How to Land Your Dream Writing Job: 9 Practical Tips

Published on 1 August 2023 10 min read

Hone your writing skills
Build an impressive portfolio
Create a captivating LinkedIn profile
Network with industry professionals
Apply for writing jobs regularly
Prepare for your interviews
Follow up after job application
Never stop learning
Stay determined and patient

Are you dreaming of turning your passion for words into a fulfilling writing career, but don't know where to start? Here's the good news: landing your dream writing job is quite possible, and it all starts from knowing how to get a job in writing. This blog post will guide you through nine practical steps to make your dream come true. Let's dive right in!

Hone Your Writing Skills

First things first: to secure that dream writing job, you need to be good at writing. Here are some ways to sharpen your writing skills:

Read, read, read: The more you read, the more you subconsciously absorb styles, structures, and vocabulary. Read a variety of books, articles, and blogs to broaden your understanding and perspective on writing.
Write every day: Writing is like a muscle — the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Aim to write every day, even if it's just a paragraph or a quick journal entry. This practice not only improves your skills but also reduces the fear of the blank page.
Join writing workshops or groups: This gives you the opportunity to learn from others, get feedback on your work, and keep yourself motivated. You might find local workshops in your area or online writing groups on platforms like Facebook or Reddit.
Try different writing styles: Don't limit yourself to one genre or style. Experiment with different types of writing—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, technical writing, etc. This will not only make you a versatile writer but also open up more opportunities for you in the writing job market.
Learn grammar and punctuation: Nothing screams "amateur" louder than poor grammar and punctuation. Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway App to help you polish your work.

Remember that becoming a skilled writer isn't an overnight process. It takes time, practice, and patience. But once you've honed your writing skills, you'll find it much easier to get a job in writing.

Build an Impressive Portfolio

Now that you've honed your writing skills, the next step on your journey to get a job in writing is to build an impressive portfolio. This is your chance to showcase your talent and make a solid first impression on potential employers. Here's how to go about it:

Choose your best work: Your portfolio should only include your best pieces. It's better to have a few high-quality pieces than a whole bunch of not-so-great ones. Remember, quality trumps quantity every time.
Include a variety of pieces: If you've experimented with different writing styles, as we suggested earlier, now's the time to show off your versatility. Include a mix of articles, blogs, stories, poems, or any other types of writing you've done.
Consider the job you want: If you're aiming for a specific job, like a travel writer or a technical writer, make sure your portfolio reflects that. Include pieces that show you can do the job you're applying for.
Present your work professionally: How you present your work is just as important as the work itself. Consider creating a simple, clean, and easy-to-navigate website for your portfolio. There are many free platforms out there, like WordPress or Wix, that you can use.
Update your portfolio regularly: As you continue to improve your writing skills and create new work, make sure to update your portfolio. This shows potential employers that you're active and committed to your craft.

Building an impressive portfolio is a key part of learning how to get a job in writing. It's like your business card in the writing world, so make sure it represents you well.

Create a Captivating LinkedIn Profile

Now, let's talk about another essential tool in your quest to land a writing job—your LinkedIn profile. It's not just a digital resume; it's a platform where you can network, showcase your skills, and get discovered by potential employers. Here's how you can make yours stand out:

Have a professional photo: First impressions count, and your profile picture is often the first thing people see. Ensure it's a clear, professional-looking headshot where you look approachable and friendly.
Craft a catchy headline: Your headline should be more than just your job title. Use it to highlight your skills or the type of writing you specialize in. For example, "Versatile writer specializing in tech and travel content."
Write a compelling summary: Your summary is your chance to tell your story. Share your passion for writing, your areas of expertise, and what you bring to the table. Remember to use keywords related to the writing jobs you're interested in.
Showcase your work: LinkedIn allows you to add links and upload files in the "Featured" section of your profile. Use this to showcase your best writing pieces and make your profile more engaging.
Stay active: Regularly share articles, comment on posts, and engage with your connections. This not only shows your passion for your field but also helps you stay visible in your network.

Creating a captivating LinkedIn profile is an effective step in learning how to get a job in writing. It's a platform where opportunities can find you, so make sure it represents you at your best!

Network with Industry Professionals

In the writing world, sometimes it's not just what you know—it's also who you know. Networking is an invaluable part of learning how to get a job in writing. Here's how to make the most of it:

Attend Writing Events: Writing workshops, seminars, and conferences are great places to meet others in your field. You might bump into a future employer, mentor, or collaborator. Not to mention, these events can deepen your knowledge and skills.
Join Online Groups: There are countless online communities for writers. Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and LinkedIn have groups where writers share advice, job postings, and feedback. Being active in these spaces can lead to valuable connections. Remember, networking online is as real as in-person meetups.
Reach Out Directly: If you admire a certain writer or editor, consider reaching out to them directly. A thoughtful message can go a long way. Express your admiration for their work, ask for advice, or propose a collaboration. Just be respectful of their time and privacy.
Build Genuine Relationships: Networking isn't about collecting contacts—it's about building relationships. Be genuinely interested in others, provide help when you can, and maintain your connections. You never know when a casual acquaintance might turn into a job opportunity.

Networking can be intimidating, especially if you're new to the field. But remember, every professional started somewhere, and most will be open to helping a fellow writer. So don't be shy—put yourself out there and start making those connections!

Apply for Writing Jobs Regularly

So, you've honed your writing skills, built an impressive portfolio, and networked with industry professionals. Now, it's time to put all that hard work into action by applying for writing jobs regularly. Here's how to go about it:

Set a Routine: Job hunting can feel overwhelming, but setting a routine can make it manageable. Decide how many jobs you'll apply for each day or week and stick to that number. This regularity will keep you motivated and focused.
Use Job Boards: Platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are excellent places to find writing jobs. Don't forget to check niche job boards for writers, such as ProBlogger and MediaBistro. Regularly browsing these sites can lead to finding your dream writing job.
Apply Even If You're Not a Perfect Match: Job descriptions often list the ideal candidate's skills. But remember, these are ideals, not strict requirements. If you meet most of the criteria and are excited about the job, go ahead and apply. Your enthusiasm and willingness to learn can make up for the missing skills.
Customize Your Application: Resist the temptation to send the same cover letter and resume to every job. Tailor your application to each position. Highlight the skills and experiences that make you a great fit. This extra effort can make your application stand out.

Job hunting might feel like a job itself, but remember, every application you send is a step closer to landing your dream writing job. So don't get discouraged if you don't get a response right away—keep applying, and your perseverance will pay off!

Prepare for Your Interviews

So, you've sent out a bunch of applications and now you're starting to get calls for interviews. That's fantastic! But don't start celebrating just yet. An interview is a chance to show potential employers that you're more than just a well-crafted resume or a catchy cover letter. Here's how to prepare:

Know the Company: Before you step into the interview room, make sure you know the company inside and out. What do they do? Who are their customers? What's their style of communication? Understanding these key points can help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
Practice Common Interview Questions: While every interview is different, there are a few questions that pop up quite often. "Tell me about yourself." "Why do you want to work here?" "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" Spend some time crafting thoughtful answers to these questions. Remember, it's not just what you say, but how you say it.
Prepare Your Own Questions: Interviews aren't just about answering questions—they're also about asking them. Preparing a few smart questions can show that you're a proactive candidate who's seriously considering the role. For example, you could ask about the company's work culture, or the biggest challenges facing the writing team.
Plan Your Interview Outfit: Dressing appropriately for an interview shows respect for the company and the person interviewing you. If you're unsure of the dress code, it's better to err on the side of being too formal than too casual.

Remember, an interview is as much about you assessing the company as it is about the company assessing you. So, take a deep breath, stay calm, and show them why you're the right person for the job.

Follow Up After Job Application

After you've sent in your application and aced your interview, you might feel like your work is done. But there's one more important step: following up. This simple action can help you stand out from the crowd and show potential employers that you're serious about the role. Here's how to do it:

Send a Thank You Note: A quick "thank you" email after your interview can go a long way. It's not just about being polite—it's also an opportunity to reinforce your interest in the role, remind the interviewer of your qualifications, and address any issues that came up during the interview.
Check in After a Week: If you haven't heard back a week after your interview, it's okay to send a polite follow-up email. Keep it short and professional. Simply express your continued interest in the position and ask for an update on the hiring process.
Stay Professional: It's natural to feel anxious while waiting to hear back, but remember to stay professional. Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails in a short period of time or calling the company unsolicited. These actions can come off as pushy and may hurt your chances of landing the job.

Following up is an integral part of getting a job in writing, but it's often overlooked. So, take this extra step. It could just be the thing that tips the scales in your favor.

Never Stop Learning

As a writer, your learning curve should never plateau. The writing industry is ever-evolving, with new tools, techniques, and trends cropping up all the time. To land your dream writing job, it's important that you stay in sync with these changes

Read Regularly: A good writer is a voracious reader. Reading widely and regularly can help you understand different writing styles and tones, expand your vocabulary, and keep you informed about what's happening in the world. It doesn't matter if you're reading novels, newspapers, or blog posts—just keep reading.
Take Courses: There are plenty of online platforms offering writing courses, like Coursera and Udemy. These can help you refine your skills and learn new ones. Plus, they often provide certificates upon completion, which you can add to your resume or LinkedIn profile.
Attend Workshops and Webinars: These offer a more interactive learning experience. You can get real-time feedback on your work, learn from industry professionals, and network with other writers.

Remember: The more you know, the more valuable you become. The world of writing is vast and varied, and there's always something new to learn. So, take every opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills. After all, knowing how to get a job in writing is just the first step—staying ahead is the real challenge.

Stay Determined and Patient

Patience and determination are two key traits you'll need to land your dream writing job. Let's face it: writing isn't always a walk in the park. There will be days when words flow like a river, and other days when they're as elusive as a desert mirage. But remember, every writer, even the famous ones, have faced these challenges.

So, when you're stuck in a rut or facing rejection, don't lose heart. Instead, use these moments as stepping stones. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

Accept Rejection: Rejection is part and parcel of a writer's life. Every "no" you hear is a step closer to a "yes". Instead of letting it dishearten you, use it as a learning experience. Look for constructive feedback, make the necessary changes, and keep going.
Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in writing. Whether it's practicing writing or applying for jobs, make it a habit. Remember, you're running a marathon, not a sprint. So, don't rush. Take one step at a time and keep moving forward.
Believe in Yourself: This might sound cliche, but it's true. Self-doubt can be a writer's biggest enemy. So, believe in your abilities. When you're confident about your skills, it shows in your work and increases your chances of landing that dream job.

So, how to get a job in writing? Be patient, stay determined, and keep writing. Remember, every writer has a unique voice and a unique journey. Your time will come. Just keep going and never lose sight of your dream.

If you're eager to enhance your writing skills and increase your chances of landing your dream writing job, don't miss out on Christina Wolfgram's workshop, 'Everything You Need To Be A Skilled Writer.' This comprehensive workshop will provide you with the techniques and insights necessary to become a skilled writer and stand out in the competitive job market.