Benzinga Money is a reader-supported publication. We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article. Learn more. Unlock Course Interested in becoming a professional writer? Essential Techniques to be a Professional Writer is a great course to get you prepared for your career. Do you have a way with words? Turn your unique skill set into a valuable career by becoming a professional writer. You can unleash your inner creativity in a professional setting as you complete assignments for your employer or you can become a freelance writer and work on projects that pique your interest. Benzinga is here to help you learn how to become a writer. There’s so much to know about the writing profession. You may wonder what types of roles are available, how much you can expect to earn as a writer or if you need a degree to get hired. We’ve included the answers to these questions and more in this detailed guide. Not all writers have the same roles and responsibilities. It depends on the type of writing career you select. Here’s a quick look at some of the popular writing paths: Biographers recount the lives of others. Bloggers write blog posts on particular topics. Content writers are versatile writers who can cover many topics. Copywriters specialize in written content intended to sell a product or service. Grant writers compose research proposals to request grant funds from governmental and private agencies. Novelists write fiction books. Playwrights produce scripts used in theatrical productions. Speechwriters create speeches delivered by others. Screenwriters write scripts for movies and television shows. Technical writers create documents that simplify complex concepts. Writers work in many industries, but the top employers are in the information, performing arts and spectator sports, religious, grant-making, civic, scientific and technical services sectors, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . The average annual salary for writers is $63,200, which is equivalent to $30.39 per hour. The amount you earn will depend on the industry you work in. Here’s a quick look at the average salary for writers working in the top industries: Information: $60,440 Performing arts and spectator sports: $70,990 Religious, grantmaking and civic organizations: $68,560 Scientific and technical services: $63,920 If you plan to work as a salaried writer in a professional setting, your employer may require a bachelor’s degree in English or communication. A degree in journalism, creative writing or technical writing will also suffice. What if you already have a degree and your major isn’t related to writing? You may still get hired if your writing skills are up to par. However, most employers will want to see a well-rounded portfolio that showcases your skills. Seeking a career as a freelance writer? You can land clients even if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree. In fact, most may not inquire about your educational background. Their concern is that you can deliver high-quality content that resonates with their target market. You can demonstrate your abilities through a portfolio […]
