If you are passionate about writing and love to share your thoughts and ideas with people, then feature writing is definitely for you. The best part about being a feature writer is that there are no age limits or limits on experience. As long as you have a passion for writing, anyone can become a good feature writer.
| Takeaways |
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| 1. Understand the niche: Gain a deep understanding of the niche you want to write for to tailor your pitches and content effectively. |
| 2. Showcase expertise: Highlight your expertise and unique perspective in the niche to stand out among other writers. |
| 3. Research the blog: Thoroughly research the target blog’s content style, audience, and tone to align your writing with their needs. |
| 4. Craft compelling pitches: Create customized pitches that demonstrate your value and how your content can benefit the blog’s readers. |
| 5. Highlight portfolio: Showcase relevant writing samples in your portfolio that showcase your ability to write for the specific niche. |
| 6. Network and connect: Build connections within the niche community to increase your chances of being noticed by niche blog editors. |
| 7. Be persistent: Rejections are common, so stay persistent and keep refining your approach based on feedback and experiences. |
| 8. Adapt and learn: Adapt to feedback, learn from your successes and challenges, and continuously improve your writing skills. |
Set Up A Writing Portfolio
Now that you’ve decided to work as a feature writer for a niche blog, the next step is to create a portfolio. You can start by creating your website or blog. This will give you an easy way to share all of your work with potential employers and clients.
If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to creating your website, there are plenty of free websites or blogging platforms that make it super simple for anyone regardless of experience level to get started.
My favorite place these days is Squarespace, which has an easy-to-use interface and lots of great templates (or “themes”) that allow users like me who don’t know much about coding websites but still want something professional looking without having any knowledge beyond basic HTML/CSS skills.”
The journey to effective content creation involves not just words, but also an understanding of the most bio-friendly way to write content. Discover how you can craft content that resonates with readers and search engines alike.
Engage In Social Media Platforms
A great way to get hired as a feature writer is through social media platforms. Not only will you have the opportunity to network with other writers and editors, but you’ll also be able to get your name out there.
Social media platforms are also great for getting feedback on your work, which can help improve your writing abilities. Additionally, social media platforms provide inspiration and ideas for articles that you can write about!
Join Blogging Communities
These are great places to get advice on how to improve your writing skills by reading other people’s articles. You can also learn about the best time of day to publish content and what topics will be popular in your niche.
You can ask for feedback on any posts you have written or even just share ideas for future posts. You will often find people who are happy to help out other bloggers. They may even offer their blog as an example of where you could submit your work!
If you do not get into a blogging community the first time then don’t worry! Just keep trying until someone lets you write for them!
Embarking on a path as a freelance writer requires more than just writing skills. Explore our insights on becoming a freelance SEO writer and learn how to establish your brand and thrive in the competitive world of SEO content.
Participate In A Writing Contest
There are many contests in which you can participate to get your name out there and become the next big thing. Participate in a writing contest, such as the WriteMovies Contest or the ScreenCraft Genre Screenplay Contest.
You can also take part in other contests like Popscreen, which offers prizes for original songs, music videos, and more. If you’re looking for something different, try out the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) or NaNoGenMo a novel-writing challenge that takes place during November each year.
Another option is to submit your work to a publisher directly using services like Submittable or Duotrope’s Submission Grinder tool (or use this guide from Publishing Perspectives).
Learn The Complex Market Of Feature Writers And Freelance Writers
The market for feature writers and freelance writers is a complex one. The first step to getting hired as a feature writer is to learn the market. This will ensure you can find the best opportunities, get the best experience, and make sure that you get paid what you’re worth.
The following sections will give you some tips on how an aspiring freelance writer can start their journey into this industry:
Apply For A Writing Job When The Chance Opens
Know what you are applying for. If you’re unsure about what kind of writing job to apply for and why read the above section on niches.
Know the requirements. Be sure to check out each employer’s list of qualifications before applying! Some employers require specific degrees or certifications, while others may just want a portfolio of your work from your previous jobs or internships.
Know the deadlines and pay rate. Some opportunities have strict deadlines for applications, so make sure you have time before taking on any jobs that require an application fee (which is usually between $5-$50). Also, know if you are being paid per word/hourly rate or if there’s some other compensation structure in place, not all writing jobs will pay by the hour!
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Take On The Challenge Of Writing Guest Posts
Do you want to write for a blog that you like? If so, then why not write for one of your favorite blogs? This is an easy way to get started and can lead to great opportunities.
Do you want to write for a blog that you read regularly? If so, then why not consider contacting the editor or publisher of the website and offer to write a guest post for free? There are many benefits to doing this!
Do you want to be associated with a high-quality niche publication as an author or contributor? Then become one! Large publications often publish guest posts by well-known authors who have published books on their own.
This will help improve your credibility as well as give readers an idea of what type of content they can expect when visiting those websites later on down the road (which may lead them back).
Seek To Work In The Most Successful Blogs And Magazines Of Your Niche
If you want to be hired as a feature writer for a niche blog, you need to understand the market. Identify the most successful blogs and magazines in your niche. Look at their following and engagement rate, number of articles published per month, the average length of articles, etc.
This will help you determine which ones are worth applying for based on how good they are at getting their content shared and read by people who care about it and thus how much they’re likely to pay writers well while still making money themselves.
Start Your Blog In A Niche That You Want To Focus On
If you want to be hired as a feature writer, start by setting up your blog. Choose a niche that you’re passionate about and write about what you know (preferably in the form of personal stories). Use an easy-to-remember name for your blog and find a template that looks good and is easy to navigate.
A good blog theme will make sure readers can easily find what they’re looking for with just one glance at the homepage. Don’t forget: before launching your first post, check out some other popular blogs in your topic area so you can see how they do it! Blog hosting services offer free options so take advantage of them!
Stay Updated With The Current Trends Related To Feature Writing And Blogging
Stay updated with the current trends related to feature writing and blogging.
To get hired as a feature writer, you need to stay updated with the latest news and trends in your niche. To help you do this, you can:
Read books on blogging and feature writing. I recommend The Feature Writing Toolkit by Michael Hyatt, How to Blog for Profit Without Selling Your Soul by Amy Porterfield or Get Featured: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Published Online by Sean Ogle.
Read articles about blogosphere best practices. This includes helpful posts from Buffer (Buffer’s Social Media Tips) or Backlinko (10 SEO Tools That You Should Know About).
Check out other websites that cover similar topics as yours. For example, if your blog is about fitness, check out Nerd Fitness for inspiration on running an active lifestyle blog!
Launching a freelance venture in real estate writing demands careful planning. Our resource on starting a freelance real estate writing business outlines key steps to help you build a thriving writing business in the real estate industry.
Attend Writing Conferences And Events Whenever Possible
When it comes to attending writing conferences and events, your best bet is to go where your audience is. If you’re trying to build a career as a freelance writer, then you must find writers’ conferences and events in your niche area. Go where the editors, publishers, agents, and other writers are going so that you can network with them.
You should also look for opportunities outside of the traditional conference circuit. For example: if you’re interested in the science fiction genre but don’t know anyone at sci-fi conventions, try attending science fiction readings at bookstores or libraries instead!
And if none of this sounds like fun (who would want to spend their weekends being around people who talk about books?), then it may be time for another career move…
Be Involved In Community-Wide Projects For Writers Who Share Your Passion For Writing
In addition to writing content for your blog, you can get involved in community-wide projects for writers who share your passion for writing. Community-wide projects are organized by groups of writers who want to work together on a common goal usually improving the quality, reach, or visibility of their blogs.
The benefits of being a part of these types of initiatives include:
Helping other people improve their writing skills
Being able to share your skill set with others who need it
Learning new skills from other writers (like SEO or social media)
Building a reputation as someone who cares about helping the writing community grow
Read Books Written By Famous Niche Feature Writers And Authors
In the beginning, it can be helpful to read books on writing. You might want to read The Elements of Style by Strunk & White, or On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King.
If you have an interest in learning about your niche and industry, then you should read some business books that discuss marketing strategy or self-publishing.
Examples: How to Market a Book for Successful Self Publishing Success by Mathew Killeen or How to Get Hired as a Feature Writer for a Niche Blog (And Other Advice From The World’s Best Freelance Writers) by Drew Kann.
You could also learn about social media marketing from Neil Patel’s blog or his book “Social Media Marketing”.
Always Maintain Good Relationships With Editors And Other Bloggers
As a feature writer, you have to have good relationships with your editors and other bloggers. You will be working with them closely regularly, so you must get along well and can work together as a team.
The best way to make friends in this industry is through networking events like conventions or conferences. These events allow you to meet many different people in one place at one time, giving you plenty of opportunities to network effectively.
It also helps if you go out in public often: attending local gatherings such as book clubs or coffee shops can help expand your social circle beyond just writers!
If you’re considering a career as a writer in the real estate field, look no further. Our article on how to become a real estate writer provides valuable insights and guidance to help you make your mark in this specialized niche.
Ask For Referrals From Friends And Family Who Are Good At What They Do
Ask for referrals from friends and family who are good at what they do. They might know someone who would be willing to hire you as a writer or editor. Or, they could direct you towards someone who will give you work as a freelancer in general, even if you’re just a beginner.
Even if you can’t get paid right away, try to get an entry-level job at a publishing company (or any other type of business that’s related to the field). This will give you experience in the field and help build your portfolio.
Conclusion
There are many ways to become a featured writer. You can start your career by submitting your writing portfolio to the editor of a well-known website or magazine.
You can also go through the process of joining a blog community and participating in their contests and events. With enough practice, you can build up a reputation as an expert in your field by writing guest posts for other websites. Eventually, someone will notice how good you are at what you do and offer
Further Reading
Indeed: Writing Jobs for Bloggers Find tips and advice on how to discover writing opportunities for bloggers on Indeed’s career advice section.
Make a Living Writing: Blogging Jobs Learn about available blogging job opportunities and how to get paid for your writing skills through this insightful article.
Smart Blogger: Blogging Jobs Explore Smart Blogger’s guide to finding blogging jobs and turning your passion for writing into a rewarding career.
FAQs
What types of writing jobs are available for bloggers?
There are various writing jobs available for bloggers, including content creation, guest posting, copywriting, freelance writing, and content marketing roles.
How can I find blogging job opportunities?
You can find blogging job opportunities by searching on job boards, freelance platforms, content creation websites, and by networking within your niche community.
What skills do I need for blogging jobs?
For blogging jobs, you typically need strong writing skills, the ability to create engaging and informative content, understanding of SEO, and effective communication skills.
Are blogging jobs well-paying?
Blogging job pay varies widely based on factors such as experience, niche, and the specific job role. Some positions offer competitive compensation, while others may be more modest.
Can I make a living from blogging jobs?
Yes, it’s possible to make a living from blogging jobs, especially if you secure consistent work, build a strong reputation, and continuously improve your writing and marketing skills.
Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.