There is no fixed answer to this question, as it depends on how you define “writer.” If you are referring to an author who gets paid to write a book, the answer is typically in the six-figure range. But if you are referring to the broader group of people who contribute to content on the Internet, the answer is less clear.
Blogs And Online Media
In the past, a “writer” was typically an established newspaper columnist or freelance journalist who was paid to produce articles for publication. Back in the day, they might get paid per article or per project. These days, it is more common for writers to get paid per post or per tweet (in the case of online content.) Sometimes writers are even paid per comment. In all these cases, the amount they are paid depends on how much “traffic” (readers or listeners) they can generate. (For more information on the evolution of content strategy and marketing, check out our guide to the future of content.)
E-books And Self-Publishing
As e-books gained popularity and became a more viable option for consumers, the demand for content specifically designed for e-readers increased. This trend gave rise to a new group of people who get paid to write e-books. Many of these people originally got their start in online journalism, where they often did their best work. Others might have never written an article in their entire life and picked up e-book publishing as a passion project. Once you have written and published an e-book, the opportunities are endless.
Traditional Publishing
Those who enjoy the security of knowing they will always have a job might consider traditional publishing. If you fit into this category, you might get paid per book you sell. The royalties for this type of publishing can be extremely high, which might explain why so many people get into it. Traditionally published writers and their publishers usually enjoy a pretty good relationship. The writer is typically under contract for a set number of years, so the publisher has some sense of protection in case things don’t go as planned. And they always don’t go according to plan. Even when things do go well, the pay can be relatively low. (For more information on this topic, check out this guide to becoming a novelist.)
How Much Does A Movie Star Make?
The pay for a movie star can vary widely, from a few thousand dollars for a supporting role to several million for a starring role. It depends on a number of factors, including how recognizable the actor or actress is. At the higher end of the spectrum, a movie star can make millions of dollars per year. But even at the lower end, most movie stars can make at least six figures per year. And that is just for talking heads. When you factor in all the money made from selling your story ideas to movies and TV shows, it is no wonder why so many people love to tell stories!
The Evolution Of Media And The Impact On Earnings
What was once considered “traditional” media has evolved alongside the times we live in. When Walter Winchell launched his syndicated newspaper column in 1945, there were only a handful of networks. Today, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of different networks and streaming services. One network alone, BET, is available in more than 100 million households worldwide.
The number of potential viewing audiences has also exploded. It used to be that if you wanted to watch TV, you had to watch what was on offer at the time. Today, thanks to platforms like Roku, Apple TV, and others, there are hundreds of channels to choose from, providing a vast array of content for viewers to enjoy.
This increased choice has led to a change in the way people interact with media. People are much less likely to simply turn on their TV to see what is on offer. Instead, they will pull up a podcast or look on social media for someone to share a funny clip or interesting story with.
What is more, these days, the line between television and online media is blurred. Thanks to shows like Handmaid’s Tale, Mr. Robot, and Feign, viewers can enjoy content on TV and online at the same time. The evolution of media has meant content creators can now reach a much larger audience. For a writer, this might mean more opportunities to write for different platforms and more flexibility in terms of the hours they can work. For a publisher, it might mean increased income and exposure to more readers.
Conclusion
As technology continues to evolve and change how we practice journalism as well as the way we consume content, the income for writers and other content creators will continue to rise. (Just remember, the more you know, the more you can charge!) Just like any other profession, it is always preferable to specialize in one area over another. For example, if you are a journalist and want to specialize in covering the economy, it might be a wise move to get a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. This way, you will have the option of getting a full-time job or starting your own business. The choice is ultimately up to you!