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What does a Content Writer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A content writer is a professional writer who creates content for websites. Content writers produce the content for many different types of websites, including blogs, news sites, and product review sites.

Content Writer job duties include:

  • Research industry-related topics (including trends)
  • Write clear marketing copy to promote our products/services
  • Prepare well-structured drafts using Content Management Systems
  • Proofread and edit blog posts before publication
  • Submit work to editors for input and approval
  • Coordinate with other departments (such as design, marketing, sales) to ensure brand consistency
  • Identify customers’ needs and recommend new content to address gaps in our current offerings
  • Analyze web traffic metrics to make recommendations about content strategy
  • Monitor competitor activity and generate reports on industry news and trends

Content Writer Job Requirements

Most employers prefer to hire content writers with a college degree in English, journalism, or communications. However, some companies will hire talented writers with no formal education. Many content writers are self-employed and work as freelancers. Certification is not required, but taking a course or two in web writing or copywriting can help you land a job. Most content writers have at least a few years of experience in the field before they start working full time.

Content Writer Skills

  • SEO
  • Research
  • Writing
  • Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Content Strategy
  • Project Management
  • Marketing
  • Communications
  • Public Relations
  • Social Media

Related: Top Content Writer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Content Writer

A content writer is someone who writes content for the web. This can include website content, blog posts, articles, and even social media posts. As a content writer, you need to be able to write in a clear, concise, and engaging way. You also need to be able to research topics and come up with new ideas. If you’re interested in becoming a content writer, here are a few tips:

1. Start by writing for yourself. The best way to become a better writer is to practice writing. Start a blog or write articles on topics that interest you. This will not only help you hone your skills, but it will also give you some samples to show potential clients.

2. Take some online courses. There are many free online courses that can teach you the basics of writing for the web. These can be helpful in learning how to structure your content and how to write for different audiences.

3. Get involved in social media. Social media is a great way to connect with potential clients and get your name out there as a content writer. Start by creating profiles on popular platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Then, start sharing your own original content or reposting interesting articles you’ve read elsewhere.

4. Attend conferences and networking events. There are often conferences and networking events specifically for content writers. Attend these events to meet other writers and learn more about the industry.

5. Join a professional organization. There are several organizations specifically for content writers, such as the Content Marketing Institute or the American Society of Journalists and Authors. Joining one of these organizations can help you connect with other professionals and stay up-to-date on industry news.

Related: Content Writer Resume Example

Related: Content Writer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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