Content Writing. What does it take?
- SEO |
Here are some things I think are common sense when writing for somebody:
- Understand article structure requirements, SEO factors e.g. keyword density, keyword positioning, overall article "feel" and quality > quantity,
- research the subject in-depth, e.g. wikipedia entries, youtube videos and forum discussion - in order to understand the subject both in a scientific way and in way of someone being emotionally tied to the matter
- quote experts in the field if possible, find relevant studies and link if necessary in order to show credibility and trustworthiness of the website,
- use of media where it applies such as images, videos and infographics,
- understand the employer's needs and points of view on the subject matter;
- understand what POV to take when writing to a certain audience, obviously this will make a huge impact on user engagement with your posts (likes, shares, +'s) etc.
All of the above is, once more, just basic, common sense stuff I'd do, maybe all that goes without mentioning but I like to make lists. ^_^
Those are some I just thought about at the moment, I'm sure there's plenty to learn about content writing, also probably most important thing is being in a mindset where you write like you are writing for yourself, for maximum content quality and employer's pleasure.
I'd like to work long-term for someone who knows exactly what they want and need, and are willing to pay accordingly!
I've looked trough some jobs on Freelancer, oDesk and iWriter, the competition is huge, and the worst part (for me) is that majority of these people who bid on content writing jobs are willing to work for pennies and dimes per hour.
Willing to work for free; I'd be willing to write about anything for free, in order to prove myself to interested employers. I firmly believe many people would hire me instantly, if they knew I'm available and were aware of the quality I provide.
Someone may say I'm promoting myself here (obviously, in a way) but what I really want is advice from people who know what mistakes writers mostly make. And hey, if anyone here IS looking for a writer, shoot me a PM.
Cheers, Laurence.
Writer/Editor/Proofreader.