Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting

Amanda Gorman Teaches Writing and Performing Poetry

Amy Tan Teaches Fiction, Memory, and Imagination

Billy Collins Teaches Reading and Writing Poetry

Bob Woodward Teaches Investigative Journalism

Dan Brown Teaches Writing Thrillers

David Baldacci Teaches Mystery and Thriller Writing

David Sedaris Teaches Storytelling and Humor

Issa Rae Teaches Creating Outside the Lines

James Patterson Teaches Writing

Joy Harjo Teaches Poetic Thinking

Joyce Carol Oates Teaches the Art of the Short Story

Judd Apatow Teaches Comedy

Judy Blume Teaches Writing

Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing

Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing

N. K. Jemisin Teaches Fantasy and Science Fiction Writing

R.L. Stine Teaches Writing for Young Audiences

Ron Howard Teaches Directing

Roxane Gay Teaches Writing for Social Change

Salman Rushdie Teaches Storytelling and Writing

Walter Mosley Teaches Fiction and Storytelling

Enjoy 7 days free

The promo may be over, but your opportunity isn't. Dive into the full experience, worry-free, with our 7-day money-back guarantee.

The offer has ended

Amount charged now

Your 7-day free trial starts today

From TIME ©2022 TIME USA LLC. All rights reserved. Used under license.

Times

Wirecutter

Reviewed - USA Today

Before Writing, Read 

Researching Your Poem

Finding Your Unique Poetic Voice 

Revision, Revision, Revision 

Case Study: Editing & Revision 

Using Poetry to Understand Language

Reading: Connecting With Poetry

Discussion With Marie Howe: William Shakespeare

Finding Your Voice: Influences

Finding Your Voice: Creating a Persona

Discussion With Marie Howe: Writing Poetry

A Poet's Journey

Listening Comes Before Writing

Imagery and Form

Writing and Revising

Elevate Your Poetry Skills

Story Evolution: "Active Shooter"

Case Study: Brainstorming Plummer

Introduction

Navigating Interview Challenges

Polishing the Story

Journals: Observing the World

Develop Your Relationship With Writing

Research

Self-Editing: Re-Visioning Your Work

Writer’s Workshop: Feedback

Express Yourself Clearly Through Writing

Turning Observations Into Stories

Developing the Story

Life as a Writer

Editing: Part 2

Writing the Story

Finding Your Voice & Inspiration

Interpreting Feedback & Evolving Your Story

Revision Workshop: “Labor Day”

Judy’s Writing Process - Part 2

Rejection

Workshopping Scripts, Part 1

Improve Stories With Feedback

Revision: Seeing Your Work Anew

How to Read

Closing

Closing Thoughts

Editing and Revising

Working With an Editor

Surviving the Publishing Industry

All Writing Is Rewriting

Getting Ready to Submit

The Revision Process

Revising and Getting Feedback

Refine & Perfect Your Prose

The Business of Being a Writer

Growing as a Writer

David's Influences

Conclusion: Two Groups of People

Getting Published

Hollywood

Navigating the Publishing Business, Part 1

Meet Your Instructor

How to Find a Literary Agent

Marketplace

Writing as a Career

The Business of Writing

Finding an Agent

Secure Top Literary Agents

Navigating the Publishing Business, Part 2

Meet Your Instructor: Issa Rae

How to Publish Your Book: Seeking Publication

Surviving the Literary Marketplace

Life As A Writer

Promoting Yourself

Becoming a Good Literary Citizen

Thrive in Self-Publishing

Writing

Teaches Creative Writing

Margaret Atwood

Teaches Storytelling and Humor

David Sedaris

Guided by Leading Experts

Achieve More With GenAI

Teaches Writing

Malcolm Gladwell

Teaches Dramatic Writing

David Mamet

David Mamet Teaches Dramatic Writing

Teaches Writing and Performing Poetry

Amanda Gorman

Teaches Purposeful Communication

George Stephanopoulos

George Stephanopoulos Teaches Purposeful Communication

James Patterson

Teaches Screenwriting

Aaron Sorkin

Teaches Mystery and Thriller Writing

David Baldacci

Teaches Fiction and Storytelling

Walter Mosley

Teaches Documentary Filmmaking

Ken Burns

Ken Burns Teaches Documentary Filmmaking

Teach Developing an Original TV Series

The Duffer Brothers

The Duffer Brothers Teach Developing an Original TV Series

Teaches Reading and Writing Poetry

Billy Collins

Scripting Your Own Success

Mindy Kaling

Lessons from Influential Black Voices

Black History, Black Freedom, and Black Love

Teaches Writing for Television

Shonda Rhimes

Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television

Teaches the Power of Storytelling

LeVar Burton

Teaches the Power of Storytelling 

LeVar Burton Teaches the Power of Storytelling

Teaches Investigative Journalism

Bob Woodward

Teaches Game Design and Theory

Will Wright

Will Wright Teaches Game Design and Theory

Teaches Poetic Thinking

Joy Harjo

Teaches Creating Outside the Lines

Issa Rae

Icons and Their Influences

Talking Shop

Teaches the Art of the Short Story

Joyce Carol Oates

Teaches Storytelling and Writing

Salman Rushdie

Teaches Fantasy and Science Fiction Writing

N. K. Jemisin

Judy Blume

Teaches Fiction, Memory, and Imagination

Amy Tan

Teaches Writing Thrillers

Dan Brown

Teaches Writing for Young Audiences

R.L. Stine

Teaches Writing for Social Change

Roxane Gay

Michael Lewis

Tell a Great Story

Teaches Creativity and Film

David Lynch

David Lynch Teaches Creativity and Film

Reframe Your Thinking

Ava DuVernay

Teaches Effective and Authentic Communication

Robin Roberts

Robin Roberts Teaches Effective and Authentic Communication

Having a presence on social media is a critical part of building a digital marketing strategy to promote your author brand. Here are some reasons writers should consider developing a social media strategy: 

1. __You can build an enthusiastic fan base__. Authors with an established readership can use social media to connect with their fans. Using your social media presence to give readers a glimpse of your personal life or [writing process](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-develop-a-productive-writing-process) can make you seem more relatable and pique their interest. 
2. __You can connect with fellow authors__. Connecting with fellow writers can help you build a community of your own, where you can discuss issues, get encouragement, request reviews, and pool resources. You can also learn from other successful authors or seek their advice about ways to link with <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-find-a-literary-agent' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-find-a-literary-agent","linkCopy":"literary agents","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>literary agents</a> and book publishers. 
3. __You can increase book sales__. Social media marketing can prove a powerful tool when it comes time to sell your next book. With a marketing plan that uses different social platforms, you can generate excitement to get new releases flying off bookshelves.
4. __You can reach new readers__. Social media offers authors the opportunity to widen their audience. Use hashtags, ads, and engaging visual content to leverage social media algorithms and find new readers—an essential aspect of book marketing.
Social media isn’t a monolith; by understanding what different platforms offer, writers can tailor their interactions and find new ways of selling books and engaging with their user base. 

1. __Do a book giveaway__. Giveaways are a useful way to engage with your readers. Offer a limited number of free signed copies to followers who subscribe to your social media channels. You can select winners from those who like your author page, share your posts, tag friends, or even show off their writing skills. 
2. __Encourage feedback__. Social media is all about sharing and creating an online community. Ask your audience to share their opinions on your work. Publishing your readers’ book reviews can generate buzz and foster a sense of belonging among your fans.
3. __Optimize your content__. Do everything you can to make your content as viral and sticky as possible. Using trending hashtags and memes—or engaging with social issues that relate to you or your work—can make you part of the conversation. Use [SEO](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide) (search engine optimization) to stay on top of search engine algorithms. 
4. __Pick the right platform__. Different social media apps serve different functions. You can use an image-centered platform to post a picture of your book cover, a video-focused one to live-stream your [book launch](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/book-launch), write posts on others to talk about your writing process, or even share your working playlist. You can also use social media platforms dedicated to writing book reviews, only for posting pictures of books, and groups dedicated to fans of particular genres, writers, or series. You can run completely different social media marketing campaigns on different social media sites for the same book, essay, or story.
5. __Use social media ads to target demographics__. Organic social media content is a great no-cost option for writers on a budget, but it can take a lot of time. By contrast, you can usually purchase social ads for a nominal fee and tailor them to reach your target audience. You can create a social media ad that allows readers to click through to your [author website](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/author-websites-explained), where they can buy, subscribe, or engage with your content in another way.
Become a better writer with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including N.K. Jemisin, Amy Tan, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.
Even best-selling authors need to engage with their audiences. Whether you’re looking to promote a new book, connect with readers, or join a writers’ community, social media is an indispensable tool for writers. A successful platform can give published authors at all levels—whether they’re working with a big publishing house, an indie company, or self-publishing—a way to promote themselves and their work. Here is how to use social media for writers.

Even best-selling authors need to engage with their audiences. Whether you’re looking to promote a new book, connect with readers, or join a writers’ community, social media is an indispensable tool for writers. A successful platform can give published authors at all levels—whether they’re working with a big publishing house, an indie company, or self-publishing—a way to promote themselves and their work. Here is how to use social media for writers.

Social Media for Writers: How Authors Can Use Social Media

Having a presence on social media is a critical part of building a digital marketing strategy to promote your author brand. Here are some reasons writers should consider developing a social media strategy: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. You can build an enthusiastic fan base. Authors with an established readership can use social media to connect with their fans. Using your social media presence to give readers a glimpse of your personal life or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-develop-a-productive-writing-process' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-develop-a-productive-writing-process","linkCopy":"writing process","category":null}'>writing process</a> can make you seem more relatable and pique their interest. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. You can connect with fellow authors. Connecting with fellow writers can help you build a community of your own, where you can discuss issues, get encouragement, request reviews, and pool resources. You can also learn from other successful authors or seek their advice about ways to link with <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-find-a-literary-agent' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-find-a-literary-agent","linkCopy":"literary agents","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>literary agents</a> and book publishers. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. You can increase book sales. Social media marketing can prove a powerful tool when it comes time to sell your next book. With a marketing plan that uses different social platforms, you can generate excitement to get new releases flying off bookshelves. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. You can reach new readers. Social media offers authors the opportunity to widen their audience. Use hashtags, ads, and engaging visual content to leverage social media algorithms and find new readers—an essential aspect of book marketing. </li></ol>

4 Benefits of Social Media for Authors

Social media isn’t a monolith; by understanding what different platforms offer, writers can tailor their interactions and find new ways of selling books and engaging with their user base. <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Do a book giveaway. Giveaways are a useful way to engage with your readers. Offer a limited number of free signed copies to followers who subscribe to your social media channels. You can select winners from those who like your author page, share your posts, tag friends, or even show off their writing skills. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Encourage feedback. Social media is all about sharing and creating an online community. Ask your audience to share their opinions on your work. Publishing your readers’ book reviews can generate buzz and foster a sense of belonging among your fans. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Optimize your content. Do everything you can to make your content as viral and sticky as possible. Using trending hashtags and memes—or engaging with social issues that relate to you or your work—can make you part of the conversation. Use <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide","linkCopy":"SEO","category":null}'>SEO</a> (search engine optimization) to stay on top of search engine algorithms. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Pick the right platform. Different social media apps serve different functions. You can use an image-centered platform to post a picture of your book cover, a video-focused one to live-stream your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/book-launch' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/book-launch","linkCopy":"book launch","category":null}'>book launch</a>, write posts on others to talk about your writing process, or even share your working playlist. You can also use social media platforms dedicated to writing book reviews, only for posting pictures of books, and groups dedicated to fans of particular genres, writers, or series. You can run completely different social media marketing campaigns on different social media sites for the same book, essay, or story. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Use social media ads to target demographics. Organic social media content is a great no-cost option for writers on a budget, but it can take a lot of time. By contrast, you can usually purchase social ads for a nominal fee and tailor them to reach your target audience. You can create a social media ad that allows readers to click through to your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/author-websites-explained' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/author-websites-explained","linkCopy":"author website","category":null}'>author website</a>, where they can buy, subscribe, or engage with your content in another way. </li></ol>

How to Use Social Media to Promote Your Writing

Become a better writer with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including N.K. Jemisin, Amy Tan, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.

Want to Learn More About Writing?

Even best-selling authors need to engage with their audiences. Whether you’re looking to promote a new book, connect with readers, or join a writers’ community, social media is an indispensable tool for writers. A successful platform can give published authors at all levels—whether they’re working with a big publishing house, an indie company, or self-publishing—a way to promote themselves and their work. Here is how to use social media for writers.

Even best-selling authors need to engage with their audiences. Whether you’re looking to promote a new book, connect with readers, or join a writers’ community, social media is an indispensable tool for writers. A successful platform can give published authors at all levels—whether they’re working with a big publishing house, an indie company, or self-publishing—a way to promote themselves and their work. Here is how to use social media for writers.


A person holding a mug at a white desk with a laptop in front of her, working on social media.

social-media-for-writers

Many different qualities can make a person a successful writer. Here are a few notable characteristics of great writers: 

1. __Adaptability__: In an increasingly digital world, writers who can adapt to technological changes are more likely to succeed in their careers. Staying on top of trends in [search engine optimization (SEO) strategy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide), content marketing, and [social media](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/social-media-for-writers) platforms will give you a competitive edge and a better understanding of how to use your writing. 
2. __Curiosity__: Many successful writers have an innate desire to learn new things. A penchant for learning can help lend a short story intricate detail, a news story accuracy, and ad copy poignancy. 
3. __Empathy__: Regardless of your job, writers must consider the reader’s experience. In [creative writing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-getting-started-with-creative-writing), empathy enables the author to consider how a piece of fiction might make their audience feel. A great business writer who uses [empathy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/empathy) to understand customers’ points of view is more likely to get conversions. 
4. __Perseverance__: Whether you’re a freelance writer, novelist, or in-house copywriter, professional writers must possess a significant degree of stick-to-itiveness. Writing itself can be demanding, but when it comes to [freelance writing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-a-successful-freelance-writing-career) jobs, one must also manage sourcing freelance work from potential clients to maintain an income. Regardless of the type of writing job, there are bound to be highs and lows—successful writers learn to stick it out when the going gets tough. 
5. __Point of view__: Successful writers offer more than just knowledge of the subject matter. They also provide a unique perspective. To ensure your writing has a point of view, look for writing niches that are of personal interest to you when scanning job boards. For example, a former engineer waiting to transition to a writing career might consider looking for copywriting jobs at tech [startups](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-startup).
Whether freelance, part-time, or full-time, most writing jobs require the following skills: 

1. __Communication skills__: In addition to strong writing skills, writing jobs screen for strong verbal [communication skills](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/communication-skills-with-levar-burton). Writers might need to conduct [interviews](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-makes-a-great-interview-malcolm-gladwells-7-tips-for-interviewing-journalistic-sources), collaborate with team members, and contribute to brainstorming sessions.
2. __Research skills__: Professional writers often receive assignments outside of their wheelhouse. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to effectively, and quickly, research a topic. 
3. __Strong writing skills__: Although having a bachelor’s degree won’t hurt your chances of getting a professional writing job (some might even require it), writing skills can often speak for themselves. Professional writers must have a solid working knowledge of [grammar and syntax](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/grammar-vs-syntax), including how to [proofread](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-proofread-your-writing) and self-edit their work. 
4. __Time management skills__: Deadlines are an essential feature of every writing job. Successful writers have a firm grasp of [time management](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/anna-wintours-time-management-tips), know how to prioritize tasks, and can work efficiently in fast-paced environments.
From creative writing to content creation to journalism, there are many careers for skilled writers. Here are some popular writing jobs to consider:

1. __Blogger__: Bloggers self-publish content online. Beginner writers can benefit from starting a blog to present their work when applying to formal writing jobs. Though not exclusive to nonfiction writing, blogs often provide curious readers with fact-based knowledge on various topics, including food, travel, entertainment, and technology. Whether you’re a creative writer looking for an easy way to publish stories online or an entrepreneur looking to capture potential clients, learning [how to craft a blog post](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-blog) to reach your target audience successfully is a valuable skill. 
2. __Business writer__: Most business writers work for newspapers or magazines, also known as [white papers](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/white-paper-guide), that publish content for specific industries. Business writing can be a good option if you’ve got a knack for networking and in-depth knowledge of industry-related terminology and concepts. 
3. __Copy editor__: Copy editors posess an especially strong grasp of grammar and syntax. They work closely with writers and other editors to make sure that writing adheres to brand style and voice. [Copy editing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/a-guide-to-copy-editing-everything) may also include drafting or updating <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-create-a-style-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-create-a-style-guide","linkCopy":"style guides","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>style guides</a>.
4. __Copywriter__: Copywriting involves writing copy for marketing and advertising purposes. Copywriters can be in-house employees at a company or advertising firm or freelance writers contracted to create copy for greeting cards, product descriptions, landing pages, and more. 
5. __Ghostwriter__: Ghostwriters specialize in writing for other people, which requires the unique ability to write convincingly in another person’s tone of voice. Ghostwriters work with their clients—such as high-ranking government officials and media personalities—to craft a narrative and tell their story in the [first person point of view](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-in-first-person-point-of-view). 
6. __Grant writer__: A grant writer’s job is to help [nonprofits](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-start-a-nonprofit) and small businesses receive the funding they need to operate. Grant writing is a great way to use your writing skills to give back to communities in need. Learn [how to write a grant proposal](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-grant-proposal).
7. __Journalist__: Journalists, also known as news writers, write everything from op-eds to news stories. There are many kinds of journalistic writing; for example, a reporter uses an expository style to report facts on a news story. On the other hand, a features writer or editorial writer may use a more persuasive tone and share their point of view to influence an audience on a particular issue or topic. Learn [how to become a journalist](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-journalist).
8. __Media relations specialist__: [Public relations](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/public-relations-explained) managers who specialize in media coverage send [press releases](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-a-press-release) to newsrooms to get coverage in newspapers, magazines, and television programming. Well-crafted news releases can lead to free marketing for a new product or increased awareness for a small business. 
9. __Nurse writer__: A [nurse writer](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/nurse-writer) is a medical writer who uses their experience as a nursing professional to write health-care-related articles. Nurse writers are usually freelance writers. They may do medical writing for different outlets, including medical journals, professional blogs, health-care magazines, academic papers, and grant committees. They may also serve as consultants for TV shows or movies about nursing. 
10. __Screenwriter__: Screenwriters, also known as scriptwriters, write original scripts for TV shows and movies. Get [eight tips for aspiring screenwriters](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/8-tips-for-aspiring-screenwriters-from-aaron-sorkin) from Aaron Sorkin.
11. __SEO writer__: SEO, which stands for search engine optimization, involves attracting targeted traffic to a website through organic (nonpaid) rankings on a search engine results page ([SERP](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/serp-explained)). Unlike paid results such as pay-per-click advertisements, organic search results listings depend on query searches and key terms. 
12. __Technical writer__: Technical writers are often in-house employees for businesses and corporations. Technical writing involves producing copy for instructional manuals and system documentation. This work often requires the writer to have hyper-specific knowledge of a given field or industry. 
13. __Web content writer__: Web content writing entails writing different types of content for the internet and social media. Some web content writing jobs fall under [content marketing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/content-marketing-guide), SEO, or [UX writing](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/ux-writing-explained).
Become a better writer with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Roxane Gay, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.
There are a wide variety of jobs available to skilled writers. Learn more about the types of writing jobs and the skills you need to land a professional writing gig.

There are a wide variety of jobs available to skilled writers. Learn more about the types of writing jobs and the skills you need to land a professional writing gig.

Types of Writing Jobs: 13 Careers for Writers

Many different qualities can make a person a successful writer. Here are a few notable characteristics of great writers: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Adaptability: In an increasingly digital world, writers who can adapt to technological changes are more likely to succeed in their careers. Staying on top of trends in <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/seo-strategy-guide","linkCopy":"search engine optimization (SEO) strategy","category":null}'>search engine optimization (SEO) strategy</a>, content marketing, and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/social-media-for-writers' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/social-media-for-writers","linkCopy":"social media","category":null}'>social media</a> platforms will give you a competitive edge and a better understanding of how to use your writing. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Curiosity: Many successful writers have an innate desire to learn new things. A penchant for learning can help lend a short story intricate detail, a news story accuracy, and ad copy poignancy. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Empathy: Regardless of your job, writers must consider the reader’s experience. In <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-getting-started-with-creative-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-getting-started-with-creative-writing","linkCopy":"creative writing","category":null}'>creative writing</a>, empathy enables the author to consider how a piece of fiction might make their audience feel. A great business writer who uses <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/empathy' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/empathy","linkCopy":"empathy","category":null}'>empathy</a> to understand customers’ points of view is more likely to get conversions. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Perseverance: Whether you’re a freelance writer, novelist, or in-house copywriter, professional writers must possess a significant degree of stick-to-itiveness. Writing itself can be demanding, but when it comes to <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-a-successful-freelance-writing-career' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/tips-for-a-successful-freelance-writing-career","linkCopy":"freelance writing","category":null}'>freelance writing</a> jobs, one must also manage sourcing freelance work from potential clients to maintain an income. Regardless of the type of writing job, there are bound to be highs and lows—successful writers learn to stick it out when the going gets tough. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Point of view: Successful writers offer more than just knowledge of the subject matter. They also provide a unique perspective. To ensure your writing has a point of view, look for writing niches that are of personal interest to you when scanning job boards. For example, a former engineer waiting to transition to a writing career might consider looking for copywriting jobs at tech <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-startup' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-a-startup","linkCopy":"startups","category":null}'>startups</a>. </li></ol>

5 Characteristics of People Who Succeed in Writing Positions

There are a wide variety of jobs available to skilled writers. Learn more about the types of writing jobs and the skills you need to land a professional writing gig.

There are a wide variety of jobs available to skilled writers. Learn more about the types of writing jobs and the skills you need to land a professional writing gig.


Edit Your Work & Get It Published