• by Preeti Shah
• 03 June 2023

 

Content writing is quickly gaining popularity as a full-time profession and is no longer a second choice. However, there is a massive gap between demand and supply. 

Despite the market being flooded with writers, there is a need for more quality writers who can produce audience-specific content. 

So, to become a pro writer, you need to develop certain traits if you naturally do not possess them. 

The most basic and major ones I am mentioning here:

Basic Computer and Internet Knowledge: A basic understanding of handling computers and browsing the internet is essential as most of the work nowadays is done online.

Basic Grammar Skills: Grammar can make or break your writing. Even if you provide quality information, poor grammar usage can alter the meaning of the write-up. So, good command of essential grammar practices is a must. 

Reading Skills: If you do not love reading, you will not be able to upgrade your existing knowledge in your niche and about the latest trends. Here I am not emphasizing reading books but articles and blogs related to your niche. 

Research Skills: Research skills are a subcategory of reading skills. When you write an article, you cannot write whatever comes to your mind. You have to study existing articles, find the missing information, and create content around it. A well-researched article is of high quality and provides valuable information to your readers.

Plagiarism-Free Writing: After doing your research, you must have the ability to understand the topic, and it will help you write the content in your words rather than copy-paste. In this way, you will always end up producing plagiarism-free content.

Learning Skills: Learning is a never-ending process; you must upgrade your existing skills and knowledge per the current industry requirement. It is optional to go for paid courses. You can follow a reliable YouTube channel or blog in your niche to stay updated about the current trends.

Ability to Meet Deadlines: To gain positive client reviews, you must always submit your work within the time mentioned by your client. It increases your trustworthiness as a freelancer, helps develop a long-term relationship with your clients, and opens the door to new work opportunities.

 

So, knowing how to write is not enough.

You can only become a pro writer if you have the skills mentioned above, which is the primary reason most writers cannot achieve their goal of becoming sought-after writers and earning a living.

Apart from these basic skills, you must constantly upgrade your writing skills with time per the trends. Also, learn the basics of digital marketing, SEO, graphic designing (I prefer Canva), video making and editing, etc.

It is not necessary to master all. However, a basic understanding is required as most companies want to hire individuals who possess writing abilities and basic knowledge of SEO and creating beautiful graphics for blog posts.

So be a lifelong learner to excel in your chosen field and stay ahead of the competition.