How to Become a Professional Writer Articles | Writing

By: Matthew Hick

The writing life can seem very mystical to some. After all, how do a few mediocre writers make millions on a single book, while most others struggle to get even one article published in a local free tabloid? There really is no secret to becoming a professional writer other than it takes a certain amount of talent, combined with a strong dose of persistence.

Most professional writers understand the basic rule of freelance success: don’t count on it until you’ve received at least 1,000 rejections. Why, you may ask? Because it takes that long to learn your craft well, and understand how this unique (and often fickle) industry really works.

Before you get discouraged, remember, there are plenty of opportunities available for would-be writers willing to work hard – and cheap! Here are some great ways to hone your skills, while gathering those all-important published clips, on your way to a successful writing career:

Work for Free
Everybody loves things for free! Businesses and organizations especially love free writers who can generate passable copy without any expense. Non-profits are a great place to start. Learn basic press release, advertise/marketing and feature article and newsletter writing by volunteering your time with your local church, school, sports leagues; political candidate or other non-profit organization. They all need people to write press releases, newspaper articles, newsletters and even grants, and are often more than willing to teach you the ropes in exchange for free services. This oftentimes generates a wonderful mentoring opportunity between newbie writers and those with more professional experience.

Internships with public relations firms, marketing agencies, and more, can often be very educational since their goal is to train future employees that they can hire with little or no on-the job training.

Start Small
Few people have the experience, the contacts or the talent to write for Esquire the first time out of the writer’s gate. Come to grips with the fact that there are thousands of want-to-be writers out there that you’ll be competing against, in addition to the thousands more who’ve been doing it for years and understand what editors are looking for – and how to give it to them. Forget the top journalism job at the New York Post or winning a million-dollar book deal. At least for now. Start at your local weekly tabloid; write for small obscure literary magazines or start with website writing. As you hone your skills, then begin branching out to the bigger publications.

Keep At It
Being a professional writer can be hard, and isolating. There may be weeks when all you receive are criticism and rejection, followed by yes, sweet success that generates a whopping $50 paycheck! Hang in there. With persistence, and an ability to learn the writing ropes, you will succeed, it just may take awhile.

Find a Support System
Sure, your mother and your spouse think you’re a great writer, but let’s face it, they may be wrong! Find a good critique group that can help you accept your disabilities and become a better writer. Attend as many professional writers seminars and conferences as you can. There’s no better way to learn the business than to surround yourself with those who’ve made it – and are willing to share what they’ve learned! Stay in touch with a variety of different kinds of writers through forums and chat rooms. It’s a great way to learn about new job opportunities.