Whether your goal is to become a copywriter or author, or to earn money from home, having a plan for how to get started as a writer can be all you need to set you on the path to success. If you’re passionate about writing, try these helpful tips:
1. Read to write better
When you read a piece of writing you really enjoy, figure out why you like it. Is it the tone, the vivid descriptions, the transition from one idea to the next? Make notes and save them. Paying attention to what works for you as a reader can help you write with your reader in mind.
You will also want to find books and websites about the type of writing you want to do. With these as well, take notes so you can absorb the material more fully and incorporate the ideas into your own writing.
2. Get your mind and space ready
It takes time, perseverance, and learned skills to become a writer. Keeping this in mind can help you be patient with yourself as you grow and develop in the craft.
Set aside a consistent time of day, amount of time, and physical space to write every day. You’re basically giving yourself a job as a writer so that when someone else does, you’ll have the discipline to get the work done to deadlines.
3. Practice, practice, practice
You’ve set the stage, now what do you do in your daily writing time? Start each session by writing whatever comes to mind. This will get your writing juices flowing.
Then practice the type of writing you want to do. Give yourself an assignment and set a specific amount of time or word count.
Now go back and edit your piece. Check for the overall flow, how ideas work together, and where to improve sentence structure.
For more practice, start your own daily blog, volunteer to write for a not-for-profit, or join a writing club.
4. Hone your writing skills
Sometimes you’ll be able to identify for yourself what parts of your writing you need to work on, but getting feedback is an important way to learn. Find an in-person or online writing critique group and use the feedback to guide you into further reading and practice.
You can also take a class on general writing skills, or one specific to your chosen type of writing.
5. Look for writing jobs
All that work you’ve done in your daily ‘practice’ times, on your blog, for charities, and in classes can be a source of sample pieces to show prospective employers and clients.
Searching for writing jobs on career websites, placing ads as a freelance writer, and using your own social networks are a few ways to find paid work.
Here at Words of Worth, we give skilled writers of all experience levels regular writing assignments, quality feedback, steady pay, and the flexibility that comes with writing from home.
There’s no time like the present — grab that book on writing well, get that keyboard out, and get started. When you’re ready to look for paid work, apply to Words of Worth and launch your career as a writer.