Online content writing has become a lucrative career path for many writers. Whether you’re just starting out or have some experience already, it’s important to understand the basic principles of effective online content writing. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started and improve your skills, from finding clients to organizing your workflow.
What is Online Content Writing?
Online content writing refers to creating written material specifically for websites, blogs, applications, and other digital platforms. This includes articles, blog posts, product descriptions, reviews, social media updates, newsletters, and more. Content must be optimized for readers accessing it on different devices and screens.
The goal of online content is to inform, engage and appeal to target audiences so they take desired actions like purchasing products, subscribing to email lists, sharing content, and returning to sites. Unlike traditional writing, online content needs to be scannable, concise yet compelling. Structure, keywords and calls-to-action are important.
Finding Clients
There are several avenues for finding online content writing clients:
Content Marketplaces – Sites like Upwork, Freelancer and PeoplePerHour connect freelancers to clients posting writing jobs. Competition can be steep so create a compelling profile highlighting your qualifications.
Direct Outreach – Research companies in your preferred niches and directly pitch your services via phone, email or social media. Having samples ready and clearly communicating your value prop is key.
Personal Networking – Let family, friends and past clients know you freelance. You never know who may connect you to opportunities. Attend local industry meetups too.
Cold Emailing – Identify target companies and craft personalized emails introducing yourself. Keep messages brief and focused on how you can specifically help them grow.
Content mills – Sites like Textbroker and Constant Content post short form writing gigs en masse. Pay rates are often low but it’s a way to build experience and portfolio pieces.
Qualifications and Skills
To succeed as an online content writer, you need strong fundamental writing abilities plus technical skills tailored for the digital space:
Excellent Writing Skills – Write in an expressive, easy to understand style using proper grammar and mechanics. Conduct thorough research.
Domain Expertise – Develop proficiency in 1-2 niche areas clients will value like technology, health, finance etc. Study trends and keep knowledge base current.
Digital Optimization – Understand SEO, how to write for different devices/screens, incorporate relevant keywords and calls-to-action naturally.
Familiarity with Analytics – Track reader behavior metrics to see what content resonates most. Suggest optimizations based on analytics.
Strong Work Ethic – Meet tight deadlines while producing high quality work consistently. Make revisions promptly as needed.
Project Management – Organize workflow, prioritize tasks and communicate status updates clearly. Multi-task on multiple projects simultaneously.
Content Types and Formats
Once hired, writers need to become adept creating various types of online content tailored for specific formats and platforms:
Articles/Blog Posts – The backbone of most websites and blogs. Optimize with catchy headlines, intro paragraphs, logical flow and compelling closure.
Web Copy – Short form content for pages like “About”, service descriptions, case studies, testimonials etc. Follow style guidelines.
Email Content – Write newsletters, emails promoting new blog posts or products in an engaging tone. Include relevant calls-to-action.
Social Media Updates – Craft short posts and captions optimized for platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Pinterest. Leverage relevant hashtags and links.
Product Descriptions – Outline key features, specs and USPs compelling customers to purchase. Include high resolution images when possible.
Guides/Ebooks – In-depth resources delving into topic educational value. Structure with headings and subheadings.
Landing Pages – Write attention-grabbing copy supported by visuals to encourage lead capture or purchases. A/B test variations.
Workflow & Project Management
To stay organized and meet deadlines consistently, writers need to implement an efficient workflow and project tracking system:
Calendaring – Block out writing time on a calendar and stick to the schedule religiously. Set goals to finish x number of articles per week.
Task Management – Use a tool like Trello or Asana to create cards for each project. Assign due dates and update status regularly.
File Organization – Save drafts, notes, and research in clearly labelled folders on your computer and in cloud storage. Back up work.
Style Guide Familiarity – Review clients’ branding, editorial style guides before starting and consistently adhere to guidelines.
Communication – Keep clients updated on progress, request feedback/approvals on time. Address issues or delays promptly.
Proofreading – Have another set of eyes review work before submitting final drafts. Use text-to-speech programs too.
Tracking & Reporting – Pull reports on word count, time spent on each project. Use timesheets to invoice clients accurately.
Ongoing Development
To retain clients and grow their businesses, online content writers must commit to continuous self-development:
Stay Current – Read industry publications, follow trending topics. Expand topic expertise beyond initial interests.
Networking – Attend virtual events, connect on LinkedIn and Twitter with other writers and potential clients. Build authority.
Improve Skills – Take online courses to develop new abilities like designing infographics, conducting surveys, or optimizing visual storytelling.
Market Yourself – Promote successes on your website/portfolio. Gather testimonials to showcase impact made for clients.
Speaking Opportunities – Offer to present at industry meetups or webinars to bolster credibility and gain new leads.
Try New Niches – Stay versatile by learning about new domains. Clients value suppliers attuned to their evolving needs.
If you commit to honing your writing and digital marketing skills while following proven workflows, an online content writing career can provide flexibility and financial success. Always focus on delivering measurable value and results for your clients.
Andrew Stroud