Chicago 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.
You can expand your search for media jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in Chicago, Illinois
If you're going to Chicago to experience "da Bears," deep-dish pizza, and windy streets, native Chicagoans say "fogetta 'bout it!" While these have made Chicago famous, you'll find many locals eating thin-crust, tavern-style pie. Plus, the city isn't on any list of the windiest cities in the U.S.—a local newspaper named it "The Windy City" after the Chicago elite's propensity toward boastfulness and self-promotion. And while the Chicago jobs list (hit jobs, that is) includes notorious mobsters from Chicago like Al Capone, John Dillinger, and Baby Face Nelson, linguists are noticing that the "Chicago accent" is disappearing.
However, there's a reason Condé Nast Traveler has named Chicago the "best big city in the U.S." Chicago is home to top universities, including Northwestern University, Wheaton College, and Valparaiso. And if you're looking for Chicago jobs, you can relocate to any one of the city's unique neighborhoods, such as North Center with its cozy Irish pubs and breweries or Uptown, the lively entertainment district. For those who want to live further out from the city, you can also find jobs in popular suburbs including Cicero, Oak Park, and Evanston.
Update Your Chicago Writing 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.
How Much Do Writing Jobs Pay in Chicago, Illinois?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in writing jobs in Chicago, Illinois, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median writer pay in Chicago is $25.18 per hour, which is 2% higher than the national average.
Find Your Next Chicago Writing Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
Are you prepared for a career in writing? If so, set up your profile on Monster for free and begin clicking on those writing jobs. When you sign up with us, you’ll receive custom job alerts and expert advice on how to negotiate your salary in Chicago, how to nail your job interview, and more.