how to write content writing in english

7 Easy Tips for Effective Content Writing

Content is as important as the design and aesthetics of your website because it drives search engine results, increases traffic to your page and establishes your organization as an industry leader. And in today’s content marketplace, both quality and quantity determine your ability to leverage  content for business results .

That’s where the professional content writers at Walker Sands come in. Our experienced copywriters have an in-depth knowledge of B2B and technology topics and products, and the skill to compose well-written copy, effective SEO pages, blog posts and other digital content.

Effective Content Writing

Although there is no secret formula for writing high-quality content, these are several tips that can help improve the quality and quantity of your written material:

• Write a Head-Turning Headline.  The headline determines whether audiences will read the rest of your work. If the headline doesn’t spark interest, stir an emotion or make the reader want to learn more about the topic, you simply won’t achieve the desired results with your content. Walker Sands’ professional copywriting services take the guesswork out of generating effective headlines by using proven techniques and traffic-driving strategies.
• Create a Hook That Grabs Their Attention.  You have three seconds to keep readers hooked after the headline. The first sentence also plays a role in determining whether they read the rest of your content. As a result, it should capture the reader’s attention and smoothly lead them into your first point.
• Do Your Research.  You must have extensive knowledge on the topic you’re writing about, especially in the B2B market. Include statistics, data and metrics to establish credibility and support your claims.
• Focus on a Single Purpose.  You should identify at least one key message you’d like to convey before you create your content. Keep this in mind when writing and tie your content back to the main point as much as possible.
• Write in a Unique Voice.  The content you publish is the voice of your company and it should be unique to your company’s personality. It’s important to align the tone of your writing to your target audience, business goals and brand persona.
• Optimize Digital Content.  The best digital content often consists of short paragraphs, short sentences and bulleted lists. Digital content should also be optimized for search using SEO best practices and the latest SEO content strategies.
• Edit Your Work.  After you have created a first draft, go back and consider how you might polish the rough edges of your writing. In most cases, writing improves as it goes through a round or two of edits—even when it has been drafted by experienced content creators.

Effective content writing is critical in turning site visitors into satisfied customers. It’s not just about getting content out there—it’s also important to produce high-quality content. Search engines crawl website content and reward websites with well-written articles by ranking them higher in search results.

Are you getting the results you want from your content writing? Walker Sands provides top-notch  content marketing services to help you reach target customers, generate more leads and amplify your reach.

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Content Writing

• Content Production

Written by Brian Dean

What Is Content Writing?

Content writing is the process of planning, writing, and publishing written material, such as articles, blog posts, product descriptions, and marketing copy, that is intended for online consumption. The goal of content writing is to inform, educate, or persuade readers, and it can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Building brand awareness
• Increasing website traffic
• Generating leads
• Improving search engine rankings
• Establishing credibility

Why Is Proper Content Writing Important?

When most people hear “content writing”, they think “writing articles”.

However, writing content isn’t just important for blog posts.

In fact, content writing is important for all types of different content formats, including:

• Video scripts
• Email newsletters
• Keynote speeches
• Social media posts
• Podcast titles
• White papers
• Web page copy
• Landing pages
• YouTube video descriptions

Or put another way:

Writing is the foundation for pretty much any content that you publish.

Best Practices

Create an outline.

Creating an outline is a GREAT first step in the content writing process.

Outlines help your content come out better for two main reasons:

First , outlines force you to put all your thoughts down in an organized way (rather than writing everything off the top of your head). Which really speeds up the writing process.

Second , outlines usually lead to a much better structure for your content. That’s because an outline lets you see your content from a “high level” that’s impossible to see as you’re writing.

Plus, because you have an outline, your final content will hit all of the major points that you set out to before you started writing.

So: how do you actually go about creating an effective outline?

Here are three main strategies that work well:

So when we start working on a new guide, we use a lot of the structure from our existing guides as a base.

• Use a template: Most professional content writers work off of proven templates. Here are 5 content templates you can use to create outlines .

For example, let’s say you’re about to write a guest post about the keto diet.

Well, you’d want to type “keto diet” into BuzzSumo to see what’s already done well.

Then, read some of the best posts to see exactly what you should cover in your article.

Make It Easy to Consume and Share

Content that’s super easy to read and share is of the keys to great content .

You can have a post written by the world’s top copywriter. But if that post is hard for people to consume, no one will read it.

Here are a few tips to help make your content easier to consume, skim and share.

Keep it Snappy, Rich and Entertaining

Whether you’re writing about content creation or cars, your writing needs to grab (and keep) people’s attention .

Otherwise, they’ll click over to something else.

How you grab someone’s attention depends on the format you’re working with.

When I create videos, I use “Family Guy moments” throughout the video. These are little asides that add some humor to and spice to my video content.

And when I write videos, I focus a lot on formatting and layout.

Specifically, I try to keep my paragraphs short:

I also sprinkle in visuals and screenshots to mix things up.

And if you’re about to sit down and record some audio, you want your lines to be short and snappy. You also want to avoid parenthetical statements. Content in parenthesis is easy to follow when you’re reading it. But you can easily “lose the thread” if you’re listening to your audio as a podcast.

In short: your final content needs to be super engaging to work. And no matter what format you’re working with, that starts with the content writing process.

Quotable On Social Media

According to a study that we conducted, very few blog posts get shared or linked to .

And to increase the odds that your content ranks in search engines and gets shared on social media, add shareable quotes.

For text-based content, this can be a statement that you highlight in your post.

And if you’re making a YouTube video, you can pull out a short snippet from that video to share on LinkedIn.

The important thing here is to have these quotes ready before you publish the post. Then, highlight them in your content.

Choose Interesting Angles

With 2.3 million blog posts going live every day , you can’t just publish something generic and expect a wave of visitors.

Instead, to get traffic to your content, it needs a compelling angle.

An angle is simply the hook that makes your content stand out from all the others on that topic.

Your angle can be a personal story. A bit of controversy. Or something that simply looks better than what’s out there.

The angle you go with depends on your target audience.

For example, when we published our guide to becoming an SEO expert , our 8-bit design helped it stand out.

Make It Actionable

For most niches, your content can’t just be entertaining.

And it’s not even enough for it to simply be informative.

For your content marketing to work, your content needs to be super useful .

Here’s how:

Our SEO audit post is a great example of this.

It’s not a collection of random tips. This content is a step-by-step action plan that anyone can follow.

• Keep it up-to-date: A single outdated step or example can derail an otherwise great piece. I recommend going back and updating your old content at least once a year.

Make it Trustworthy

For people to share and link to your content, they need to trust it first.

And while design factors in to how much people trust your content , your writing plays a big role too.

Here are a few tips to make your content more trustworthy.

• Use proper grammar: If you want to improve your writing skills, a tool like Hemingway Editor or Grammarly can be a huge help.

For example, whenever we write a guide, we add lots of stats and references.

Here’s an example from our blog.

Give it a Magnetic Headline and Introduction

Most visitors only spend 15 seconds reading an article before leaving.

With such a short window of time, your headline and introduction are incredibly important.

Here’s how to create headlines and intros that work:

Note how these bullet points aren’t topics . They’re benefits that someone will get out of reading and implementing what’s in the guide.

How can I become a content writer?

If you’re looking to dive into the world of content writing, you’re in for an exciting journey. Let me walk you through the steps that have worked wonders for me and many others.

1. Learn SEO Fundamentals

First off, get cozy with SEO basics . It’s the backbone of content writing.

Start with keyword research – it’s like picking the right tools before you start building. Use tools like Google’s Keyword Planner or Semrush to find what your audience is searching for.

Then, dive into on-page SEO . Think of your titles and meta descriptions as your first handshake with your readers – make it count.

2. Niche Specialization

Now, pick a niche.

This isn’t just about what you love; it’s about where you can add real value.

Ask yourself, “What unique perspective or solutions can I bring to my readers?” This focus will make your content more engaging and valuable.

3. Develop a Unique Writing Style

It’s your signature. Keep it clear, engaging, and packed with actionable tips.

I always aim to write as if I’m talking to a friend – straightforward and helpful.

Use tools like Grammarly to keep your grammar in check and Hemingway Editor to make your content crisp and readable.

4. Create a Portfolio

It’s your playground for trying out new ideas and a portfolio to showcase your skills.

Make sure it’s SEO-friendly; after all, you want to walk the talk.

5. Learn from the Best

Learning never stops. Keep an eye on the top content writers and digital marketing resources.

What are they doing right? How are they engaging their audience? How are they using new AI tools in their workflows?

Don’t just consume content; dissect it.

6. Feedback and Improvement

Lastly, the power of feedback can’t be overstressed. Use it to refine your writing.

Remember, the best content writers are those who listen, learn, and adapt.

That’s my blueprint for becoming a content writer. I

t’s about blending SEO savvy with a unique voice, continually learning, and always striving to provide value to your readers.

Stay curious, stay committed, and you’ll find your path to success in content writing.

The Definitive Guide to Writing Blog Posts : I recommend sending this to any content writer that you work with.

The Complete Guide to SEO Content : How to write quality content that’s specifically engineered to rank in Google.

Evergreen Content : How to plan and write content that continues to bring in traffic for years after you publish it.

The Definitive Guide to Copywriting : Learn how to write SUPER compelling copy for blog posts, sales letters, videos and more based on tips from the world’s top copywriters.

What Is Content Writing? Plus 12 Tips to Take Your Content to the Next Level

Updated: March 01, 2021

Published: February 25, 2021

When you search for "content writers" on LinkedIn, you're bound to come across an incredibly diverse range of professionals.

For instance, you'll see some content writers create social media copy for small businesses, while others write press materials for insurance brands.

You'll also find that some content writers write long-form editorial content for glamorous magazines, while the more entrepreneurial-type write scripts for their own branded content, like podcast or video.

So, what's going on here ... Are some of them lying?

In fact, they're all telling the truth. Content writing can take various forms, but in essence, it comes down to creating content for digital formats — and (at least in our case) for marketing purposes.

Here, we'll explore what content writing is ( hint, hint … I'm currently doing it ), as well as tips to take your own content to the next level. Plus, we'll explore examples of incredible, high-quality content writing.

But, to start — What is content writing, anyway?

What is content writing?

Content writing is the process of writing, editing, and publishing content in a digital format.

That content can include blog posts, video or podcast scripts, ebooks or whitepapers, press releases, product category descriptions, landing page or social media copy ... and more.

Simply put, content writers are the storytellers for their brand. They convey meaningful, helpful, and insightful messages to inspire and move an audience to take action — that action being a final sale.

Nowadays, content creation is a critical component of most businesses marketing strategies — in fact, as of 2020, 70% of marketers now actively invest in content marketing .

This means the role of content writer is more in-demand than ever before. However, the role varies depending on both industry and business needs.

For instance, some businesses might invest heavily in a social media strategy, while other companies prefer creating content in the format of blog posts or e-books.

Regardless of format, a content writer is critical for creating high-quality content that represents and strengthens a brand's voice, while attracting, engaging, and delighting the right audience.

When done right, content writing has the power to convert readers into prospects, and prospects into paying customers. So it's undeniably important for your business' bottom-line that you're able to consistently create helpful, engaging content.

But that's easier said than done. To help take your content to the next level, let's dive into some of my favorite content writing tips (these have personally helped me, as well).

12 Content Writing Tips

1. write unique and original content, and go above-and-beyond what you find online..

Whenever I start a new blog post, like this one, I start with plenty of online research — but that's not where it ends.

After Googling relevant topics, including "content writing tips", I begin creating an outline using some of the information I find online.

However, your piece will never rank if you just copy-and-paste the same information that already exists online — and, even if it does, when your readers catch on (and they will), they'll lose trust in your brand as an authority within the industry.

Once I finish my rough outline (which will include about 60% of the information I found through online research), I fill in the remaining 40% with unique, original insights. If I know about a topic personally (as is the case with "content writing", since I'm a content writer myself), I'll fill in the outline with original anecdotes, tips, or personal examples.

However, if I don't know much about the topic at-hand, that doesn't mean I simply use what's already online. Instead, I'll reach out to internal HubSpotters who are experts on the topic or use other original internal-company resources, or I'll conduct external outreach via my social networks to find a reputable source willing to provide tips, quotes, or original examples to beef up my piece.

Additionally, I'll look for content regarding the topic across a wide range of sources — including YouTube, LinkedIn, Reddit, Quora, as well as podcasts — to ensure when readers' come across my content, it's both comprehensive and unique.

If they can find the same information elsewhere on Google, why should they stay on your page? As a good content writer, it's your job to take your content to the next level, always.

2. Write a good hook to grab your reader's attention.

Sometimes, it's easy to write a good hook — particularly if the topic is intriguing or exciting to you, as the writer.

But what about more boring, mundane topics, like Rel=nofollow?

In certain cases, writing a good hook requires pulling back and looking at the bigger picture. For instance, while rel=nofollow isn't the most fascinating topic (in my opinion), what is interesting to me is SEO, and how SEO can directly impact a company's ability to reach new audiences — plus, how Google has needed to change regulations in recent years due to an increase in illegitimate sites.

Which means, when I started writing 3 Reasons Why SEO's Are Upset About Google's Rel=nofollow Announcement , I used that angle to inspire my hook, and painted a picture: Myself as a Wikipedia editor, writing about zebras, and getting paid $500 to link to a fake news website.

( Now you're interested, aren't you?)

My Creative Writing background helps in this case, and I'm willing to bet your own passion for writing will help you create exciting hooks, as well.

Oftentimes, the introduction and hook is your best opportunity to use your writing skills to truly inspire, move, surprise, and delight your readers from the get-go. Take advantage of that space by thinking: What would make me and my friends want to keep reading?

3. SEO-optimize your content for search engines.

Your writing can be absolutely stunning, but if it's not SEO-optimized, no one will ever read it.

As a content writer, it's critical you become familiar with SEO when it comes to writing .

Being an SEO-savvy writer can help you ensure your content ranks on whichever platforms you're publishing, including YouTube, Google, or even social sites like Instagram.

Plus, you can use SEO to ensure you're writing about the most popular topics related to your products or services, and covering the right sub-topics when you're writing about a given topic.

For instance, "content writing tips" is a keyword phrase I found when conducting keyword research on the topic of "content writing" as a whole — it's not necessarily a sub-topic I would've considered covering in this blog post had I not done the research to recognize HubSpot readers are seeking out that information.

Ultimately, learning key SEO tactics will help you become a writer whose more attuned with your readers' challenges, and ensure you create content that more accurately answers those challenges.

4. Consider how you can attract an audience across a wide variety of platforms.

While SEO is critical for ensuring your content ranks on search engines like Google, it's not the only opportunity for distribution.

To reach a wider audience, it's helpful to learn how to write content that performs well on various platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, or email.

Plus, you might be a content writer whose sole job is to write newsletter content or social media copy , depending on your business' needs.

To ensure your content reaches and inspires audiences regardless of the platform they prefer, it's vital you consistently consume content via email and social to pick up writing tips specific for those sources.

5. Incorporate multimedia components to break up the text.

Whenever possible, try to incorporate videos, images, graphs, or other multimedia content to break up the text and make it easier for your readers' to consume — particularly if it's long-form content, like pillar pages or whitepapers.

Consider, for instance, the blog post I wrote: " How to Develop a Content Strategy: A Start-to-Finish Guide ".

That blog post is long, with over 3,000 words. To break it up, I embedded videos and other multimedia elements (like blockquotes), to keep the reader engaged throughout.

This is also a good opportunity to increase traffic to your company's various marketing materials. For instance, if you have a new company podcast, try embedding episodes in relevant blog posts to drive listeners to the podcast while providing additional value for your readers — a win, win.

6. Segue into appropriate and relevant calls-to-action.

As a content writer, your job isn't just to create good content (that's what novelists are for). It's also to ultimately convert those readers, listeners, or viewers into prospects and customers.

As such, it's vital you learn how to appropriately include relevant CTAs throughout your content , particularly if those CTAs can help your readers learn more about the topic at-hand.

Consider, for instance, the relevant CTAs embedded in the body text of HubSpot's YouTube video, " How to Understand Facebook Video Insights (Guide) ":

When you're creating your own content, it's important you ensure you're consistently directing your audience to various business offerings to convert those viewers into prospects and, ultimately, consumers.

7. Edit, edit, edit.

Whenever I finish a first draft of a blog post, I take a few hours off and then return to it at the end of the day. With a fresh perspective, I'm able to edit for small grammatical errors or fix structural issues.

Good content writing is impossible without good content editing.

We're all human and will continue to make mistakes in our writing: That's okay, as long as you remember to go back and edit for those errors, later.

Additionally, small grammatical errors can ultimately make-or-break a readers' trust in your brand as a whole. If they notice you've forgotten periods or misspelled words, they might make the judgment that your content isn't as authoritative and clean as other content on the web, and look for future information elsewhere.

8. Jam-pack value into every sentence.

When I worked with an editor a few years ago, she consistently told me: "If your sentence isn't telling the reader anything new, delete it."

This was a tough pill to swallow. That meant some of my most beautiful, moving sentences needed to be deleted. But it's a fair point: In content creation, you need to move quickly onto your next point, or you'll lose your reader entirely.

Most of your readers are busy people with plenty of distractions, including other businesses' social posts, blog articles, or YouTube videos. Make it easy for them by making your point — and then moving on.

9. Play around with interesting angles.

Good content writers consistently test out new, surprising angles to keep readers engaged and coming back for more.

Consider, for instance, how often "consumer product" has been written about. I'm willing to bet if you've ever researched the topic, you've already seen a wide variety of angles as different content writers try to make an old topic feel new again.

But … have you ever seen consumer product compared to water , before?

Articles like " Be Like Water — A Guiding Principle for Consumer Product " do an excellent job at finding new angles to pull readers' in, even if those readers have seen plenty of consumer product-related content before.

The more unique and surprising your angles are, the more likely you are to capture new audiences.  You can utilize tools like HubSpot's paragraph rewriter tool to explore fresh perspectives and express ideas in unique and innovative ways.

10. Incorporate original quotes from thought leaders or colleagues to paint a well-rounded argument.

No matter how good my writing is, my readers still don't necessarily want to hear my advice on protecting your mental health while working from home .

Which is why I didn't try to tackle the topic myself — instead, I found a psychologist to provide well-researched, helpful tips to take my piece to the next level.

Even if you're an expert on a topic, consider how you might provide alternative opinions to create a more well-rounded argument. If you're writing a blog post like, "Video vs. Podcast: Which Is Better For Your Business?", see if you can get quotes from both podcasters and video producers (or your own internal colleagues who feel passionate about the subject).

Expert quotes or original insights will impress readers and show them that what they're finding on your website, they won't find elsewhere on the web. And that's powerful.

11. Tell the reader why what you're writing about matters to them and their daily lives.

Let's say you're creating an ebook: "A Comprehensive Guide to Excel".

Not exactly what excited you most when you majored in English, is it?

Imagine how your readers feel: Sure, they might download your ebook if they need the information to excel (ha, ha) in their jobs, but they won't necessarily be excited about it.

Consider, however, how critical Excel is for certain functions. Excel can help a company's financial department analyze year-over-year performance to determine how much budgeting a marketing team will receive in the upcoming year.

That budget contributes to critical growth, and the business' ability to reach and convert new customers. Without it, the marketing team won't be able to increase brand awareness as effectively as they'd like — and the business will suffer, as a result.

When you recognize that Excel can actually be tied to a person's job security, it suddenly becomes much more fascinating, doesn't it?

Content writing isn't just about creating pretty sentences. It's also about telling a reader why a topic should matter to them, and how your content can help them become better in certain areas of their lives — be it work, family, health, or travel. Now that's purposeful.

12. Ground your advice with examples.

As I've covered these content writing tips, I've tried to include a few relevant examples (i.e. my Rel=nofollow blog post).

Examples can help ground your advice and drive a message home — and they can also help demonstrate how readers can apply your advice to their lives.

Particularly when you're writing about loftier, less tangible topics, it's critical you show your readers what you mean, rather than just telling them.

But what better way to demonstrate the importance of examples than to … Show you some examples? (Great segue, huh?)

Let's dive into some examples of powerful content writing, next.

Examples of Content Writing

Along with the examples I've included above, let's take a look at some impressive examples of content writing.

1. Harris and Harris Wealth Management's Blog Post, " What Keeps Me Calm For Clients As Markets Gyrate ":

Why It Works

If you have the chance to read the whole article, do — the entire piece is informative and engaging. But what this introduction does particularly well is hook the reader with an opening that's surprising and intriguing. 

"You never see it until it happens ... We were due ... I just didn't expect it ..." are all phrases that work to create suspense and encourage the viewer to keep reading. Zaneilia Harris, the author of the post, uses emotion to engage with her readers and make "market downturns" as a topic both personal — and universal. A great example of using a powerful hook to attract, surprise, and delight readers. 

2. The Rachel Hollis Podcas‪t‬, " No Motivation? Here's How to Create Your Own! "

The podcast script is exciting, relevant, and powerful. I found myself nodding along as I listened: something most content writers hope will happen in reaction to their content. 

In particular, take a look at the description for the podcast (if you don't have the time to listen to the whole episode): "This week ... Rachel is delivering her best secrets for creating a firestorm of motivation inside a season where even a spark feels hard to find." 

The language is compelling and unique — and who doesn't want a  firestorm  of motivation? This is an excellent example of content writing that encourages a reader to complete a task: In this case, downloading the episode. 

3. Trello's Business Plan Template post via LinkedIn.

Simply put, sometimes, timing is everything. 

Trello's content writers published the right message at the  right  time —in this case, the very beginning of 2021. Entrepreneurs were likely attracted to the hook, "Are you thinking about turning your passion project into a real-life business in 2021?"

Additionally, the copy uses a wide-variety of examples to attract as many viewers as possible. For instance, the copy mentions the template can help you organize product descriptions, finances, or industry analyses.

Whenever possible, it's helpful to ensure your copy can attract audiences with different challenges or needs — which this post does well. 

4. Brian Dean's YouTube video, " How to Start (And Grow) a YouTube Channel in 2020 ":

When the video starts, one of the first sentences Brian says is this one: "These are the exact same steps I used to take my channel from zero subscribers to over 5,000,000 views."

That's powerful script writing, and goes a long way towards convincing viewers to keep watching. Why? Because it tells you the content that follows actually helped someone succeed, and creates a level of authenticity that could be missing if Brian simply said, "I've heard from others that these tips work." 

5. Ally Bank's "Save for what matters in 2021" newsletter email:

I was immediately drawn to the punny slogan at the top of this email when I opened it in my inbox, which reads: "On your mark. Get set. Goals." The rest of this newsletters packs a punch, too — each sentence is jam-packed with valuable information, and best of all, the content is directed right at me , the reader. 

And who doesn't want to make 2021 the "year you save for what matters"?

Don't forget to share this post!

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How To Become a Content Writer

Table of Contents

Have you always been the one chosen by friends and family to word anything that necessitates the flawless use of vocabulary, grammar, and expressions? Do you enjoy reading, researching, or wordplay and want to express your thoughts? Content-in-all-forms-textual or visual (including video) rules the industry and social media , and as a result, content writers will always be in high demand. So, if you believe you can explain any topic or notion creatively, effectively, and intelligently, here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a content writer.

What is Content?

Content is any information that educates, informs, entertains, motivates, inspires, convinces, or persuades a particular group of people.

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What is Content Writing?

Content writing is the process of creating and publishing written content for a variety of purposes, including marketing, education, and entertainment. Content writers must be able to research topics, write in a clear and concise style, and edit their work for grammar and spelling errors.

Content writers can work in a variety of settings, including in-house at businesses, as freelancers, or as part of a content marketing agency. The job outlook for content writers is expected to grow faster than average in the coming years, as more businesses and organizations recognize the importance of creating high-quality content to reach their target audiences.

Who is a Content Writer?

A content writer is a professional who creates and manages written content for businesses and organizations. They use their writing skills to communicate ideas, information, and stories in a way that is both informative and engaging. Content writers may work on a variety of projects, including blog posts, articles, website copy, social media posts, and marketing materials. They may also be responsible for editing and proofreading content, as well as developing content strategies.

To be successful as a content writer, you need to have strong writing skills, as well as the ability to research topics, understand target audiences, and write in a clear and concise style. You should also be able to work independently and meet deadlines.

If you're interested in a career in content writing, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, develop your writing skills by taking writing classes or workshops. Second, build your portfolio by writing for online publications or creating your own blog. Finally, network with other content writers and professionals in the industry.

Content writing is a challenging but rewarding career. If you're passionate about writing and have the skills to succeed, a career in content writing could be a great fit for you.

What Does a Content Writer Do?

In no order, some of the critical responsibilities of the content writer include:

• Diligently research information
• Create content that is crisp and to the point
• Ensure that the organization's goals are met through your words
• Edit content to make it concise
• Use their skills to write different content like blogs, marketing content, scriptwriting, etc.

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Types of Content Writers 

There are ten popular types of content writers:

1. Blog Writer

A blog writer understands how to turn complicated topics into friendly dialogs. Blog writers employ their investigative skills to find and source data pieces that improve blog material. They will spend hours on a single article's draft and contemplate many blog titles. The blog writer will eventually settle on a title with the most click-through potential. Because a published blog post is essentially another page on your website, blog writers typically have SEO knowledge.

A blog writer is responsible for: 

2. Brand Journalist

A brand journalist is a storyteller. They don't stop until they discover their tale. They will portray your brand favorably, whether they produce press releases or customer anecdotes. They recognize the value of a brand's reputation; therefore, it's in their nature to double-check facts and quotes before they're released. They also have a talent for creating headlines that entice people to click and share.

A brand journalist is great for:

• Brand Tales
• Customer Stories
• Press Releases
• Company Bios
• Internal Communication

3. Copywriter

A copywriter is quick to flip their creative thought between a wide range of themes and projects. They speak both your brand's and your customer's language. Copywriters weave experiences into every syllable, from product descriptions to website pages.

A copywriter creates:

• Website Text
• Print Media
• Infographics
• Sales Collateral
• Product Descriptions

4. Ghostwriter

A ghostwriter is a chameleon, able to shapeshift into the committed voice that belongs to both brands and people. Ghostwriters fill the content resource gap when your organization lacks the bandwidth, skills, drive, or above. When hiring a ghostwriter, businesses want someone who exudes confidence and trustworthiness. They will be entrusting them with the more incredible voice of their brand and the people behind the brand.

A Ghostwriter is ideal for:

• White Papers
• Thought Leadership
• Website Copy 
• Off-page Material

5. Technical Writer

A technical writer is an expert at making highly technical stuff understandable to others. They explain technology in detail, including how to use it, make it, the procedures, the components, the inner workings, and the mechanics. Whether they're creating guides, FAQs, or manuals, they'll demonstrate your product to non-technical people so they grasp its capabilities.

A Technical Writer creates the following:

• Instructions
• UX (User Experience) Messaging

6. Social Media Writer

A social media writer is probably a brand's loudest voice. Social media writers stay on top of ever-changing capabilities and algorithms with social networks to ensure content success. 

They speak each platform's language effectively to engage followers with appropriate messaging and interactive elements such as polls and queries. Again, trust is essential when choosing a social media writer because this person will become your brand's representative.

A social media writer is responsible for:

• Social Media Postings
• Interactive Material
• Public Relations Outreach
• Platform-specific Content

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7. Email Writer

The purpose of an email writer's copy is to drive action. They are well-versed in lead generation strategies and how content may help such efforts. Psychology plays a significant role in their creative process. They create and put every word in headlines and call-to-action phrases, taking buyer stages and sales initiatives into account. A professional email writer is adamant about A/B testing text and will constantly examine and adjust their writing to attain the best conversion outcomes.

An Email Writer creates:

• Newsletters
• Transactional Emails
• Drip Campaigns
• Customer Nurturing
• Sales Nurturing

8. Scriptwriter

A scriptwriter is an essential component of multimedia ventures. They bring storytelling expertise while remaining committed to the messaging approach. Scriptwriters envision how words on a page will eventually convert to more rich formats, such as videos and podcasts. 

You'll know you've found the appropriate scriptwriter when they can see the big picture of your content vision from the beginning.

A Scriptwriter is a creative resource for:

• Video Scripts
• Podcast Scripts
• Explainer Video Scripts
• Radio/Audio Advertising
• Motion Graphics Scripts

9. Long-form Content Writer

A long-form content writer is a cross between a novelist and a marathon runner. Long-form content writers frequently become subject matter experts by default due to their enthusiasm for analytics and knowledge.

While many writers are intimidated by 2,000+ words, long-form content writers favor longer formats since they can incorporate insights into a cohesive and robust framework.

A Long-Form Content Writer creates:

• Data Studies
• Case Studies
• Pillar Blog Entries

10. Ad and Promo Writer

An ad and promo writer understands how to maximize prime real estate with any material they create. Within character count constraints, powerful messages are readily generated. 

They have to develop messages that resonate with prospects and inspire them to take a specific action that results in a captured lead for sales.

An Ad and Promo Writer would work best for:

• Advertising Text
• Landing Pages
• Direct Mail Copy
• Promo Blurbs Onsite
• Sales Material 

It is not, and should not be, one-size-fits-all. Because content is demanding, many writing specialists exist to assist brands in succeeding.

How to Become a Content Writer?

When you combine skills, such as content writing, with a specialized niche, you will become an excellent content writer. It might be a very appealing proposal because you now have subject matter expertise and technical skill related to this subject area. The following steps are what you need to know about how to become a content writer:

Step 1: Create a Portfolio

After choosing an industry or specialty, brainstorm content ideas, develop content for that industry, and create a few blog pieces, an ebook, or a case study. A strong portfolio will provide you with a solid foundation to expand. But it alone will not help you. 

You require social proof !

Step 2: Begin Generating Social Proof

You can use this as a content writer to produce your own social proof. Quora is an excellent place to do this. Quora not only allows you to flex your content writing muscles, but it also attracts the required social proof and demonstrates how people are not just consuming but also engaging with your information.

Step 3: Establish Authority by Blogging

Now you can attract more clients and convert them at a much higher price if you establish a sense of authority and knowledge. A blog is a simple way to accomplish this. It will use your blog to demonstrate your expertise and management. It is a reasonably easy way to set up a blog, and there are numerous sites online that will show you how.

Step 4: Develop a Pitch

A great pitch is straightforward, to the point, and articulate. These are the components of a practical angle:

• A clear, personalized topic line
• Address the recipient by name
• Mention where you found their requirement (or why you think they need content)
• Explain why you believe you are a good fit for the provision or company
• Examples of your work and portfolio
• Links to your blog and other social media outlets (like Quora, Upwork, etc.)
• Links to your social media accounts
• An effective email signature

And keep in mind that the treasures are in the follow-ups. Remember to follow up after you pitch.

Step 5: Start on Websites for Freelancers 

Fiverr and Upwork, the online marketplaces for freelance services, have led the writing gig economy. Many of you may say that it is saturated, but we believe there are still a lot of opportunities on these platforms. Giving out free labor in exchange for evaluations is a simple method to gain success on Fiverr and Upwork. You can also choose to use these content pieces to build your portfolio, so it's a win-win situation. Once you've accumulated a certain number of reviews, you'll have a better chance of landing assignments on these sites.

Step 6: Create Your Linkedin Profile

A LinkedIn account is the key if you want to be a part of the literary gig economy. The first and most obvious step is to create a complete profile with all relevant information.

After that, it's time to optimize your profile. LinkedIn is also a search engine, so make sure you show up when organizations look for people with specific skill sets. To accomplish this, ensure that keywords are included in both the title and the description.

Step 7: Apply to Firms That Have Openings

Keep an eye out for organizations seeking full-time content writers on job boards. It also includes digital marketing and advertising firms. They're almost always on the lookout for writers. Even if they have full-time writers, agency life is unpredictable, and you never know when your need will expand overnight. So, contact the appropriate individual at these organizations and pitch your services to them.

Step 8: Participate in Content Platforms

You won't be able to choose your clients here, but it's the perfect place to begin if you're starting out. There are other alternative venues, but their payments are lesser. In any case, it's absolutely worth a go.

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Skills Required to Become a Content Writer 

Usefulness is a critical concept to grasp because wannabe writers either approach content writing as a technique to appease search engines or become scared because they believe they must be innovative. Both ways are incorrect because simply inserting keywords adds little value to our audience, and content writing is usually more about usefulness than creativity.

Clarity is what you should strive for while producing material. When you have clarity, you will be able to explain it lucidly, which is far more appealing than trying to sound clever and full of jargon.

Each of us has these skills, which can only improve through practice and consistency. Just as any muscle in your body can be conditioned and improved over time, so are your writing skills.

How To Start Content Writing Today

Starting content writing can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Here are some steps to help you get started:

• Define your niche: Determine the area or topics you want to focus on. Choosing a niche will help you develop expertise and attract a specific audience. Consider your interests, knowledge, and target market while selecting your niche.
• Enhance your writing skills: Good writing is the backbone of content writing. Work on improving your grammar, vocabulary, and overall writing style. Read extensively, practice writing regularly, and consider taking writing courses or workshops to refine your skills.
• Research your topics: To create valuable content, research is crucial. Dive deep into your chosen niche and gather information from reliable sources. Stay updated with the latest trends and developments in your field. This will help you provide accurate and relevant content to your readers.
• Develop a unique voice: Find your own writing style and tone. Your voice should reflect your personality and resonate with your target audience. Experiment with different styles until you find an authentic and engaging voice.
• Be open to feedback and learning: Feedback is essential for growth. Be open to constructive criticism and learn from it. Keep honing your skills, exploring new writing techniques, and adapting to changes in the industry.
• Stay updated and adapt: The digital landscape is constantly evolving. Stay updated with industry trends, SEO best practices, and changes in content consumption habits. Adapt your writing style and strategies accordingly to remain relevant and competitive.

Remember, starting as a content writer may take time and perseverance. Keep practicing, seeking opportunities, and refining your skills, and you will gradually build a successful career in content writing.

Tips for Effective Content Writing

Effective content writing is essential for businesses of all sizes. By creating high-quality content, businesses can attract new customers, build relationships with existing customers, and boost their bottom line.

Here are some tips for effective content writing:

• Start with a strong headline. The headline is the first thing potential readers will see, so it's important to make it catchy and attention-grabbing.
• Write for your audience. Keep your target audience in mind when you're writing. What are their interests? What do they need to know?
• Be clear and concise. Get to the point quickly and avoid using jargon or technical terms that your audience may not understand.
• Use strong visuals. Images, videos, and infographics can help to break up your text and make your content more visually appealing.
• Proofread your work. Before you hit publish, take some time to proofread your work for grammar and spelling errors.

By following these tips, you can create effective content that will engage your audience and help you achieve your business goals.

Copywriting vs. Content Writing

The purpose of the content on the internet is to motivate, inspire, convince, or persuade people on the internet. Content does this through either educating, informing, entertaining, or selling to this group. 

Copywriting and content writing differ from each other in their purpose.

Copywriting focuses on selling a product or service. Meanwhile, content writing focuses on entertaining or educating.

Content Writing Tools

Here are some tools writers use to elevate their writing. Do note, though, that these tools will make good writing better. It will not make lousy writing look good.

• SEMRush Writing assistant: For writing SEO-friendly content.
• Grammarly: A powerful software that helps improve spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Readable: To ensure that your content is readable to all readers.
• Hemmingway Editor: Hemmingway is a simple tool highlighting how your content can improve.
• Copyscape: To ensure your content is free of plagiarism.

Content Writing Platforms

Content platforms are an excellent way for budding writers to stretch their creative muscles and write content for various clients. Content platforms are sites actively hiring writers to write on multiple subjects. Of course, you won't have control over who your client is, but it generally pays well. So, it's an excellent place to start.

Here are some excellent content platforms:

• Constant Content
• Media Shower
• Write Access

Content Writing Jobs

Content writing jobs offer a diverse and rewarding career path for individuals with a passion for writing and a knack for crafting compelling, informative, and engaging content. These roles involve creating content for various mediums such as websites, blogs, social media, emails, and more. 

Content writing jobs often provide flexibility, allowing individuals to work as freelancers or remote employees, giving them the freedom to manage their own schedules. With the increasing demand for quality content in the digital world, content writing jobs present an avenue for creative expression, professional growth, and the potential to make a significant impact through the power of words.

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Content Writer Salary in India

A Content Writer with under three years of experience typically receives an annual average salary of ₹2.9 Lakhs. In the mid-career stage, a Content Writer with 4-9 years of experience can expect an average annual salary of ₹4.7 Lakhs. For those with extensive experience spanning 10-20 years, the average annual salary for Content Writers is ₹5.6 Lakhs. The average annual content writer salary in India is ₹4 lakhs. 

The average annual content writer salary in other Indian cities is:

• Mumbai: over ₹5 lakhs
• Bangalore: over ₹6 lakhs
• New Delhi: over ₹5 lakhs

Content Writer Salary in the USA

 The average annual salary for a Content Writer is over $58,000 in the United States. The average annual content writer salary in other US regions is:

• Seattle: ranges from $50K - $83K
• San Fransisco: over $78,000
• New York: over $65,000

Qualifications to Become a Content Writer

It is a statistical fact that a degree or an advanced degree can net you a higher salary. As such, content writers with higher qualifications take away higher wages. But, the only qualification required to be a good content writer is a flair for writing, a grasp of the language, and creativity. Stuff can only get you these skills.

Additionally, it counts if you have excellent typing skills and know-how of software used for writing.

Tips to Become a Successful Content Writer 

1. keep honing your skills.

As you write more content, keep sharpening your skills as a writer. Only settle down on one particular style of writing and explore new techniques and approaches once you find something that works and gives you results.

2. Read Digital Content

Reading is one of the simplest ways to improve your writing. Ensure you read digital content from the best writers on the platform to understand their styles and how they approach the core concepts of entertaining, educating, and selling.

3. Start Freelancing

Since your job is to write, you must avoid tying yourself down with one firm. Freelancing will open new vistas for the budding content writer. This will also put you in touch with many new clients.

4. Begin Editing and Proofreading

A good content writer must have an eye for perfection. A writer must develop the skills to edit and proofread their work to become successful in this field.

5. Identify Your Niche

There is something that everyone is passionate about. If content writer identifies their niche and pursues a career writing about what they are passionate about, they can have a far more fruitful career. Remember, there is a reasonable amount of content on the internet. Everybody needs content, be it board games, food, sports, or current events.

Challenges of Being a Content Writer

As with any other profession, content writers face their own challenges. However, good content writers overcome these and make steady headway in their respective careers. Here are a few challenges that you may face as a content writer:

1. Creative Fatigue

The pressure of constantly coming up with new and innovative ways to portray your content may prove taxing for many. As a result, content writers may often feel like they have reached the limits of their creativity. This Is not true. However, it is simply mental fatigue from the rigors of the invention. 

2. Writer’s Block

On rare occasions, writers can experience what's called writer's block. A simple analogy to this is those rare occasions when you can't find the right word you're looking for. Writers may experience this when writing too much too quickly.

3. Early Grind

The content writer profile requires a lot of grind during the initial phase. As you start, you will be working for meager pay since this is one of the most accessible profiles on the job market. Career progression will also gradually happen as you prove your mettle as an artist with words.

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Content writing is both an art and a science. Content writing is frequently confused with creative writing, but it is more about utility than creativity. If you grasp the science behind it, you can wrap it in art (creativity). Understanding how to become a content writer has more to do with marketing content , which is most important for content writing. With a fundamental understanding of SEO and social media networks, you can create content that not only works but also spreads.

Simplilearn offers a Post Graduate Digital Marketing Program that focuses on the critical concepts, tactics, and best practices a writer needs to establish and improve an effective content marketing strategy. Enroll in the program today! 

1. Can I become a content writer without experience?

Yes, it is possible to become a content writer without prior experience. Here are some steps you can take to get started:

• Learn the basics of writing
• Research the industry
• Build a portfolio
• Network with other writers

2. How can I practice content writing?

There are several ways you can practice content writing:

Start a blog: Creating your own blog is an excellent way to practice content writing. You can write about topics that interest you and work on improving your writing skills with every new post.

Guest post on other blogs: Look for blogs that are related to your niche and offer to write a guest post for them. This will not only give you an opportunity to practice your writing skills but also help you build your portfolio.

Write for online magazines: There are many online magazines that accept submissions from freelance writers. Look for magazines that cover topics you are interested in and start writing articles for them.

Take online courses: There are many online courses available that can teach you the fundamentals of content writing. Take advantage of these courses to learn new skills and improve your writing.

Join writing communities: Join writing communities online and participate in writing challenges and contests. This will give you an opportunity to practice your writing skills and receive feedback from other writers.

3. What is the future of content writing?

The future of content writing will likely involve a mix of creativity and technical skills, with a focus on creating content that is personalized, visually engaging, and optimized for search engines.

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About the author.

Simplilearn is one of the world’s leading providers of online training for Digital Marketing, Cloud Computing, Project Management, Data Science, IT, Software Development, and many other emerging technologies.

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