You’ve decided that you
want to be a writer, but your bank still wants you to pay your mortgage. Most
writers do not make a living from writing. There is no reason to give up your
dream. There are many jobs out there where being a writer is definitely a plus.
Working as a stringer
for a local newspaper is a great way to get in print, prove and improve your
writing skills and make a few dollars here and there. While you won’t get rich
covering local town board meetings, you’ll be paid enough to cover gas, batteries
for a digital recorder, and still have a few dollars for your pocket. In
addition you’ll get to see your byline, build a writing reputation and resume,
make a few bucks and train yourself to meet deadlines. Generally newer writers
will often find more possibilities with local weeklies instead of dailies that
are run by publishing conglomerates.
Other writing related
jobs include writing copy for sales flyers, like houses, cars and groceries.
Look for jobs recording minutes at meetings. Find a position as a newsletter
editor at everything and anything from church groups to corporate entities.
Contact your local school district and find out if they have any openings in their
PIO department; a PIO (public information officer) has to be able to get crucial
information out to the public, answer questions and concerns and work with the
media to control the flow of data. There are also jobs handling publicity,
getting the word out about a business, club or special event; and jobs doing PR
(public relations) which help to control image. Non-profits and small civic
groups may not pay huge salaries, but they are often anxious for the professional
help.
Teaching creative
writing classes and moderating book discussions are ways to immerse yourself in
the trade. Great jobs for writers (many have benefits too) include working in
libraries, book stores and newspaper offices. Make the time to work on that
novel IF that is what your dream is, but BE a writer all the way.
Writing exercise: Write a
letter to yourself at HALF of your current age (ie: If you are 30, write the
letter to yourself at the age of 15). You
can’t say that you are the older version. Fill your letter with advice and
make suggestions what your younger self should do in their life. Now think like
you did at half of your age, remember all the attitudes you had about “older”
people telling you what you could and should do – and write a letter in
response.
Writing
prompt: Writing prompt: Begin
with a 5-letter word like WRITE. Change just one letter to make new words until
you run out of ideas – never use the same word twice.
