Writer
Writers create written work such as books, scripts, poems, blogs and technical guides.
Working Hours
37–39
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
In this role you could:
- choose a subject based on personal interest, or at the request of an agent or publisher
- come up with ideas, plots or content headings
- research information using the internet, libraries, site visits and personal interviews
- develop your story, article, blog, review or instruction manual
- submit your draft to a publisher or editor
- revise your work after getting feedback
- upload your work to websites or social media, or look for publishing opportunities
- attend book signings, readings and discussions of your work
- run writing workshops
Skills needed
- knowledge of English language
- excellent written communication skills
- persistence and determination
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- volunteering
- applying directly
- specialist training or self-teaching
Career progression
You could self-publish, in traditional print format, online or through e-books.
You might be able to promote your work by entering literary competitions, become a book critic or teach creative writing in colleges.