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20 Creative Writing Jobs for Graduates (+ Entry-Level Positions)
About the author.
Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.
About Linnea Gradin
The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.
Being passionate about creative writing hasnât always been associated with a stable career path, but thatâs not to say that there arenât any opportunities out there to bring well-written stories into your job. In fact, weâre here to talk about 20 different creative writing jobs â 20 professions that let the storyteller in you shine! Weâll discuss the industries, entry level jobs, and potential income for each job below.Â
When it comes to creative writing, the first thing that pops up in our mind is books! While writing is the obvious option (and weâll cover that later on in the post), most writers choose to work in one of the following positions in the publishing industry to gain financial stability first.Â
â Note: The âper bookâ rates below are made with 50,000-60,000 word manuscripts in mind.Â
1. GhostwriterÂ
đšđœâđŒ Entry level positions: freelance writer, ghostwriter, editorial assistantÂ
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $2,000-$9,000 per book or $0.10-$0.15 per word
If youâre all about creative writing but youâd prefer an upfront payment for your words, then ghostwriting is the job for you! Hereâs how it works: an author hires you to help them write their story. It could (and usually is) a memoir or an autobiography which the author doesn't have the time or skills to write themselves. Fiction authors also sometimes use ghostwriters to help them write sequels and satisfy popular demands.Â
Ghostwriters are freelancers, so you can start by getting some freelance writing gigs. As a beginner, you might start with short-form projects like articles, white papers, website content. Here are some resources, complete with tips from experienced professionals, that might be helpful:
- How to Start Freelance Writing ( Read here )
- How to Become a Ghostwriter ( Read here )
- How Much Do Ghostwriters Make? ( Read here )
đ©đ»âđŒ Entry level positions: editorial assistant
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $25,000-$30,000 per year or $800-$1,000 per book
Writing is actually not all there is to creative writing jobs â if you really love stories and are always finding ways to make a story better, then editing is a suitable profession for you. There are many types of editors: some, like development editors, work more on the plot and theme of the book, and others, like copy editors, specialize on its language and style .Â
Editorial assistant jobs are the common first steps to this career path. Entry-level positions are quite competitive in publishing, so youâll likely need a relevant degree (English Literature, MFA, etc.) to get the job.Â
Freelancing, as always, is an option, but it can be quite difficult to get clients if you start without any editing experience. Oftentimes, editors start working in-house and later transition to freelance .Â
Below are some more resources for you if you want to pursue this career path:
- How to Become an Editor: A Guide for Beginners ( Read here )
- Copyediting Certificates: Do You Need One and Where to Get It? ( Read here )
- Editor Salary: Can Your Skills Pay the Bills? ( Read here )
- Working in Publishing: An Insider's Guide ( Read here )
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3. Proofreader
đšđŒâđŒ Entry level positions: freelance proofreader
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $20-$30 per hour or $550-$650 per bookÂ
Proofreading comes after editing â the proofreader reads the manuscript one final time, after all the revisions are made, to see if any spelling and grammatical errors are missed out. Theyâre incredibly crucial to the production of a spotless book, so thereâs never a shortage of proofreading work opportunities .Â
This task is often done on a freelance basis, either by full-time freelancers or by editors who want to take on side jobs. You can specialize in proofreading alone, though most professionals will combine editing and proofreading crafts for better income. As a beginner, opportunities for short-form projects will often be more accessible â stay open-minded about taking them up, but also do some proofreading training to prepare for more exciting gigs.Â
Weâve also got some resources for this topic for you to check out:
- How to Become a Proofreader: The Ultimate Beginnerâs Guide ( Read here )
- How to Choose Your Proofreading Rates ( Read here )
Thereâs more to journalism than just breaking news on CNN, which means thereâs plenty of space for the creative writer in you to flourish in this industry! Letâs take a look at a couple of options you can consider.Â
4. ColumnistÂ
đ©đœâđŒ Entry level positions: fellowships, junior writer/columnist, freelance writer
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $25,000-$35,000 per year or $100-$300 per pieceÂ
If you like creative nonfiction , you probably have already considered becoming a columnist. In fact, you can even be a books columnist! Job options range from book-specific sites like Electric Literature or Literary Hub, to prestigious newspapers like The Guardian or The New Yorker. But thatâs not necessarily the only thing you can write about! You can become a columnist in just about any topic, from social issues to entertainment, as long as youâre interested in the niche.Â
Look out for fellowships and junior writing jobs in newspapers and magazines and get ready to apply! A degree in relevant subjects like Journalism or English Literature is a great advantage, though your ability to follow up on leads, conduct thorough research, and keep up with the latest trends in a certain niche will be carefully assessed. You can also be a contributing writer first to forge a relationship with the editors before going after a full-time position.Â
đšđ»âđŒ Entry level positions: junior writer, freelance writer
Thereâs a fine line between a critic and a columnist: critics are usually more academically inclined, and they often work more on the arts than columnists. Columnists cover social issues, sports, entertainment in their more general sense, while critics while home in on a particular piece of art, literature, theatre, or movie to offer expert assessment of it.Â
Similar to the columnists, you can begin with junior writing positions and freelance gigs, in which you build up a writing portfolio of relevant work . Ideally, critics will be more savvy to the technicalities of whatever subject you critique â be it filmography or literature. In other words, formal training like a bachelorâs degree is a good launch pad.Â
6. News journalistÂ
đ©đŒâđŒ Entry level positions: staff writer/journalist
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $30,000-$35,000 per yearÂ
Writing news articles is different from the writing column pieces: a journalist must maintain an impartial voice and be succinct. Moreover, youâre always looking out for the latest story, whether on social media or on the street (which is where your love for creative writing can come in).Â
The most common way to get into news journalism is to get a salaried position. You can also apply to internships as well, and there are compensated ones to look out for. What you will need is a degree and some journalist training so that you can use shorthand, know what makes a good story, and know what sources to chase, among other things.Â
7. Investigative journalistÂ
đšđœâđŒ Entry level positions: staff writer/journalist
And what if youâre a fan of true crime ? You might find yourself drawn to investigative journalism! You can chase the tail of anything under the sun, from kidnappings to factory production, from local to international events, so long as thereâs an uncovered story there. The topic will often be assigned to you by an editor, and youâll be given some time to collect information and write the article. Itâs a slower pace than daily news, but itâs thrilling nonetheless.Â
Similar to the news path, youâll likely start off with an internship or a junior writing position. With this job opportunity, you can build a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to peel back the layers of the onion to reveal new insights to a matter. Again, a degree and training in journalism are essential.Â
Copywriting
Copywriting is writing to sell a product or service, and it could be anything from newsletter emails to slogans to even commercial scripts! Thereâs definitely a creative element to it, as youâre always looking for a unique and memorable way to capture the attention of consumers. And since it's so rooted in consumption culture, copywriting is definitely a writing career that's in demand!
Below are several types of copywriting jobs you can go into.Â
8. Technical copywriter
đ©đ»âđŒ Entry level positions: technical writer, freelance writer
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $32,000-$38,000 per yearÂ
A technical writer works on instructional materials for manuals, white papers, and other informative pieces of writing. A technical copywriter combines that level of specialty with marketing tactics, thereby focusing on promoting products and services that are a bit more, well, technical. Think electronic companies, software developers, repair and maintenance services.Â
Ideally, youâd have some education or experience in technical sectors (i.e. IT, engineering, finance). That way, you wonât take too much time to familiarize yourself with the jargon, and employers are more likely to hire you. You can also begin with technical writing, if you donât mind working on material thatâs a bit less creative.Â
9. Advertising copywriter
đšđŒâđŒ Entry level positions: junior copywriter, communications copywriter
For a more creative writing job, you can go for advertising. This often involves a lot of brainstorming with the creative team of your agency to come up with advertisement campaigns that will leave a mark. When working on this you can write all kinds of content, from slogans to image copies to web content.Â
Having a bachelorâs degree in marketing or an essay-based discipline is usually beneficial if youâre looking for this kind of job. You can work for a big brand, which will constantly be needing new content, or you can work for a marketing agency, tailoring your work to every client.Â
10. PR copywriter
đ©đœâđŒ Entry level positions: junior copywriter
Public relations (PR) is, simply put, the art of building a good reputation, whether thatâs for an individual or a brand. Youâll work on press releases, report and presentation writing, material for internal and external communications to present your clientâs motivation and direction.Â
For this kind of job, the precision of your language and your ability to stay up to date with the competitors will be important. A degree in communications or business administration are a plus point. And as is often the case in most writing jobs, the ability to find the human story behind everything will be your best tool.Â
Content Marketing
Nowadays, traditional marketing on TV, billboards, and posters are only a part of the industry, the other is all about online content. And with so many things zooming about on the Internet, every company will be looking for the most creative person to help them stand out. Which means you get plenty of opportunities to be imaginative, working on website content, blog posts, social media posts, and even videos.
11. Social media managerÂ
đšđ»âđŒ Entry level positions: assistant/junior/freelance social media specialist
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $20-$30 per hour or $30,000-$35,000 per yearÂ
With our evermore online world, social media-related jobs definitely is a writing career that's in demand. So many things can happen on social media â you might very well go viral overnight! The challenge is getting there. As a social media manager, you get to be the voice of the company, interacting with customers in a friendly, casual way, while also learning their habits and preferences so that you and others on your team can better engage with them.Â
This is a relatively hands-on job, so experience running a public social media account is the best thing you can have on your CV. A degree in communications can be beneficial, though many job postings donât require anything specific.
12. Blogger
đ©đŒâđŒ Entry level positions: blogger, freelance writer
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $0.10-$0.15 per word
Blogging is probably something youâre familiar with as a writer â but do you know it can earn you a good penny? By focusing on a specific subject (it can be books , technology, fashion, the freelance life, etc.), you can attract companies who are looking to strengthen their brand awareness and will sponsor you. Itâll take time to build an attractive platform, but itâs definitely possible.Â
Beyond that, you can write for others as well. There are plenty of websites that promote creative writing jobs all over, so you can sift through them for the suitable ones. No degree requirements for this job, just your skill with a (proverbial) quill!Â
13. Content creatorÂ
đšđœâđŒ Entry level positions: content marketer
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $27,000-$34,000 per yearÂ
If youâre happy to do a bit of everything, then apply to become a content creator. Youâll also get to collaborate with a team to come up with an overall strategy in this position.
You can work for all kinds of companies in this career. A bachelorâs degree in Marketing, English, Communications are highly relevant, though adjacent, essay-based subjects tend to do the job, too. Brushing up on search engine optimization (SEO) is also wise.Â
Pop culture, the latest rumors and gossip, interesting observations served on a pretty platter â if any of that sounds interesting to you, you can jump into the media industry. Here are some job options if you want to take this route.Â
14. Screenwriter
đ©đ»âđŒ Entry level positions: assistant/associate writer
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $20-$30 per hour or $9,000-$15,000 per projectÂ
Everyone of us has probably at one point or another thought about entering the film and TV industry, and that career goal is definitely achievable, if you know where to look. A lot of people start with assistant positions to learn the ropes and get an opportunity to work on bigger productions. If you prefer to write from the get-go, you can go for lower-budget projects.Â
To get one of the assistant positions and put yourself out there, touch up on craft skills like plotting, story structures , character-building to be prepared. No qualifications are specified in most cases.Â
15. Broadcast journalistÂ
đšđŒâđŒ Entry level positions: staff writer
Weâve covered written news â now comes broadcast news. From televised reports to radio sessions, you can be the writer behind the words that reporters or presenters read out. Itâs a fast-paced job that deals with the latest real-life stories, which can be incredibly rewarding, even if itâs not explicitly creative.Â
Many broadcast journalists work project by project (unless itâs periodical news), almost like a freelancer. Youâll still need to have all the skills necessary to put together a good news story, so some journalist training will be beneficial.Â
16. PodcasterÂ
đ©đ»âđŒ Entry level positions: assistant/associate writer or producerÂ
đ° Potential beginnerâs earning: $18-$25 per hour, or $26,000-$32,000 per yearÂ
Along the same lines as a broadcast journalist is the job of a podcaster. This is a bit more topical than journalism, and you can really home into certain fields and explore it in depth. Another special thing about podcasters is they usually host the shows, too! So if youâre confident about your voice, and about interviewing others, thereâs no reason not to try this out.Â
As with screenwriting, the route to get into this sector can be a little bit challenging, since itâs often a case of catching an opportunity from the right people at the right time. Which is why assistant jobs are a strong start.Â
And finally, we arrive at the section that hopeful writers often dream about more than anything else. Getting your book out in the world is not easy, it requires not just time and effort but also finances, if only to keep you afloat while completing the manuscript. That said, itâs possible to do it on the side with another full-time job, as is the case for most published writers.Â
The cool thing about this career is that you are your own boss â i.e. there are no entry level positions. You are an author the day you call yourself one.Â
17. Short story writer
Short stories are charming in their own right, and with the booming literary magazine sphere , thereâs no shortage of space to get your words out there into the world. Publishing an anthology with a publisher is also an option but itâs harder â you often need to have an established career first.Â
In any case, most magazines aim to have enough funds to pay their contributors. Small ones can pay $15-$20 per story, bigger ones $100-$200. You can also enter writing contests to win higher prizes .
18. NovelistÂ
Being a novelist comes with the difficulty of having the time and finances to write a full draft before you can propose it to publishers, or even publish it yourself. Itâs a long commitment, and it doesnât guarantee a payoff. If it does get printed, a book deal can get you an advance in the $5,000-$15,000 range. If you self-publish, what you get depends on how well you market your books â emphasis on the plural noun!
That said, itâs not impossible. Weâve got a whole post on how to become a novelist here if you want some pointers from famous writers like Anne Lamott and Zadie Smith! Read it here .
19. Nonfiction authorÂ
Who says creative writing jobs have to be all about fiction? Creative nonfiction is a growing field thatâs always welcoming new stories. From memoirs and biographies to true crime, from self-help to essay collections, you can focus on many different topics with this option.Â
The nice thing about it all is that unlike fiction writers, you can pitch your book to publishers before you complete a whole manuscript for nonfiction titles, meaning you can be guaranteed some kind of results before you start writing. The advance amount is similar to that for novels.
And last but not least, you can become a poet! Poets tell stories with rhythm and rich imagery, and not just on paper but also with their voice. Performing poetry is one of the special advantages that comes with this form of writing. Not only does it let you and the audience experience in a new way, itâs also a great opportunity to grow as an artist.Â
On top of that, you can also dabble in other industries (advertising, music producersâŠ) as a lyricist. As itâs a gig-based employment, you probably want to diversify your work portfolio to make sure thereâs always something you can work on. The rates are usually similar to that of a ghostwriter.
And voila, thatâs the end to our master list of creative writing jobs! Hopefully, thereâs something to help you passion live on among this many options.
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A Seriously Long List of Jobs That Involve Creative Writing
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Who says you canât make any money from creative writing?
Okay, so a lot of people. But theyâre wrong. If youâre a creative writing major, have a degree in writing, or simply identify this skill as the best thing youâve got to offer the world, there are a ton of ways to build a career with your talents.
In fact, writing skills are way more valuable than your Uncle Richie realizes (or whichever relative scoffed at your dreams last Thanksgiving). Anyone with a gift for words has the ability to communicate vital information, motivate others into action, and help others feel seen and understood.
The survival of many industries depends on their ability to connect with human beings. They need brilliant wordsmiths. And hereâs the really exciting part: not everyone can do what you do as well as you can do it.
So no, being a writer does not mean youâre sentenced to a life as a âstarving artist.âÂ
That said, some creative writing jobs are easier to snag than others. Thereâs also a difference in pay across different writing gigs. Some jobs will be easier to fill with AI in the future, andâthe important detailâsome will be more in line with your vision for your writing career.Â
So hereâs a comprehensive list of opportunities and considerations to help you narrow down your focus. Youâre about to find out:
- What writing jobs are out there
- The skills you need to land work in the creative writing field
- Which industries are looking for folks like you
- What type of education or experience you need to get started
Letâs start by taking a look at your many, many options.
Career Opportunities in Creative Writing
![what jobs can you get from creative writing The word "HIRING!" written in white chalk on a black background.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e2786073f71d0d038471_pexels-anna-tarazevich-5598328.jpg)
Before we launch into this very long list of creative writing jobs, Iâd like to clarify the term âfreelance writer.â
A freelance writer is a contractor. Rather than hiring them on as employees, an individual or business hires a freelance writer to complete specific tasks within their area of expertise.Â
If you choose to work as a freelancer rather than an employee, youâd be your own boss. Youâd set your own rates, determine your own schedule, and decide which projects to take on and which to skip. Youâd also be free to work with as many different clients as youâd like.
The downside is that you donât get benefits like paid time off, health insurance, and employer contributions to your retirement fund. Youâre responsible for paying quarterly taxes directly to the government, as no one withdraws them from your paycheck.Â
Depending on the specific creative writing career youâre building, you might also need to look into professional liability insurance or setting up an LLC. These topics get complicated and vary according to where you live, so Iâm not even going to try to give you advice on any of that. Itâs better to consult your accountant, mentor, and/or fellow freelance writers in your area.
The main thing I want to convey is that if you choose to freelance, you have to think of yourself as an actual business. Thatâs what you are after all. It comes with a lot of freedom and extra responsibilities. So weigh your options carefully.
One more quick note:
Salary Ranges Are Tough to Nail Down
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Hands count money on a desk.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e157e4f6aebb9d63f3f5_pexels-karolina-grabowska-4475523.jpg)
Iâve included an average salary range for each of the job descriptions below. These ranges are huge and the numbers are almost meaningless. I put them there because if I were you, Iâd want to see them so I could at least get a sense of the income one might make from these different writing jobs.
But the standard salary for each job can vary widely depending on the size of the company hiring you and the cost of living in your (or their) area.
The income range gets massive when you add freelancers to the mix. A rookie freelance copywriter whoâs just building their portfolio and client list might make $20,000 in a year. Meanwhile, an in-demand freelance writer could make well into six figures and out-earn an in-house copywriter.
So use the salary information I provide to get a general idea of whatâs possible. For more concrete numbers, check out job listings in your area and talk to people who already do the kind of work you want to do. Â
And what kind of work is that? Letâs decide! Here are a ton of ways you can make money as a writer.
Content Writing Jobs
![what jobs can you get from creative writing The word "blog" spelled out in Scrabble tiles on a wooden surface.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e2bded6c1552ec84b56d_pexels-pixabay-262508.jpg)
Content is all the media that encourages consumers to engage with a brandâblogs, videos, social media, podcasts, you name it. Creative writers like you and I might prefer to think of those things as art, but in business-speak, itâs content.
And as a professional content writer, youâll have to ride that line between creativity and capitalism. After some looking around, you should be able to find an employer or client who wants you to bring some creative vision to your work. But youâll also have to care about which creative strategies get buyers to bite.Â
More on that in a bit, though. For now, here are the most common content writing jobs.
Content Writer
A content writer focuses more on long-form writing that builds a relationship with the target audience. In other words, content writing is less about making a sales pitch and more about being helpful and conveying the brandâs personality.
Common content writing tasks include:
- Email newsletters
- Articles and blogs
- Case studies
Average Salary: $40,000-$70,000 per year
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A writer types on a computer at an outdoor cafe table.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e361c32209980f050c37_pexels-andrea-piacquadio-3768894.jpg)
A copywriter is more involved with the kind of creative writing that says, âHey, you should spend money on this.â They compose things like:
- Website copy
- Landing pages
- Print and online ads
- Sales emails
- Sales pages and mailers
In many businesses, the content writer and the copywriter are the same person. But if you freelance as a copywriter specializing in one specific areaâsales emails, for exampleâget familiar with the other materials your client is putting out to make sure your sales copy builds on the relationship they're already building through content.
Average Salary: $60,000-$120,000 per year
Technical Writer
Technical writing is basically âhow-toâ writing. It includes:
- Instruction manuals
- Explainer video scripts
- White papers
- Spec sheets
Technical writing might be your jam if youâre great at grasping complex concepts and clarifying them for the rest of us. Itâs truly a magical writing skill that involves simplifying and being thorough at the same time.Â
If you can pull that off, itâs only a matter of time before youâre considered an irreplaceable rockstar in someoneâs business.
Annual Salary: $60,000-$90,000 per year
Social Media Writer
Youâll sometimes see social media fall under the umbrella of content writing, but itâs also its own position in many businesses.
As you can probably guess, a great social media writer comes up with brilliant captions that engage audiences on social platforms. But thereâs more to it than that.
To do this job well, you have to be on top of social media trends so you can jump on challenges and hashtags while theyâre still fresh. You also need to understand which customer segments are more likely to be on which platforms and how to engage with them.
Depending on the size of the company youâre working with, thereâs a good chance youâll also have to come up with the visuals and create the videos that accompany your brilliant captions.
If you love social media, youâll be in heaven. If you donât, you probably wonât be able to fake it.Â
Average Salary: $50,000-$80,000 per year
Journalism and Media Jobs
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In this category of creative writing jobs, weâre looking at everything that has to do with news and mass communication.
I know. That includes a lot. So letâs get to it.
A journalist investigates, researches, and writes the news for print and/or online publications. Thatâs a tidy little sentence to describe a writing job that involves a lot of specialized skills and a strict code of ethics.
While journalism absolutely belongs under the heading of âcreative writing careers,â itâs an area where you canât get fast and loose with your creativity. Journalists are responsible for revealing the truth to the public. Ideally , they do this without guiding the readerâs opinion or embellishing actual events.Â
The ability to compose engaging articles that inspire thoughtful questions without pushing an agenda is a remarkable skill in and of itself. Successful journalists also tend to be curious, driven, resourceful, and fast writers.
This is one of the few writing jobs where having a degree (usually in journalism) is relatively important, especially if you hope to work for a notable publication.Â
Average Salary: $60,000-100,000 per year
Broadcast Writer
A broadcast writer prepares the news for television, radio, and online media. In other words, they take all the deets about whatâs going on in the world and turn them into scripts to be read by news anchors.
Like a journalist, a broadcast writer faces the challenging task of conveying information in an unbiased way. They also need to be adept at writing pieces intended to be read aloudâscripts that flow naturally for the speaker and can be quickly understood by the audience.Â
Much like journalists, broadcast writers must be able to work quickly, often under pressure. If you like the idea of being in front of the camera yourself, this creative writing career path can include conducting interviews, attending press conferences, and reporting the news.
Average Salary: $40,000-$100,000 per year
Scriptwriter
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A table of scene cards spread out with a writer's hands folded on the table in the background.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e3c9621c06d7300685cb_pexels-ron-lach-8035292.jpg)
A scriptwriter is anyone who writes a script for a play, movie, radio show, podcast, video game, or television show. Scriptwriters who write plays are called playwrights, movie writers are more commonly called screenwriters, and television writers are best known asâget thisâtelevision writers.
Playwrights and screenwriters almost always work on a freelance basis. Much like traditionally published book authors, they work with a literary agent and are constantly trying to sell their next project.
Television authors also need representation, though theyâre usually hired onto the writing staff of a TV show as an employee. There is such a thing as freelance television writing where a writer steps in to pen a single episode of a show, but this practice isnât as common as it used to be.
All of these jobs have the potential to be deeply fulfilling for a creative writer. They come with fun challenges like learning how to tell a great story purely through visuals and dialogue.Â
Keep in mind thatâmuch like becoming a successful authorâit takes a long time to build a solid career in this field. There are a lot of gatekeepers and frequent rejection .
Film, theater, and television are also much more collaborative art forms than book publishing. Whatever you write, you have to be prepared for producers, directors, set designers, sound designers, actors, and editors to put their fingerprints on it, too. Itâs entirely possible that the end product will be quite different from what you imagined.
In other words, if youâre precious about your work, this might not be your field.
Average Salary: $40,000-$80,000 per year
Publishing and Editing Jobs
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Feel like your true home is in the book world? Then youâre looking for something in publishing.
When we think about creative writing jobs in publishing, we usually think of authors first. After all, thatâs the dream for a lot of creative writers. But itâs no secret that authorship comes with rejection, requires a ton of patience, and doesnât always cover the bills.
The good news is, you can still build your career around books even if youâd prefer to pass on all the uncertainty that comes with being an author. This field has plenty of other opportunities to flex those creative writing skills.
But weâll get to those in a moment. First, letâs look at the best-known writing job in publishing.
As I mentioned before, authors are almost always freelance writers. This means that whether you plan to publish traditionally or self-publish, you have to think of yourself as a business.
Publishing traditionally means working with a publishing house to release your book into the world. This process usually involves finding an agent who then pitches your book to publishers and negotiates a book deal for you. We have a guide to the entire process right here .
Self-publishing means you produce and market your book yourself. This publishing model has boomed in both popularity and earning potential in the past decade and change. You must have an entrepreneurial spirit to succeed on this publishing path, though. You can learn more about it here .Â
Whichever path they choose, successful authors build platforms and a following through channels like social media , email newsletters, and speaking engagements. Those platforms help them develop relationships with readers, give them more visibility, and make them more appealing to publishers.
You also need to some degree of sales smarts, whether you self-publish and take on the full responsibility of marketing your book or you decide to publish traditionally, which requires creating a compelling book pitch that gets agents and publishers onboard.
Average Salary: I canât even give you a range in good conscience. So many factors influence author earnings, and only a small percentage of authors make a living on books alone. I recommend checking out this article for a clearer understanding of what you can make as an author.Â
![what jobs can you get from creative writing An editor holds a paper out to the camera.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e44820536fadba410b8f_pexels-thirdman-5060999.jpg)
As Doug can tell you , there are several kinds of editing you could do, including:
- Developmental editing
- Line editing
- Sensitivity reading
- Fact-checking
Each type of editing evaluates a different aspect of a written work. These options also allow you to zero in on your greatest strength as a creative writer. Are you the sultan of story structure ? You might be interested in developmental editing . Are you a research rockstar and a stickler for accuracy? Maybe fact-checking is for you.Â
This is a job you can do as an employee of a publishing house or as a freelancer. If you go the freelance route, youâll likely be working with a lot of indie authors.
Average Salary: $60,000-$80,000 per year
Copy Editor or Proofreader
Copy editors are magical beings who have the kind of superhuman focus that allows them to catch tiny issues like grammar errors, misspelled words, inconsistencies in story details, and the like.
Itâs true that AI is getting better and better at catching these mistakes. Thatâs why Dabble uses ProWritingAid to power grammar, spelling, and style checks. It helps creative writers prepare a draft that isnât utterly riddled with errors.
But at this moment in time, we still canât count on AI to catch nuanced errors, recognize clever word play, or appreciate an authorâs deliberate decision to shirk old grammar rules. We still need human eyes to do this job.
Often confused with a copy editor, a proofreader is the very last person to review a book, and they look for any and all errors. If thereâs a missed typo, a messed up margin, or a wonky image, theyâll flag it. Think of them as quality control.
As you likely guessed, both jobs require you to be extremely detail oriented.
Average Salary: $50,000-$90,000 per year
Literary agent
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You probably associate this career path with sales more than creative writing. But the literary agents who succeed are the ones who understand what makes a book great .Â
This job is best suited for someone whoâs ready to do a ton of reading and enjoys rubbing elbows. You can expect to spend plenty of time on the phone, in lunch meetings, at publishing events, and in pitch meetings. You have to be good at building relationships and love talking books.Â
What many creative writers donât realize about agents is that their job also involves giving feedback on current projects and helping their clients talk through new ideas. The advice of a good agent can mean the difference between a book deal and a manuscript that never graduates beyond PDF status.Â
Keep in mind that it takes time to succeed in this career. As a literary agent, youâll make 15% of what your authors earn from their books. Expect some lean years as you build your client list.
Average Salary: $50,000-$70,000 per year
Book Reviewer
As a creative writer, youâre probably great at explaining why books work. You have smart things to say about character development , plot structure, and pacing. And if youâre a fast readerâand would love to make reading part of your creative writing careerâyouâd probably enjoy being a book reviewer.
Book reviewers do exactly what you think they do: they review books. Many choose to specialize in a specific genre or two. Specializing can be an effective strategy when it comes to building a name for yourself and giving readers a reason to value your opinion. Itâs a way of establishing yourself as a genre expert.
Just note that this isnât an easy career to just plop into. While you can find job listings for book reviewers, there arenât many of them. Most people who do this for a living start by writing reviews on a freelance basis or even for their own blog/social media platform.
As you build your portfolio and reputation, you can submit your reviews to other publications, monetize your own review website/podcast/vlog, or possibly land a job as an in-house reviewer for a magazine, newspaper, or online platform.
Average Salary: $20,000-$80,000 per year
We already covered what a copywriter is, so I wonât go too deep on the subject here. I just want to make sure you know that itâs possible to do copywriting work within the world of publishing.
Publishing houses have copywriters on staff to handle things like press releases, media kits, author bios, social media content, and marketing materials.
In this role, youâd be able to enjoy the stability of a marketing-focused creative writing job while still getting to think about books all day. Not too shabby.
Average Salary: $50,000-$120,000 per year
Advertising and Marketing Jobs
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Items sitting on a white desk: a keyboard, cup of coffee, glasses, houseplant, and smartphone with the words "online marketing" on the screen.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e487c32209980f05d0ba_pexels-dominika-roseclay-905163.jpg)
If youâre on the lookout for creative writing jobs that make your value as an employee easy to quantify, advertising is the place to be.Â
The goal of all advertising is to persuade your audience to make a purchase or take some other action that benefits the business you work for.Â
Modern technology makes it easier than ever to track the success of your ad copy and marketing campaigns, which means you often have access to numbers that demonstrate what the return on investment is when someone hires you.
Now, all this might sound very cold and business-y, but this is an area where creative writers thrive because your goal is the same as it would be if you were writing a novel or screenplay. Youâre trying to find the best words to connect emotionally with your audience.
Not everyone can do that. You can.
Letâs take a closer look at the different ways you can do that.
Advertising Copywriter
Oh, look! Weâre talking about copywriters again. Since weâve already covered this, Iâll give the abbreviated explanation for the article skimmers.
An advertising copywriter writes copy (go figure) advertising a product or service to potential buyers. This includes anything that could potentially lead to a purchase, including:
- Marketing emails
- Print or online ads
Brand Strategist
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A Starbucks coffee cup sits on a cafe table.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e4c1086a5d77c461d33e_pexels-engin-akyurt-1437318.jpg)
If you already know what a brand strategist is, you might be surprised to see this position appear on a list of creative writing jobs. Brand strategists donât write as much as they, well, strategize brands.
This person is responsible for conducting market research, analyzing trends, creating buyer avatars, planning campaigns, and overseeing the production of marketing materials.Â
Depending on the size of the marketing team, a brand strategist might also write copy and content. But what makes this career a decent option for a creative writer is the storytelling aspect.
Brand strategists are responsible for translating the businessâs message into a story that resonates with buyers. They also need to understand their consumer on a deeper levelâa skill that comes more naturally to someone whoâs spent time studying character development.
Creative Director
Much like a brand strategist, a creative director looks at the big picture of a companyâs marketing efforts. What story is being told? How can they best use the creative resources available to tell that story in an emotionally compelling way?
The creative director leads all the creative professionals on a marketing team, including copywriters, designers, and social media content creators. They make sure everyone is on the same page, telling the same story and communicating the same message.
Average Salary: $120,000-$200,000 per year
Content Marketing Specialist
Remember when we talked about content writing? This is that, plus some added responsibility.
While a content writer is usually told what to write, a content marketing specialist is the person who decides what type of content will be most effective for the business.Â
They strategize content like emails, blog posts, videos, and social media depending on which formats and messaging are most likely to help buyers connect with the brand.Â
This person also selects the SEO and analytics tools to help them make sure their strategy is effective. They watch the results closely and regularly optimize their content marketing efforts to get better performance.
And yes, a content marketing specialist might also write some or all of the content themselves.
Skills Required for Creative Writing Jobs
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I tried to give you some sense of the skills required to stand out in each of the creative writing jobs we just went over.Â
Nevertheless, if youâve found something that interests you, I strongly suggest researching it further and connecting with someone whoâs already killing it in that field. Get a sense of what it means to excel and youâll be in a good spot to pursue your creative writing career seriously.
If youâre still not sure where you want this journey to lead, no problem! Follow your curiosity and let yourself gravitate towards the work that excites you. In the meantime nurture the following skills essential for every creative writing career.
Writing Skills
Okay, so Iâm not exactly dropping a bone-rattling truth bomb here. Of course you need strong writing skills to build a career as a creative writer. You know that. That said, some writers underestimate the importance of building on the skills they already have.Â
This is an issue I think tends to plague young writers the most. We catch wind of the fact that weâre âgood writersâ from teachers and peers and get attached to the idea that a good writer is something we already are. Like inherently.
I know I wasted a lot of energy in my early adult years worrying about whether or not people thought I was a talented writer instead of working to continuously become a better writer. Ongoing improvement is how youâll stand out from the crowd, especially as you zero in on the type of creative writing you want to do.Â
If you want to be a copywriter, find a mentor and start a course on copywriting. If you dream of being a bestselling author who makes a living from books alone, join a writing group, attend writing conferences, and download this free e-book on writing a novel that rocks.
Keep sharpening those writing skills, no matter how exceptional you already are.
Research and Analysis Skills
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Using a pen, a hand points to a bar graph on a piece of paper.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e517a6ad979601dc6fab_pexels-lukas-590022.jpg)
Research and analysis sounds like a skill set that only applies in marketing and technical writing. But in all creative writing jobs, research and analysis have the same goal: understanding what it takes to connect with an audience.
Now, if you become a screenwriter or a novelist, you might not pore over metrics the way you would if you were a brand strategist. What you will do (hopefully) is consume a ton of art in your genre to understand what works.
Constantly refresh your understanding of what speaks to readers, which trends are hot, and why current bestsellers are selling so well. Itâs also important to stay on top of new developments in the publishing industry and strategize your career accordingly.
And if you plan to be a self-published author, your research and analysis skills will help you make important marketing decisions.                                                                                                                             Â
Creativity and Imagination
If thereâs one area where you have a leg-up on AI, itâs this one. Everything AI creates comes from ideas and structures that already exist. As an adaptable, creative human being, you can find unique ways to express ideas that havenât been explored before.
This skill is essential for all the creative writing jobs weâve discussed. The best ad writers figure out how to write copy that stands out from the competition. Great editors help writers tap into their own original voices. Even in technical writing, imagination is crucial for finding new ways to simplify complicated topics.
Communication and Collaboration Skills
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Two colleagues have a conversation at a small table.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e546635bce0aa5ab8456_pexels-christina-morillo-1181719.jpg)
There are no writing jobs that allow you to compose brilliance alone in your cave and release it into the world with no input from anyone else.Â
You have to be open to feedback, and in ultra-collaborative fields like screenwriting, you must be ready for the possibility that your vision wonât often be everyoneâs top priority. (It hurts, I know.)
If youâre still working on building your collaboration skills, I can offer a few suggestions.
One is to make a habit of identifying whatâs important to you about every project you work on. Whatâs motivating you? What are your goals? When you can answer those questions, youâll be more confident gently pushing back on things you care about and more open to offering compromising when it comes to less important issues.
Another tip is to cultivate a genuine appreciation for what others can contribute. As a writer who regularly wrestles with a stubborn, foot-stomping ego, I often return to this interview with Dolly Parton for a reminder of the kind of artist I want to beâsomeone humble enough to celebrate when another person makes my good thing better.
And of course, working with people you respect helps boost that collaborative spirit, too.
Finally, clear communication is absolutely essential. Make sure you know what clients, employers, or team members expect from you. Also manage their expectations by being frank about your availability, timeline, and expertise.
Adaptability and Time Management
Most writing jobs involve deadlines and your reputation as a reliable writer hinges on your ability to meet those deadlines. That means youâve got to get good at managing your time.
This can be especially difficult if youâre a freelance writer, because thereâs no one dictating your schedule. Thereâs just today, a deadline in the future, and all this space in between that can be whatever you want it to be.
Time management takes practice, and a quick Google search will take you to loads of suggestions for making the process easier. You can try time blocking , the Pomodoro Technique , deep work strategies ⊠test whatever you think will do the trick.
For me, the most effective method is to remember two things. First, I need to maintain my reputation as a reliable writer if I want to pay my rent and gradually increase my income. Second, I donât want to be stuck at my desk when my husband comes home from work or friends are inviting me out on the weekend.
Those two limits help me draw time boundaries on that wide-open calendar and keep me motivated to stick to it.
Even as you create structure for yourself, however, you have to keep in mind that things might change. A client might shift direction. A project could fall through. You might find yourself partnering with a collaborator on something you thought would be a solo situation.
Itâs important to know your own work boundaries so you donât get walked on. But being adaptable (within reason) is also crucial for building positive, long-term professional relationships.
Industries That Hire Creative Writers
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Two people shake hands over a desk.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/645d6bd3671da65275c7c9a3_pexels-fauxels-3184465.jpg)
Weâve examined your professional opportunities by looking at the most common creative writing jobs. Now letâs take a look at them by industry.
If youâre already in the workforce, you might discover that there are writing jobs within your current industryâjobs you never even knew were there. If youâre in school pursuing something other than a creative writing major, you might discover that you can totally flex your wordsmith skills in your field of study.
And if you still have no idea how you want to put your talents to work, this list might help you uncover some less obvious job opportunities.
Entertainment Industry
You already know that the entertainment industry needs scriptwriters. You can probably guess that thereâs a need for copywriters in those massive marketing departments, too.Â
But thereâs also song writing, video game writing, script reading/analysis, and script consulting. Every single thing you see on TV has a writer behind itâusually an entire writing staff âincluding award shows and reality television.
You can even get hired to rewrite or âpunch-upâ someone elseâs script.Â
Publishing and Journalism
We covered the big writing jobs in this industry earlier, so for now, Iâll just add this:
As technology advances, these creative writing careers are more accessible than ever. You develop specialized skills online, build your own platform, and publish your own work. Itâs entirely possible to forge your own path in these industries that used to be heavily guarded by gatekeepers.
Thatâs not to say itâll be easy to make a name for yourself, nor is it to say that I think everyone with a Wordpress account should feel free to market themselves as a journalist.Â
What I mean to say is that if you want a career in these traditionally intimidating fields, thereâs space for you. There are more ways than ever to learn what you need to learn and create what you want to create.
Advertising and Marketing
Again, weâve talked about these writing jobs, so Iâll just tell you a quick story.
When I first moved to Los Angeles, I took an improv class (itâs mandatory here) with a woman who was a freelance namer. That was her whole job. She named products for major companies and made a whole entire L.A. living doing it.
While I canât help but wonder if AI has taken over her job yet, itâs an important reminder that writing skills are worth a lot in marketing. The right words are straight-up gold .Â
Education and E-learning
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A young student holds a notebook to their chest and smiles.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e5b5240eb09caeae17c1_pexels-anastasiya-gepp-1462630.jpg)
Creative writing is a teachable skill. If you enjoy guiding others, teaching might be a solid career option for you. You could teach creative writing in a formal education environment (youâll need a degree), at a local community center, or even online.
The education world also needs creative writers to put together written materials like textbooks, discussion guides, glossaries, and study guides. You could even write scripts for educational videos.
This is an area of creative writing that doesnât get a lot of attention, but thereâs an increasing demand for it. Not only do modern students turn to the Internet for information and homework help, the digital world has made self-directed learning easier than ever. You can find an online course for almost anything from auto repair to world literature.Â
Whatâs great about this industry is that it allows you to combine your passion for creative writing with your interest in another subject. Plus, thereâs the business about inspiring curious minds and all that.
Nonprofit Organizations
If youâre intrigued by the challenges of a job in marketing but want to feel like your work serves a greater purpose, consider writing for a nonprofit.
Youâd be doing many of the same things youâd do for a for-profit business: email marketing, advertising, blogging, video creation, and the like. The goal is similarâyou want to get the word out about the organization and create a positive association in peopleâs minds.
But thereâs also a strong fundraising element, since thatâs how a nonprofit stays afloat (and covers your paycheck). This means you can also expect to write grant proposals and oversee donor communications.Â
You can do all of this as part of the team or on a contract basis. Grant writing in particular is a good option if youâre looking to set up shop as a freelance writer.
Corporate Communications
Corporate communications is an oversized novelty umbrella that covers a lot of stuff. Simply put, this term refers to the many ways a corporation communicates its mission, goals, successes, and functions to everyone.Â
Seriously, everyone . The public, employees, shareholders, partners⊠every person who exists.
Now, if you work with a small startup, âcorporate communicationsâ could be your entire job. For larger companies, however, youâre more likely to work in a specific department. You might be on the marketing team or you could be responsible for internal communications like employee manuals and reports.
Bottom line: if youâre dreaming of a creative writing career in the corporate world, the job opportunities are definitely there.
Career Development and Education Options
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A person smiles in front of a building, wearing a graduation cap.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e60599669f4dea1b1f48_pexels-joshua-mcknight-1139312.jpg)
You know what creative writing jobs are out there. You know what skills these different industries are looking for. What about education? What kind of training do you need in order to land the job and crush it?
It depends on the specific job as well as what kind of time and money you have to invest in your creative writing education.Â
The good news is that you donât have to rack up insane student loans in order to make a good living as a writer. There are certain positions where a degree is mandatory, but there are plenty of hiring managers who donât care where you got your creative writing skills as long as you have them.
And itâs never been easier to find training as a writer. Letâs look at your options.
Degree Programs in Creative Writing
If you plan to get a four-year degree to boost your knowledge as a writer, you might be eyeballing a creative writing major. This area of study is most useful if you plan to become a fiction writer, screenwriter, poet, or the like.
If youâre mapping out a career thatâs a little more predictable and a little less âartsy,â consider majors like journalism, communications, technical writing, or marketing.
Industries that are most likely to have a mandatory college degree requirement include journalism, academia, and large corporations or nonprofits.
If you plan to go into entertainment or work as a freelance writer, a formal education can help you develop essential skills. Althoughâreal talkâmany of those skills can be learned through the less expensive educational avenues weâre about to go over.Â
Many folks who earned creative writing degrees will tell you that the biggest benefit of their program was the network it provided when they left college. Thatâs no small thing, but itâs also not what we think weâre going to college for.Â
Writing Workshops and Online Courses
![what jobs can you get from creative writing A person works on the computer in bed.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e62f383d0b1d4db776ef_pexels-vlada-karpovich-4050387.jpg)
You can easily find live workshops, online courses, and writing groups to help you sharpen your skills or develop new ones.Â
This option is a good compromise between a formal education and fully self-directed learning. Thereâs often a fee, but itâs tens of thousands of dollars less than youâd spend on a creative writing degree. Thereâs a structure to keep you on track but you donât have to show up at a physical location multiple times a week for months at a time.
Whatever type of creative writing skill you want to work on, a quick Google search will help you find courses you can take. You can also search the course selection at sites like Coursera , Udemy , and Masterclass .
Finally, a lot of folks who sell online writing courses offer free webinars as a way to get you on their mailing list and pitch their full program. If you donât feel like you have a clear enough goal to invest in an entire course, these webinars provide a great opportunity to pick up some basic insights and start practicing new skills.
Networking and Professional Associations
Look for networking events and professional associations specific to the field you wish to enter. You absorb so much information just by being around experts and peers, plus youâll have access to seminars, boot camps, training programs, and more.
Many organizations also hold or participate in conferences. These conferences provide learning opportunities that not only sharpen your creative writing skills but also educate you about your chosen industry. If you donât have the travel budget, you can attend many conferences online at a discount.
And donât forget to build your own little network of creative writers! Even fiction-focused communities like Dabbleâs Story Craft CafĂ© are full of writers who rely on more predictable writing work like copywriting and communications to pay their rent. These are great places to share information about building creative writing careers of all kinds.
Building a Portfolio and Gaining Experience
Finally, we learn best by doing. As you pick up new advice and information through your chosen educational channels, put that insight to work immediately.
Offer to write the press release for your cousinâs startup. Ask a strapped-for-cash nonprofit if theyâd be interested in letting you write your first grant proposal on their behalf. Create a blog that allows you to showcase the kind of content you hope to one day get paid to write.
These things help you build a portfolio to show prospective clients or employers. They also give you an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, get feedback early, and discover the challenges that are unique to different writing jobs.Â
The faster you experience those things, the faster you learn and the sooner youâre ready to make a living as a creative writer.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Runners lined up on the starting line.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/621594d45d719e0f9cffb843/64c5e659383d0b1d4db77864_pexels-boom-%F0%9F%92%A5-12659362.jpg)
Writing is an in-demand skill. Donât let anyone tell you otherwise. If you dream of paying your bills with your wordsâeither as a full-time job or a side hustleâyou absolutely can. It may take patience, diligence, and a lot of learning, but the work is out there.
The last bit of advice Iâll offer you is to find a community of writers who have your back. No one understands the journey like another writer. You can count on your network of fellow wordsmiths for moral support, job leads, feedback, and more.
If youâre still in the process of finding those friends, join us at the Story Craft CafĂ©âespecially if fiction is part of your writerly aspirations. The community is free to join and a great place to talk craft, share your work, and stay productive with daily word sprints. Follow this link to get started.
Abi Wurdeman is the author of Cross-Section of a Human Heart: A Memoir of Early Adulthood, as well as the novella, Holiday Gifts for Insufferable People. She also writes for film and television with her brother and writing partner, Phil Wurdeman. On occasion, Abi pretends to be a poet. One of her poems is (legally) stamped into a sidewalk in Santa Clarita, California. When sheâs not writing, Abi is most likely hiking, reading, or texting her mother pictures of her houseplants to ask why they look like that.
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26 Creative Writing Careers
by Melissa Donovan | Aug 4, 2022 | Creative Writing | 164 comments
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing careers](https://www.writingforward.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/creative-writing-careers.jpg)
Creative writing careers — they’re out there!
If creative writing is your passion, then you’d probably enjoy a career in which you could spend all day (or at least most of the day) pursuing that passion.
But creative writing is an artistic pursuit, and we all know that a career in the arts isn’t easy to come by.
It takes hard work, drive, dedication, a whole lot of spirit, and often, a willingness to take big financial risks — as in not having much money while you’re waiting for your big break.
When we think of people who make a living through writing, novelists and journalists come to mind immediately. But what other jobs are out there for folks who want to make creative writing the work that puts food on the table?
The Creative Writing Career List
Here’s a list of creative writing careers that you can consider for your future. I’m not making any promises. You have to go out and find these jobs yourself, but they do exist. You just have to look for them and then land them.
- Greeting Card Author
- Comic Book Writer
- Copywriter (business, advertising, marketing, etc.)
- Writing Coach
- Screenwriter
- Songwriter (Lyricist)
- Freelance Short Fiction Writer
- Web Content Writer
- Creative Writing Instructor
- Legacy Writer (write people’s bios and family histories)
- Critic/Reviewer
- Ghostwriter
- Article Writer (write, submit, repeat)
- Video Game Writer
- Personal Poet (write personalized poems for weddings, funerals, childbirths, etc.)
- Speechwriter
- Write sleep stories
- Blogger (don’t tell me you don’t have a blog yet!)
- Creative Writing Consultant
- Specialty writer (food, travel, fitness, etc.)
- Write guided meditations
I’m not saying you’re going to make a lot of money with some of these creative writing careers. You might have to earn your creating writing income part-time or on the side. But if you do what you love, the money (i.e. the success) just might follow. You’ll never know unless you try, right?
Do you have any creative writing careers to add to this list? Share your suggestions by leaving a comment.
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164 Comments
I find it so difficult to consolidate my thoughts when it comes to career paths. I know this is only a short post with some fairly obvious suggestions, but I really have to say cheers for arranging them in a way that means I can go “Oh yeah. I could do that. Or that..”
Baffled in the world of writing.
Thanks, GrapeMe. I’m sure there are many more creative writing career paths, and hopefully some folks will stop by and add their suggestions. What I wanted to do with this post was present some starter ideas for career building. If you’re in school or have a full-time job, then these are great ways to get your feet wet, and you never know where these jobs will take you! Good luck to you!
Great post!
I can tell you from personal experience that it IS possible to make a career in creative writing. My dream was to launch an on-line store where I could showcase and sell e-mail subscriptions to my collection of short stories. Additionally, I wanted to foster other short story writers by sponsoring short story contests.
Now, nearly three years later, LongShortStories is happily chugging along like The Little Engine That Could, bringing the best in short fiction to an ever-widening appreciative global audience.
It does take patience and perseverence, along with a huge leap of faith in yourself and the reading community at large, to create and maintain such an ongoing venture.
Am I successful? Yes. Am I rich? Yes, if by that you define success and richness as living out one’s creative dream. For that, I am so grateful to my loyal readers and contest entrants who see the power in the short story form.
Go for it, I say!
Wayne C. Long Writer/Editor/Digital Publisher
That’s one of the reasons I wanted to present this list — you never know where it will lead if you just start by dipping your toes in the water. And I think for those of us who are creative or artistic, there’s a true need to engage our creativity even if it’s not our full-time work. And if we can bring in a little extra spending money doing something we love, all the better!
Hi Wayne Hi. Felt great to see your view and understande your perspective,on this important and required art. Writing is something which will indeed shape the future have already writen poems, want to publish them. Am a Multiple Sclerosis patient would appreciate support in my persuit to make my work visible.
I’ve heard of most of these, except personal poet. Of course, the creative job (though not about writing) that I wonder most about is: who gets hired to design those patterns on paper towels?
I’ve been to several websites for personalized poetry. Actually, that’s something I briefly considered doing many years ago, but ultimately I chose another path. Funny you mention the paper towel patterns, because I have wondered the same thing many, many times!
Probably a clever little robot..
Children’s book author. đ I completely agree with you that there is usually a way to turn your passion into a successful career, even if it involves looking for unconventional routes to do what you love.
Yes, those unconventional routes are the ones forged by pioneers, people who were compelled to follow their dreams. Reminds me of the saying, “Do what you love and the money will follow.”
Nice list, Melissa.
I routinely participate in two of the twenty on your list. However, I would be hard pressed to call either a career. More of a labor of love, compulsion, passion than a reliable way to pay the bills — even though I participate daily. Still, I am incredibly fortunate. I would not change my vague professional choices for anything. Best of success to all who tackle anything on the above list.
Thanks, Devin. I believe that if we combine our passion with a desire to make a living doing what we love, anything is possible. Best of luck to you!
I couldn’t agree more. I mostly just do what I love and somehow the bills get paid. believing in yourself is also very helpful — of course there is no reason not to.
Mrs. Melissa Donovan,
I wanted to write for theater newsletter a friend created.
She gave me the opportunity and not a thought would come to me.
Not a theater professional but I like theater and felt I had something to say about it.
Upon returning a few theater books to the library, I got lost in a Exploring Theater Playwriting, a topic jumped on me Rules of etiquette.
Finally, I have the first draft.
I need guidance to help me orient myself with writing and I hope to find it online. This list is a good start. I scrub toilets for a living, can’t help but read and write before and after work. Words, concepts and definitions are very important to me, can’t imagine not pursuing writing soon, yet I need to sell it too somehow. Custodian/janitorial work speaks for itself, words require a lot more compelling.
Great list of creative writing careers, Melissa. To this list, I would like to add:
1. Letter writer — writing personal and business letters for clients. 2. Resume writer
…and you’re right. If you do what you love, the money frequently DOES follow!
Thanks, Christine! These are great additions to the list. Resume and cover letter writing are especially notable because one can make a good living in that field. However, I’m not sure it constitutes as creative writing so much as business writing. In any case, definitely worth mentioning!
I’m not quite sure what I would want to do in the writing field. I don tknow because so many of them I think I could do well in. I am so grateful for this list because it shows a very organized way of showing so many possibilities in this creative field.
If you try different forms, styles, and genres of writing, you’ll eventually find the one that fits! Good luck to you!
Melissa. I hope I could maybe get into non fiction writing or even journalism.
Good luck. Just keep writing and submitting, and you’ll get there.
Im just a 12 year old girl who wants to know what I want to do with my life when I get older. All of my other friends know exactly what they are going to be, but I wasn’t sure. So, I went and looked on some websites about jobs that have to do with writing, and this website gave me a very good idea of what I want to be, a song writer because I also love singing. Thanks! đ
Songwriting is an excellent career. I love that songwriters get to be creative, work with lots of other artists, and are immersed in music but don’t have to deal with the spotlight and publicity (unless the songwriter is also a star). Nice career choice! Good luck to you.
I am too and my parents have recently asked me what I may have wanted to be and I didn’t even know so it kinda scared me and I have recently realized I like to write stories.I know how this economy works though with the unemployment and it makes me wonder if a writing career would work.I love to write though,am I crazy or something?
At twelve years old, there is no reason to be scared if you don’t know what you want to be when you grow up. You have plenty of time! Lots of people start college without declaring their field of study, and lots of people start college thinking they’re going to do one thing and then change halfway through. But if you really love writing and want to pursue it, then there’s no better time to start than right now. No, you’re not crazy. Writing is a wonderful adventure. Also, you are living in the best possible time in history to be a writer. There are tons of wonderful opportunities available to writers that we did not have ten or twenty years ago. I wish you the best of luck, Thatgirl!
Melissa, I’m a former high school English teacher who realized a few years into teaching that writing was what I really wanted to do. I have a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in education but am trying to change careers. I’ve been working on a YA novel and have been getting EXTREMELY frustrated. I have to say I found your post on accident but have found it to be very inspiring. Thanks for surge of reassurance that it can be done!
You’re welcome! I think it’s wonderful that you’re working on a novel and normal that you’re frustrated. Just keep at it and the frustration will eventually pass. You’ll find that in a battle of willpower, commitment wins out over frustration every time.
I really want to write and it has always been a favorite passtime of mine. If i am not writing I feel empty inside like something is missing. The problem is I am scared to take that ‘leap of faith’ and make a career out of it. Instead, I search for everything else to become in life just to run from the truth that writing has been and always will be my destiny. It started back in high school when I was told writers don’t make much money. I let that get in the way of what I could be now and I quit. Now, I see writers that are better and are doing better than I am and I get jealous because I feel I am a better writer than them all!! Then I realize that talk is cheap without evidence to back it up. Can anybody offer a advice or words of encouragement for me to finally persue my one and only true love and happiness in life?? It would be greatly appreciated. Thank you..
Well Skyi, I personally don’t think jealousy is going to get you anywhere. If you obsess over comparing yourself to your peers, you will be in a constant state of negativity. Also, you should keep in mind that regardless of how well you write, you are not entitled to success, especially in a field that you chose not to pursue. I think your best course of action would be to accept that you are where you are right now because of the choices that you (and you alone) made. Once you accept responsibility for your life, you can set a new course and start pursuing a career in writing. It’s never too late to become a writer. Stop focusing on what other writers are achieving and concentrate on writing the best you can. The only way to be a writer is to write.
Hey Melissa,
I think your website is great! I ran by it by mistake and really found the info helpful. I am venturing out into my writing career and can use all the info I can get my hands on. I do have a question: I have started a career and have ppl supporting me in this career but I am for certain that writing is where I belong and want to do. How do I make the transistion smoothly and let my supporters down easily? đ
Thanks in advance for the advice,
Thanks for your kind words. Your question confuses me. Why would you be letting your supporters down if you transition to writing as a career? If they are truly your supporters, it won’t be a let-down at all.
Wow! Is all I can say..I honestly thought that I was in this boat all by myself! Like you, I have ping ponged myself between careers and have always found my way back to writing. I mean literally I have been a secretary for over five years, graduated with a assoicates business degree, taken cosmetology courses and actually done freelance makeup artistry and STILL I find myself unhappy. I had to really sit myself down and think of what I was taking myself through…it didn’t make any sense for me not to pursue my passion; the one thing that I enjoyed most whether I was sad, mad, happy, etc. I have been writing since the tender age of six from poems to short ficition stories, won many rewards for my writing while I was in elementary through middle school. When I reached high school, I didnt want to be labeled as a “geek” and compared my life to peers which led me to where I am today. Don;t get me wrong, my life is not horrible; I have a good job and work with ppl that I am respected by but I know that life can be more fulfilling and better if I was to just do what in the heck I want to do! lol. It’s easier said than done and I know EXACTLY where you are coming from.
Like Melissa has mentioned, don’t spend your time comparing your life to others; your path to success is truly in your hands. đ I wish the very best for you.
Thank you for this list! My dream career though is to be a show/concept writer for a theme park like Disney. There are stories for each ride and I would love to be one of the minda behind them.
Wow, writing a theme park ride would be a pretty awesome job. That never even occurred to me as a creative writing career. Thanks for adding it, Ren!
Hi Melissa, I’m coming up to my last year of high school and I’m trying to think of a career path. I love to write, but I’m not sure what the best way to start. What I would like to do the most is writing lyrics, and if not that poetry. However, I don’t think I would be able to. Do you know how I can get my writing out after college? How difficult was it for you? How did you start making a career out of your writing? What helped you the most? Thank you for your time, -Jessica
I believe it’s pretty difficult to make a living writing lyrics and/or poetry. But there are some careers in those areas, and just because it’s a challenging path doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pursue it. As a lyricist, you will need to partner with musicians, so building a network of musicians and learning about the music industry would be a good start. I understand that some slam poets are now making a living in poetry, but their form requires live (and recorded) performances, something not all writers are crazy about. (Search for “slam poetry” or check out IndieFeed Performance Poetry podcast for more info.) You can also write poetry for greeting cards (you’ll have to do a little research on how to get work in that field).
A good start for a poet like yourself is to take some poetry workshops, which will help you understand whether your work is publishable. But you should also submit your poetry to journals and literary magazines. Visit their websites, check their submission guidelines, and then send them your work. That is how you start.
I made a career out of writing by studying creative writing at university, which gave me the skills (and more importantly, the confidence) to start my own blog and copywriting business.
What helped me the most? Writing a lot and reading even more.
Good luck to you!
Thank you so much for this list. This will be my last year in high school before I start collage, and my dream has always been to be a writer, but sadly I have always been told that writing doesn’t pay very good unless your amazingly good. The comments as well as the posting, has given me hope about having a job in writing.
One could argue that few careers pay well unless you are amazingly good. I would further qualify that to say you don’t even have to be good, just hardworking and driven. There are plenty of viable career opportunities in writing. It’s probably easier to make a good living as a technical or scientific writer than as a novelist (assuming you acquire the proper training in those fields), but if you are sufficiently motivated, you can succeed at whatever you want.
I’ve always loved writing and video games. Me and some of my friends would literally sit and talk for hours about ideas for video games we had and would start writing them down. Even before graduating from high school, I’ve been trying to find a path that would allow me to become a video game writer. It’s been three years since I graduated from high school and I’m still left without answers. I went to college for two years for secondary English education but it just didn’t interest me the way writing for video games do. A few days ago, I went to Pittsburgh University of Greensburg and talked with a professor there to see what I should do if I want to become a video game writer. Once again, I was left without answers. She pretty much told me that she had never heard of such a thing before. Please, if you could provide me with any information, anything at all, I would greatly appreciate it.
I would suggest studying creative writing with a focus on fiction. Another good option might be screenwriting. Video games are stories, so you would want to develop writing skills in general and storytelling skills specifically. You might also take some courses in programming or application development. That’s not my area of expertise, so I can’t be more specific. You best bet is to find someone who writes for video games and ask their advice.
I came across this on accident. I was looking for different options to take for a career path on writing. I have not written much in my life. When I was in middle school and in high school I used to write in my Journal a lot. I had a couple friends who wrote poems and short stories I thought they were good and I wanted to try too. I wrote in my journal about many different things, but it never seemed satisfying to me. I was too embarassed to show everyone what I could write. So I continued to write secretivley. I stopped writing, and 2 years later when I felt as if my whole life was nothing I started writing again, and now I feel alive! i still don’t think my writing is the best but it has made me feel so much better about myself.I started writing a novel. My fiance is excited for me and wants me to follow my dream and do what I want to do. When I came across this I felt like someone was nudging me. Thank you so much! This has inspired me entirely!
Thank you for sharing your writing experiences. I’m so glad you found Writing Forward inspiring. I know what you mean about coming across something that gives you a little nudge. All my life, I’ve experienced little nudges and they have always pointed me toward writing (even way back when I had my sights set on other career paths). Those little nudges really make one wonder about destiny.
I’m one of the few that lived the dream, earned money from writing and hated it! It sounds terrible, but writing for money sucked all the joy out of the creative process for me. I loved to write for school and my unpaid internship (I have a Bachelor’s in English), but the minute I needed to pay bills with my writing, the whole process felt like a soul-suck. Suddenly it wasn’t enough to write when the inspiration hit throughout the week (when my best writing happens anyway), but I had to be witty and original at the snap of a finger. Yet it wasn’t enough to be witty: you have to care about what sells, what different editors think “good” writing even is and follow contradictory style guidelines. It wasn’t that I wasn’t used to these things, but now if it didn’t happen or I didn’t sell, my power goes off. I had panic attacks every time I sat down to write. I had to go back and get a traditional job.
But if I’m out of it, why search this stuff a month and a half after admitting defeat? It’s because I love the art of writing: the creative process, the big dreams of those starting out, the insights others have, the glory of a sentence fashioned just right after five pages of terrible ones. The monetary aspect destroyed that for me. Just goes to show, it’s not for everyone. To anyone that wants to write for a living, be willing to work long hours, open to constant criticism and have a plan B.
Hi Michelle. I would say there’s a big difference between commercial writing and creative writing. Commercial writing means you’re writing for payment rather than to express your own ideas. I can certainly understand how writing commercially zaps creativity or feels like a soul-suck. I’ve experienced it myself. But I hope you’re still pursuing your creative writing. In fiction and poetry, I believe the best writing comes from the heart and is not driven by money or the marketplace.
I am a senior in high school and plan on going to college to major in journalism. However, I do not know exactly what field of work to go into. I was thinking about writing for People’s Magazine. I know it seems far-fetched, but hey, it’s my dream! Do you know how a person might have a chance at writing for a such a successful magazine??
Jamie, it sounds like you have decided which field of work to go into (journalism). More specifically, it sounds like you want to write for a Hollywood gossip publication. There are probably many opportunities in that area, not limited to People Magazine. For example, there are tons of websites that focus on celebrity news, and you could also work as a writer for one of the entertainment news shows (like ET or Inside Edition). That’s definitely not my area of expertise, but it sounds to me like you’re already heading in the direction that’s right for you.
Thanks for the comment! I am not exactly positive that I want to write for People Magazine, but I do know that I want to write. What do you do for a living (if you don’t mind me asking)? I would love to write for any company, really. I just like to write. I am interested in entertainment. Which is why I want to write for a magazine. But, writing for something a little more discreet is fine too.
I’m a web designer and copywriter by trade. I help small businesses build effective online marketing campaigns. My livelihood is somewhat supplemented by the work I do here on Writing Forward. I’m also working on a couple of big writing projects (a novel and a book of creative writing exercises). The exercises book will be out soon and available here. The novel could take years! There are many opportunities for writers; you just have to find them.
That is really neat! I just want to do anything to make my family proud! I love to write! đ I can’t wait to gain a higher education. Thanks for taking the time to read my comments and commenting back!
It fills my heart with hope to see a young person so excited about education. Something tells me that you’re going to do quite well, Jamie.
Hey, i found this while looking for it, oddly enough. I am currently attending college and in pursuit of a Creative Writing degree, I am about two years in! with almost completed half of my courses for my four year, I still have some question’s as most. My concentration will be in Technical writing, Grants and contracts, but i will be writing on the side to keep the creative spark. I was curious, however, if you could point me in the direction of a detailed description of a day in your shoes as a copy write. i would much oblige Thnx again.
That would be a lengthy essay indeed. I will say this: every day is different. Also, most of my time is not spent writing. It’s spent on marketing and taking care of administrative tasks.
Liberating thought: even if writing does not provide a full living, it can provide enough of one to let a person withdraw from the pressure to move upward in another career. A decent-paying day job plus supplemental writing can add up to as much or more income as a hated rat race job.
I agree 100%. For many writers, it’s an outlet for creativity or it supplements their income — small things that have a big, positive impact on quality of life!
Melisa, Thanks for the list. I am a writer who intends to find my feet more in the art of writing. I am inspired by the list. My contribution is, if you love to write anything at all, start writing. You can’t imagine where it might take you. God bless you.
Thank you for your inspiring words.
hi I would like a career in writing but I just dont know what to do. I was into journalism but had a talk with a journalist a few weeks ago and got really discouraged. I have a blog and write short stories. But I just dont know what to do in my life. I am 18 years old and would like to stop wasting time and money in lectures I am not going to use. Currently I am doing a course on media production and I’m liking it. But it is like there is something missing. When I write I feel whole.
Many eighteen-year-olds have no idea what they want to do. It sounds like you know you want to write; you just need to figure out what form. College is a great place to figure that out. You can take classes in different types of writing (fiction, journalism, business writing) and find what fits. If you’re drawn to journalism, I don’t think you should give up on it just because one journalist discouraged you. Talk to more journalists, take some journalism classes, and do a little citizen journalism. Experiment and stick with your studies!
I am a short story writer, and a poet. But I am only 13. Trying to hook myself into this early <3
I started writing when I was thirteen too. Stick with it!
I will! Haha, even my boyfriend likes my writing.
That’s good. It’s important to have a support system. Try to find others who will appreciate and support your writing, too. Good luck!
I’m having a hard time finding a career path. I’m still in high school, but it’s not going too well.
My odd circumstances are going to leave me in dire straights soon, where I can either choose to drop out of high school and get my GED or go through with two more of high school. (I’m a senior, kind of. I left public school for home school, and it’s not working out. For myself or my mother.) So, I figured that now would be the best time to find a career path that is both logical but suited to my creative side.
Is there any security in being a creative writer? I mean, this list is comparatively small when you look at more practical things like nursing degrees or business degrees. I understand that the big blow up in internet culture, creative writing via blogging is becoming a fast hit with book publishers, but how likely is it that creative writing will be a degree that I can support myself (and/or a family) on?
In this day and age, I don’t think there is true security in any career field. Perhaps there never has been. Careers in the arts have a reputation for being harder than other careers, but I am not sure I believe that to be true. I think these careers are different in that you usually don’t have an employer, benefits, etc. You are hustling rather than working set hours for a regular paycheck. In my experience, people with self-discipline and drive create their own job security (in any field). Also, there’s a kind of competition in the arts that doesn’t exist in many other industries.
In terms of your education, my advice would be to finish high school. However, I’m not privy to the details of your circumstances. I just think there is a greater value in getting a diploma alongside your peers.
Nobody supports themselves on a degree. You can get a degree in astro-engineering and end up homeless. Success is the result of making smart choices, working hard, internal drive, external support system, and luck. You might find yourself eventually making a choice between living a more secure, conventional life and pursuing your dream of becoming a career writer. Sacrifice of one kind or another is inevitable.
My cousin has his undergrad degree in English and MFA (master’s in fine arts) in creative writing. He’s taught technical writing in college and now works at home as a contractor for corporate companies (tech writing.) He recently finished the first draft of his sci-fi novel by saving up and taking a few months off at a time. And, yes, he certainly is not a starving artist.
I am studying creative writing and education, both of which are terribly impractical, income-wise. But it’s possible to make a decent living if you’re passionate, dedicated and willing to take day jobs that you won’t necessarily enjoy.
See, I just don’t think these fields of study are impractical, especially studying education (we will always need teachers). With all the budget cuts, a career as a teacher might look improbable right now, but these cuts only apply to public schools. There are many other opportunities for teachers and places where their skills can be used.
Thank’s Melissa for the encouragement.I will surely look into that.This blog page of yours is really helpful for all the aspiring writers.
I read the article and I loved it. I am an aspiring author (Junior in highschool), and wish to one day publish a succesful fiction novel, like many others. I always knew I wanted to write, but I was told constantly that it would not suit for a career, and that healthcare and buissness were far better choices, money-wise. I am aware that sacrificing wealth over happiness is a nessecity in this pathway, but I am not so interested in wealth. My love for writing and spreading messages to inspire people, and even entertain is what I strive for. I realize it is hard to make a successful fiction novel. I will forever write them, but I need a job that will at least get me by. I’m not so sure which would be best for a fiction novelist. I was leaning more on article writing, but that is more technical, I believe. I was inspired by the coments and your responses. Recently, I firmly decided to go with creative writing, but the desicion to pick what to do is dificult. I will continue writing, and hopefully, I’ll make it one day. đ
You sound like my kind of writer, Karolina.
I once heard someone say that money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy comfort. Well, many writers find comfort in the craft. I wish you the best.
Hi there guys! I’ve really enjoyed reading everyones opinions and experiences. I could really do with some advice of my own- I’ve always considered myself a creative soul; I’m a songwriter, have written screen plays and am currently working on my first novel. My major passion in life is professinal wrestling (eg.wwe), I currently write a wrestling blog and love the idea of one day writing creativtly for the tv shows. Having scouted my dream job with wwe, I learnt that they require applicants to have a ba degree in creative writing or a similar field aswell as experience in scriptwriting for tv. I am 22 yrs old and looking to settle down with my girlfriend however the idea of finally going to uni and gaining the skill set to at least improve my writing has big appeal. I realise my chances of ever workibg in such a niche field are slim and would settle for any work in which I could contribute to a creative process, but is uni with all its costs and time it takes to complete worth it?
I majored in creative writing in college, and I definitely think it’s worth the time and money, especially if you plan on a career in creative writing. If the job that you’ve got your eye on requires a BA, then you should certainly pursue it if you can. Dream big!
This is a wonderful post and I thank you for it. I have been struggling over the last few years when it came to finally making a decision in regard to what I want to do with my life. This has definitely given me a few ideas and I will be getting the ball rolling as soon as I possibly can! :]
Thanks, Lisa-Marie. I’m glad you got some ideas out of this post, and I wish you the best of luck in your writing future!
I recently just started a hobby of writing, they’re fictional based stories, but i was inspired by real events in my life & though the stories i write are fictional, they are realistic to a certain extent as well. Guess you could consider them historical fiction &/or drama & suspense stories. I’m kind of new at writing & i don’t know very many people that are well to do writters, so I’m kind of on my own. I was wondering if anyone had any ideas of where i should start?
There are plenty of writers on the internet, and you can easily connect with them. You can search for writers’ groups. Look for writers on social media. Start a blog. Writers love to discuss the craft and share information, and the web makes it easy. If you’d prefer to do something in person, check your local community college for creative writing classes and workshops or poke around and see if you can find a writer’s group that is accepting new members. Best of luck to you, Matt.
OK, thank you !!
You’re welcome.
Hello Melissa! Thanks for this list.. I’m an English major with a Creative Writing minor, and lately I have been struggling to make a decision about my future career(s). I write poetry but my main focus is writing fantasy/mystery fiction, and I’d like nothing better than to just write novels for the rest of my life. However, I know I may never be able to support myself by doing just this. I’ve been stressed out lately thinking what career I could get into, but technical writing doesn’t appeal to me and I don’t have a burning desire to teach. This list reminds me that I have more options than I thought!
That’s great, Monica! I too majored in creative writing (at my school, it was called a concentration). I’ve also found that most employers appreciate a worker who has strong writing skills. I got more than one promotion and/or raise because of my writing when I was an office worker! I wish you the best of luck!
I have always aspired to become a published author, and now that I am in the last years of my life I find myself wanting to have a writing career more than ever. All my life I have worked hard to make a living to raise my family, the physical demands of my jobs have paid their toll on me, and I think it is about time I settled down and did something I could enjoy. I have always excelled in the creative arts, from writing to acting to art, but have never held a job in which I could use these talents. Following is a list of the creative writing jobs I could do from your list: Greeting Card Author, Advertising (Creative), Freelance Short Fiction Writer, Columnist, Video Game Writer (includes storytelling/fiction!), I would also like to get a few novels published. I can also draw just about anything-ultimately I would like to get my own stories published- with not only my creative writing, but my illustrations as well. I have written several books and have ideas for many more, but because I have to make a living I have been unable to get anything published because the cost is too much. In other words, because I have had to take physically demanding jobs that paid little wages I have never had the capitol to get started. I have sent out many submissions and have entered many contests, but made little ground in the creative field. I want to write, I’m good at it, and I just need to find a way to get my work noticed-this has been very difficult. I would merely like to make a living in something I’m good at and I have a driving desire to do. Is there any advice you can give me, or any contact information for agents and publishers who might be interested in helping out a new author?
Hi Tim. It sounds like you’re passionate about art and writing. I’m not sure how much you’ve submitted your work, but I would say keep at it. If you have a lot of completed material, you can polish it and just keep submitting it. Chances are that eventually, your work will be accepted. You might also want to start a website to build a readership and audience. A professionally designed site will be an expense, but you can start with a free platform like WordPress.com. You can use your site/blog to post your writing and your art. You can also self-publish and build your own readership. However, I would note that running your own website is time consuming, and there can be a lot to learn in terms of marketing, so you might want to pick up a couple of books or hire someone to help you with the process. I wish you the best of luck!
Wow! Thank you so very much for creating this list! I actually haven’t really thought of doing some of the jobs listed on here. I’m only 20 years old and I’m finding it EXTREMELY hard to make it in the writing business! However, I am pursuing my dream and I am planning to do whatever it takes to make it. Thank you ever so much Melissa!
Many blessings to you,
Good luck to you, Nada!
I wish to be a writer some day.I am currently working in a IT company which offers a decent pay.But I have always loved writing since my school days even though I eventually graduated in Engineering.I want to make a career switch and pursue a career in writing.I now the pay is not that great in writing but then arts is always difficult.I want to take a shot at it and live my dream.I am very apprehensive about the future and don’t know how to tell it to my parents.I keep a blog for short-stories and poems.
Most writers start their careers while they have full-time jobs. You can definitely ease into a writing career. If you can get paid for a few freelance projects, get a blog and audience going, you’ll be able to lay a solid foundation for a future career. Best of luck to you!
Hello, my name is quadree Breeland and I am a 19 year old college student in Delaware and I am looking to transfer to Columbia college in Chicago. I might not be the greatest writer but I love it. I have written 2 full short scripts. One is a police procedural and the serial killer who kills people with their own video games. Literally and the other is a thriller about a guy who quit the CIA because of problems with his father and a Russian terrorist comes back to try and kill him and anything around him. I love writing and I am very creative. My dream career is to write the dialogue, story, or the missions in video games. Basically, I wanna write for games. I know I won’t get a job like that as soon as I get out of college, but I have no problem applying for a job as a comic book writer, game or film reviewer, or writing for a web series. Im not really a novelist, but I wouldn’t mind taking a job like the ones I stated above when I graduate. I guess all I want is a reply with school advice and career advice. I am trying to find a good blog or site to post my stories at. I’m trying to find schools for me with film, or writing in the entertainment industry. I’m trying to find schools with dorms, clubs, and a good social life. You know, parties and stuff.
You have some great story ideas that would work well for scripts or video games. I would suggest that you try to find an internship with a company that produces video games. If you do that while you’re still in school, you’ll have a much better shot at landing a job in your chosen field when you graduate. Good luck to you!
Blogging sounds interesting and fun, but I don’t know how to pinpoint a topic to dedicate a blog to! I’m not an expert at anything and don’t do much of a hobby that I think could carry out well as a blog. Any ideas, suggestions, etc?
Hi Rachel. You could always write a personal blog in which you share your personal stories, ideas, and experiences. You can also do a photo or art blog. You do need some central theme or topic to write around.
When I was purusing an art undergraduate degree in philosophy and graduated in 2009, I had no idea that a career in the liberal arts can be this tough. My hobby of writing has started upon graduation, and had been looking for work that can utilize my writing skills ever since.
I have seen job posts that requires a degree in journalism if were to pursue staff writer, but no mention of a degree in philosophy.
I came across your website and like what you blog about.
Thanks, Katherine. Yes, it’s tough to get these jobs, and many work best as second jobs or extra income. Part of what determines whether you can land these positions is your skill level. It’s all about practice and getting in those 10,000 hours. Keep at it!
I want to add Medical Writing/Editing to this list. Although some may think that it is not “creative writing”, it can be very creative depending on the type of medical writing that you do. Medical Regulatory writing is more factual, but consumer medical/health writing can give you the chance to be creative and factual at the same time. Medical Writers/Editors are paid very well ($45,000 to $100,000) and you do not have to be a medical professional to write about health topics.
Resources to learn more about medical writing:
American Medial Writing Association
Hi J. I appreciate that you mentioned medical writing, but when we differentiate between business, academic, and creative writing, medical writing definitely does not fall under the creative category. It is a form of scientific writing. Copywriting (what I do) requires a lot of creativity but it’s still not creative writing; it’s a form of business writing. However, I’m glad you mentioned it, because for creative writers, there are a lot of opportunities in the field of business, scientific, and technical writing. While some of these careers may require education in their respective fields (and some may not), they are industries where one can make a good living as a writer.
Thank you SO MUCH for creating this article!
But isn’t making a career in writing only just … too dangerous. Because I’ve always wanted to be a novelist but I also want to make a (possible) career in the medical department. So I was thinking isn’t having a “back-up” plan better? And if so does it have to be from the same branch?
I wouldn’t call creative writing a dangerous career choice. There’s no reason you can’t study medicine and write. You could even be a medical writer. You might look into majoring in medicine and minoring in English. There’s nothing wrong with having a back-up plan, and no, it doesn’t have to be in the same discipline.
Thank you, Melissa, for this wonderful post. I have a BA in Creative Writing and really wish I had done more during uni to try out different writing careers, as internships seem extremely hard to come by for graduates. Any words of wisdom on how a graduate might gain professional experience in a particular writing field, short of going back to school?
Well it depends on which writing field — fiction, poetry, journalism? One thing you can do is submit your work to professional magazines and journals and build up your writing credits. You have a blog (that would have been my next suggestion). Get your work out there; that’s the best way gain experience.
I would really like to try my hand at journalism, but I’m starting to think the only way to do that (as a graduate without experience in the field) is to offer my services for free. But I also like your suggestion about submitting to magazines. I once read “Do good work. Then put it where people can see it.” Exposure is definitely something I need to work on! Thank you again.
Thanks, Julie. Writing is one of those careers where you may have to do some free work or take an internship to prove yourself before landing a paid gig. Musicians have to do the same thing. They play for free (or for pennies) — sometimes for years — before they start getting paid. Submitting to magazines is a great way to get experience and get paid since they often buy articles based on merit. Good luck to you, and keep writing!
Thank you so much for making this website, and I can see that you are very dedicated to helping people pursue a writing career. I’m a junior in highschool, and I have considered many careers, but whenever I thought i knew what I wanted to do, deep down I knew it wasn’t. I finally figured out why I’ve been unable to pick a career, and it’s because I absolutely love to write. I would write all day, everyday if I could. I just thought that writing was a hobby, and I couldn’t make a career out of it. I now know that I can make a career out of writing, and this is what I wish to pursue in college. Only problem is that my parents want me to be a doctor or something, but this doesn’t interest them. All they care about is me making enough money, but I feel that money isn’t everything, and I would rather do what I love, and be happy. I have faith in myself, that someday I can be a sucessful writer. I just wish my parents could see that this is what I love to do. By reading all your posts on this website, it has really helped brighten my day, and it has shown me that I’m not alone, and that I can do what I love, if I have faith in myself. thank you
You’re welcome! I’m glad you found strength and inspiration here, and I wish you the best of luck with all your writing and education. Keep writing, no matter what!
“Now, Iâm not saying youâre going to make a whole lot to live on with some of these creative writing jobs but if you do what you love, the money (i.e. the success) just might follow.”
Therein lies the problem with this article. That’s not how writing works; “success” is not synonymous with “the money.” The vast majority of novelists could not live completely off their book sales, and I can think of no short fiction writers who could make that claim. Don’t even get me started on poets; getting published in the most highly regarded journals in the country leads neither to fame nor fortune.Â
Writing isn’t accountancy or business management. You don’t get into creative writing to fulfill some sort of career desire. You do it because you feel compelled to write, because you have something to say. It is the effective communication of the idea that defines success, not the money attached.Â
The problem with your comment, Jane, is that is disregards the title of the post that it criticizes. Young and new writers often ask me about whether they can make a career out of creative writing. This article answers the question can I make a living doing what I love (writing)? You may feel there’s something wrong with that, but I don’t. In fact, I admire people who pursue their passions and attempt to turn them into viable careers. People do need to eat.
“You donât get into creative writing to fulfill some sort of career desire. You do it because you feel compelled to write, because you have something to say. It is the effective communication of the idea that defines success, not the money attached.”
I don’t think anyone has the right to tell other people why they should write or how they should define success. You and I come from a similar place since these ideas reflect my own personal feelings about writing, but I would never tell someone else what constitutes a valid reason for writing or how they should define their own success. There are, indeed, people who get into writing to fulfill a career desire and who define success by how much money they make.
“The problem with your comment, Jane, is that is disregards the title of the post that it criticizes.”
It does indeed, because it’s a faulty premise. Let’s look at your list: there are very, very few novelists who are able to live completely off their royalties, and I don’t know of any short fiction writer anywhere who could make that claim. As for “personal poet,” even professional poets who win the country’s best prizes don’t “make a living” from their poetry sales. Calling these “careers” would be misleading.
But notice how many novels, shorts stories and poems get published every year. My point was that writing is a field not exclusive to professionals. Anyone can write a novel with the possibility of publishing, but it is disingenuous to call this a “career” when it’s not a main source of income for most.
“There are, indeed, people who get into writing to fulfill a career desire and who define success by how much money they make.”
Writing is not economics or finance, it’s a process of communication. Using this communication tool as a money-making strategy would involve telling people what they want to hear. There are descriptions reserved for those who only tell others what they want to hear.
Jane, you seem to be more interested in looking for minute points to argue rather than grasping the full intent of this post. There are plenty of novelists and other creative writers who have built full-time and part-time careers with their work. I happen to know “personal poets” who subsidize their income by writing personal poetry. Might I suggest that you open your mind to the possibility that the people you know and experiences you’ve had are not definitive? You are merely presenting your opinions and personal experiences as facts, and they are not facts.
I don’t care if a writer’s work is a main source of income, a part-time source of income, or if it doesn’t lead to any income at all. My job here is to encourage writers to pursue their dreams and that includes trying to make a career out of their writing, if that is what they want to do. I never said that writing is economics or finance. I said that some writers get into it as a career (James Patterson is an example — he himself says he’s a better marketer than writer). If you think such people are hacks or sellouts, then that is your opinion. I have my own opinions about it, but I don’t go around publicly judging other writers because I have not walked in their shoes. I do not know what is in their hearts. And neither do you.
“Using this communication tool as a money-making strategy would involve telling people what they want to hear. There are descriptions reserved for those who only tell others what they want to hear.”
There are also descriptions reserved for people who go around the internet stirring up malicious arguments and for people who lack manners. I neither appreciate nor welcome your insinuations. Such insults, however cloaked in wit, will only get you banned from commenting here. I built Writing Forward to be a positive, uplifting space for writers to explore their craft. It’s a shame that you’re so pessimistic about other people’s potential and what is possible for aspiring writers.
Thank you for your ideas in writing career paths, it gives me some things to think about. As a child and in my teen years I used to write short stories. However, as an adult I have lost that creative side and find that I am empty and in need to be creative. I have considered pursuing a MA in creative writing with hopes that I can find that creative side of again. I feel, however that spending the time and money on this degree may not deem worthy because it is incredibly difficult to obtain a job that pays well enough to keep the bills paid. Do you have any suggestions?
Yuly, I don’t think anyone can tell you whether it would be best for you to pursue writing on your own or to get an MA. If you are disciplined, I think you can do it on your own. If you need a lot of direction, guidance, and support, then an MA program might be better for you. Either way, you can pick up plenty of books to inspire you. When I’m uninspired and need to get more creative, I usually go through creative writing exercises and prompts, which always get my ideas flowing again. Good luck to you!
I’m in the 8th grade, and it seems that whenever something is needed, such as a testimony of my school, a farewell speech for a retiring teacher, or a greeting at an event, my name always seems to come up. Then I get a phone call, saying what is needed and the deadline. I’m glad to do it, and obviously I don’t charge anything. However, if adults always think of me, a kid, when they need something written, surely other people will do the same when I’m older. Is my reasoning off, or is that a possible job opportunity?
If the school is calling on you for writing, then that is certainly a testament to your writing abilities. It’s a good indicator that you are a talented writer, and yes, I would say that if you enjoy writing, these are all signs that writing might be a good career option for you.
I just completed my engineering(Civil Engineering). I have absolutely no aptitude for that subject. I did it due to pressure from family. Now, its my career. My life. I feel its high time I take a stand. I have great passion towards writing. I have thereby, developed decent writing skills. So, I would like to pursue a career in the same. Right now, I need some place to start and venture into the world of writing. That’s exactly where I need help!
I have to admit that I honestly don’t understand why some families pressure kids to pursue one particular career. I guess I can empathize when it’s a family tradition (five generations of doctors or something like that) but I can’t get behind it at all. I think each person should pursue what’s in his or her heart. Do what you love!
What if their not sure what they want to do or where their passion lies? What should they do?
Every person has to find his or her own path. If I wasn’t sure about my passion, I’d try lots of different things until I found it.
I agree. Kids should decide for themselves. And where are the guidance counselors in all this?
Maybe some schools don’t have guidance counselors or the kids simply aren’t going to see them.
I’ve experinced the delima’s first hand similar to you,concerning family and friend’s who where great math major’s but couldn’t get through college without the English major’s writing their paper’s?I was the English major who didn’t even finish my assocites in literature because I couldn’t do Algebra.Yet my god given passion is english and the art’s ,and especially writing.All I can say is ,especially in are high tech world today,pursue what your gifted at,and if it’s writing ,do what your heart’s telling you,don’t be like so many and waite till your 50ty,you can still do it,don’t let friend’s and family say different,one dedicated art person that does give a dam.
There is a lot to learn by getting a degree, so I’m sorry to hear that you didn’t finish your associate’s in literature. However, there is a lot you can learn about the craft by simply reading and studying on your own. With or without a formal education, it takes a lot of work to make it as a writer. Good luck to you.
I’m a college student and I need some advice for a journalism career career. I love the entertainment industry as a whole. Video Games, movies, tv shows, celebrities, and music. I am currently in school for journalism and I just need help what kind of journalist I should be. I’ve already looked into entertainemt journalism and I live that. Writing articles/pieces about the entertainment industry looks like an awesome job. But what do entertainment journalists focus on. Do they just focus on being on the red carpet all the time or writing articles about celebrities all day? Do entertainemt journalists write articles about Video games, movies, tv shows, music, and other celebrity stuff. Should I become a freelance journalist? I guess my dream job is to write articles or do reports for ign in New York or another entertainment company with an office. Maybe a staff position?
Or maybe I should try games journalism? But dont entertainment journalist write about video games too? I’m a gamer and I would love to write about the newest games or movies coming out or do reviews.
I’m not an entertainment journalist (or a journalist for that matter), so I cannot give you career advice, but you might try reaching out to an entertainment journalist who can answer some of these questions for you. Good luck!
I am currently studying for a PhD in Creative Writing and I have to say that this is one of the most accurate lists I came across. What is good for aspiring writers to keep in mind, especially those with CW degrees, is that writing is a craft. It’s very practical, so unlike history, philosophy or literature degrees a writer has transferable skills. If you are a writer looking to make some money while writing a novel or a collection, you can offer editing and proofreading services. Becoming a content writer is a profitable pathway as well. A lot of companies look for skilled writers to produce their online articles and they usually pay well. And for the more daring, there is online publishing. Is not a guaranteed route but it gives you a boost of confidence; no matter how much you make, it’s good to know that somebody paid to read your work.
Thanks, Stephanie. I’ve taken the online and self-publishing route and haven’t looked back.
Just a little quibble: A history degree does produce transferable skills related to research and analysis, writing, word processing, etc.. It’s not “just learning names and dates.” đ
Thinking about chaning careers. Although I got my B.G.S – General Studies and and a Masters in Management – I took a lot of creative wirting classes in college and it is something that I think I could be good at. This might be a good place to get some ideas on getting started. Thanks!
You’re welcome, and good luck to you!
i am doing engineering first year..i took the decision as i have always been quite good at maths and stuff..but i started writing last year simply for the passion that was ignited by some great novels and i am totally a novice in it..yet i like it a lot. So right now i am in a dilemma which career path i should take…one thats based on my interest but im not so good at(writing).. or the one in which i am good at(maths,science)??
I think most young people struggle with this same dilemma. Unfortunately, nobody can tell you which life path is best for you. You must find that answer within yourself. I do think that you can pursue both science and writing (you could, for example, become a science writer). You can also study writing and become better at it. It’s up to you.
I want to get into freelance writing in the entertainment industry. I love writing and I’ve looked into copywritimg and story producing. Any advice or any writing careers I should take on?
The best advice I can give you is to study writing and the entertainment industry. If you want to write entertainment news, you might want to major in journalism at a university. For screenwriting, you can major in film studies at many universities. Get to know the industry and keep working on improving your writing. There are also tons of resources you can get if you don’t go to university. Start with the “Writing Resources” section here at Writing Forward, then head to your favorite bookstore and search for books on your field of interest. Good luck!
wow! you guys really love writing. Me too but I’m taking up pre dentistry right now but i really love writing much more. Actually i just wanna try this course but i think i’m not gonna continue because writing is really my passion and i’d love to pursue it. my parents don’t know any of this yet and i’m planning to tell them..any advice for me guys? thanks to whoever answers this.. đ
One thing to keep in mind is that you can study dentistry and writing. You can choose writing courses for your electives and set aside a little time each day for your writing. As far as changing your studies, I believe that each individual has to find his or her own path. Once you find your path, I think you should follow it, because I believe one of the worst fates is a life of regret. Hopefully, the people in your life will be supportive, although unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Ultimately, only you can make this decision. It is a big one. Take your time to think about it. Consider talking to a career counselor, who should be open-minded and objective.
Okay, so I’ve been thinking about the popular question, “what do I want to be when I grow up?”. Writing has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I LOVE books. Seriously. If I wasn’t on a competitive, year-round swim team, I could read all day. I have been thinking about jobs that circle around the actual “writing” idea, if you know what I mean. I’ve considered being an editor, since I love books, but I’m not quite sure what an editor does. Any ideas?
Editors do some writing but their main function is to make editorial decisions. Their duties vary depending on where they work. A magazine editor, for example, decides which stories go into each issue, which one gets the cover spot, and will also assign articles to the writers. An editor at a publishing house makes decisions about which books to publish. Editors also actually edit, meaning they review the writers’ work and make changes to improve it. I don’t know for sure, but I would think (hope) that someone would start out as a writer before becoming an editor. I suggest using Google to learn more about different careers for editors.
First of all, thank you for this post and all your replies. It’s very good of you to reply to everyone who needs direction. So, my dilemma is that I will be commencing my masters degree in September and lately I’ve been thinking of pursuing a creative writing masters instead.
I’ve just finished my undergraduate degree in communications and I was deputy editor and features editor of the monthly university arts magazine, which I absolutely loved and learned so much through. My undergraduate thesis was in the form of a creative writing novella, which was roughly 18,000 words. I had always wanted to try my hand at fiction writing and by completing the thesis I became fully aware how much I enjoyed it. I also received very positive feedback from lecturers.
Once I finished my undergraduate degree, I applied for and received a place on a masters in public relations, which I think I would enjoy as it’s media related. However, as mentioned, I’ve been seriously considering giving up the PR masters and applying for the creative writing one instead. My issue is that I am torn between a course that’s practical and could very well lead to a successful career, and a prestigious CW course that I’m highly interested in but may be quite impractical in the long run. I have this dream of travelling and writing novels (long shot I know) and a CW masters could help me bring my writing skills and ideas to the next level. So, I guess I’m asking if you think a CW masters is necessary in becoming an author?
And what would your opinion be on switching courses into CW or staying with the original choice? Would it be more wise to stick with PR (which I’m currently interning in) and try do some writing on the side? My only problem is, with writing I feel I need guidance, direction and deadlines. I may find it hard to do it on the side, especially when the majority of my energy would be going elsewhere.
Any info/advice would be great đ And sorry for the long post.
No, you definitely do not need a CW masters to become an author. My guess is that most published authors don’t have masters. I once heard a bit of advice from an author (can’t remember who) that I thought was sound. She said if you’re self-driven and will do your writing and study the craft on your own, then you don’t need a masters. One of the benefits of a masters program is that it forces you to write and learn. If you do that on your own, you don’t really need the coursework (unless you want it for prestige). Having said that, my guess is that there is value in a masters program, in being immersed in writing and literature and surrounded with other writers, even for those who are self-driven.
Nobody can tell you what to study. It’s a classic dilemma: follow your dreams or do the “smart thing.” Only you know what is the right path for you.
I just graduated with a BA in creative writing about 5 months ago, and I’ve been applying for jobs in the creative field like crazy. I’ve applied for practically every advertising firm in the Chicago area and I’ve heard back from two of them. I don’t know if it’s because I lack experience, or the economy is just that bad. I’ve tried applying for jobs out of my field, but it’s still no dice. I hope I can find something extremely soon, as I’m near desperation at this point. I really hope there’s hope, so I don’t regret getting a BA in creative writing : (.
I held office jobs for several years after earning my BA in creative writing. Since I had a degree in English, my employers often gave me writing assignments (including editing and proofreading), which helped me build my experience. It doesn’t happen overnight. Get a job to pay the bills and keep writing. Eventually, you’ll find your path. Good luck!
Erm hello Melissa.. I actually want to do Creative Writing since I love writing, but I also want to do History since I love both. However my parents object to both and want me to pursue some medical degree or something. Can you erm like give me some points to argue my pitiful cause since I don’t really think I’m into doctoring since I’ve got a slight phobia of blood and ever since Biology dissecting stuff had never exactly been my thing?? I hope it’s not too much to ask.. thanks in advance
I am just going to be straightforward about this, because I get a lot of emails and comments from young people like yourself whose parents are pressuring them into some career they abhor. I believe that each of us knows in our hearts who we are and what we want to do with our lives. If you have a phobia of blood, then it’s blatantly obvious that a career in medicine would be completely inappropriate for you. Now, if you had that phobia but desperately wanted to be a doctor, I would encourage you to get over it. But since that’s not what you want, why should you torment yourself? I understand why some parents advocate certain careers for their kids – they associate success with money and prestige. I do not. I equate success with happiness. And I believe that once we become adults, it is our own responsibility to find our happiness. So, once you are an adult, it’s up to you to find your path and follow it. Do what you love.
What is the difference between journalism and creative writing? I am still not very sure even after researching on the net. I have a dilemma on which course to take. I want to be a novelist but that might take years to complete a book. So, what my mother advised is that I should get a stable job that ensures my survival while I work on the book first. Which one should I do?
Journalism can fall under creative writing. For example, if you wrote a literary nonfiction book on a specific person or subject, it could be both journalism and creative nonfiction. Journalism is one of those forms that has become a bit gray. Originally, journalism meant reporting on the facts, objectively. Nowadays, a lot of journalism is heavily colored by the author’s personal views and ideologies. A novel is creative writing and not journalism at all; it is fiction where journalism is fact-based.
I think getting a stable job while writing your first book is a pretty smart way to go. Do you even have a choice? I mean, unless someone is willing to support you while you write your book, you’re going to need a job to pay the bills.
I have always had a passion for writing, but never had confidence to let anyone read any of my work. I do not have a fancy education, but I do have an amazing imagination! The work I did when I was younger my mom found and was amazed by my story. I do enjoy wrting poetry and short stories. During the development of my son, I wrote in my journal Letters to Baby. As the pregnancy developed things were less than peferct and not very positive. I stopped writing my Letterâs to Baby because it was sad things written. I only wanted my child to know he was loved from day one no matter where life took us. The baby is now 10 yrs old and so much has inspired me to write again. I started a story that I hold dear to my heart and I am super excited about it. I dont expect publishing ever, but I would like to get an outside opinion from someone in the industry that could give me tips and tools to help my creativity develope. I also would like to know some avenues I can go down to continue writing for fun and just to get things out of my mind. I am sure it is hard to make a living writing, but if I can make a little something to put away for a rainy day that would be great! Any help and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks!!
I would actually recommend that you take a creative writing class or workshop. An in-person one would be best, but if youâre too busy, try to find an online course (community colleges are great for this). This is an ideal way to connect with other writers while getting mentoring from someone who is experienced (the teacher), and youâll find that many other writers share your insecurities. Make sure you vet the class first to make sure itâs credible. You might also want to research the instructor a little.
Another option would be to find a local writing group, but that may be more challenging since writing groups often arise out of established relationships. However, there are some open writing groups, especially online and in larger cities.
Your first hurdle will be to work on your confidence and worry more about strengthening your work than what other people think. Everybody starts somewhere. As long as youâre willing to work at it and improve your skills, it does not matter where you are now with your writing.
I am a discouraged writer in need of some information. I have been writing for a little over a year and I have had some success. I have been nationally published, being a staff member on one magazine start-up, an editor-in-chief of one failed start-up magazine, and I am a staff member for an online magazine for which I publish an article every three months. I have also been published on a few other informational websites. Additionally, I have ghost written close to 200 articles on a low paying website.
The problem I have faced (which has caused me to stop writing now for several months) is the total lack of pay I have received for my efforts. So many will ask you to write; however, they do not want to pay a reasonable rate for your craft. This is the only problem that I face as per my writing. I thoroughly enjoy writing, but I cannot continue to write for such low pay. Any tips, advice, what have you, would be appreciated. Otherwise, I will have to give up writing and move on to something else. Thanks.
I had the same problem when I first started freelancing. Then I realized that the reason I was getting low paying gigs was because I was accepting low paying gigs. The better paying jobs are harder to find, and in my case, I started my own website and business to attract clients and set my own rates. This involved a lot of marketing to get my own clients, and they are business people rather than content farms. However, there is a caveat: the writing must be at a professional level to warrant higher rates.
Hello Melissa,
Thanks for responding. I havenât accepted a low paying writing job in some time now, nor have I used any content farms. I can market well as I am a singer songwriter, and I have made good progress with it in that realm. My writing is always professional and of the jobs I have found they have paid well. However, it seems as though it is near impossible to find enough well paying writing jobs to make ends meet. Anyway, again, thanks for responding and for your suggestions. Best of luck to you.
I wish I had some solid advice to give you, but I donât know enough about your business and marketing strategies. There are plenty of self-employed and freelance content writers out there. Iâm sure a lot of them struggle to make ends meet, but plenty of them have found considerable success. When I first started, I did my best to seek out successful writers and examine their approaches so I could learn from them. Getting your own website and operating as a business (or professional consultant) makes a huge difference.
I was just having this discussion with a friend a while back about how people get locked into three options when they write and that’s it. There are so many other opportunities out there if you know where to look for them. You just have to be open and aware of what is really out there.
Thanks for sharing this, I am glad this came along at the right time. Maybe I’ll send this over her way today!
You’re welcome! I’m glad you found this article helpful, Matthew.
I saved this article months ago when I was in a funk, but I forgot to read it afterwards. Reading it now has made me think. Looking back at it, I’ve been writing for many years, ever since I was 13, and I’m 23 now. I’ve went to college twice, graduated both times successfully, but throughout that time I stopped writing fiction. I kept my ideas, but I never finished the stories.
I haven’t been lucky in finding a job ever since I graduated and the ones I did find were still out of reach, I went back to my writing because I needed to do something. Anything to get my mind clear and my thoughts straight like I used to because I became frustrated with myself. When I decided to go to college I had clear plans, but once I finished things didn’t go my way and I realized that I already had something that I should have never let go, my writing. Now I’m looking into finishing my ideas and self-publishing them. I’m glad I came back to this article and read it thoroughly this time.
I’m motivated now more than ever to focus on my true calling. It may be tough, but it’s the only thing I have ever done that made me truly happy even when things around me weren’t good. I think I’m gonna try writing my ideas separately in the form of a series of short stories/chapters/volumes since I’m not good at writing long works of fiction. Is there any advice that you can give me? I would love to write a story for a webtoon, but I’m not that good at drawing and I don’t know how to ask an artist for help.
Hi Lyric. Many of us take time off from writing. Sometimes it’s because we’re busy with a new job. Other times family obligations keep us from our writing. Occasionally it’s some other hobby. Thankfully, writing is always here for us, and we can return to it any time. I’m glad you did.
Its so good to read through the interests in writing and thank you for the informative comments. I have self published a poetry book that people can use in their cards, tributes. on blurb.com called Handy Verse for Occasions with a possum on the front. I am working on my children’s stories and acitivities and will self publish in September this year. and I am blogging the challenge on madonnamm7.wordpress.com I had written the stories many years ago and did not have as much motivation and my husband encouraged me and I was inspired by the movie Julie and Julia (Meryl Streep) and started the year challenge.
Regards Madonna Weaver
That’s wonderful! I love the title Handy Verse for Occasions .
I have the most obscured dreams. I’d love to print a book with short stories of them. How may I accomplish that?
You might want to look into self-publishing through KDP or CreateSpace. Good luck!
I knew I wanted to write since I found out I like putting thoughts and ideas on paper. I kinda have it down, but I am struggling. Putting your thoughts and ideas is not easy as it looks, but that won’t stop me. I’m writing a book, but I just can’t seem to get past the first 10 paragraph. How do I focus my intent?
A lot of writers struggle with discipline. We get stuck and wander away from a project, we get lured away by some other idea, or life just gets in the way. The only way to focus…is to focus. Force yourself to do the work. I’ve known a lot of writers who got good results by adding writing to their daily schedule. Every day, at the same time, you sit down, and that’s your writing time. It could be twenty minutes or it could be two hours. And you do the work.
Thanks for the ideas. Given the current pandemic, being creative is something I need to look at more to try and get some additional income. Have published one collection of short stories but needing to do more.
You’re welcome, and good luck with your creative efforts!
In the past I have self published a poetry book people can put in their cards etc and also a book of children’s stories with Activities through Blurb.com I am writing a novel based on truth now. All the best to everyone in their writing. Regards Madonna Weaver
Thanks for sharing some of the opportunities you’ve carved out for yourself. These are great!
I have a creative writing career that I would like to add to your list. What about a Technical Writer? We have two technical writers employed in our company and I chat with them on a daily basis. It is a great job with above-average earning potential. Thanks for allowing me to post here.
That’s a great writing job, but it’s technical, not creative. Creative writing encompasses fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Great career though!
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10 Jobs for Graduates with a Creative Writing Degree
Do you have a creative writing degree? Here are 10 jobs where you can put that degree to good use.
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Congratulations! First of all, you should be proud of your achievement. You just accomplished something that will open many doors that could lead you to a rewarding career.
Some may think that a Creative Writing Degree doesnât lead you to many job opportunities, but that’s just not true.
Not only can you create any type of content you want and promote it online all by yourself, but every big company, especially the ones that have social networks to keep alive, need a creative writer.
Your career options are unlimited, especially if you take a look at the freelance world.
In order to show you how many opportunities you have weâre presenting our top 10 perfect jobs for graduates with a Creative Writing Degree or Diploma.
1. Content Writer/ Author
Even though it might be the most obvious job, it is still many peopleâs dream to become a writer. Now you have a degree to back you up, and a lot of knowledge to help you be successful.
You can write about anything you want – or anything a company wants! Novels arenât the only things you can write; thereâs poetry, prose, drama, short story, and the list goes on. If you have a dream, make sure you chase it until you make it because one of the most important keys towards success is our genuine passion.
2. Copywriter
Copywriting is probably the best way to start your career as a writer. And it pays well, even if youâre a beginner. But what is copywriting really about?
Copywriting means writing with the purpose of advertising and other forms of marketing. The product is called “copy” and it is actually written content whose purpose is to raise brand awareness and to make a possible customer take action. There are many forms of copywriting and it’s a crucial piece of any successful marketing strategy. That means a lot job opportunities.
3. Journalist
To be a journalist takes a lot of creativity. And journalism doesnât only include the news or politics! You can be a journalist for the fashion world, sports, or even entertainment. There are a lot of options to choose from.
But beware, the competition in this field is very high. Consider this option only if youâre truly passionate about journalism and if you believe that you can make a change. It’s not for the faint of heart.
4. Travel Blogger
If writing and traveling are your two main passions, Travel Writer is the perfect job for you. Youâll get to travel all around the world and write amazing articles about your amazing experiences!
The best part is that you donât really need to find someone to hire you to be a travel writer. You can take your backpack and start a blog about your own experiences. From there, you might become a leading influencer in the field or earn a few job offers.
5. Social Media Specialist
Most companies today leverages at least one social network. That’s where most customers spend their time and you can easily target them. But to make a possible customer take action and actually buy a product, you need well-written, compelling text. That can be written by you!
There are always hundreds of job offers for various types of companies, so it will be almost impossible to not find work in this field.
If you think of yourself as a persuasive and creative person, this job might be just right for you.
6. Email Marketing Specialist
If youâre usually giving your email to every website youâre purchasing things from, then you already know what email marketing looks like. If you ever bothered to read one of those emails you received, youâll notice that their purpose is to give you some new information and to make you feel like a member of the community – and to make you buy their products.
To be an email marketer requires a lot of creativity. This job can be very well paid because you can make a real difference in their profits â the better you write, the more customer is convinced to make a purchase.
The writing process is not only about the creation part, the writing itself. It is also about improving and correcting the first draft until it is perfect and ready to send.
To be an editor doesnât only mean to correct grammar errors and misspelled words.
It also means to make what the writer originally wrote sound better â take their idea and ensure that it will express the message effectively. Many writers make great editors because of their training.
8. Columnist
Many writers dream of having their own column in a famous magazine like Cosmopolitan, Vogue, or Forbes. They all started small – at local magazines and so on – but most importantly, they all started with a degree, like you.
The competition is high in this field too, but if youâre skilled and you believe in yourself thereâs nothing to worry about. We all know that if you have a column in a magazine you are well paid and it can be a really nice and rewarding job, not to mention that you get to go places and meet amazing people, depending on the subjects youâre writing about.
9. Ghostwriter
One of the best ways to start your writer carrier is with ghostwriting , especially if youâre not ready to put your name out for the publicâs eyes. As a ghostwriter you have tons of opportunities â the freelance world is full of such opportunities, you can write anything you like or anything one demands, from books of all sorts, articles, blog posts, and the list can go on and on.
You can write articles about whatever topic you like and then just sell it to a company that needs it. You can work for some essay writing company as a ghostwriter. Or, if you want something more stable, there are many companies that are looking for ghostwriters to write their articles under the name of inexistent writers that have created.
10. Screenwriter / Songwriter
Probably the most creative jobs for a creative writer graduate are songwriting and screenwriting. Of course, is not easy to make a name of yourself in this field, but this is where your passion lays, you should definitely go for it.
In these jobs, you can dream as big as possible and the bigger you dream the more successful youâll become. So, donât let anyone stop you become a songwriter or screenwriter just because it is hard, or do you believe that youâre any less than anyone who already succeeded; theyâre only human after all.
Above are just 10 great opportunities that you can leverage in your future, but remember, there are so many more opportunities that are waiting for a great writer like you to discover. Creative writing is a great career and the most important thing about it is that it will never die (hopefully), or, at least, not any time soon. You can write novels about your unbelievable fantasies, you can write for a blog that shares your main interests, and you can work from home as the freelance world has hundreds if not thousands of job offers for creative writers.
Your future looks bright from now on and never discourage yourself if you struggle at first to get a job because some things simply arenât meant to be. Look at things from this point of view: you didnât get the job because it is not the best option for you and a better job is waiting for you. You just have to be patient because great things take time.
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Creative writing
A degree in creative writing allows you to develop your writing, research and creative thinking skills. These skills are useful in a range of careers such as writing, publishing, marketing, PR and teaching
Job options
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
- Advertising copywriter
- Arts administrator
- Community arts worker
- Creative director
- Digital copywriter
- Editorial assistant
- Higher education lecturer
- Lexicographer
- Magazine journalist
- Newspaper journalist
- Publishing copy-editor/proofreader
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
- Academic librarian
- Digital marketer
- Film director
- Marketing executive
- Public librarian
- Public relations officer
- Secondary school teacher
- Social media manager
- Talent agent
- Web content manager
Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here.
Work experience
Make sure you create a portfolio of your written work, especially any that you've had published. This will provide evidence of your writing skills and establish your reputation as a writer.
You can gain valuable experience by writing for your student newspaper or magazine, volunteering in schools, or getting involved with writers' groups. Also, try submitting work to journals or anthologies, entering competitions, performing at spoken word events or approaching local drama groups to see if they will use your scripts. This will boost your profile and help build your confidence.
To make yourself more employable, look for opportunities to gain some solid work experience. This could be in the form of paid administrative work for a company, or volunteering with a local charity, for example, helping them to promote the work they do.
You can also look for related work experience with, for example, publishing houses and advertising and marketing firms. You could write speculatively to a number of businesses to ask if you could complete some short-term work experience or shadowing. This can help you get a foot in the door in a highly-competitive industry and could lead to a permanent position.
As well as creative talent and writing experience, you will also need perseverance and determination to succeed as a writer.
Search for placements and find out more about work experience and internships .
Typical employers
As a creative writing graduate you may work to establish yourself as a writer on a self-employed basis, either writing your own works, or writing for others in a freelance capacity.
Alternatively, you could find opportunities with a variety of employers, including:
- publishing houses or editorial/technical writing service companies
- advertising, marketing and public relations agencies, particularly in a copywriting capacity
- primary, secondary, further and higher education institutions
- media organisations and social media companies
- general businesses - in an administrative or general management position
- Civil Service, library or charitable organisations.
Find information on employers in marketing, advertising and PR , media and internet , teacher training and education , and other job sectors .
Skills for your CV
As well as building specialist knowledge of creative writing, you also develop effective written, oral and presentation skills through your degree. Other skills include:Â
- creative and critical thinking and problem solving - these skills are useful for many jobs and you'll have gained them from developing characters and storylines
- independent working - having to be self-motivated as a writer means you can effectively determine and direct your own workloadÂ
- time management and organisation - learning to structure your time effectively as a writer means you can be highly organisedÂ
- a good understanding of information technologyÂ
- collaboration - from liaising with students from other related courses such as journalism and film studiesÂ
- independent research and analysis - you'll be adept at this from turning ideas into well-rounded storiesÂ
- editorial and proofreading - from producing accurately written contentÂ
- negotiation and networking - learning how to market your work effectively gives you the skill to negotiate in other workplace settings.Â
Further study
As a creative writing graduate you can develop your creative writing skills further by undertaking postgraduate study at Masters or PhD level. You can also specialise in an area such as screenwriting, the graphic novel, writing for young people, writing poetry, or writing and producing comedy.
Alternatively, you may want to undertake further vocational training in areas such as teaching, journalism, librarianship or publishing. Vocational courses allow you to study in an area in which you would like to have a career.
You may also want to consider further study in areas such as PR, marketing or advertising.
For more information on further study and to find a course that interests you, see Masters degrees and search postgraduate courses in creative writing .
What do creative writing graduates do?
A tenth (10%) of creative writing graduates in employment in the UK are working in artistic, literary and media occupations, while 7% are working as sales, marketing and related associate professionals. 4% are teaching professionals, and a further 4% are media professionals.
Destination | Percentage |
---|---|
Employed | 63 |
Further study | 9 |
Working and studying | 12 |
Unemployed | 6.4 |
Other | 9.6 |
Type of work | Percentage |
---|---|
Retail, catering and customer service | 23.1 |
Arts, design and media | 15.4 |
Marketing, PR and sales | 14 |
Clerical, secretarial and administrative | 13.1 |
Other | 34.4 |
Find out what other creative writing graduates are doing 15 months after finishing their degrees in What do graduates do?
Graduate Outcomes survey data from HESA.
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Creative Writing Jobs – What You Can Do with a Creative Writing Degree
A creative writing degree opens many doors, but which one is right for you?
Creative writing skills are highly sought after in various industries. From publishing to advertising, and academia to digital media, the creative writing jobs you can venture into are numerous. Let’s take a closer look at some of these options – we’re pretty sure you’ll easily identify at least one that suits your writing style and personality.
What is Creative Writing?
Creative writing is an artistic process, one that involves the expression of thoughts, feelings, and emotions, rather than just presenting the facts.
It includes multiple genres such as:
- scriptwriting
- creative non-fiction
Creative writing is often characterized by its imaginative narratives and expressive language, aiming to captivate the reader and evoke emotion. For a deeper understanding of creative writing, you can visit our article on what is creative writing .
Skills Acquired from a Creative Writing Degree
A creative writing degree goes beyond just teaching you how to write creatively. It equips you with a variety of skills that can be applied in multiple industries. Here are some of the key skills you can acquire:
- Writing Skills: A creative writing degree naturally enhances your writing ability, teaching you how to construct engaging narratives, develop characters, and create vivid descriptions.
- Critical Thinking: Creative writing encourages you to think outside the box and approach problems in unconventional ways. This fosters critical thinking skills, enabling you to analyze situations from different perspectives.
- Research Skills: Whether you’re writing a historical fiction novel or a science fiction screenplay, research is a crucial part of the process. A creative writing degree helps hone your research skills, teaching you how to gather information effectively.
- Communication Skills: Through creative writing, you learn how to communicate ideas effectively and articulate thoughts clearly, skills that are valuable in any profession.
- Time Management: Writing projects often come with deadlines. Balancing creativity with discipline helps improve your time management skills.
These skills make creative writing graduates highly employable in various fields. From creative writing jobs in publishing and digital media to opportunities in academia and freelance writing, the scope is vast. This makes a creative writing degree a valuable asset, providing a strong foundation for a diverse range of careers.
For more on the value of a creative writing degree, check out our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it .
Types of Creative Writing Jobs
A degree in creative writing opens up a plethora of opportunities in various fields. Let’s delve into the various creative writing jobs that you can pursue with such a degree.
Being a novelist is one of the most recognized roles in the realm of creative writing. A novelist crafts fictional stories, often drawing on their imagination, life experiences, and observations of the world around them. This role requires a deep understanding of character development, plot construction, and narrative techniques. A degree in creative writing fine-tunes these skills, thus providing a solid foundation for aspiring novelists.
Screenwriter
A screenwriter creates scripts for television shows, movies, and web series. This form of writing requires a unique skill set, including the ability to write dialogue and stage directions , and the capacity to visualize scenes in a way that can be translated to the screen. Screenwriters often work closely with directors, producers, and actors to bring their scripts to life. A creative writing degree can provide the foundational skills needed to excel in this field.
Poetry is an art form that requires a keen understanding of language, rhythm, and imagery . Poets often express their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on various topics through their work. They may publish their poems in literary magazines, anthologies, or self-published collections . A creative writing degree can enhance a poet’s ability to manipulate language and craft evocative pieces of work.
A copywriter creates compelling and persuasive text for advertising and marketing campaigns. They write content for a wide range of mediums, including websites, brochures, emails, and social media posts . The goal of a copywriter is to engage readers and motivate them to take a specific action , such as purchasing a product or signing up for a service. A degree in creative writing can help develop the creativity and persuasive skills necessary for this role.
Content Marketer
Content marketers create valuable content to attract, engage, and retain an audience , with the ultimate goal of driving profitable customer action. They produce a wide range of content types, including blog posts, articles, white papers, and social media posts. A creative writing degree can provide the storytelling skills needed to create engaging content that resonates with audiences.
These are just a few examples of the many creative writing jobs that are available for those with a degree in this field. Whether you’re interested in crafting fictional stories, writing for the screen, expressing yourself through poetry, or creating persuasive advertising copy, a creative writing degree can provide the skills and knowledge needed to excel in these roles.
To learn more about the value of a creative writing degree, visit our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it .
Creative Writing in Publishing
The publishing industry offers a range of opportunities for individuals with a creative writing degree. Let’s delve into two prominent creative writing jobs in publishing: Literary Agent and Editor .
The Role of a Literary Agent
Literary agents play a crucial role in the publishing world. They act as intermediaries between authors and publishing houses , negotiating contracts and ensuring that the author’s work reaches the right audience. A literary agent needs to have a keen eye for compelling narratives, a strong understanding of the market, and excellent negotiation skills.
A degree in creative writing can provide a solid foundation for this role, equipping individuals with the ability to evaluate and critique a wide range of literary works.
Working as an Editor
An editor is another key player in the publishing industry. Editors work closely with authors to refine their work and prepare it for publication. This process can involve:
- correcting grammar and punctuation
- restructuring content for better flow
- providing feedback to improve the quality of the work
Much like a literary agent, an editor needs to have a strong understanding of narrative structure and a knack for spotting errors. A creative writing degree can help develop these skills, fostering a deep understanding of storytelling techniques and attention to detail.
Both of these roles are integral to the publishing process , helping to bring an author’s vision to life and sharing it with readers worldwide. Whether you’re interested in becoming a literary agent or working as an editor, a creative writing degree can provide the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in these roles.
If you’re considering pursuing such a degree, our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it provides valuable insights.
Creative Writing in the Digital World
In the modern age, the digital world offers a plethora of opportunities for those with a creative writing degree. This digital landscape allows writers to venture into different styles and platforms, expanding the scope of creative writing jobs . Let’s delve into three aspects.
Blogging is a popular outlet for creative writers. It allows them to express their thoughts, share their knowledge, and engage with a global audience. With a blog, they can write about any subject they are passionate about, from travel and lifestyle to technical topics and personal experiences.
A creative writing degree equips individuals with the skills to create compelling content , develop engaging narratives, and use language effectively to capture the reader’s attention. Blogging also offers the opportunity to write in a less formal tone , which can be a refreshing contrast to more structured forms of writing.
For more insights into the world of creative writing, check out our article on what is creative writing .
Social Media Writing
Social media platforms have become a powerful medium for storytelling and communication. Creative writers can leverage these platforms to showcase their skills, engage with audiences , and even promote their own work.
Writing for social media requires a unique blend of creativity and brevity , as most platforms limit the length of posts. This can be an exciting challenge for creative writers as they must convey their message in a concise yet impactful way.
Those interested in inspiring others to pursue writing can find tips in our article on how to teach creative writing .
SEO Writing
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) writing is another area where creative writers can excel. SEO writing involves creating content that ranks well in search engine results , making it more visible to online users. This requires not only engaging writing but also an understanding of keywords, meta descriptions, and search engine algorithms.
While it may seem technical, SEO writing still allows for creativity. Writers must create content that is both SEO-friendly and engaging for readers, striking a balance between readability and search engine visibility .
For those considering a creative writing degree, our article is a degree in creative writing worth it provides a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges involved.
In the digital world, the possibilities for creative writers are vast and varied. From blogging and social media writing to SEO writing, there are numerous ways to apply creative writing skills and carve out a successful career in the digital sphere.
Creative Writing in Academia
The field of academia offers a plethora of opportunities for individuals with a degree in creative writing. From teaching creative writing to conducting research in this area, the academic world can be a rewarding path for those looking for creative writing jobs .
Teaching Creative Writing
One of the most fulfilling roles in academia for those with a creative writing degree is teaching.
As a creative writing teacher, one can:
- impart essential writing skills
- inspire creativity
- help students discover their unique voices
Creative writing teachers can find work in various settings , including elementary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities. They might also lead workshops in community centers or offer private lessons. Their duties typically include developing lesson plans, providing feedback on student work, and fostering a supportive learning environment .
For more on how to inspire young minds through creative writing, see our article on creative writing activities for kids . If you’re considering teaching creative writing, our guide on how to teach creative writing offers valuable insights.
Research in Creative Writing
Another academic route for those with a creative writing degree is research. Creative writing researchers delve into various aspects of writing, exploring themes such as storytelling techniques, narrative structures, character development , and the role of creativity in writing.
Research in creative writing can lead to new insights into how stories are crafted and understood, contributing to the broader field of literary studies. Researchers may present their findings at conferences, publish them in academic journals, or use them to inform their teaching practices.
The world of academia offers a rich and rewarding path for creative writers, providing opportunities to inspire the next generation of writers and contribute to the understanding of creative writing as an academic discipline .
As you consider your path, remember that the skills acquired through a creative writing degree can open many doors. For more on the value of such a degree, see our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it .
Exploring Freelance Opportunities
The versatility of a creative writing degree opens up a world of freelance opportunities. Writers can lend their talents to a variety of sectors, allowing for creative expression and the freedom to choose projects that align with their interests and strengths. Among the popular freelance creative writing jobs are freelance writing and ghostwriting , scriptwriting for theatre and radio , and speechwriting .
Freelance Writing and Ghostwriting
Freelance writing provides the flexibility to work on a variety of projects across different platforms. It can involve writing articles, blog posts, reports, or even books . Ghostwriting, a subset of freelance writing, entails writing on behalf of someone else. The ghostwriter’s work is officially credited to another person . This is common in the world of book publishing, where many prominent figures hire ghostwriters to pen their memoirs or novels.
Freelance and ghostwriting involve a high degree of creativity, the ability to adapt to different writing styles, and the capacity to work to tight deadlines. For more insights on the nature of creative writing, visit our article on what is creative writing .
Scriptwriting for Theatre and Radio
Scriptwriting for theatre and radio is another viable option for creative writers. This involves writing dialogues and narratives to be performed on stage or broadcast on radio . It requires a deep understanding of character development, plot structure, and dramatic tension. Additionally, scriptwriters need to keep in mind the auditory and visual elements that can enhance the performance.
Scriptwriting can be a collaborative process , with the writer working closely with directors, actors, and sound designers to bring the script to life. This requires strong teamwork skills and the ability to accept and incorporate feedback.
Speechwriting
Speechwriting involves crafting speeches for individuals in various sectors such as politics, business, or entertainment. A speechwriter must be able to capture the speaker’s voice and convey their message in a compelling and engaging manner. This requires a strong understanding of rhetoric, audience analysis, and persuasive writing techniques.
In addition to writing the speech, the writer may also need to assist the speaker in rehearsing and delivering the speech effectively. This can involve coaching the speaker on pacing, intonation, and body language to ensure a successful delivery.
Freelance creative writing jobs offer a wealth of opportunities for writers to apply their skills in diverse and exciting ways. Whether you’re crafting articles as a freelance writer, weaving narratives as a scriptwriter, or shaping public discourse as a speechwriter, each role offers unique challenges and rewards.
For more insights into the world of creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and creative writing activities for kids .
Tips for Landing Creative Writing Jobs
When it comes to securing creative writing jobs , there are several strategies that can help you stand out from the crowd and showcase your unique skills. The following sections will discuss the importance of building a portfolio, networking, and constantly improving your craft.
Building a Portfolio
A portfolio is a collection of your work that showcases your writing skills and range. It can include:
- short stories
When creating your portfolio, it’s important to include a variety of pieces that demonstrate your versatility . Be sure to highlight your best work and examples that show your ability to write in different styles and genres.
A strong portfolio can be an excellent tool for showing prospective employers what you can offer . It can be especially useful for those seeking creative writing jobs, where the quality and creativity of your work can be a deciding factor.
Editor’s Note : To add credibility to your portfolio, aim to get published, either in print or online. This might entail crafting content for free for reputable sites, but having your name against a published piece of work signals that you’re a serious and capable writer to future clients.
Networking and Making Connections
Networking is another important aspect of landing creative writing jobs. This involves making connections with other writers, editors, publishers , and anyone else in the industry who can provide opportunities or valuable advice.
Joining writing groups, attending literary events, and participating in online writing communities can all provide excellent networking opportunities. These activities can:
- help you meet like-minded individuals
- learn about job openings
- gain insights into the industry
Don’t underestimate the value of personal relationships in the world of creative writing . Many job opportunities come from word-of-mouth referrals, so the more people you know in the industry, the better. If you’re interested in learning more about the value of a creative writing degree, you can read our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it .
Constantly Improving Your Craft
To be successful in any creative field, you must be dedicated to constantly improving your craft. This means regularly writing, reading, and seeking out new ways to improve your skills.
Consider participating in writing exercises or prompts to challenge yourself and explore new genres or writing styles. Our list of creative writing prompts can help inspire new ideas and push your writing boundaries.
Additionally, seeking feedback from others can be invaluable for growth. Share your work with others and be open to constructive criticism. This can help you identify any areas of weakness in your writing and give you the opportunity to improve.
Finally, don’t forget to keep reading . Reading a wide variety of literature can expose you to different writing styles, techniques, and perspectives that can inspire and influence your own work.
Remember, the path to securing creative writing jobs often involves a combination of talent, perseverance, and strategic career moves. By building a strong portfolio, networking with others in the industry, and continually working to improve your craft, you can increase your chances of landing a job that allows you to make a living doing what you love.
What Kind of Creative Writer are You?
Be sure to choose a path that aligns with your personality and your writing style – this will ensure the maximum job satisfaction possible. You want to enjoy your writing, whether it’s detailed research papers or fashion blog posts – your best writing will reflect your passion and love of words.
Stay true to yourself, keep writing, and find a way to share your world’s with the world – it’s a journey you don’t want to miss out on!
Brooks Manley
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Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. Weâll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.
My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!
Here’s my favorite journal for 2024:Â
![what jobs can you get from creative writing the five minute journal](https://creativeprimer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/61xtFLwJIrL.__AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_FMwebp_.webp)
Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts
25 Creative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Creativity
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21+ Places to Find Creative Writing Jobs (That Pay!) In 2024
by Victoria Peel-Yates
on May 27, 2024
In 2019, I was a newbie freelance writer with no qualifications, no experience, and no idea how to find creative writing jobs.
Fast-forward three years, and Iâm a full-time writer at a marketing agency and a Smart Blogger freelancer on the side.
So I can tell you it is possible to find creative writing jobs and start a lucrative side hustle or full-time business â even without experience or qualifications.
This post will round up the 22 best places to land your first paid writing gig.Â
Many of these platforms have helped me find work, and they can do the same for you.
![creative-writing-jobs-900 what jobs can you get from creative writing](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/creative-writing-jobs-900.png)
What Types of Jobs Can You Find in Creative Writing?
Creative writing is a broad term that covers a range of writing types and jobs, including:
- Content marketing
- Copywriting
- Freelance writing online
- Self-publishing
- Ghostwriting
- Video game writing
- Screenwriting
- Greeting card writing
For most of these, all you need is hard work, confidence, and a pinch of luck â no prior work experience or degree required!
21+ Places to Find Creative Writing Jobs
Whether youâre looking for a remote writing job, aspiring to be a screenplay writer, or dreaming of life as a creative copywriter, youâll find something on this list.
Upwork is where many freelance writers land their first gigs, and there are even some success stories . Here, youâll find technical writing , short story writing â and everything in between.
Clients looking for freelance writers post job listings here, and pay rates vary. To access these opportunities, sign up for an Upwork account, download the app, complete your profile, and submit proposals. If selected, the lister will contact you.
2. Blogging Pro
Blogging Pro is a job board that posts creative writing opportunities from around the internet. Youâll find pretty much any type of writing work on here, such as ongoing contract positions and one-off freelance jobs.
Posters pay a hefty $199 to list their job, so youâre more likely to find high-quality jobs here. Each listing contains the job description and a link to the job posterâs website.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creating writing jobs blogging pro](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-bloging-pro.png)
3. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a global platform listing a variety of online and remote jobs. Itâs an excellent place to look if you want to specialize in a specific niche , such as food, finance, or health.
Pay rates vary depending on the job. To apply, first register as a member, then choose your subscription option for full access to job postings â prices start at $9.95 per week.
4. ProBlogger
ProBlogger has a special place in my heart, as itâs where I landed my first-ever freelance gig, writing for a coaching website that paid me $100 per article. Itâs an online job board where people look for everything from content writers for big data analysis to YouTube video script writers.
Pay rates and application processes vary depending on the job poster. To apply, youâll need to register as a member.
IWriter is an online marketplace that connects freelance writers with businesses that need them. Hereâs how it works.
Clients request an article on a specific topic, and the platform assigns a writer to create it. Writers earn 65% of the price of the article, with a sliding scale depending on the quality of the work. You receive an additional 5% if the requester asks explicitly for you.
To apply, go to the âWrite Contentâ section, fill out the application form, and answer two writing prompts. Once approved, IWriter will assign you to content requests.
6. Freelancer
Freelancer is another marketplace that connects businesses with freelance writers. Categories include SEO, finance, ghostwriting, brochure writing, gaming, review writing, legal , and more.
Rates depend on the client and project. To apply, simply create a profile, browse job posts, and submit your bid.
Contena is a membership platform that provides training and resources for freelance writers, but their USP is their job board. Now, Contena rounds up some of the best-paid gigs from around the internet, and itâs common to see jobs that pay $3,000-$5,000 per month.
The Contena job board has a bit of everything, including:
- SEO blog posts
- Content manager roles
- Non-fiction books
- Video games
Membership starts at $40 per month.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs contena](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-contena.png)
8. Craigslist
Craigslist is a classifieds website that began in New York in 1995 and now serves over 700 cities in 70 countries.
Itâs a great way to connect with local businesses looking for writers in your area â but exercise caution and vet any opportunities carefully before applying, as the platform is notorious for scams (more on this later!).
9. Freelance Writing Jobs
Freelance Writing Jobs gathers opportunities from around the web and posts them daily. Listers can also post a job for 30 days by paying $30.
Categories of writing opportunities include:
- Content and copywriting
- Grant writing
- Technical writing
- Miscellaneous
Rates depend on the job posting but can range anywhere from $25 to $150 per day. Each listing takes you to the clientâs website, so the application process depends on their requirements.
10. Freelance Writers Den
Freelance Writers Den is a membership website providing resources and training to help freelance writers launch or uplevel their careers .
Membership costs $40 per month, which gives you access to the websiteâs curated list of publications, websites, and blogs looking to hire content writers.
11. Constant Content
Constant Content is a âwrite-to-playâ marketplace where writers pre-write articles on topics of their choice, then clients browse and buy them.
Job posters generally pay .10 cents per word per article, and the writer receives 65% of the total fee.
To apply, fill in the sign-up form, take a quiz, and submit your first article.
12. Scripted
Scripted is also a marketplace, offering jobs across a broad array of content types, including:
- Press releases
- Product descriptions
- Newsletters
- Transcriptions
- Social media posts
- Video scripts
Writers set their own rates, meaning you have more control over your income. In addition, Scripted encourages writers to apply based on subject matter expertise and develop long-term relationships with agencies and clients.
Once your application is approved, you can bid on opportunities, attract clients with your profile and portfolio, or accept jobs instantly through their SmartMatch system.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs scripted](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-scripted.png)
13. Online Writing Jobs
Online Writing Jobs is another platform that connects companies with US-based writers. Clients request projects, and writers submit their proposals. There are even opportunities to work on multiple-month projects for consistent income.
Sectors include:
- Travel.
Pay ranges from $15 to $50 per article. To get started, complete the writer application form, then submit your writing sample, W9 tax form, and proof of US residency.
14. Mediabistro
Mediabistro is a job board specifically for media professionals âincluding creative writers!
Writing jobs include:
- Proofreading
- Social media management.
Rates depend on the client. To apply, sign up for membership for $14.99 per month. Youâll get access to courses, webinars, and Freelance Connect, their service that connects freelancers with editors, agencies, and media companies.
15. Writers Work
Writers Workâs mission is to help you launch your freelance writing career. They gather writing jobs from their partners at job agencies to offer content writing jobs, including blogging, copywriting, and social media. Writers Workâs dashboards and writing tools help you manage your work, deadlines, and clients.
Rates range from $20 to $65 per hour. Sign up with a one-time payment of $94 or a monthly fee of $15. Complete your profile and portfolio , and start receiving relevant job matches on your dashboard.
![](http://writinghelp.online/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
16. All Freelance Writing
All Freelance Writing is an online job board that also provides resources for building your freelance writing career. Youâll find opportunities from around the web, with topics as varied as cigars, disability law, and finance, as well as calls for submissions from online publications like Bustle and Greatist.
Rates range from $1-$750 per article. To apply, fill out the online form and attach your resumé and cover letter.
Medium is a blogging platform where writers can publish their content and earn money through the Partner Program . One writer earned $16,685.50 for a single story!
To be eligible for the Partner Program, you must be in one of the countries listed on the Medium website. If you are, create a Medium account, write at least one post, and gain 100 followers. Then, submit your bank account and taxpayer information, put articles behind a paywall, and publish at least once every six months to stay active.
Pay depends on how many people read your member-only stories, how long they spend reading them, and how many people you refer to Medium. Pro tip: If you refer someone, you get half their monthly membership fee!
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs medium](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-medium.png)
18. American Writers and Artists Institute
The American Writers and Artists Institute specializes in direct response copywriting . It provides training courses on building your direct response copywriting business and access to their job board , WritersWanted.
Youâll find all kinds of content and copywriting jobs, including health, graphic design, B2B, and more. To apply, join Writers Wanted for $49 per month.
19. LinkedIn
On LinkedIn , you can browse job postings and connect with business professionals around the world who might just need a writer like you.
Set up a job alert to be notified when opportunities matching your criteria are published. You can also generate inbound leads by regularly posting great content and building your online presence.
Indeed is a global job platform where youâll find all kinds of remote and in-person writing jobs.
Rates depend on the position and employer. To apply, sign up for an Indeed account, search for job listings by job type, location, or salary, and submit your application.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs indeed](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-indeed.png)
21. Gotham Ghostwriters
Gotham Ghostwriters specialize in, well, ghostwriting jobs. Here youâll find clients who need writers for:
- Thought leadership articles
- Screenplays, and more.
To apply, fill out your online application form, and youâll receive opportunities that align with your skills and expertise. To bid on one, submit your proposal, and the client will select the writer who aligns most closely with their requirements.
22. ISA Writing Gigs
ISA Writing Gigs is a platform specifically for screenwriters. They list opportunities for everything from low-budget dramas to dark comedies. Most donât state pay, but market rates apply.
Become an ISA Connect member for $10 per month to submit applications. Youâll also gain access to resources that will help you hone your craft and build your career.
How Much Can Creative Writers Earn?
How much you can earn as a creative writer depends on your writing skills and experience level, but itâs safe to say you can make a decent living as a writer.
Estimates vary, but the average salary for a freelance writer seems to be around $50-$70,000:
- Salary.com places it at $53,286 (range: $39,277-$66,770)
- Recruiter.com estimates $78,680 (range: $35,880 to $133,460)
- Zippia puts it at $73,095 (range: $46,000-$114,000)
Since many creative writing jobs are remote, there are no geographical limits to how much you can earn. So, for example, if you live in India, thereâs nothing to stop you from taking a freelance writing gig with a company based in the US or UK.
BEWARE OF SCAMS: Red Flags To Look Out For
Like most things online, thereâs a degree of risk involved in looking for creative writing work, as some people are out to hoodwink unsuspecting would-be writers.
With time, youâll get better at spotting scams and be able to avoid them. But when youâre starting out, be aware of these red flags.
Spam or Fake Job Postings
Some people out there might want to take your work without paying you for it. If youâre not sure about an opportunity, look for one or more of the following in a job post:
- Spelling mistakes and typos
- A lack of detail about the work, rates, company, or payment
- Email addresses that donât match the company name
- Opportunities that seem too good to be true
Now I could be wrong, and it might be legit, but this post on Upwork checks a lot of those boxes. Plus, the payment is unverified, the user created their account the previous day, and itâs only received 10-15 proposals (quality jobs usually get dozens of applicants).
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs fake job posting](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-fake-job-posting.png)
Charging Fees to Work for Them
Letâs be clear: clients should pay you , not the other way around. If a job listing asks you to pay to submit your work or sign up for a subscription fee, run away fast.
The only exception to this rule is reputable membership platforms â like the ones mentioned above â that provide value and help you build your career.
Dirt Cheap Pay Rates
Honestly, this is why I personally donât use sites like Upwork or Fiverr. Itâs hard to find gigs that pay decent rates on these platforms. Just look at this example I found on ProBlogger where the job poster offers $20-$25 per 1,000 word article. Thatâs only .02 cents per word!
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative writing jobs cheap rates](https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/creative-writing-jobs-cheap-rates.png)
Slow or Late Payment
Reputable platforms state their pay cycles on the website â if you donât see that info, itâs a red flag.
When dealing with a private client, make sure you agree on payment terms in advance, ideally in writing. A best practice is to request 50% payment upfront and 50% upon delivery.
You Donât Get a Say in What You Write
One of my first gigs was with a content mill that paid poorly and assigned me topics I knew nothing about and had zero interest in.
Needless to say â I only lasted a month.
So, focus on writing what you know about and have at least a passing interest in if you want to be a successful freelance writer.
Youâre Swimming in a Sea of Creative Writing Jobs â Get Fishing
Three years ago, I never imagined I would be one of those people writing about how they became a successful freelance writer â let alone on a platform like Smart Blogger with an audience of millions.
Yet here we are.
Start today, and in a few months from now, you might be writing one, too â even if you donât have a creative writing degree or relevant work experience.
So what are you waiting for? Cast your net, and get fishing for your first creative writing job.
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Victoria Peel-Yates
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9 High-Paying Writing Jobs for Word People: Editors, Writers, and Beyond
![what jobs can you get from creative writing person sitting in an office typing on a laptop](https://pilbox.themuse.com/image.jpg?filter=antialias&h=350&opt=1&pos=top-left&prog=1&q=keep&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcms-assets.themuse.com%2Fmedia%2Flead%2Fhigh-paying-writing-jobs-03012023-GettyImages-854972744-PeopleImages.jpg&w=700)
Thanks to the âstarving artistâ stereotype, most people donât consider writing a lucrative career path. Outside of the few writers who luck out and make it big with a New York Times bestseller or an award-winning screenplay, people might picture a Dickensian peasant who canât afford fingers for their gloves or, more modernlyâsomeone like Nick from New Girl , forever mooching off his friends with quote-unquote real jobs and swearing that heâs working on his zombie novel.
But the truth is, you donât need to choose between your love of writing and a stable, profitable career. There are plenty of writing-centric jobs out there that pay well; you just need to know where to look.
Weâve compiled a list of nine high-paying jobs you should definitely consider if you love to write. For the purposes of this article, weâre defining a high-paying job as one where the average salary, based on data from the compensation resource PayScale , is above the median salary for all occupations in the U.S.âwhich, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , was $55,068 in 2022. In many cases, the salary range and more senior roles along the same path mean your long-term earning potential is even higher.
Average salary : $57,164 Salary range: $38,000â$85,000
Editors oversee a piece of writing from inception to publication. Depending on the type of writing theyâre editing (and the writer theyâre working with), this can include honing the thesis, framing, and structure; ensuring the facts are accurate and the sources credible; making suggestions about how to improve the writing (for example, calling out inconsistencies in voice or tone); eliminating unnecessary sentences or paragraphs; and correcting grammar and spelling mistakes. Editors can work in a variety of settings, including for book publishers, media companies, magazines, newspapers, and any organization that produces written content or communications.
Editors need to have an in-depth understanding of all things writingâincluding grammar, style, narrative, and structure. As such, most editors are writers themselves and/or hold a degree in a writing-related field (like English or journalism). The financial opportunity for editorial professionals increases as you progress in your careerâwith senior editors making an average of $75,646 per year and editorial directors pulling in an average of $100,936 annually.
Find editor jobs on The Muse
2. Content marketing manager
Average salary : $71,590 Salary range: $49,000â$104,000
Content marketing managers lead the charge when it comes to developing and executing content for a company. While some content marketing managers take a generalist approach, many specialize in creating and overseeing specific types of contentâsuch as blog posts, ebooks, white papers, website content, and social media posts.
While content marketing managers do spend a significant amount of time creating content (including writing), they also spend a good amount of time on strategyâmaking this a great role if you love to write, but donât want to spend all your time tapping at a keyboard. Youâll also have a chance to think about the bigger picture and figure out how content can support an organizationâs overall mission and goals.
Some companies want their content marketing managers to hold degrees, but many are more interested in a candidateâs ability to strategize, create, and promote contentâso as long as youâre a solid writer and understand the basics of content marketing, there are definitely opportunities to get into the field. Content marketing managers also have the opportunity for upward mobility (and the increased salary that goes with it)âwith content marketing directors making an average of $103,327 per year.
Find content marketing manager jobs on The Muse
3. Communications manager
Average salary : $69,856 Salary range: $46,000â$109,000
Communications managers are, as you might guess, in charge of a companyâs communicationsâoften both internal and external. Responsibilities could include defining and developing the companyâs voice, developing and managing the companyâs communication strategy, writing internal guides and resources, managing client- and customer-facing communications (such as press releases, press conferences, or other media opportunities), and ensuring that all business communications, internal and external, are in line with the companyâs mission and goals.
Because a communication manager is managing the companyâs communication, a lot of writing and editing is involvedâbut there are also plenty of strategic responsibilities and opportunities to interact with colleagues and external partners to keep things interesting.
To get your foot in the door as a communications manager, youâll need a bachelorâs degree in communications, marketing, or a related field. And while communications managers demand competitive salaries, the financial opportunities will only increase as you grow in your careerâwith senior communications managers making an average of $105,624 per year and VPs making an average of $156,617.
Find communications manager jobs on The Muse
4. Technical writer
Average salary : $63,929 Salary range: $46,000â$91,000
Technical writers are responsible for writing copy that translates complex technical ideas into something a general audience can read and understandâincluding for instruction manuals, tutorials, journal articles, and educational resources.
As the title implies, writing is the main part of any technical writing gig. But to succeed in this role, youâll need more than writing chops; youâll also need a deep understanding of tech-related conceptsâand the ability to communicate those concepts using nontechnical language. As such, technical writers often have a degree in English, communications, journalism, or similar, along with background knowledge relevant to the subject matter theyâll be writing about, such as computer science, information technology, scientific research in a certain field, environmental policies, or manufacturing processes (although, depending on the role and company, a degree might not be required to land a job). For senior technical writers, the average salary jumps up to $86,122.
Find technical writer jobs on The Muse
5. Medical writer
Average salary : $78,571 Salary range: $60,000â$108,000
Similar to a technical writer, a medical writer takes extremely complex concepts and ideas and translates them into easier-to-digest copyâonly medical writers have a particular focus on all things healthcare. Medical writers can work in a variety of environments, including businesses (for example, pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, supplement companies, or health tech startups), medical associations, or healthcare providers. They may work on a number of project types, including medical articles, policy documents, or training and educational materials.
Because medical and scientific know-how is a must to succeed, most medical writers have an academic background in biology or other sciences and some have experience in the medical field (for example, as a nurse). However, depending on the role, having impeccable research skills and the ability to understand medical concepts and translate them for the target audience may be enough to get into the field. And while medical writers make a great salary from the get-go, thereâs also room for growthâwith senior medical writers making an average of $97,850 per year.
Find medical writer jobs on The Muse
6. PR manager
Average salary : $73,930 Salary range: $50,000â$108,000
Public relations managers (also commonly referred to as PR managers) are responsible for building brand awareness and driving positive brand sentiment for a person, company, product, or service. They might accomplish those goals by building relationships with the media, drafting press releases, developing and leading consumer-facing campaigns, and minimizing the impact of negative pressâamong other strategies.
PR managers may work for an independent business (like a restaurant), a business group or corporation (like a hotel chain or a book publisher), a nonprofit (like a food bank), an academic or other institution (like a university), or an individual (like a politician, celebrity, or author) and generally need a bachelorâs degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field. And while PR managers enjoy a great average salary, candidates who prove they can drive brand awareness and positive press can typically demand higher compensation packagesâand PR directors make an average of $100,660.
Find PR manager jobs on The Muse
7. Copywriter
Average salary : $56,592 Salary range: $40,000â$79,000
Copywriters are responsible for writing material that persuades the reader to take actionâwhether thatâs in the form of an advertisement, a website landing page, or a sales letter. Ultimately, copywriters create the content that helps businesses drive salesâmaking them an incredibly valuable asset to companies looking to engage their customers and move the needle on conversions and revenue.
While some companies will require their copywriters to hold a degree, many are primarily concerned with their ability to write copy that drives results. It should be noted that while the average copywriter demands a solid salary, many companies out there are willing to pay big bucks for resultsâso if youâre gifted at writing sales copy, youâll likely be able to demand a higher salary. A senior copywriter, for example, makes an average of $79,618.
Find copywriter jobs on The Muse
8. Research analyst
Average salary : $59,644 Salary range: $44,000 - $85,000
Research analysts are responsible for collecting, verifying, organizing, and analyzing dataâand using it to reach key business conclusions and make data-backed recommendations to their employer. Research analysts can work in a variety of fields and departments (including finance, marketing, economics, and operations).
While much of a research analystâs job has to do with data, another major part of their role is sharing their analysis and findings to stakeholders within the companyâand that means writing detailed reports and preparing and giving presentations. So if youâre looking for a job that combines your love of research and data with your love of writing? This could be the opportunity for you.
Generally, you need at least a bachelorâs degree to get started as a research analyst, but once youâve got your foot in the door, thereâs serious opportunity for growthâwith senior research analysts making an average of $71,185 per year and, for those who want to eventually take on more of a leadership role, research directors making an average of $108,966 per year.
Find research analyst jobs on The Muse
9. Curriculum developer
Average salary : $69,161 Salary range: $48,000â$98,000
Curriculum developers are responsible for researching and writing academic, educational, and/or training materials, including textbooks, digital and college course materials (such as outlines and syllabi), and other resources to aid in teaching and/or training. Depending on the type of curriculum they specialize in, curriculum developers may work for universities, research institutions, nonprofits, or corporations.
Most curriculum developers have at least a bachelorâs degree, top-notch research and writing skills, and in-depth knowledge in their area of focus (for example, a curriculum developer writing a textbook on math would need to have an in-depth understanding of the subject matter). Next steps on your career path might include curriculum director (with an average salary of $76,049) or training director (with an average salary of $92,412).
Find curriculum developer jobs on The Muse
What Jobs Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing?
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What is a Masterâs Degree in Creative Writing?
For those who love the written word, earning a graduate-level degree in creative writing can open a wide world of creative career opportunities. Earning a creative writing master’s degree shows you how to take an inkling of an idea and build a fully-formed narrative that can be applied to short stories, novels or screenplays. Editing is a crucial component of the creative writing process, and this program teaches students how to fine-tune their writing at all levels. A masterâs degree program will help students refine their writing abilities, explore different styles and forms of writing, and gain a deeper understanding of the publishing world.
Benefits of Getting a Master’s Degree in Creative Writing
Earning a creative writing masterâs degree lets you put your imagination and talent on display. There are plentiful opportunities for what you can do with a creative writing master’s degree. This masterâs degree is typically pursued by individuals who are passionate about writing and want to hone their skills, whether for personal development or to pursue a career in the literary world. It can be a stepping stone to becoming a published author, a professional writer, or a creative writing instructor.
Career Opportunities
Whether you’re interested in being published or want to teach others how they can write creatively, there is a lot that you can do with a creative writing Master’s degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over the next decade the demand for writers and authors is expected to grow by 4 percent, with an average of 15,500 openings for writers projected annually. With any role, creative writing requires persistence, resilience and the ability to tap into a strong professional network.
Content Writer/Copywriter
Content writers and copywriters can be found in a wide range of industries, from nonprofits and government agencies to startups and multinational companies. These writers are skilled at helping clients say something in order to sell something, and are typically part of a marketing or creative team. Earning a creative writing masterâs degree is a benefit to content creators and copywriters, earning a creative writing master’s degree is beneficial to content creators and copywriters, because creative writing shows how language and narrative can be used to compel and captivate readers.
Freelance Writer
Freelance writers are self-employed professionals who are able to write in a number of styles and formats, depending on their clientele. In addition to building a strong writing portfolio, participating in a rigorous creative writing masterâs degree program develops critical thinking and time management skills â which comes in handy, because freelancers must be able to manage both the business and creative sides of work.
Public Relations Specialists
This job relies heavily on exceptional written and verbal skills, and primarily involves writing press releases, speeches, social media content and responding to inquiries â often on tight deadlines. Creativity is essential in public relations, as are strong communications skills. With a masterâs degree in creative writing, public relations specialists are well-positioned to persuade the masses.
Creative Director
Most often found at marketing and advertising agencies, creative directors are the final decision-makers for all things creative â strategy, copywriting, graphic design and more. Being a creative director requires a sharp, strategic mind and the ability to express a creative point of view. Earning a creative writing masterâs degree prepares future creative directors to both give and receive criticism, understand the creative process and guide junior creatives to bring their best work.
Publishing Industry Professional
Working within the fast-paced publishing industry requires sharp creative sensibilities and awareness of industry trends. Publishing industry professionals range from manuscript readers to literary agents, editors to publicists. No matter the role within this industry, earning a masterâs degree brings a level of credibility and enhanced skills â particularly at Tiffin University, where the creative writing master’s degree program includes two classes on the publishing industry.
Professor / Teacher
With an advanced degree in creative writing, itâs possible to shape the next generation of creative writers as an educator. Creative writing teachers help their students build a foundation to use language more effectively and develop the tools to make their writing impactful. Because they understand what it takes to be a writer, teachers with a masterâs degree in creative writing can also provide valuable mentorship to aspiring authors.
Grant Writer
Grant writers are invaluable to nonprofit organizations, businesses and individuals â all who rely on these writers to help secure vital funding. This role entails researching, drafting and submitting proposals for grants, and the ability to write compellingly is critical. A creative writing masterâs degree strengthens technical skills like narrative development, revising and editing, which easily transfer to a career as a grant writer.
Ghostwriter
A ghostwriter is the unseen creative force behind published works like fiction and nonfiction books and screenplays. With all of the creative possibilities available to ghostwriters, completing a masterâs degree is an excellent way to perfect the ability to write in a variety of styles, for a variety of clients.
Screenwriter
If you aspire to work in the entertainment industry, a creative writing masterâs degree can provide the onramp to a career as a screenwriter. Because Tiffin University’s creative writing program is rooted in narrative development, students interested in screenwriting will fully understand the elements of storytelling and how to make their work translate to the screen.
What Skills Complement a Creative Writing Career?
Being able to generate new ideas, and translate those ideas into a compelling narrative is essential to a career in creative writing. The most successful creative writers are those who can imagine worlds that donât exist, breathe life into them and keep readers wanting more. In addition to creativity, writers must also ensure the plot and narrative arc of their work is interesting as well as cohesive, which is a task best suited to those with a knack for originality.
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking and creative writing go hand in hand. The ability to process information, and then translate that information into logical and persuasive writing is a valuable skill that every writer should possess. Critical thinking is especially important for authors working in nonfiction and business writing, to ensure work is written without biases and considers differing viewpoints.
Research / Information Gathering
Most creative writing projects begin with some sort of research, whether combing through library stacks or doing a deep dive on the internet. Writers should be able to navigate a range of references, like textbooks, encyclopedias, newspapers or even historical documents. These primary sources can help spark ideas that lead to the next great story.
Creative Writing at Tiffin University
The creative writing Masterâs degree program at Tiffin University is offered online, making it ideal for adult students with busy lives but a passion to learn. Throughout this program, students prepare to get into publishing by finding their voice, honing their writing skills, writing in a workshop setting and learning from instructors who have themselves been published. Being taught by experienced faculty also provides valuable insight into how the publishing industry works, as well as the many career paths creative writing can lead to.
Both flexible and affordable, Tiffin University is a wonderful institution for creative writers to launch a career.
Are you a high school student hoping to attend Tiffin University?
Jobs you can do with a creative writing degree
A creative writing degree is a good course to choose if you fancy yourself as a bit of a wordsmith. But what other jobs can you do with your degree once you've graduated?
Thinking of studying for a degree in creative writing? But worried that you might not have many job opportunities after you graduate?
Before you ditch your dreams and switch to something you think will have better career prospects, check out the 10 jobs below that you could do after you've graduated.
Writer
OK, so this may be the dream for many of you. A handful of graduates will indeed publish that best-selling novel or screenplay thatâs turned into a Hollywood smash.
For some graduates with a creative writing degree, their writing may end up being something thatâs pursued on the side. Thereâs certainly no shame in that â especially as there are plenty of roles out there that call for the skills that youâve developed over the past three years.
On the other hand, thereâs a huge range of commercial opportunities open to those with a creative writing degree.
From writing advertising copy, both print and online, to creating web pages for businesses of all shapes and sizes, it can be a broad and very rewarding job.
Those that are really successful though work hard to improve their knowledge of both their subject â specialising in a field can sometimes open as many doors as it closes â and the various related parts of the industry, such as production, marketing or web development.
Journalism is usually split in to news and magazine publishing, but thereâs a lot of crossover as you might expect. While this can be exciting and fast-paced work, wages can be low and competition high. You'll probably need to do a postgraduate course, too.
There are plenty of reputable ones available, but those with National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) accreditation are almost always preferred. Even though it can be a challenge, many in the industry wouldnât dream of doing anything else.
Web content editor
The online world is continuing to expand, with many smaller businesses now employing dedicated web content editors as part of their teams. As with many of these jobs, an interest in the subject youâll be writing about will help massively, as will a willingness to dive into reader statistics and understand the role of content in search engine algorithms.
SEO executive
This is a fast-growing market, and an understanding of the written word can be extremely useful. While a large part of the job is looking at content and working out how it can be improved for both search engines and readers, as well as writing to publicise clients and projects, thereâs a lot of technical knowledge thatâs needed too.
An interest in web design, programming and marketing will help, but most entry-level positions will let you learn as you go.
Proofreader/sub-editor
Those with an eagle eye may enjoy the world of proofing, where copy is screened for errors before publication. Perfectionism is a pretty useful attribute here, as is a taste for spotting factual inaccuracies.
Content marketing specialist
Another related area is content marketing. Publishing great content â whether articles, videos or infographics â is an increasingly popular way for brands to boost their audience. All of these forms need great copy, so good writers can be in real demand.
Social media specialist
Knowing what to write to engage an audience is a useful skill in many ways, but itâs especially important for those working with social media.
Itâs not always the most technically precise field â language and grammar can sometimes undergo some pretty drastic shifts when faced by tight character limits â but for those that can communicate well, itâs ideal.
Be prepared though to dive deep into statistics and metrics, as the job is as much about proving what you say is effective as it is the content itself.
Email marketer
Email marketing might seem like an old form of communication, but itâs still an enormous industry. An interest in design will help here too, as will a willingness to learn HTML and CSS, which are pretty handy skills for any writer working online.
Public relations
PR is a great field for outgoing, confident people who are excellent writers and communicators.
Thereâs huge scope here, with copy needed for press releases, publicity material and client promotions. If you like the buzz of working in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, this could be the role for you, and the perks â such as attending events and receiving free products from clients â can be pretty good too.
Fancy a career in any one of these fields? Here's just a selection of awesome universities you can study creative writing at:
University of Central Lancashire
University of Gloucestershire
Wrexham University
University of Chichester
Are those unis not tickling your fancy? Search for your perfect uni right now.
**Article written with help from Sam Wright, founder of Blink , a Norwich-based agency specialising in search and quality content.
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6 Jobs That Involve Creating Writing
by Mel Beasley | Apr 10, 2022 | Creative Writing
If youâre about to graduate with a creative writing degree, you might be wondering what kind of jobs might be available to you. Sure, as a creative writer, you probably have aspirations to write creatively, be editor and chief of a major magazine, get published, hit the bestseller listâall that good stuff. The truth is that your dream writing job might not come right out of college and thatâs okay!Â
[LEARN HOW TO GET FREELANCE WRITING GIGS ON UPWORK]
Believe it or not, your creative writing degree has helped you develop some highly sought-after skills, and your degree can easily apply to many different kinds of jobs beyond writing. Letâs explore some of the jobs youâll certainly have available to you once you graduate from your creative writing degree.Â
Are Employers Looking for Creative Writers with Degrees?
The long and short answer is yes! Many studies have indicated that employers value soft skills over hard skills, meaning they are looking for specific character and cognitive abilities over direct experience when evaluating candidates. A recent study conducted by Top Resume in 2021 discovered that employers value the desire to continually learn, emotional intelligence, and creativity in job candidates. Another independent study conducted last year also indicated that communication and creativity ranked on the top of the list for job recruiters, according to Zety , an employment support company. A heightened value on soft skills has remained over the last 5 years, with the Wall Street Journal reporting communication as being a highly sought-after skill by recruiters in 2016.Â
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As a creative writer, youâve not only had a natural propensity toward creativity, communication, emotional intelligence, and the desire to learn, but youâve most certainly homed in on those skills during your degree. Hereâs why recruiters value your natural talents.
How do Creative Writing Skills Translate to Jobs?
- Desire to Learn . As a creative writer, you have a natural yearning to read whatever you can get your hands on. You love to learn. This desire to keep learning isnât something that applies to all people, but employers love it because it means that you are on a continued path of personal improvement.Â
- Emotional intelligence . Because you read so much, you have a broader understanding of the world around you. Readers are writers and writers are often open-minded individuals. Itâs your ability to see the world from multiple perspectives that empowers you and makes you an awesome job candidate.
- Communication . You may have already had a natural ability to communicate both verbally and on paper, but your creative writing degree most certainly improved this skill even more. Employers are highly interested in candidates who know how to professionally communicate with customers, clients, and teammates.Â
- Creativity . Creative writers are naturally creative! Employers are desperate for fresh, imaginative ideas that relate to how their business runs, how they engage with customers, and how they market their products or services.Â
Top Jobs for Creative Writing Degree Graduates
Letâs explore a few jobs that you would most certainly do quite well in if you have a creative writing degree. Again, we know that the ultimate goal might be to work directly in creative writing, but that kind of position might not be available right away. These are positions that will build your work experience as well as allow you to write creatively in some capacity.Â
Content Marketing Strategist – $41,148 (Avg. Annual Salary)
As a content marketing strategist, youâll heavily use your creative writing degree to create content either for a single company or for many companies if youâre working in an agency environment. A position like this often includes writing social media posts, blog content, email marketing content, and other kinds of written marketing material. This is a great way to expand your writing portfolio if you donât already have your work published online.Â
Social Media Strategist – $52,978 (Avg. Annual Salary)
As a social media strategist, youâre often responsible for managing a companyâs social media accounts. With this position, youâll be planning, creating, and scheduling a wide variety of content that will require copywriting, video, and photo content. Not only will this kind of position help you improve your knowledge of social media marketing for your writing career in the future, but youâll have the chance to be creative on a daily basis as well!
Professional Copywriter – $75,211 (Avg. Annual Salary)
As a professional copywriter, you might work in a marketing agency environment, a single company, or work on a freelance basis with clients on retainer. In this position, youâll need to be familiar with writing a wide variety of content types including blogs, articles, press releases, email content, and website copy. As a copywriter, your company or clients will come to you as the expert to help them write all kinds of content. If youâre looking for a position that allows you to write almost exclusively, this is the job for you!
Facebook Advertising Expert – Up to $80,257
If you already have a knack for growing on social media, you might love this position. Many companies are in dire need of a talented Facebook and Instagram advertising expert who can help them create paid ad campaigns that result in actual leads or sales. In a position like this, youâll most certainly use your creative writing degree for developing ad copy, but you may also need some additional training on Facebook ads if youâve never run any major paid advertising campaigns in the past. Do some research online to find Facebook advertising courses if a position like this interests you!
Advertising Strategist – $76,060 – $99,792 (Avg. Annual Salary)
As an advertising strategist, youâll be behind the scenes planning entire advertising campaigns. Depending on the size of the company youâre working for, this advertising plan could include a quarterly or a full-year plan on how the brandâs advertising dollars should be spent based on market research and audience research.Â
Creative Director – $86,090 – $125,851 (Avg. Annual Salary)
Depending on the size of the company youâre working for, the creative director may be the one planning advertising campaigns along with other duties. Usually, however, the creative director will be responsible for executing advertising campaigns. They will work with the design and creative department to develop campaign concepts, and then they will determine the outlets for executing/releasing the campaigns. In an agency environment, the creative director will oversee all marketing campaigns and initiatives going on for each client, ensuring that goals are being met as planned.Â
Landing a Career After Your Creative Writing Degree
Despite what your friends and family may have told you, creative writing is a great skill to have and can lead to many high-paying careers beyond what weâve listed above. If youâre graduating with a creative writing degree and are at a loss for what you can do after graduation, we hope this list will give you some ideas! If youâre looking for jobs directly related to creative writing, you can check out the Poets & Writers job board , or read my article about how to make money as a freelance writer on Upwork!
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Mel Beasley](https://writershivemedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Mel-Beasley.jpg)
Mel Beasley has a bachelorâs in creative writing and journalism from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. He brings 9+ years of digital marketing and writing experience to the table by writing for publications such as Lumina News and Encore Magazine. He spent 2 years as a college-level writing tutor, and is a certified writing tutor through the CRLA, which is a prestigious cert recognized by the Association for the Coaching & Tutoring Profession. He is a professional SEO blogger with experience writing for brands such as Boardworks Education and The Greater Wilmington Business Journal. One of his latest website and marketing projects has been building the website for the now New York Times Bestselling author, Nina de Gramont .
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8 careers you can have with a professional writing degree
Writing can take you to an entire new universe. Whether you love to write creatively or creating captions for marketing content, thereâs a wide variety of possibilities. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has a strong professional writing program that engages students in real life work and realistic situations that occur in the writing world. SMWC values the education that students earn and wants to ensure that each student knows the variety of paths that can be taken after graduation. Here are eight careers you can have with a degree in professional writing.
1. Public relations specialist
Working in front and behind the scenes â as a PR specialist, youâll do both. With the ability to communicate clearly, youâll have opportunities to build relationships with the public simply by ensuring your brand aligns with everything associated with it. Public relations employees are in high demand and take efficient work ethics. Critical thinking qualities are very necessary. You never know what a dayâs work might bring, which makes this career one-of-a-kind.
Job tasks can include:
- Proofreading and writing press releases
- Being interviewed by news reporters
- Approving content and scheduling date of information releases
2. Content researcher and writer
Having experience with several different platforms is one factor that can help you tremendously in this career. Researching popular trends in advertising and communications will be a constant part of your routine. Itâs important to know the individual goals and values of your company to find strategies and content techniques that align. Understanding the typical views of the public are important as you will review analytics and others logistics.
- Promote and send surveys to engage public insight for company strategies
- Present ideas to advertising teams for strong ways to promote business
- Observe logistics and analytics of website and social media engagement
3. Content marketing specialist
As a content marketing specialist, youâll have a wide range of tasks in your daily routine. From scheduling social media to writing content from the latest news involving your company. You must be efficient with time management, but also be willing to be flexible. Itâs important to prioritize tasks and have a positive work ethic.
- Building presence on social media platforms
- Set documents and content for release
- Edit and proofread drafts for publishing
4. Social media coordinator
From selecting the perfect graphics to crafting catchy captions, youâll have an exciting schedule as a social media coordinator. Having an open and creative mindset plays a huge role in this career. There will be times your peers and team rely on you to have different visions to communicate the company values through photos and just a few sentences. Itâs important to be organized and have strong skills in delegation to meet deadlines. Setting schedules for different links and posts will be a constant part of your routine. With the world of technology, sometimes glitches just happen, so itâs important to have exceptional problem-solving abilities.
- Creating monthly schedules for social media posts on multiple platforms
- Creating different social media âstoriesâ to engage followers
- Backlink stories, blogs, or press releases
5. Freelance writer
Making it your own â that is the slogan of many freelance writers. With a wide variety of possibilities, you can take on as many or as few projects as you want. Being a freelancer is known for flexibility. Youâre able to set your own schedule. Maintaining a positive relationship with clients is always important for a business, but especially if you and your business go hand in hand. Having clear communication is key in this career in order to keep clients fully satisfied with your work.
- Meet with clients (virtually and in-person) to discuss brands and ideas for content
- Keep your personal website updated with availability
- Discuss goals with clients for projects, campaign releases and website content
6. Director of communications
With strong leadership skills and being a team player, youâre sure to have an exciting career as a director of communications. This career can come with a wide variety of job descriptions and tasks, so having an open mind with whatever projects come your way is important. Being able to delegate is essential as you will be working with several team members with a plethora of skillsets.
- Heading brainstorming sessions/team meetings
- Coordinating meetings with clients and team members
- Set up release schedules for social media and web content
7. Grants specialist
As a grants coordinator, youâll look for both formal and informal grant applications and opportunities for businesses and clients. Whether you work for a specific agency or an educational institution, youâll be able to display your skills in research, time management and organization. Researching for grants can be a time-consuming profession, but itâs very rewarding when an application is accepted and approved. Thereâs a specific reward in knowing that you helped a community business in need.
- Research client-specific grant opportunities
- Present multiple grant options to clients
- Offer professional insight and advice on different grants and application processes
8. Journalist
Journalism has risen in demand and popularity among students in the last several years. From writing for newspapers to being a travel author, there are endless options when pursuing a career as a journalist. Having critical thinking skills and creative thought processes will benefit you in this career. Being organized and having the ability to take clear and concise notes is vital.
- Interviewing individuals for perspectives on news pieces
- Taking notes at conferences
- Taking and selecting photos for specific stories
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What jobs can you realistically get with an MFA in creative writing?
I planned on entering the medical field with my bachelor's degree in biology, but well, I realized that healthcare isn't for me. What I want to do is write and become an author. I've been writing these days, but I realized that I am terrible at it, so I've been thinking about pursuing an MFA to improve at the craft.
But I need to be realistic and look at how I can put food on the table. What can I do with the degree after graduating?
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How To Make Money As A Creative Writer – 9 Solid Creative Writer Jobs
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Creative writers are always in demand, whether it be for television, advertising, or books. But it can be difficult to know how to monetize this skill set, especially in the competitive world of freelancing.
However, there are plenty of ways you can make money with creative writing. And some of these ideas even have full-time income potential or can help you start your own business!
Want to boost your writing income? Checkout :
- Freelance Writing For Freedom : My new course that outlines the exact steps I took to go from $0 to $100,000+ in writing income!
How To Make Money With Creative Writing
These are some common ways you can get paid for creative writing and turn your passion into an income source:
- Enter writing competitions
- Publish a book
- Start a blog
- Write on Medium
- Write for online publications
- Write newspaper snippets
- Write game and movie storylines
- Get into TV writing
- Become a copywriter
1. Enter Writing Competitions
It's sometimes hard to find steady work as a creative writer versus just regular freelance writing . Creative writing contests on the other hand…now these are pretty common!
Much like other passions and hobbies, there is an entire competitive side to creative writing, one which offers publicity and large cash prizes to those who dominate it.
A good place to start is Writer's Digest magazine. It runs several competitions throughout the year to cover different styles of creative writing, including poetry, e-books, short stories , and personal essays.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Writers-Digest-Contests](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Writers-Digest-Contests.jpg)
The grand prize winner receives $5,000 cash and an interview in the magazine, and there are also pretty great payouts for 1st-10th place winners in each of the many categories.
Looking for more? Here are a few other competitions to checkout:
- Cabell First Novelist Award
- Short Fiction Prize
- John Gardner Fiction Book Award
- Nelson Algren Short Story Award
Tom actually won a writing contest or two back in school. So this is also a great side hustle for teens or college students.
2. Publish A Book Or EBook
While it might seem intimidating to take a crack at publishing your own book, you actually have a few options here.
For starters, you can always try the traditional publishing route or simply publish short stories.
Alternatively, you can take your best story and work to expand it into a fully-fledged novel. Amazon is one great selling platform for indie writers, especially if you know how to market yourself and make sales .
If your book becomes a hit on Amazon, you could be looking at some serious passive income while you work on your next writing project.
Note : if you go down this route and want to keep yourself afloat while trying to finish your book, I suggest looking into gig economy apps or considering a second job .
Extra Reading – 19 Ways To Make Money On Amazon .
3. Turn A Blog Into A Business
Another way to make money with creative writing is to start your own blog and to grow it as an income source.
Now, this is definitely harder than writing a niche blog , following strict SEO, and approaching a blog like a business. However, it's possible to make money blogging through a variety of methods, and you don't necessarily need thousands of monthly visitors to make money…a small and devout following that like your stories might be pretty powerful!
For example, WebMonkey makes $20,000 a month or more through a mixture of display ads and affiliate income:
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Mediavine-Income-Per-Day](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mediavine-Income-Per-Day.jpg)
The above screenshot is a snapshot of advertisement revenue for WebMonkey from Mediavine , a premium ad-network for bloggers.
This might be tough to reach with a blog that just focuses on creative writing, but you can make money with other sources like affiliate marketing, subscriptions, and selling your own book.
So, if you can be patient and work hard, there's money to be made from blogging, especially if youâre putting out good content and attracting the right audience.
My post on how to decide to start a blog also outlines what you should know before getting into this hustle.
Ready to start blogging? I suggest using SiteGround for your blog hosting because they're affordable and the same host I use (and love) for all of my websites.
4. Write On Medium
Making money on Medium is one of the easiest ways to dip your toes in the world of writing for income.
In a nutshell, Medium pays you when Medium members spend time reading your content. The top writers on Medium can earn five figures per month , which is insane.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing $1,000 On Medium](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Untitled.png)
You need to build a decent following and write stories with captivating headlines to get the ball rolling, but Medium is incredibly beginner friendly. However, Medium is great for creative writers.
Some categories with massive followings on Medium include:
- Human parts (humanity)
- Slackjaw (humor)
- Poetry (general topic that's popular)
- The Writing Cooperative (writing)
- Personal growth
- Better Humans (self-improvement)
In short, making money with creative writing is possible on Medium, and there are so many niches you can explore!
And if you have a story trend or stay at the top of Medium's rankings for certain topics, you basically make money on autopilot as the views come in every day.
Extra Reading – 6 Best Websites Like Medium .
5. Write For Online Publications
If you're looking for creative writer jobs with a bit more structure than blogging or entering writing contests, your best bet is to write for online publications.
There are so many online articles that you can easily find one geared to your interests or writing style. Cracked.com and The Onion will publish humour pieces, and offer a good platform to increase visibility as well.
Longreads accept well-written non-fictional stories that can be relatable for others, and they pay very well for publications.
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Write-for-cracked](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Write-for-cracked.jpg)
Extra Reading – Make $100 A Day With PayPal .
6. Write Snippets & Features
Some magazines will actually pay for submissions for smaller filler sections. Small written sections are essential to any printed subscription piece, from recipes, jokes, lifestyle tips and tricks, and just about anything else you can think of.
General lifestyle and conversational magazines like Reader's Digest are always looking for additional content, as well as the family sections of magazines like The Guardian .
Donât let the length of these submissions fool you…there is still a professional rate to be made from this type of work.
It can be an excellent supplement to your income and also presents an awesome opportunity for new writers to step into the print world.
Extra Reading – The Best Ways To Write And Get Paid Instantly .
7. Write Storylines For Games
If youâre already familiar with game design or if itâs something that you would be interested in learning about, you could use your creative writing skills in the gaming world.
When it comes to game development, smaller teams usually place the storyline on the bottom of their priority list. However, the right gaming studio will know the value of having an actual creative writer to craft their storyline, and you can stumble across gigs for this sort of thing.
You can actually find storyline gigs online, or even on forums like Reddit For Hire:
![what jobs can you get from creative writing creative-writing-job](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/creative-writing-job.png)
Extra Reading – How To Make Money On Reddit .
8. Get Into Television Writing
Breaking into the world of TV writing is tough, but if you have a knack for it then it could be your chance at a big break.
Beyond your writing skills, itâs good to have extensive knowledge of television history. You need to be an expert in the genre youâre writing for and know why other shows in that genre either failed or succeeded.
Thereâs also a lot of work that youâll need to do before landing a show. Take master classes, enter TV writing competitions , and network with industry professionals. All of these things will give you a leg up in the working world.
Once you feel ready, you should write a speculative script– otherwise known as a spec script– which is basically a script that is not commissioned by a network.
9. Become A Copywriter
One final way to get paid for creative writing is to get into copywriting, which is essentially writing for advertising.
Thereâs an end goal involved, which is usually to make a sale for a product or service or to tell a better brand story. Companies hire copywriters all the time for things like website redesign, advertising copy help, and creating brochures or marketing material.
The great thing about working as a copywriter is that you can work your way up to an insane hourly rate. I mean, checkout this copywriter salary data from Payscale .
![what jobs can you get from creative writing Copywriter-salary](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Copywriter-salary.png)
The median hourly rate is awesome , but the top percentile of copywriters can make an amazing salary.
To get started, you can find gigs on freelancer marketplaces like Fiverr , People Per Hour , and Upwork . You can also check out FlexJobs since it has thousands of high-paying, flexible remote gigs, including copywriting ones.
Itâs important to note that these platforms are super competitive, so you have to be good at selling yourself and be prepared to charge competitive prices for your work (which may be a lot less than youâre used to).
The upside is that once youâre well established in the community, you can be pickier with what work you take and will have the ability to manage your own schedule.
Extra Reading – Young Money Interview – How Araminta Became A Successful Freelance Copywriter .
Creative Writing vs Content Writing – What's The Difference?
Creative writing is often done for artistic purposes or for personal enjoyment, and is usually subject to literary themes and typical storytelling structures. Content writing, on the other hand, is intended to be consumable and persuasive to a specific targeted audience .
This form of writing has to be clear, concise, and easy for the reader to consume. Oftentimes, content writing jobs also require understanding SEO.
Because of this, it usually involves strict rules or guidelines to follow, in terms of tone and structure, with less room for creativity.
Typically, content writers are contracted to develop content for advertisements, blogs, branding, and more– with the general goal being measurable results in terms of visibility, traffic, and profit.
If youâre a more creatively inclined writer, you may be worried that you are confining yourself to a life as a starved artist.
Final Thoughts
There are so many ways to sell your skills online as a creative writer….itâs all about finding the right avenue for your specific talents and to find work that makes you happy.
While some creative writing jobs are definitely more lucrative than others, you can definitely get yourself some steady earnings if you devote your energy into any of the above options.
Regardless of what option you choose, the main takeaway is just to get writing.
Having a good portfolio– no matter what the contents are– will not only make you a more viable option when applying for positions, but itâs guaranteed to make you better at writing.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you figure out how to make money with creative writing.
If you want other ideas to maximize your income, you can also checkout:
- The Best Online Jobs That Pay Daily .
- The Best Ways To Make Money With A Laptop .
![what jobs can you get from creative writing what jobs can you get from creative writing](https://www.webmonkey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/selena-fulham-2-96x96.jpg)
Selena Fulham knows how valuable having a side hustle can be. Sheâs a freelance content writer with a focus on SaaS, B2B technology, social media, and the art of making money online. Currently based in Montreal, Quebec, Selena can usually be found either drinking coffee, hiking up a mountain, or snowboarding down it.
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A psychologist explains how the âlionâs gate portalâ can benefit you.
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Days like 8/8 can benefit you regardless of your belief in them as they create the perfect storm of ... [+] positivity, placebo and manifestation practice.
Research has confirmed time and again that the gaps between psychological science and spirituality are wide. While one uses treatment modalities developed through scientific rigor, the other banks on faith, belief and optimism.
Paradoxically, however, psychological healing often intersects with spirituality in the realm of practice. âManifestationâ exercises such as meditation and chanting, positive visualization, journaling and affirmations are prescribed in both spaces regularly and are often rooted in gaining more knowledge of and control over the subconscious and unconscious mind.
Research published in 2023 also indicates that certain psychological constructs, like being in a âflow state,â mirror spiritual experiences. The study further argues that incorporating spirituality into your life may enhance self-understanding and potential through self-belief, a goal therapists often set for clients they treat.
All of this is to say that there are many paths that lead to a desired destination. Whether you are a realist with elaborate plans for the future or youâre a spiritual soul building a deeper connection with the universe, manifestation exercises can help you break substantial ground on the journey youâre already on.
And while there is no perfect time to start this journey, many swear by certain fated days, meant to be more powerful and âbountifulâ than others. Today is supposed to be one such day, marking the opening of the âLionâs Gate portal.â Hereâs the lore behind the popular legend.
What Time Is The 2024 Olympics Closing Ceremony In Paris?
Apple iphone 16, iphone 16 pro release date proposed in new report, ukraine is determined to flatten khalino air base, situated just 50 miles from the front line of ukraineâs surprise invasion of russia, the astrological tale behind lionâs gate portal.
Spiritual practitioners claim the eighth of August to be the day the universe supposedly opens a cosmic gateway known as the Lionâs Gate Portal. With Sirius rising and the Sun in Leo, believers claim this is a magical window for transformation and manifestation, as if the universe itself is conspiring to grant all wishes.
For those who believe the lore, it presents a tantalizing chance to harness the universeâs supposed powers. Whether itâs celestial truth or just a fanciful story lacking scientific or cosmic corroboration, the intent to start manifesting in your life is never unuseful. Regardless of these beliefs, manifestation can always help people achieve their best potential.
Why Does Manifestation Work Well With Spirituality?
While they may use vastly different language, construct different arguments and are trying to prove different thingsâspiritual healing and psychological healing often coincide when it comes to execution. Hereâs a psychologistâs take on why manifestation works in both worlds:
- The placebo effect of faith and positive outcomes. Research published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B suggests that belief systems, including spiritual practices, can impact physical health and well-being. Another study examining the Covid-19 pandemic found that patients with higher emotional, social, physical and spiritual resilience experienced less severe symptoms and recovered more quickly, illustrating how faith can influence outcomes through the placebo effect. And finally, in a 2020 article discussing the power of religious practices, psychiatrist Harold Koening notes: âPlacebos have been used in medicine since antiquity and may have significantly improved health and quality of life when little was known about the causes of most illnesses. Many outcomes were likely due to the placebo effect, as available treatments were either unproven or later disproven.â In the same vein, practices like manifestation may rely on the placebo effect, where believing in positive outcomes creates a psychological environment that supports achieving those outcomes.
- The powerful role of self-efficacy. Prolific researcher Albert Bandura's work on self-efficacy highlights the power of oneâs belief in their own ability to succeed. When individuals engage in manifestation practices, spiritual or not, they are essentially boosting their self-efficacyâwhich can lead to better performance and greater resilience in the face of challenges. This helps in building a positive self-image and enhances strength to take righteous actions towards one's ambitions.
- Principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT , a well-established psychological treatment modality, emphasizes the importance of changing negative thought patterns to improve mental health. Manifestation techniques, such as affirmations and visualization, align closely with CBT principles by encouraging individuals to focus on positive thoughts and outcomes, thereby reducing anxiety and self-sabotaging thoughts.
How You Can Harness The âMagicâ Of Days Like 8/8
Whether ordained by the universe or not, there may not be a better time than now to channelize your mental and spiritual energy toward manifesting the goals you desire to achieve. Hereâs why the efficacy of these tools can feel like magic:
- Meditation and visualization. Meditation and visualization are powerful tools that help individuals focus their intentions and reduce stress. Research led by epidemiologists at West Virginia University shows that regular meditation can enhance cognitive function and emotional regulation.
- Journaling. Writing down aspirations and goals can clarify intentions and create a tangible blueprint for success. Journaling has been shown to improve mental health by allowing individuals to process emotions and articulate their own thoughts.
- Environmental enhancements. Creating a conducive environment for manifestation, such as lighting candles or using fragrances, can enhance mood and focus. Research published in Scientia Pharmaceutica suggests that certain olfactory stimulation can positively affect mood and cognitive function.
- Affirmations. Repeating affirmations can reinforce positive beliefs and motivate individuals to pursue their goals. A 2015 study indicates that affirmations, when practiced consistently and spoken as if true, can improve performance and self-perception through a sense of achieving rewards.
While the myths surrounding events like the Lionâs Gate portal may blend astrological assumptions into daily life, the practice of manifestation itself holds significant psychological value at all times in life. The power of intention, belief and structured practice can have profound effects on cognitive health and personal growth. By understanding and harnessing these psychological techniques, individuals can achieve positive transformations, regardless of their spiritual beliefs.
Test your levels of spirituality by taking the science-backed Ego Dissolution Scale, here .
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A breaking hero emerges: Meet Australia's Raygun
An australian professor had some breaking moves, and people had thoughts., by nbc staff • published august 9, 2024 • updated on august 9, 2024 at 3:19 pm.
As Dr. Rachel Gunn, she's a 36-year-old lecturer at Macquarie University in Australia . She holds a PhD in cultural science. She researches and lectures on the cultural politics of breaking .
As Raygun, she's an Olympian breaker, competing for Australia.
Raygun lost all three of her matches, against B-Girls named Nicka, Syssy and Logistx. Yes, that sentence is accurate.
24/7 New York news stream: Watch NBC 4 free wherever you are
But Raygun had some moves. And people had some thoughts.
What my nephew does after telling all of us to âwatch thisâ pic.twitter.com/366LjIRl4j — Liz Charboneau (@lizchar) August 9, 2024
There has not been an Olympic performance this dominant since Usain Boltâs 100m sprint at Beijing in 2008. Honestly, the moment Raygun broke out her Kangaroo move this competition was over! Give her the #breakdancing gold đ„ pic.twitter.com/6q8qAft1BX — Trapper Haskins (@TrapperHaskins) August 9, 2024
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All I can think about when I see this is the hip hop dance teacher from Bobâs Burgers but if instead she was from Australia and was a 36 year old woman named Raygun https://t.co/nUwYVLnrms pic.twitter.com/Wl5FResHw7 — Shereef Sakr (@ShereefKeef) August 9, 2024
Paris 2024 Summer Olympics
Watch all the action from the Paris Olympics live on NBC
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Predicting Team USA basketball rosters for the 2028 Olympics
![what jobs can you get from creative writing](https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2024/08/GettyImages-2166365494_1e8896-e1723416535521.jpg?quality=85&strip=all)
The internet can't get enough of the Closing Ceremony's âGolden Voyager'
when Raygun hit the kangaroo jawn I couldn't see the screen I was crying so hard pic.twitter.com/jcICfTu11d — Bradford Pearson (@BradfordPearson) August 9, 2024
I think I found the source of inspiration for the Raygun breakdance at the Olympics. https://t.co/t94Iyu1dPZ pic.twitter.com/a7DL9etwRz — Noodson (@noodson) August 9, 2024
Raygun was like pic.twitter.com/KvXVPVGScx — Charles J. Moore (@charles270) August 9, 2024
Raygun did THE SPRINKLER at this breakdance thing, this is the worst thing Australia has ever done. — Luis Paez-Pumar (@lppny) August 9, 2024
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There are many skills that you can learn through a creative writing degree program and others that you could work on to advance your career, such as: Storytelling abilities. Time management. Networking. Editing and proofreading skills. Creative thinking. Technology. Organization. Independent working.
2. Editor. đ©đ»âđŒ Entry level positions: editorial assistant. đ° Potential beginner's earning: $25,000-$30,000 per year or $800-$1,000 per book. Writing is actually not all there is to creative writing jobs â if you really love stories and are always finding ways to make a story better, then editing is a suitable profession for you.
Creative writers specialize in genres like fiction or poetry, which exhibit imagination and invention. Their expertise allows them to pursue the following types of jobs: Content marketing. Editing. Self-publishing. Ghostwriting. Video game writing. Greeting card writing.
A content writer focuses more on long-form writing that builds a relationship with the target audience. In other words, content writing is less about making a sales pitch and more about being helpful and conveying the brand's personality. Common content writing tasks include: Average Salary: $40,000-$70,000 per year.
You can choose the niche that matches your preferences, from technical writing to creative writing. Job growth: According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of writers and authors may grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, which is similar to the average growth for all occupations. The BLS credits the growth to writers ...
Creative Writing Instructor. Legacy Writer (write people's bios and family histories) Critic/Reviewer. Ghostwriter. Article Writer (write, submit, repeat) Columnist. Video Game Writer. Personal Poet (write personalized poems for weddings, funerals, childbirths, etc.) Speechwriter.
A bachelor's degree in creative writing requires about 120 credits and takes four years of full-time study to complete. Accelerated programs may take less time. Admission requirements for a ...
10. Screenwriter / Songwriter. Probably the most creative jobs for a creative writer graduate are songwriting and screenwriting. Of course, is not easy to make a name of yourself in this field, but this is where your passion lays, you should definitely go for it. In these jobs, you can dream as big as possible and the bigger you dream the more ...
1. Copywriter. Salary range: $38k - $76k. Write content that drives sales, such as web pages, advertisements, emails, and more. This is one of the common entry-level writing jobs. 2. Social Media Writer or Manager. Salary range: $35k - $80k. Plan out posts and write content for a brand's social media profiles.
As a creative writing graduate you may work to establish yourself as a writer on a self-employed basis, either writing your own works, or writing for others in a freelance capacity. Alternatively, you could find opportunities with a variety of employers, including: Civil Service, library or charitable organisations.
A creative writing degree can enhance a poet's ability to manipulate language and craft evocative pieces of work. A copywriter creates compelling and persuasive text for advertising and marketing campaigns. They write content for a wide range of mediums, including websites, brochures, emails, and social media posts.
Below are 8 potential job titles for creative writing majors. Note that these are just some of the more common routesâyou're certainly not limited to just these 8 titles! 1. Author. Okay, let's start with the most obvious. Of course, if you major in creative writing, we'll go ahead and assume that you actually enjoy writing.
3. FlexJobs. FlexJobs is a global platform listing a variety of online and remote jobs. It's an excellent place to look if you want to specialize in a specific niche, such as food, finance, or health.. Pay rates vary depending on the job. To apply, first register as a member, then choose your subscription option for full access to job postings â prices start at $9.95 per week.
Here are nine jobs for creative writing majors that will actually let you use your degree. 1. Technical writer/editor. Technical writers and editors are ultra detail-oriented professionals who write manuals, instructions, processes, and guidelines. They deal with regulations and laws and serve as keepers of precise language.
Technical writer. Average salary: $63,929. Salary range: $46,000-$91,000. Technical writers are responsible for writing copy that translates complex technical ideas into something a general audience can read and understandâincluding for instruction manuals, tutorials, journal articles, and educational resources.
Earning a creative writing master's degree shows you how to take an inkling of an idea and build a fully-formed narrative that can be applied to short stories, novels or screenplays. Editing is a crucial component of the creative writing process, and this program teaches students how to fine-tune their writing at all levels. A master's ...
When many people think about what jobs can you get with a creative writing degree, becoming an editor is one of the first goals they set. In addition to editing work by other writers, editors are responsible for evaluating pitches for their publications and assigning articles to both in-house and freelance journalists.
Copywriter. On the other hand, there's a huge range of commercial opportunities open to those with a creative writing degree. From writing advertising copy, both print and online, to creating web pages for businesses of all shapes and sizes, it can be a broad and very rewarding job. Those that are really successful though work hard to improve ...
While many graduates of these programs pursue creative writing careers as published authors or poets, some candidates with this credential also find roles in fields like education, publishing, journalism, marketing, communications and academia. Consider these 13 different jobs in these fields that you can consider during your search.
Mel Beasley has a bachelor's in creative writing and journalism from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. He brings 9+ years of digital marketing and writing experience to the table by writing for publications such as Lumina News and Encore Magazine. He spent 2 years as a college-level writing tutor, and is a certified writing tutor through the CRLA, which is a prestigious cert ...
Jobs you can apply for with a degree in creative writing Below are some examples of creative writing degree jobs: 1. Social media manager National average salary: ÂŁ31,785 per year Primary duties: A social media manager handles an organisation's social media pages and promotes their social media accounts through regular content creation.Content creation involves writing posts, designing ...
From writing for newspapers to being a travel author, there are endless options when pursuing a career as a journalist. Having critical thinking skills and creative thought processes will benefit you in this career. Being organized and having the ability to take clear and concise notes is vital. Job tasks can include:
You might be able to find work as a teacher. Universities will probably want someone with publishing experience rather than just a degree, though, so maybe look into high school English or creative writing, or community colleges. You could also try literary agencies and publishing companies. 5.
Tom has earned over $1,000 by writing on Medium to date, most of which has been passive income. You need to build a decent following and write stories with captivating headlines to get the ball rolling, but Medium is incredibly beginner friendly.However, Medium is great for creative writers.. Some categories with massive followings on Medium include:
-- 2023 mean annual wage: $83,470-- 2023 employment: 29,240 Film and video editors edit raw media footage. They're expected to get images to the final production stage, often in collaboration with ...
Days like 8/8 can benefit you regardless of your belief in them as they create the perfect storm of ...[+] positivity, placebo and manifestation practice. getty. Research has confirmed time and ...
As Dr. Rachel Gunn, she's a 36-year-old lecturer at Macquarie University in Australia. She holds a PhD in cultural science. She researches and lectures on the cultural politics of breaking. As ...
Tim Walz's selection as Kamala Harris' running mate underscores both the power of social media and of being relatively affable and nondivisive.