paper? Create your free profile at Monster and begin clicking on writing jobs to find a position that best fits you. We can help by keeping you updated on new job postings and offering career advice from our experts.