Writers have always been a financially unstable lot. Even today, we’re often paid just enough to keep us fed and sheltered. But this low rate of pay is changing as the world becomes more digital than ever before. In fact, the writing industry is so ripe with opportunity right now that you don’t need a big publisher or production company to capitalize on it.
Instead, you can go it alone and make money by writing articles, blogs, ebooks, scripts or original fiction. And if you don’t know where to begin looking for work as a writer, follow along as we break down 10 creative ways to make money as a writer (and how to find them).
Freelance Writing
If you write for a living, then you’re a freelance writer. But why stop there? There are literally thousands of other ways to freelance as a writer. You can write for businesses and start-ups to create content marketing pieces, white papers, and quotes. Or you can write for websites, e-zines, and digital publications to help build and maintain their digital presence.
And there are many other ways to freelance as well. You can teach creative writing online and help students improve their writing and marketing skills. You can also create and sell online courses and online writing services. Or you can even help business owners and executives shape their brand through speeches and articles.
Create and sell art and craft products
If you’re a skilled artist with a knack for creating gorgeous crafts, then you can turn your talents into a full-time income by opening your own Etsy store and selling your creations to the public. Or, you can band with other crafters and open a craft co-op that allows you to sell your products to the public at a discounted rate.
Write and publish eBook blogs
If you’re a talented blogger, you can turn your love of ghost writing into a full-time income by making money blogging. To do so, you can create and publish your own e-books online. Alternatively, you can also write and publish articles for websites that are looking to build backlinks and increase their online presence through high-quality content.
Create and sell print crafts
If you have a knack for creating beautiful handmade crafts, then you can open your own online store and sell your colorful creations to the public. Alternatively, you can also join a local crafters’ co-op and sell your products at a discounted rate to the public. Similarly, you can also sell your crafts online by listing your items on online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy.
Write and publish e-books
If you have a knack for blog ghostwriting and publishing e-books, then you can turn your passion into a full-time income by self-publishing e-books. To do so, you’ll need to find a publisher, who will then distribute your book. Alternatively, you can also create, write, publish and distribute e-books yourself. And if you’re an experienced writer, you can also monetize your e-books by turning them into audiobooks.
Edit and proofread for others
If you enjoy editing and proofreading others’ work, then you can turn your hobby into a full-time income by joining a professional editing company. Once you’ve been accepted, you can edit clients’ and clients’ work, as well as proofread their manuscripts. Alternatively, you can also join online communities and offer your services by writing and editing posts for members.
Offer voice-over services
If you’re a talented voice actor and musician, you can turn your talents into a full-time income by partnering with someone who can manage your business and handle the rest. Once you’ve partnered with someone, you can monetize your voice work by selling your work via audio books and e-learning content.
Teach writing workshops or boot camps
If you’re a talented writer, you can turn your lessons and training into a full-time income by teaching writing classes online. Alternatively, you can also teach writing online by partnering with online education companies or online universities.
Bottom line
There are many ways to make money as a writer. And the best thing is that all you need is a computer and an internet connection to turn your passion for words into a profit. So, don’t wait around for the perfect opportunity to come along. Instead, start writing today and see how much money you can make as a writer.
