Best Jobs for Aspiring Writers

Updated on March 14, 2024

Embarking on a career in writing is not just about having a passion for storytelling or an excellent command of language. It’s also about finding a profession where these skills can be put to good use. For aspiring writers looking to merge their love for writing with a stable and fulfilling career, the following jobs offer promising pathways.

Content Strategist

  • Average Salary: $133,380
  • Job Description: Content strategists use strong writing, analytical thinking, and marketing skills to plan, create, and manage online content aligned with specific business goals. They apply SEO principles and analyze content performance to adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Responsibilities: Developing content strategies, analyzing content effectiveness, and adjusting strategies based on performance analytics.
  • Required Education: Training in journalism, communications, or technical writing.

Communications Director

  • Average Salary: $119,860
  • Job Description: Communications directors oversee various corporate communications ensuring the public views the company favorably. They establish communication goals and develop branding and style guidelines.
  • Responsibilities: Developing and overseeing communication strategies, establishing branding guidelines, and managing various communication mediums.
  • Required Education: Several years of experience in related fields; a background in writing and marketing is beneficial.

Technical Writer

  • Average Salary: $78,060
  • Job Description: Technical writers specialize in converting complex technical information into accessible content. This can include manuals, guides, and specifications.
  • Responsibilities: Writing clear and understandable technical documents, collaborating with technical staff, and ensuring content accuracy.
  • Required Education: A degree in English, communications, journalism, or a related field, often combined with a technical background.

Proposal Writer

  • Average Salary: $78,060
  • Job Description: Proposal writers prepare documents for pricing, marketing, and product design in response to RFPs, aiming to secure new business and contracts.
  • Responsibilities: Assessing RFPs, developing proposal responses, and understanding client needs.
  • Required Education: Strong organizational and writing skills, with an understanding of the company’s offerings.

Grant Writer

  • Average Salary: $78,060
  • Job Description: Grant writers develop written proposals to secure financial support for organizations, identifying funding sources and targeting potential donors.
  • Responsibilities: Identifying funding opportunities, writing proposals, and tailoring communications to donor expectations.
  • Required Education: Flexibility and strong writing skills; specific educational requirements can vary.

Web Content Writer

  • Average Salary: $69,510 – $78,060
  • Job Description: Specializing in digital content, web content writers produce blogs, articles, and landing pages, often incorporating SEO techniques.
  • Responsibilities: Researching and writing digital content, conducting interviews, and optimizing content for search engines.
  • Required Education: Proficiency in writing and researching; knowledge of SEO is beneficial.

Speechwriter

  • Average Salary: $69,510
  • Job Description: Speechwriters craft speeches for various clients, including politicians, executives, and celebrities, often requiring persuasion on complex topics.
  • Responsibilities: Writing compelling speeches, understanding client perspectives, and adapting to different voices and styles.
  • Required Education: Degrees in journalism, communications, or political science are common; public speaking experience is helpful.

Screenwriter

  • Average Salary: $69,510
  • Job Description: Screenwriters create scripts for films and TV, transforming ideas into compelling narratives and dialogues.
  • Responsibilities: Developing scripts, creating characters, and revising content based on feedback.
  • Required Education: Understanding screenplay structure and character development; criticism receptivity is key.

Novelist

  • Average Salary: $69,510
  • Job Description: Novelists write long-form fiction, developing characters, plots, and settings that captivate readers.
  • Responsibilities: Outlining narratives, character development, and managing publishing aspects.
  • Required Education: Often self-taught; persistence and creativity are crucial.

Advertising Copywriter

  • Average Salary: $69,510
  • Job Description: Advertising copywriters create persuasive content for various media to promote products or services.
  • Responsibilities: Crafting slogans, writing for different formats, and understanding consumer psychology.
  • Required Education: Creativity and brevity in writing; internships can provide valuable experience.

Final Thoughts

For aspiring writers, the traditional pathway of novel writing or journalism is just the tip of the iceberg. The digital age has expanded the horizons for writers, offering numerous opportunities to leverage writing skills in various domains. Whether your interest lies in technical writing, content strategy, or creative advertising, there’s a fulfilling career waiting for you.

Other Jobs in Unique and Niche Job Markets

Sources

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER
I agree to have my personal information transfered to MailChimp ( more information )
Join over 100,000 visitors who are receiving our newsletter and learn more about finance, immigration, and more!
We hate spam. Your email address will not be sold or shared with anyone else.

Frank Gogol

I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.

Get the Checklist