How to become a content writer

Is becoming a content writer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do content writers do?

Still unsure if becoming a content writer is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a content writer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Content Writer

Becoming a content writer involves building strong writing skills, learning how to communicate clearly, and understanding how to create content that connects with readers. Here’s a simple guide to getting started:

  • Consider Formal Education: Many content writers have degrees in English, communications, journalism, or marketing, though it is not always required. Formal education can help strengthen writing, research, and critical thinking skills.
  • Build Writing Skills: Regular practice improves clarity, tone, and structure in writing. Reading a variety of articles, blogs, and books helps develop an understanding of different writing styles.
  • Learn the Basics of Content Writing: Familiarity with online writing techniques such as formatting, keyword use, and writing for different platforms is important. Knowledge of SEO, content marketing, and audience research makes writing more effective.
  • Choose a Niche (Optional): Some writers focus on areas like technology, health, travel, or finance. Specializing can make a writer stand out and attract clients or employers seeking expertise in specific subjects.
  • Create a Portfolio: Compiling writing samples, even self-written pieces or blog posts, helps demonstrate style and ability. A simple online portfolio provides an easy way for potential clients or employers to view work.
  • Gain Experience: Freelance gigs, internships, or entry-level content writing roles offer practical experience. Even small projects contribute to skill development and confidence.
  • Learn SEO and Digital Tools: Understanding search engine optimization and tools like Google Docs, WordPress, or Grammarly enhances professionalism and effectiveness. These skills also improve employability and productivity.
  • Keep Improving: Content writing evolves quickly, so staying updated on trends, tools, and best practices is essential. Continuous learning strengthens writing quality and supports long-term career growth.

Certifications
Earning certifications can help content writers demonstrate their skills, strengthen their resumes, and increase credibility with employers or clients. Here are some widely recognized certifications:

  • HubSpot Content Marketing Certification: Offered through HubSpot Academy, this certification covers content planning, creation, and promotion strategies. It is widely recognized in marketing and content writing fields.
  • Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ): Validates the ability to use Google Analytics to track website performance and audience behavior. Many content writers use this to optimize their content based on data-driven insights.
  • SEMrush SEO Toolkit Certification: Focuses on SEO strategy, keyword research, and site audits. This certification is offered by SEMrush and is widely respected among digital marketers and content professionals.
  • Coursera Content Writing and Copywriting Courses: These courses, offered by universities and institutions on Coursera, provide certificates upon completion that are verifiable and recognized professionally.
  • HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification: Covers inbound marketing strategies, including content creation and promotion. This helps content writers understand how their work fits into broader marketing campaigns.
  • Yoast SEO for WordPress Training: Teaches SEO best practices for WordPress content, including optimizing posts for search engines. Completion provides verifiable proof of SEO competency.