Whether you are simply creating a blog post or preparing written content on social media, you are involved in some type of content writing.
Content writing is usually done to create a connection between brands and their customers. It is one of the in-demand digital skills you should learn.
In this article, I will delve into how you can become a content writer and the types of content you can write.
How do I start content writing?
Almost anyone can become a content writer today as long as they can hold a conversation and type a few words. Much of this is thanks to the internet and the many tools writers use these days.
If you want to become a content writer just start. The first step is choosing one among the types of content writing that best suits you. Create a few written samples and keep writing content to boost your skills. But you must determine what type of content you would be writing first so let’s talk about that.
Types of content you can write
There are several types of content writing. I would outline some of them below;
Copywriting
This is writing to persuade your readers to carry out a desired action such as purchasing or subscribing to a service.
Who should write this
To write this type of content, you must be able to write, strong persuasive content. You should also understand your potential customer and their pain points.
Technical writing-
This is writing to explain technical matters to an audience. It is usually used in technical fields like software development
Who should write this
This is for people who have a good grasp of technical issues and possess the ability to provide simplified explanations of such issues.
Email marketing
This is crafting thoughtful emails to achieve business goals like increasing sales or retaining customers
Who should write this
Email content writers understand how newsletters work, have a good eye for design, and can create engaging content.
SEO writing
This is writing content that helps websites rank in search engines like Google.
Who should write this
SEO content writers should be able to carry out keyword research and optimize content for SEO.
Social media content writing
This is writing to help brands connect and engage with an audience on social media.
Who should write this
This is for social media-savvy people who know how to write with the brand’s tone. They
should also be able to create content that resonates with the brand’s audience and
drives engagement.
Ghostwriting
This is writing without taking credit for it. Ghostwriters can write books, white papers, or even articles for other clients.
Who should write this
Anyone who has a good grasp of grammar, can conduct research, and has a flair for writing can become a ghostwriter. A ghostwriter should also be able to understand their client’s needs.
Scriptwriting
This is creating scripts for videos and other types of digital advertising.
Who should write this
A scriptwriter should be creative, and be able to write compelling scripts that can achieve a client’s goals.
The type of content you may choose to write depends on your knowledge, skills, and interests. For example, if you have a good grasp of technical stuff like software programs, technical writing can be great for you.
Tips for writing great content
Creating great content takes time and practice but here are some tips that might help you succeed faster.
- Carry out sufficient research on your topic before creating your content. Ensure your information is factual, accurate, and resonates with your audience
- Be original and authentic. Remember you are writing for humans not just search engines.
- Read a lot of the kind of content you want to create. Great writers have something in common; they read a lot.
- Use a lot of examples in your content. They help to clarify any recommendations you make or advice you give.
- Master the art of using compelling visuals. Using the right images and infographics in your article can help provide context for your readers. It also makes the piece more enjoyable and sometimes entertaining.
- Always edit your work. This applies to all types of content. Ensure you take a look at your first draft several times. Look for ways to simplify and beautify it. More often than not you would spot errors and other parts that need improvement.
Some great apps for writing content
There are several tools you can use when starting as a content writer. They include;
- Grammarly- A content writing tool that ensures your grammar, punctuation, and syntax is correct.
- Google Docs- This is a tool you can use to draft content
- Hemingway app- This is used to check for the readability of your content
Conclusion
Content writing can be a rewarding career for anyone with a good grasp of grammar and a passion for writing. However, to succeed as a content writer, it is important to know the various types of content writing and pick the one that works best for you.
That is a very good tip particularly to those fresh to the blogosphere.
Simple but very accurate information… Thanks for sharing this one.
A must read article!