One of the most in-demand jobs with the highest starting salaries is writing for online publications or blogs.
In addition to having a steady stream of paying work, you get to do what you love and can work remotely from
anywhere you please.
So it’s not surprising that many writers are now considering pursuing freelance writing as a career.
But carving out a niche in this crowded market isn’t easy.
Here are just some of the online resources available to help you advance your career as a writer.
1. Writers’ Voice Magazine
If you want to become a full-time writer, you’ll need all the help you can get.
That’s why we’ve collected these resources, which will help you grow your skills as a writer and find your voice as a storyteller.
Published since 2003, Writers’ Voice Magazine is one of the most respected publications
for freelance writers and editors.
Each issue is packed with useful information on a variety of topics, including:
- Marketing
- Business
- Strategy
- Web Analytics
- Content Management / Blogging
- Product Review
Plus, in each issue you’ll find several opportunities to showcase your work, seeking paid and/or
unpaid blogging gigs, short-story contests, and more.
2. The Online Journalism Association
If you’re looking to break into the field, consider applying for a job at The Online Journalism Association (OJA),
a non-profit organization devoted to providing quality journalism to the world via
online publications and live events.
OJA provides newsrooms, digital platforms, and live events to over 100 accredited media organizations worldwide,
including the New York Times, Huffington Post, and Reuters.
What’s more, its staff of over 30 professional journalists are always looking for freelancers
to help fill in some of their editorial gaps.
So if live news is your thing, you can get an in-house gig with a well-known publication.
And for those seeking a more traditional route to writing success, you can look to OJA’s Digital Awards,
which annually honor the work of digital journalists and bloggers throughout the world.
3. The New York Times Editorial Fellowship
The New York Times is one of the most famous newspapers in the world, and its editorial department is certainly
one of the most prestigious.
If you’re a journalist or a writer seeking to make a career change, the NY Times Editorial Fellowship may be
a great option.
The NYT Fellowship offers recent college graduates an immersive 10-week experience in one of the most
prestigious news organizations in the world.
During their fellowship, participants work closely with one of the newspaper’s editorial staff, gaining experience
and exposure that could help launch your career.
The only downside is that you’ll need to be living in New York City to qualify.
However, moving to one of the greatest cities in the world is likely to enhance your life, not to mention
the vast array of opportunities available there.
4. The Guardian Civic Journalism Programme
Another great option if you’re looking to break into journalism is
The Guardian Civic Journalism Programme, a new course available this year at the University of St.
Andrews in Scotland.
The programme trains journalists in newsrooms across the UK, allowing you to gain experience before you launch
your career.
During your time in the programme, you’ll work on groundbreaking projects that seek to tackle some of the
world’s biggest problems, such as climate change and social injustice.
To qualify, you’ll need to have a 2:1 degree in a relevant subject, or be a graduate seeking
a career in journalism.
On top of that, you’ll need to have experience in writing for a global audience,
working on a range of big stories across the newsroom.
Applications for the 2020 programme close on May 1st.
5. The American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s) Entry-Level Fellowship
If you’re looking to make a career change but haven’t yet decided where to apply, consider applying for the
American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s) Entry-Level Fellowship.
4A’s is a member of the International Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s),
which represents over 150 companies in the United States and approximately the same number of companies globally.
For those seeking a career in advertising, the 4A’s Fellowship provides an opportunity to explore multiple
roles in a supportive environment.
As a 4A’s advertising agency fellow, you’ll get to work with some of the best creative minds in
the industry, as well as gain invaluable experience in a professional setting.
On top of that, you’ll have the chance to travel around the United States, visiting the headquarters of
major clients and speaking with employees from around the country.
The 4A’s Fellowship is one of the most popular routes to a journalism or a writing
career, and it’s likely to land you a job in one of the country’s top advertising agencies.
Just remember to keep your eyes open for job alerts
and make sure you’ve got your foot in the door at least a month or two before the start of the academic year.
If you’re seeking further information, you can contact the 4A’s directly via
their website.
For full details on the 4A’s Fellowship, you can read the online material available from their website.
6. Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism
Reuters is one of the biggest news agencies in the world, and it’s trusted source for news
and information on almost every subject matter imaginable.
It’s also one of the biggest employers of freelance journalists, seeking individuals with a
strong communications background to join its editorial team.
If you’ve got a solid English degree and are looking for a new challenge, consider applying for one of
the many jobs available at Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism.
As a member of the Reuters Institute, you’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and gain
experience in a world-class research environment.
Working in the Institute, you’ll conduct original research, write scholarly articles, and teach classes,
all while benefiting from the latest technology and cutting-edge research facilities.
One of the unique things about this option is that your studies will be conducted online, with coursework
delivered via video lessons and Q&As, allowing you to fit work around your personal life.
If you’re seeking further information, you can contact the Reuters Institute directly via
their website.
Just remember to keep your eyes open for job alerts
and make sure you’ve got your foot in the door at least a month or two before the start of the academic year.
7. The New York Times Editorial Workstation
If you’re seeking a more traditional route to a writing career, you can always try your hand at op-ed
writing, taking a side on an issue that’s close to your heart and expressing your opinion on the subject.
One of the most esteemed media organizations in the world, The New York Times
offers a great position for editorial work.
As a staff writer at the Times, you’ll be expected to produce original content on a regular basis, while
also researching and writing compelling feature stories, letters to the editor, and more.
What’s more, you’ll learn a great deal from some of the most experienced editors in the industry,
allowing you to quickly build a base of valuable knowledge.
As part of this option, you’ll be assigned a personal tutor who’ll help you develop your writing
voice and put you on the right path to becoming a full-time journalist.
If you’re seeking further information, you can contact The New York Times directly via their website.
8. The Boston Globe Magazine Publishing Company
If you’re looking for a gig that pays better and allows you to gain some valuable experience,
consider applying for a job at The Boston Globe Magazine Publishing Company.
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the Globe is one of the oldest and most respected news agencies in the country,
having been in publication since 1873.