A blogger researches and writes web content to publish online. A blogger writes articles and opinion pieces for websites. While they often work freelance for a range of clients, they can also be employed  in-house. They write pieces that are less formal than traditional journalistic articles, with the main purpose of their work being digital marketing and search engine optimisation. The work they produce is designed to engage readers and drive website traffic.

A Vlogger is a person who regularly posts short videos to a vlog. A video blog or video log, sometimes shortened to vlog, is a form of blog for which the medium is video. Vlog entries often combine embedded video with supporting text, images, and other metadata.

ANZSCO ID: 212499

Alternative names: Vlogger,

Specialisations: Vlogger is a person who regularly posts short videos to a vlog.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• Creativity and originality
• Ability to pick out and emphasise relevant facts
• Able to write clearly and in a compelling manner
• Good concentration
• Technical ability to switch between styles and forms of writing
• Good time management and ability to handle pressure

(Source: Search Engine Journal)

Duties and Tasks

A blogger:  

• research blogs and articles using online and physical sources
• write to a high standard
• adapt writing style and tone to suit different audiences
• write articles for a range of online publications
• create work that is engaging and uses SEO principles.

Working conditions

Bloggers are often self-employed and work on a project-by-project basis. They can also be employed in-house and work on their own or as part of a team.

Employment Opportunities

Bloggers are employed by advertising agencies and search marketing departments of companies. Bloggers tend to work closely with digital marketers to develop SEO strategies. They are often self-employed, combining blogging with other writing work, including copywriting.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a blogger without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job, but you will need to develop your skills in your own time. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and you may like to consider a VET course. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a blogger by studying advertising, marketing, communications, media studies, professional and creative writing, journalism or English at university. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study.

(Source: BBC)

  

Food writers and editors are writers who specialize in writing reviews and critical essays on specific food, restaurants, bars, and other food related establishments. Many food writers and editors work for magazines, websites or publications and visit restaurants and bars to try new dishes or specific foods to write about. In many cases, food writers are freelance writers who write for various publications but specialize in writing about food. In order to be successful, food writers will not only be good writers, but willing and able to try just about anything at least once. They should also understand culinary traditions and techniques from different countries in order to decipher the authenticity of a dish. Food writers and editors will have a taste for many different types of food and be able to distinguish different flavors and techniques put into a recipe.

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Alternative names: Food Critic, Cookbook Writer, Food & Nutrition Writer,

Specialisations:

• Restaurant Critic
  
  Many newspapers and magazines publish regular reviews of restaurants. Restaurant critics are responsible for visiting the establishments in question and writing unbiased evaluations of the food, atmosphere and service offered. Many restaurant critics work on a freelance or part-time basis and submit reviews once or twice a month. Food critics should follow the same ethical standards that apply to other journalists. They should strive to portray accurate information in a balanced way.
  
  A restaurant critic must be willing to sample a wide variety of foods made by a variety of preparation methods. A bachelor's degree in journalism or English is needed to gain a job as a food critic for most major publications. However, smaller newspapers, magazines or websites may employ people without formal training if they have a proven flair for descriptive writing. A number of universities offer continuing education classes or extension courses in food writing, which offer participants a chance to find out what the job is all about.

• Culinary Author
  
  People who like to prepare food and create recipes may be able to write about their experiences in a blog, newspaper column or cookbook. Famous chefs can command large publishing contracts for the books they write, but non-celebrity writers may be able to find ways to share their knowledge with others as well. Graduates of culinary institutes can put their knowledge to work by researching or writing books and articles about food. They may also test recipes and share them in a newspaper or online forum.
  
  Publishing houses need food editors who can review proposals for new cookbooks and take a project from its contract phase through completion. Most major newspapers have a food editor as well, and many magazines need someone to edit content for a food or recipe section.
  
  Culinary authors need a good background in the principles of cooking and strong communication skills. They also need to be aware of current trends and consumer preferences in the food industry.

• Food and Nutrition Writer
  
  Those with degrees in nutrition, food science or a related field may have opportunities to write for health and nutrition websites or publications. Students in these programs often study the chemical makeup of food in a laboratory setting and prepare meals in a test kitchen. They may concentrate on food safety, nutrition, food production or product development. Pursuing a minor in communications or journalism is good preparation for a writing career in this niche.
  
  Science writers, including those who write about food and nutrition, may work for for-profit or non-profit organizations and need the ability to write in many different styles. They may compose press releases, newsletters, informational articles or direct mail campaigns.

• Food Critic
  
  A food critic takes great pleasure in tasting and analyzing a wide variety of food, and also loves to share their experience with the public by writing about it. Food critics will write reviews for newspapers, magazines, travel guides, and food-related websites, and comment on the restaurant's service, presentation, and atmosphere. They sometimes also provide comparisons, opinions, and discussions of similar dishes at other establishments.
  
  After analyzing their dining experience, a food critic will give the establishment a rating which can then be used to help the public decide whether to eat there or not.

Maggie’s [Beer] Recipe for Life 2017
https://youtu.be/CgUie54eruw

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Food writers must also have excellent written and oral communication skills. Many times they will have to interview restaurant owners or chefs to find out information about a particular dish. They will also need to be able to contact restaurants to ask about whether or not they could sample an item off their menu for a published article.

• Understand reader expectations for food quality appraisal and service standards
• Have an appreciation for creative writing, and a gift for words
• Have a broad and sensitive palate
• Be able to travel, sometimes over a considerable distance
• Manage time constraints and multiple projects simultaneously

(Source: Career Explorer)

Duties and Tasks

• Consistently evaluate restaurant standards and food quality
• Supply original written copy to newspapers, magazines, travel guides and websites
• Maintain time management skills
• Meet publishing deadlines
• Occasionally supply original photography, or secure usage of restaurant's photos
• Competently interview industry leaders and venue representatives
• Deliver a written summary in a clear and unbiased way

Working conditions

Food writers often start off writing for free in order to build their portfolio and gain exposure. Some may start off working for a publication as an editorial intern where they will have the opportunity to write food articles and reviews. Most writers work as interns during school, and once they graduate, may turn the internship into a paid position.

Many food writers work as freelance writers for several publications at a time. Freelancers take on jobs from several places and increase their exposure and experience by trying new things and visiting new restaurants. Once a food writer is well known in their field, they will often be called upon by restaurants to come in and try a new dish to review it. Food writers and editors who are known by restaurants as well as publications will always have a growing career with new opportunities. Some may even be paid to travel around the country or world to taste new foods and write about culinary traditions in different cultures.

Food writers can also advance and develop their career by starting a publication of their own dedicated to food, whether it be in the form of a magazine, website or even a TV show. The more aggressive, hard working and competitive a writer is, the better they will do. The industry is competitive and in order to succeed a writer must stand out from the rest.

Family Food Fight - TV show

Employment outlook for writers who specialize in food and culinary art is on the rise as healthy eating and health food education is become more popular. More publications look for writers who can educate readers on healthy alternatives to foods and write about restaurants that have healthy meals that are still delicious.

Food writers and editors spend most of their time in front of a computer writing and editing their work to prepare it for publishing. When they are not in the office working, food writers are visiting restaurants and bars or trying out new recipes to write about. The average work day for a food writer can be quite interesting and eventful, as they constantly have the opportunity to try a new dish or visit a new restaurant. The downside to this is that writers may eat a dish they were not pleased with, but will still be expected to review it. Writers need to be able to handle clients who are unhappy with a review or who expect an article written about them that is guaranteed to be good.
Food writers often work long or unusual hours in order to finish up a project before deadline or visit everywhere they need to go. Rarely will a writer work a strict 8 hour day and not work evenings or weekends.

Education and training/entrance requirements

Food writers and editors often have a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. They are skilled writers who, over time, decided they want to specialize in writing about food. If someone knows from the beginning that they want to write about food, they may get their degree in Journalism with a minor or concentration in culinary arts. Food writers who are educated in cooking or culinary arts will have a better understanding of what goes into the preparation of a specific dish, and therefore be able to write about it more efficiently.

Some food writers are chefs or culinary students who are well educated about food and cooking but also enjoy writing about it. Anyone who has good writing skill and knows how to critique or write about food can be a food writer.

Food writers and editors can gain experience by interning at publications that hire writers to write about food. Many local magazines have a food section where someone will visit restaurants and try new dishes to review. This is an excellent opportunity for someone to gain exposure and experience and build their portfolio for future jobs.

Employment Prospects

Food writers and editors must be at a professional writing level and know how to critique and review food and restaurants. More publications are moving to the internet, so it’s a good idea for any writer to start a website where they post food reviews and essays to show off their work. Websites are effective because they can be easily viewed by many people and work as a portfolio for writers to display their work.

Food writers often have to get their foot in the door by going out on their own and writing reviews. They can start off by writing reviews on any restaurant they visit or writing about a new dish they created or discovered. With this, writers can either post it on their website as sample work or submit it to publications who look for food articles.

  

A ghostwriter researches and writes books, articles, stories or other texts on behalf of another person. Celebrities and political leaders often hire ghostwriters to draft autobiographies.


ANZSCO ID: 212211

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A good ghostwriter should have excellent grammar, writing style, research skills, creativity, and attention to detail. They also need to be able to work well with others in order to meet deadlines and deliver quality content on time.

Strong Writing Skills
A ghostwriter must have excellent writing skills in order to produce the quality content that meets the needs of your clients. You should be able to craft compelling stories, write with precision and clarity, as well as use language appropriately for each audience you are working with. Ghostwriters must have excellent literacy, in order for their work not only to make sense, but also sound good!

There are tools online that can help you polish your grammar, spelling, and punctuation, but it’s important to be able to write in the first place.

You Must Be Good At Researching
Ghostwriters should also know how to conduct research and gather information on any subject matter assigned to them. You should be able to include accurate facts, figures and statistics.

Clients and their target audience expect more these days, including content that’s very specific to the topic at hand with an expertise on the industry or niche in question. In particular, many clients want ghostwriters to write for them so they can seem like experts themselves!

A Motivated Self-Starter
You must be diligent, motivated, and a self-starter in order to keep going when the work gets tough. You need to be able to make yourself meet deadlines in order get paid for your work.

Ghostwriters Must Be Good At Communicating Well
A ghostwriter should be good at communicating well and being able to make themselves understood in writing. They need the ability to listen, read, and think critically about what they are reading and writing as this is a necessary skill for any writer of content.

Remain polite
Be dependable
Stay organised

(Source: Digital Content Marketer)

Duties and Tasks

The main responsibility of a ghostwriter is to write for somebody that is in a certain category and a specific tone that is identifiable to the one being written for.

• A Ghostwriter can also write for someone who has the creative concept or idea but lacks the skills on writing such concept.
• A Ghostwriter utilizes the research materials, knowledge and experience of somebody else to put them into writing.
• A Ghostwriter may collaborate with a famous author wherein he can be given credit or not depending on their terms of contract agreed upon.

Working conditions

A Ghostwriter works in their office if they are working on their own as they are usually freelancers. If they collaborate with an author, then they work with them in their office.

This job may demand long hours depending on the deadlines set for the submission of the articles, documents or books. A ghostwriter may travel for needed interviews and research on the subject of the document to be made. They can write for any personality, like politicians and celebrities who have story concepts but lack the writing skill.

This profession requires the writer to have various abilities in order to be a great ghostwriter. They  need to have powerful writing skill, knack for putting ideas, experiences and information into words and can write about any topic. As they do their research and interviews, they have to have patience and great listening skills. Exceptional research, organizing and editing skills are added capabilities in this kind of job. In addition, good communication skill is desired from a ghostwriter as they collaborate with other authors to accomplish such writing works. The ability to duplicate a writing style of other authors is an important skill in this profession.

It is essential that the ghostwriter is trustworthy as they are asked for confidentiality especially in writing works that does not mention them as a co-author or credit them in any way in the published work.

Education and training/entrance requirements

The minimum requirement to become a ghostwriter is a diploma in high school as long as one has the passion and flair for writing. But to have the advantage in this kind of work, an undergraduate degree in English, Journalism, Communications or Liberal Arts is necessary. Short courses on writing will also give a writer an edge over other writers.

A wide experience in writing can also benefit the ghostwriter wherein he himself had undergone being a journalist, an author or a freelance writer.

Employment Opportunities

Most often, a Ghostwriter makes this job their way into becoming famous author. Even though the public does not know them, publishers know who the great ghostwriters are. Publishers are often the ones being asked by authors and personalities who need ghostwriters. Experience in this field is the key factor to progress in this type of work. The more experience one has as a ghostwriter, the more work is available for him. Collaborating with authors will also gain him reputation to other authors as he may be referred to write to other authors who need such service.

   

A technical writer or science writer researches and writes manuals, textbooks, online user guides and other information-based material. Technical writers need to understand and explain complex technical information. They may specialise in IT, engineering, finance or help documentation. Technical and Science writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. They also develop, gather, and disseminate technical information among customers, designers, and manufacturers.

ANZSCO ID: 212415

Alternative names: Technical communicator, Science Writer,

Specialisations: May specialise in a specific field like engineering or medicine; or the Zoo. A Bid Writer is another specialisation.

Knowledge, skills and attributes

Technical writers should also possess the following specific qualities:

• Communication skills. Technical writers must be able to take complex, technical information and translate it for colleagues and consumers who have nontechnical backgrounds.
  
  
• Detail oriented. Technical writers create detailed instructions for others to follow. As a result, they must be detailed and precise at every step so that the instructions can be useful.
  
  
• Imagination. Technical writers must be able to think about a procedure or product in the way that a person without technical experience would think about it.
  
  
• Teamwork. Technical writers must be able to work well with others. They are almost always part of a team: with other writers; with designers, editors, and illustrators; and with the technical people whose information they are explaining.
  
  
• Technical skills. Technical writers must be able to understand and then explain highly technical information. Many technical writers need a background in engineering or computer science in order to do this.
  
  
• Writing skills. Technical communicators must have excellent writing skills to be able to explain technical information clearly.

(Source: Iratherbewriting)

Duties and Tasks

Technical writers typically do the following:

• Determine the needs of end users of technical documentation
• Study product samples and talk with product designers and developers
• Work with technical staff to make products easier to use and thus need fewer instructions
• Organize and write supporting documents for products
• Use photographs, drawings, diagrams, animation, and charts that increase users’ understanding
• Select appropriate medium for message or audience, such as manuals or online videos
• Standardize content across platforms and media
• Gather usability feedback from customers, designers, and manufacturers
• Revise documents as new issues arise

Technical writers create operating instructions, how-to manuals, assembly instructions, and “frequently asked questions” pages to help technical support staff, consumers, and other users within a company or an industry. After a product is released, technical writers also may work with product liability specialists and customer service managers to improve the end-user experience through product design changes.

Working conditions

Technical writers often work with computer hardware engineers, scientists, computer support specialists, and software developers to manage the flow of information among project workgroups during development and testing. Therefore, technical writers must be able to understand complex information and communicate the information to people with diverse professional backgrounds.

Applying their knowledge of the user of the product, technical writers may serve as part of a team conducting usability studies to help improve the design of a product that is in the prototype stage. Technical writers may conduct research on their topics through personal observation, library and Internet research, and discussions with technical specialists.

Some technical writers help write grant proposals for research scientists and institutions.

Most technical writers work in offices. They routinely work with engineers and other technology experts to manage the flow of information throughout an organization.

Although most technical writers are employed directly by the companies that use their services, some work on a freelance basis and are paid per assignment. Either they are self-employed, or they work for a technical consulting firm and are given specific short-term or recurring assignments, such as writing about a new product or coordinating the work and communication among different offices to keep a project on track.

Technical writers may be expected to work evenings and weekends to coordinate with those in other time zones or to meet deadlines. Most work full time.

Tools and technologies

Increasingly, technical information is being delivered online, and technical writers are using the interactive technologies of the Web to blend text, graphics, multidimensional images, sound, and video.


Education and training/entrance requirements

A degree is usually required for a position as a technical writer. In addition, experience with a technical subject, such as computer science, Web design, or engineering, is important.

Employers generally prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, or communications. Many technical writing jobs require both a degree and knowledge in a specialized field, such as engineering, computer science, or medicine. Web design experience also is helpful because of the growing use of online technical documentation.

Some technical writers begin their careers not as writers, but as specialists or research assistants in a technical field. By developing technical communication skills, they eventually assume primary responsibilities for technical writing. In small firms, beginning technical writers may work on projects right away; in larger companies with more standard procedures, beginners may observe experienced technical writers and interact with specialists before being assigned projects.


Employment Prospects

Employment growth will be driven by the continuing expansion of scientific and technical products and by growth in Web-based product support. Growth and change in the high-technology and electronics industries will result in a greater need for those who can write instruction manuals and communicate information clearly to users.

Professional, scientific, and technical services firms will continue to grow rapidly and should be a good source of new jobs even as the occupation finds acceptance in a broader range of industries, including data processing, hosting, and related services.

Job opportunities, especially for applicants with technical skills, are expected to be good. The growing reliance on technologically sophisticated products in the home and the workplace and the increasing complexity of medical and scientific information needed for daily living will create many new job opportunities for technical writers.

  

Bid writers prepare documents aimed at winning contracts to provide services or to apply for funding for projects. They may prepare and write bid documents for the company that employs them, or work for a specialist organisation that writes bids for other people.

ANZSCO ID: 212415
  
Alternative names: Tender Writer, Proposal Writer, Technical Writer
  
Specialisations: Bid writers work for a wide range of industries and services, from construction to healthcare.
   
Knowledge, skills and attributes
  
To become a Bid Writer, you would need:

• excellent research, writing and checking skills, with close attention to detail
• good ability with IT packages
• enthusiasm and confidence to win business from clients
• the ability to get on with all kinds of people
• knowledge of some specialist markets
• the ability to use initiative and also work across different teams.

 

(Source: Careers Wales)

Duties and Tasks

As a Bid Writer, you would typically:

• be briefed on the likely business opportunity
• undertake research about the industry or service you’ll be writing the bid for
• work closely with other sales, marketing or business development personnel to scope the bid document
• prepare answers to pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs)
• follow any designated rules for writing the bid
• design, write, edit and check bid documents
• use text and graphics to express technical information in easy-to-understand ways
• keep accurate records and save material to a ‘bid library’ for future use
• submit bids by the required deadlines.

 

Working conditions

You would usually work standard office hours Monday to Friday, although you may need to work longer hours to meet deadlines or to visit clients.

Bid writers work for a wide range of industries and services, from construction to healthcare. Travel to site meetings is often required and you may need a drivers’ licence and use of a vehicle.

    
Tools and technologies

Bid Writers need to be able to efficiently use computer packages including Excel, Data Analysis, Project Management softward, and, Accounting software to name a few.
  
Education and training/entrance requirements
  
To become a Bid Writer you usually have to complete a degree with a major in journalism and have relevant experience in a particular industry or field. You can also become a bid writer by completing a degree with a major in your chosen field followed by a postgraduate qualification in writing, editing or journalism.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your senior secondary school certificate or equivalent with good results in English. Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree.

Employment Opportunities

Employment of technical writers, including Bid and Proposal writers, is projected to grow slightly faster than the average for all occupations.

Professional, scientific, and technical services firms will continue to grow and should be a good source of new jobs, alongside bid writing roles in other industries such as IT services, engineering and construction.

Bid Writing Process Explained | Executive Compass
https://youtu.be/lbVhb3Y4HzQ

 

(Source: Bid Solutions)
For larger image, click here

 

   

Freelance writers produce textual works for one or more customers. A Freelance Writer is a writer who works as a self-employed contractor for an organization, as opposed to being a full- or part-time employee. Generally, freelancers work for multiple clients at the same time. A Freelance Writer can be a generalist, writing content for various publications and channels, such as websites, press releases. blog posts, internal corporate communications, emails, grant writing, proposals, or newsletters. Freelance writers are self-employed and hence, not committed to a singular full-time, permanent position.
  
The job of a content writer is to create print and digital content for companies that provides information or showcases the products or services they offer. To develop content that accurately reflects company ideals, content writers often research the material they need to write each article or product description. They collaborate closely with a content manager and clients to write according to a company's editorial style. An effective writer works independently and consistently meets deadlines.

ANZSCO ID: 2124

Alternative names: Content Writer, Digital Writer, SEO Writer, SEO Content Writer, SEO Content Strategist, Web Content Writer, Web Writer

Specialisations: Many Freelance Writers chose to specialize in a specific communications channel or industry

Knowledge, skills and attributes     

• Bachelor's degree in creative writing, journalism, communication studies, or an adjacent field.

• Prior writing experience - proven record of excellent writing demonstrated in a professional portfolio

• Impeccable grasp of the English language, including idioms and current trends in slang and expressions

• Own personal or laptop computer.

• Familiarity with mainstream word processing software - proficiency with computers, especially writing programs, such as Google Docs and Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint

• Excellent communication and time management skills  including prioritizing, scheduling, and adapting as necessary

• Ability to work independently with little or no daily supervision

• Ability to work on multiple projects with different objectives simultaneously

• Strict adherence to the style guides of each company and their policies for publication

• Familiarity with each client's requirements and the company's brand image, products, and services

• Strong interpersonal skills and willingness to communicate with clients, colleagues, and management

• Self-motivated, disciplined approach to work.

(Source: IWriter)

Duties and Tasks

• Formulating texts in accordance with prescribed editorial and formatting guidelines.

• Organize writing schedules to complete drafts of content or finished projects within deadlines

• Communicating with the client to explicate assignment-related expectations, as required.

• Utilize industry best practices and familiarity with the organization's mission to inspire ideas and content

• Communicate and cooperate with a writing team, including a content manager, editors, and web publishers

• Informing the client of assignment-related difficulties as they are detected.

• Follow an editorial calendar, collaborating with other members of the content production team to ensure timely delivery of materials

• Ensuring that texts are properly researched.

• Develop related content for multiple platforms, such as websites, email marketing, product descriptions, videos, and blogs

• Maintaining originality in your work.

• Proofreading your assignments to detect and correct errors.

• Monitor and analyze the performance of key performance indicators (KPIs) to offer suggestions for improvement

• Use search engine optimization (SEO) strategies in writing to maximize the online visibility of a website in search results

• Submitting completed works via the requisite channels.

• Monitoring and logging hours spent on each assignment.

• Submitting your own tax returns in a timely manner.

Writes: A Freelance Writer has exceptional verbal and writing skills with a strong understanding of creating content for digital and traditional channels. They research, write, proofread, and edit content; understand styles and standards (AP Style, Chicago Manual of Style, etc.); and, can establish and adhere to a brand’s tone and image.

Manages multiple projects effectively: A Freelance Writer is a creative problem solver with excellent organizational skills; is able to work on multiple projects of varying complexity; can work remotely within a set budget and deadline; and, works well under pressure.

Understands digital measurement metrics: This type of specialist also has a strong understanding of writing for digital channels, including SEO, keyword research and placement, and user engagement metrics.

A Freelance Writer is not a Content Strategist: A Content Strategist focuses on strategies and tactics for creating and delivering content that will engage various stakeholders. A Freelance Writer creates the content.

Important metrics for a Freelance Writer: Freelance Writers communicate with an organization’s content strategists, web developers, and internal communication teams to understand which metrics are important to achieve specific business goals. As freelancers, they generally count on their clients to develop, study and evaluate those metrics.

 

Tools and technologies

To be successful in this role, content writers must know how to use a variety of writing and publishing programs, such as Microsoft Office, G Suite, including Google Docs and Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint and WordPress.

  
Education and training/entrance requirements

Most content writers have an undergraduate degree in English or marketing. However, it is possible to enter the field without a degree if you start as an intern or demonstrate writing proficiency with a portfolio of your work. A strong attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure is essential.

6 Types of Freelance Writers 1. Web content writer Writing for the web has its own set of requirements and unique opportunities. Web content can range from website microcopy (somebody has to write those alerts that ask you to log in before you can continue) to social media content (it’s harder to express an idea in 140 characters than it sounds) to blogs (throw a dart at a wall covered with random topics, and you can bet someone’s got a blog about whatever you hit) to full-length articles and white papers (referred to as “long copy”). Within those broad categories, web copy can further be narrowed down by specialty. You might focus exclusively on projects related to finance, technology, entertainment or medicine, or you might be a generalist who uses mad research skills to write copy on everything under the sun. Generally, if you’re writing for the web, your client’s ultimate objective is to drive traffic to a website or sell a product (or both). So, even if you’re writing about the importance of brushing your cat regularly, your real focus is on inspiring readers to take action. Regardless of the assignment, a good freelance web content writer meets deadlines, uses web copy best practices, skillfully weaves keywords into engaging prose and writes to specific word counts. A great web content writer does all that while producing compelling, relevant and informative content that drives site traffic. 2. Technical writer If you’re a technical writer, your job is to put complex, technical descriptions, explanations and procedures into layman’s terms for consumption by the average reader. Technical writers often write user manuals for computer hardware and software, as well as consumer electronics; they are also called upon to put together procedures manuals for high-tech industries, such as engineering, robotics and aeronautics. 3. Business writer If you’re a business writer, you tackle white papers, reports, articles, press releases, pamphlets, business proposals, prepared speeches and more. You might even write a little advertising. The advent of the Internet changed the means by which communication is transmitted, but businesses still require well written copy to stay competitive in today’s market. 4. Newspaper or periodical writer Newspapers and periodicals (in print or online) have traditionally paid full- or part-time staff writers, but the Internet has made it easier for freelance journalists to sell their work to such publications in a timely manner, which has significantly changed the news writing landscape. Newspapers and periodicals are generally divided into sections featuring different types of articles. News writers inform readers of the facts surrounding an event as soon after the event as possible. When writing a news article, the writer must be as objective and unbiased as possible. Editorial writers, on the other hand, get paid for their opinions. Editorials interpret or analyze political, economic and other current events for readers. Feature articles typically focus on human interest stories. Additionally, many publications also pay writers for movie, book, and music reviews. 5. Instructional (or curriculum) writer Instructional writers compose educational content. This may include online lessons and tutorials, standardized test questions, K-12 curriculum or tutoring materials, textbooks, or full online courses, such as real estate or insurance licensing exam programs. While some companies hire instructional designers to handle both course development and writing, others rely upon experts in the relative fields of study to compose the copy, which is then transferred into the course platform once it’s written. 6. Ghostwriter You’re a ghostwriter if you write blogs, articles, books or other works and someone else gets the official credit. Many celebrities and politicians hire ghostwriters to compose their autobiographies, and some book series are credited to a single author when, in fact, multiple authors participated in the project. (Source: OneSpace)

 

   

Screenwriters are an essential part of any film because they're responsible for creating the dialogue, characters, and storyline that make up a movie script, or screenplay. Like television writers, screenwriters often specialize in a particular genre, such as comedy or science fiction.

Screenwriters prepare their script in a way that enables readers to envisage the setting, emotion and the way it will work on screen. They collaborate with producers, directors and actors to draft and redraft their script, often working to tight deadlines.

Screenwriters are almost always freelancers. In film, initially, screenwriters develop roughly three drafts of a screenplay, with the third being known as ‘the polish’. This is the version that gets pitched to a producer or film studio. Alternatively, a screenwriter may be commissioned by a producer or studio to create a screenplay. Once a screenplay is picked up by a studio, more screenwriters may be brought in to work with a development producer to get it ready for production. In this case, any new screenwriter may share a credit with the original screenwriter, or they may be credited for additional dialogue, or as a story consultant. In some cases, the original screenwriter may be replaced entirely by another screenwriter.

The way a screenwriter is credited in a film can determine their future payments based on exploitation (home releases) of the film.

ANZSCO ID: 212211
   
Alternative names: Screen Writer,

Specialisations: particular genres - comedy, science fiction, crime, sitcom,
   
Knowledge, skills and attributes
   
To be successful in this role, you’ll generally need the following skills and qualities:

• Writing skills: A strong command of the English language and the ability to write a compelling story is a must for this job.
    
• Observational skills: Many screenwriters base characters, plot lines, and much of the dialogue of a script on real events, places, and people they've observed in real life.
    
• Creativity: Screenwriters must be able to come up with new ideas and also envision what a film might be like before it's made.
    
• Knowledge of screenwriting: understand all the features of a great screenplay, know how to improve and amend one
    
• Arts knowledge: have a deep and wide knowledge of all genres of art, so as to be able to source ideas from a range of sources and understand the cultural context
    
• Watching film and TV drama: have a passion for the genre and a love of the industry
    
• Freelancing: find work opportunities for yourself and manage your finances, be self-motivated
    
• Interpersonal skills: When working on a film, screenwriters must work with the producer, director, and other team members to adjust the screenplay as needed. They also must be able to effectively pitch their screenplays.

 

(Source: The Conversation)

Duties and Tasks
  
The job generally requires the ability to perform the following duties:

• Develop and research ideas for original movie screenplays.
• Create an initial framework, or treatment, for screenplays.
• Write or adapt a story into a script.
• Meet with film executives to pitch screenplays and ideas.
• Weave together visual elements in scenes with plot and dialogue.
• Work with producers and directors to edit and adjust the script as needed.

Screenwriters may come up with original material, write a script based on actual events, or adapt an existing work (such as a book, play, or film). For an adaptation, screenwriters rewrite and rework existing material with legal permission. For scripts based on actual events, screenwriters must do research before writing.

Once the screenwriter has an idea or concept, it's general practice for the writer to map out the script. It may be mapped out as a treatment, or in shorter form as a synopsis. But, standard practice is a screenwriter takes their idea and writes it out, long-form. Sometimes it's detailed, sometimes it just includes the major turns or plot points, sometimes this long-form storytelling is actually just a few sentences long. The screenwriter may use index cards, they may use a computer program, or, they may use pen and paper.

The third responsibility of any good screenwriter is to know thy protagonist. If about to embark on a 90-120 page screenplay, the screenwriter must know their protagonist inside and out. They must know how their lead will react physically, emotionally and verbally in any situation. They must know their character's likes, dislikes, motivations, fears, anxieties, emotional IQ — anything that makes the protagonist tick.

You need to map out all of your characters. How will they change? What will the journey teach them? What is your protagonist's super-objective (you know, that thing that when they achieve it, ends their journey)?

Most importantly, when developing characters outside of your own personal life experience (with regards to race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomics, etc), it is a screenwriter's imperative responsibility to ensure that the character accurately reflects the life experiences and motivations of that particular group of society. It is 100% your obligation as a screenwriter to go the extra mile to write representative characters, to hire a diversity consultant, have your script read by willing creatives whose life experience you have included in your story — to research.

   
Working conditions
   
Screenwriters are often independent contractors who work for themselves in a home office. They must be willing to consistently pitch their screenplays in order to get paid work. They must be able to handle the rejection and criticism that comes with the process.

Often, screenwriters can make their own hours and write as much or as little as they want. When their screenplays are used for movies they may need to be available at all hours to make adjustments to the script as needed. Screenwriters work with development producers and their assistants. They are sometimes assisted by researchers, who provide information to allow for screenplays to be fact-checked. Screenwriters may have their screenplays overseen by script editors, who, in turn, may be supported by assistant script editors.

In TV drama, screenwriters might work with story producers and storyliners as well as script editors. Story producers provide the framework for season-long or series-long story arcs, which screenwriters can then write individual episodes within. Storyliners fulfil a similar role, working for story producers in order to write an outline document for a series.

   
Education and training/entrance requirements
  
Write your own screenplays as soon as possible. Practising the form is essential. A degree is not a prerequisite to become a screenwriter, but having relevant education, whether that be in English or screenwriting subjects, is very useful. Build a portfolio so you can show to employers.

 

  

A literary agent is a go-between for writers and the publishing and media industries. They negotiate rates on the part of writers and seek to sell novels, books and screenplays via publishing houses and media production companies.

A literary agent is a publishing (or media) industry professional who is in regular contact with a wealth of publishing houses which seek new and established writers to publish further works. Often, getting an agent is seen as the pivotal step for writers who want to earn money by publishing their written work.

Usually, the writer will approach an agent with a specific project they have just completed, for example, a recently finished novel or screenplay ready for production. If the agent wishes to represent the writer, they will then approach publishers on the writer’s behalf and seek to sell the right to publish the work. Agents usually take a 10% or 15% cut of all of the writer’s earnings (20% overseas).

Few writers are reluctant to enter into this agreement because the agent’s work on the part of the writer is time consuming and involves risk; without an agent, it is very unlikely a writer will be able to sign a publishing deal. Should one be offered directly, an agent will normally be brought in to administer the contract, and to manage the writer’s career on an ongoing basis.

Most literary agencies in the Australia are based in Sydney and Melbourne, and there are many more writers than there are agents, leading to an incredible weight of competition amongst unpublished writers for representation.

ANZSCO ID: N/A
   
Alternative names: Screenwriter’s Agent, Writer’s Agent,

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• Understand the workings of the publishing industry
• Understand what makes for a successful (and marketable) novel or screenplay
• Maintain a significant database of publishing or media industry professionals
• Understand the legal terminology behind the publishing contract
• Be on the look-out for new writing talent, whilst managing a roster of current writers
• Successfully see through the process of taking the unpublished book to a bar-coded retail item in conjunction with the publisher

 

(Source: ASA)

Duties and Tasks

• Ability to make fast decisions on whether a work is publishable or not
• Be an effective networker at industry events and launches
• Be able to adopt new methodologies to keep pace with a changing industry
• Must be a fast and accurate skim-reader, with deep analytical ability
• Must have a strong ability in negotiation and contract resolution

Working conditions
   
Most of the work takes place in the office of the literary agency.

Due to the nature of the business, smaller examples of these work environments are very quiet and absorbing places to be, fostering a love of literature and the desire to bring new material to the market.

It tends to attract educated people with strong self-motivational characteristics: people who are happy with their own company and who can form their own opinions about a piece of text without having to ask repeatedly for help from colleagues.

Although not a particularly highly-stressed work environment, pressure can mount when there is a pile of submissions to process, or where the agent has been unsuccessful in finding a great novel for recommendation for several months.

You need to remember that the agent’s income is derived solely from successfully concluded publishing deals.
   
New candidates at a literary agency will typically begin as readers. This is a responsible job where the candidate is tasked with reading through endless submissions from writers in the hope they can champion that one special piece worthy of a publishing deal.

Agents may work for large established agencies or smaller concerns where they may be a business partner themselves.

(Source: Writers Centre)

Education and training/entrance requirements
   
There are no formal qualifications required to join a literary agency as a reader, although a candidate will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of the publishing industry in some way.

It may be that the relationship between agency and reader began with an unsuccessful novel submission from the candidate, which then led to an opportunity to join as a non-writing professional reader.

For other young entrants, a good grade at A Level English demonstrates the reader’s ability to interpret a text and develop further literary understanding.

There are, of course, no academic requirements for starting one’s own business as a literary agent, although it is almost impossible to do so without a strong collection of industry contacts gained through working in the industry.

New entrants often begin in the role of reader, where their fast analytical ability grows quickly, along with the ability to power through several writer submissions per day.

Experience gives the budding agent the ability to scan through text quickly and see if it ticks all the boxes; then the text can be forwarded to the agency owner, or it can be reread in detail.

Although the publishing industry remains in a state of dilution since the recession of 2008, there is still decent demand for good agents with a proven track record to progress to big agencies across Sydney and Melbourne.
   
Employment Opportunities

From the entry level reader role, the candidate can progress to become an agent in their own right, even if working at a large agency.

The bigger names in the industry have separate teams of agents and solicitors; one is tasked with finding new talent and looking after the existing roster, and the other deals with legal aspects including contract negotiation.

Successfully finding a hot new writer who goes on to publish a successful book is the cornerstone for personal career betterment; after this, the agent may go to other agencies to try and improve their prospects based on their past successes in publishing.
   
Income is mitigated by recent stagnation in the publishing sector, and competition from new on-line self-publishing channels like Amazon’s Createspace.

Did You Know? JK Rowling has offered hope to aspiring authors everywhere, after revealing that the first literary agent she sent the manuscript of Harry Potter to responded with just a slip of paper rejecting it. To add insult to injury, the agent also held onto the folder she submitted her work in, Rowling wrote on Twitter, in response to a question from a fan who asked if she would “ever get nervous emailing agents” when she first started out. “The first agent I ever queried sent back a slip saying ‘My list is full. The folder you sent wouldn’t fit in the envelope,” replied Rowling. “I really minded about the folder, because I had almost no money and had to buy another one.” Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone had been written in Edinburgh cafes while Rowling and her daughter lived on benefits. It was accepted by Christopher Little, the next literary agent she submitted it to. She told another fan on Twitter that she received “loads” of rejections before she finally got published – Little sent the manuscript to 12 different publishers before it ended up with Bloomsbury. (Source: The Guardian) More than 500M copies of the Harry Potter books have sold worldwide!

 

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