Creating sample content is a great way for writers, both experienced and aspiring, to showcase their writing abilities and practice different types of content. Having strong sample pieces allows writers to land new freelance writing, consulting, or full-time content writing jobs. It also gives clients and companies confidence in a writer’s skills before hiring them for a paid project.
When creating content samples, focus on topics you are knowledgeable about or interested in learning more. Research the types of content your target clients or employers need like blog posts, articles, white papers, social media posts, emails, website copy, etc. Consider providing samples of a variety that demonstrate your adaptability. Create content with a consistent voice and tone that fits what is expected within the industry or company you want to work with.
Sample content should be well-written, thoroughly researched, accurately formatted, and free of errors. Have samples reviewed by others to catch any issues before publishing them. Always write with your target audience in mind by considering their level of knowledge, pain points, interests, and goals for the content. Engage readers from the first paragraph by asking questions, providing valuable insights, or adding a surprising statistic. Use compelling headlines and subheads to effectively break up long pieces of text.
Focus first drafts solely on getting thoughts and information down clearly without worrying too much about sentence structure or flow. Revise and refine drafts, cutting unnecessary words and merging related ideas. Vary sentence structure with a mix of short, medium, and longer sentences. Clearly summarize key points at the end to cement your message and value proposition. Include relevant internal and external links to additional helpful resources for readers. Format all content neatly and consistently with styles suited for its distribution channel like a website, blog, or magazine.
Use primary research and quality sources to ensure all facts, data, quotes, and statistics presented are completely credible and accurate. Check sources thoroughly including dates of publications to avoid outdated information. Paraphrase insights and ideas from sources rather than copying verbatim to avoid plagiarizing. Properly attribute all outside information used through clear in-text citations and a list of references. Admit when making assumptions to avoid potential misleading claims. Always double check all work.
Incorporate compelling visual elements strategically like images, graphics, illustrations or videos that help further explain topics. Do not overload layouts and always have alt text descriptions for accessibility compliance. Respect copyright and get permission before using other’s proprietary visuals. Create original visual components as needed with simple stock images or basic design skills. Consider including an “About the Author” brief bio showcasing relevant qualifications and experience.
Some common sample content types to create include:
500-1000 word blog posts on narrowly focused industry topics, problems, or solutions. Share as articles on your website, platforms like Medium, or pitching to external websites and publications.
In-depth 2000-5000 word white papers, case studies, guides or eBooks on strategic topics. Position yourself as a thought leader and problem solver. Provide as free downloads with lead generation.
150-300 word social media updates for platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook discussing current events and trends professionally. Demonstrate social voice and curation abilities.
150-300 word website category descriptions, service or product pages clearly explaining offerings. Show copywriting and UX skills for organizations.
Email newsletters compiling useful resources on narrow niches. Prove newsletter development and list building talents.
Transcripts of podcast or video interviews and roundups as text. Highlight multi-media and storytelling skills.
Sample presentations, webinars, speeches or training materials on compelling subjects. Display public speaking and educational expertise.
Save all sample pieces in an organized online portfolio or resume along with a tailored cover letter explaining relevant experience when applying for jobs. Be prepared to discuss and potentially expand on samples in interviews. Continuously add new examples as skills grow over time. Revisit portfolio periodically and remove outdated content. Sample content is a great low-risk investment to find qualified work and advance a writing career.