5 Steps to Become a Content Writer

roosterhol

January 30, 2022

In this article, you will get the five steps to become a content writer, and hopefully, you will get a lot of your questions answered before you even start.

Questions like:

How do I become a content writer?
Can I do it from home?
How can I start?
What do I need to be a content writer?
Who would hire me?
What will my kids do while I work?
Where to find work as a content writer?
How much can I make as a content writer?
Do I need any formal education to work as a content writer?

If these are the questions you have in mind right now, you have landed on the right article since I will answer all of these questions and a couple of more answers throughout this article.

Table of Contents

Where Do I Start Content Writing From Home?

Where do I start content writing from home?

You have several options, and all of them are online. Plus, you can schedule work around your family or social obligations and still have time to make money.

So, begin with virtual blog services and brush up on your SEO skills because the opportunity is knocking.

First, determine what you bring to the table. Compare your abilities to other people in the same industry. Find out if content writers require specific certifications or knowledge.

Then, create a diverse portfolio of your work to send prospects. You can choose which platforms work best after that.

How Do I Become a Content Writer?

There are several ways to become a paid content writer, even if you never leave the house. That’s because most of the opportunities are online. Interactive platforms such as Upwork, Outsourced, and Fiverr can help entrepreneurs find gigs and part-time jobs from home. However, you must follow these five steps to get noticed:

Step One: Figure Out Your Niche.

While it’s okay to write about everything, try to determine your favorite topics. Consider your knowledge and experiences first. Then diverge into your hobbies and interests. The subjects you know the most about will bring the most money.

Step Two: Join Groups and Communities.

Content writing communities give you access to like-minded people and exciting job openings. Use the information to hone your skills as an online content writer. Then connect with potential clients who are already looking for help.

Step Three: Create or Gather Some Samples.

Potential clients want to see examples of your work. So, they usually request writing samples for online content jobs. But your words should stand out with perfect grammar, excellent formatting, and a splash of SEO.

Step Four: Make an Online Profile.

Provide a place for people to examine your content writing experience. Build an online profile that demonstrates your expertise and style. Then write a catchy headline to attract clients in your favorite niche.

Step Five: Send Pitches for Work.

Reach out to clients who need help with upcoming projects. You can choose single assignments or ongoing work depending on your availability. But be sure to discuss those details before agreeing to anything. Your reputation is on the line.

According to a recent survey, over five million Americans work as freelance content writers from home. Meanwhile, many economists predict online work to become the primary way people make money in the future. So, now is the perfect time to join the revolution, especially if your time is short but your debts are long.

How Can I Work From Home Writing Content?

Working from home as a freelance content writer is extremely rewarding. You essentially become the boss of a one-person operation, serving clients from all over the world. Then, you set the business hours and profit margin to align with your lifestyle. Here is all you need to get started:

Computer: Be sure to use updated hardware and software.
Reliable Internet: Pay for services at your house, and write them off on your taxes.
Writing Samples: Show off your skills and set yourself apart from other writers.
Professional Profile: Build a reputation with online clients to earn more jobs.
Record-Keeping Supplies: Organize and track your earnings to build confidence.

You can start content writing from home whenever you’re ready. And not much in your lifestyle has to change because of it. Most online content writing jobs provide flexible schedules and generous payouts. So, start looking today.

What Do My Kids Do While I Write Content From Home?

As a content writer, make money from home while your children nap, play, or attend school. Most people have several pockets of time in their day for some side work. And since clients determine deadlines by availability, you’ll still have the chance to write and revise your work before submitting it.

DID YOU KNOW: Many stay-at-home moms and dads have at least two hours of free time each day.

Who Would Hire Me If I Start Content Writing?

I have the skills, and I’m ready, so how do I start content writing from home? First, compare each blogging platform to determine the payouts, scheduling options, and expectations. Some sites may require an investment to join, while others are free to use. Here are the top ten places to look:

Upwork
Indeed
iWriter
Flexjobs
Fiverr
LinkedIn
Scripted
Freelancer.com
Craigslist
People-Per-Hour (PPH)

Clients typically look for enthusiastic writers who are willing to work on ad hoc assignments. They require respect for deadlines and a willingness to learn new things. Many platforms also offer skills training services to help freelance writers provide a better product. So, make a list of the pros and cons first.

What Is the Average Salary of an At-Home Content Writer?

Your earnings depend on how much you’re willing to work. Plus, some clients might not want to spend a lot on content unless an expert writes it. That’s why it’s so crucial to demonstrate your skills through meticulous writing samples and a rich portfolio. Either way, don’t expect to make full-time money if you only work part-time hours.

Part-Time

Part-time content writers can make between $5,000 and $15,000 per year while working from home. Meanwhile, part-timers usually work less than 20 hours per week. And that means they have plenty of free time left over after completing small projects.

Full-Time

Full-time content writers can make more money because they complete more extensive projects. So, many full-timers bring home between $20,000 and $50,000 for 40-hour workweeks. However, according to Zip Recruiter, dedicated writers with generous clients can make as much as $113,500 annually.

Ask your clients for a detailed breakdown of your payment arrangement. And always keep impeccable records in case there’s a discrepancy. You don’t want to lose a terrific client over a mathematical error. So, double-check the invoices also.

Do I Need Any Formal Qualifications to Write Web Content?

Many content writing sites will hire freelancers without formal training. And you don’t have to be an author or poet either. Most clients stay happy if you can string together sensible sentences and submit your work on time. However, some higher-paying opportunities might require additional skills, such as:

Knowledge of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Familiarity with Yoast Guidelines
Excellent Grammar and Syntax
Creative Writing Abilities
Software Experience
Coding and Programming
Bookkeeping or Data Entry
Virtual Assisting

Freelance content writing jobs aren’t always about making paragraphs. Some clients can request web copy, scripts, or other intellectual materials. So, always ask each client about their short-term and long-term objectives. Then, try to provide consistent quality to maintain your paid position.

TIP: You can increase your asking price by developing a wide range of content writing skills.

Start Writing Content From Home Today

Where do I start writing content from home? How about jumping on the couch?

If you have a few extra hours each week, you can fill them with accessible money-making opportunities. You don’t have to sacrifice family time, and you can create a schedule to fit your lifestyle.

Most clients give you several days to complete assignments. And you don’t have to take work you can’t finish.

Here is one way of getting started to get paid as a copywriter, which is one way to work as a content writer.