What is an Entry Level Content Writing Job?
An entry level content writing job refers to the first position new writers can get in the content creation field with little to no professional experience. These types of roles allow individuals to break into the content writing industry and start building a portfolio of published work. Entry level content jobs serve as an on-ramp for aspiring writers or those making a career change to gain their first professional content writing credits.
Common Entry Level Content Writing Roles
There are several common entry level content writing roles that new writers can pursue, including:
Blog Writer: Many companies hire junior blog writers to research and produce blog posts on a regular schedule for their website. Blog topics may include industry news, how-to guides, product features, and more.
Copywriter: Some companies take on entry level copywriters to draft website copy, email marketing copy, social media posts, and other promotional materials. This allows newcomers to gain experience in strategic copywriting.
Product Descriptions Writer: E-commerce businesses regularly hire writers to produce detailed yet compelling product descriptions to be displayed on shopping websites and retail listings.
Article Writer: Publications, media studios, and marketing agencies may employ entry level article writers to research and draft articles, reports, and long-form pieces on various subjects.
Transcriptionist: Tech companies and academia sometimes hire new writers to transcribe audio/video files into written transcripts. This helps gain familiarity with formatting documents.
Research Writer: Various companies use junior research writers to gather and synthesize information on broad topics and current events and compile it into reports.
Technical Writer: Technology companies are always looking for inexperienced technical writers to document processes, tutorial guides, manuals, and more using clear explanations.
Skills Needed for Entry Level Content Writing
While experience is not required for entry level content writing roles, employers do look for some baseline writing skills in candidates. Here are the key soft skills that entry level content writers need:
Strong Written Communication: An ability to convey ideas and information in a clear, concise, and organized written style is essential for any writing role.
Research Proficiency: Entry level writers must be comfortable researching topics independently using online sources and synthesizing findings.
Attention to Detail: Producing accurate, grammatically correct content requires strong proofreading abilities and an eye for detail.
Digital Literacy: Most content is produced and distributed online, so basic computer skills and familiarity with content management systems is important.
Time Management: Meeting recurring deadlines and juggling multiple concurrent projects is part of any writing job. Self-motivation is important.
Customization: Junior writers should be willing to tailor their writing style and topics to the needs and audiences of different clients/companies.
While a bachelor’s degree is not always mandatory, a writing or communications-focused education provides an advantage to entry level candidates in terms of developed writing foundations. Freelance clips or published works also make candidates more competitive. Portfolio building is where many new writers get their start.
Getting an Entry Level Writing Job
The most direct route for writers new to the industry is to search platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or company career pages for open entry level writing vacancies. It’s wise to research companies beforehand to understand their brand mission. Beyond individual opportunities, some other potential avenues include:
Contacting freelance marketplaces to get matched with potential clients open to working with newcomers.
Searching remote job boards catered towards entry level remote writing gigs, like Working Nomads or Remote OK.
Approaching local publications, studios, or agencies about potential internships or contract work.
Leveraging professional networks via sites like Mediabistro or Content Writters to find mentorship or referral opportunities.
Applying for content roles posted by marketing agencies acquiring work from multiple clients.
Considering entry level government writing jobs with departments, branches, or local administrations.
Asking former professors or mentors about any potential openings at their organizations.
The key is customizing materials like a resume, cover letter, and writing samples specifically for each opportunity to show alignment with needs. Candidates should be prepared to start at lower hourly pay rates before advancing with experience. Patience and perseverance are important when breaking into any new field.
Growing in an Entry Level Writing Career
With hard work and continuous learning, entry level writers have ample room for professional growth. Some effective strategies for advancement include:
Putting in the hours to take on increased responsibilities over time, like managing projects.
Voluntarily expanding skillsets into adjacent areas like editing, research, or analysis.
Consistently delivering high-quality work above clients’ expectations.
Tracking key metrics for each project to prove impact.
Developing specialty areas of expertise or valuable niches.
Earning promotions or raises by taking on coordinator/manager-type roles.
Using portfolio work to apply to better paying gigs elsewhere as experience grows.
Attending virtual writing conferences to widen industry network and knowledge.
Obtaining relevant certifications in areas like content strategy or technical communication.
Considering further education options like writing specialist diplomas or master’s programs.
Remaining open-minded to pivoting into adjacent career paths as opportunities arise.
Overall, entry level content roles represent an excellent starting point for motivated individuals seeking to establish themselves in the content creation industry. With diligence and ongoing self-improvement, new writers can undoubtedly progress far beyond their initial positions over time.
Andrew Stroud