Is becoming a staff 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:
Still unsure if becoming a staff writer is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a staff 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 Staff Writer
Becoming a staff writer involves a combination of writing skill, industry knowledge, and persistence. Here’s a general roadmap to help you pursue this career path:
- Develop Your Writing Skills: Start by strengthening your ability to write clearly, concisely, and engagingly. Practice by writing articles, essays, or blog posts regularly, and seek feedback to improve your craft.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Build a portfolio by contributing to school publications, local newspapers, online blogs, or freelance assignments. Real-world experience shows potential employers that you can handle deadlines and diverse topics.
- Consider Formal Education (Optional): Many staff writers have degrees in journalism, communications, English, creative writing, or a related field, which can provide valuable training in reporting, research, and media ethics. While not always required, a degree can help you develop credibility and a strong foundation in the craft.
- Learn the Industry: Understand the type of media or publication you want to work for, including its audience, tone, and editorial standards. Follow publications, study their content, and stay informed about industry trends.
- Network and Make Connections: Attend media events, join writing groups, or connect with editors and current staff writers online. Relationships can open doors to internships, mentorships, or job opportunities.
- Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Look for staff writer, junior writer, or editorial assistant roles at newspapers, magazines, or digital media companies. Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your relevant experience and writing versatility.
- Continue Learning and Improving: Once hired, pay attention to feedback, observe how experienced writers work, and keep refining your skills. Persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are key to advancing in this career.
Certifications
Here are some certificate options that can help aspiring staff writers build skills, gain credibility, and demonstrate professional training in writing and editorial work:
- Article Writing Certificate (Academy Certificate): This certification requires you to pass a standardized exam that tests your ability to write clear, structured articles across different topics. It provides a verifiable digital credential you can list on a résumé or professional profile.
- Content Writing & Copywriting Certificate (Academy Certificate): This credential verifies your skills in crafting persuasive content and adapting writing for different audiences and platforms. It includes a unique verification feature employers can check to confirm your certification status.
- HubSpot Academy Content Marketing Certification: This widely recognized certification demonstrates your grasp of content strategy, planning, and best practices for online engagement. You earn a shareable badge and official certificate after completing the course and passing the final assessment.
- Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing (Introductory): This certificate focuses on fundamentals of editing, grammar, and accuracy needed for professional writing and newsroom standards. It requires completing an assessed course and awards a credential recognized within media and editorial circles.
- Poynter ACES Certificate in Editing (Advanced): Building on the introductory level, this certification tests advanced editing skills, including issue spotting and nuanced style guidance. It’s a respected credential for writers who also want strong editorial capability.
- edX Professional Certificate in Feature Journalism: This is a structured, university‑level certificate that covers narrative storytelling, interviewing techniques, and constructing in‑depth pieces. It’s awarded after completing a series of assessed courses and shows formal training in feature writing.