Writer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• volunteering
• applying directly
• specialist training or self-teaching

University

You'll need a high level of writing skill and talent. To develop these skills, you could get a qualification like a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• creative writing
• communication and media
• English language or literature
• creative and professional writing
• journalism

You could also do a postgraduate writing course to get into this career.

Entry requirements:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Volunteering

You can do several things to develop your writing skills and learn more about the world of publishing. These include:

• joining a local writers' group
• entering writing competitions
• blogging online

DirectApplication

You might be able to apply directly for technical writer jobs in industries like engineering or pharmaceuticals, if you've got the relevant background and qualifications.

Experience in journalism could also help you to get into travel or broadcast writing.

OtherRoutes

You could work in TV or radio as a scriptwriter. BBC Writersroom has information, advice and workshops on writing and submitting scripts.

You may be able to publish and sell your work without formal training or qualifications, if you're exceptionally talented and have taught yourself. A literary agent may be able to help you with this.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of English language
• excellent written communication skills
• persistence and determination
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• knowledge of media production and communication
• thinking and reasoning skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to read English
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to learn through your work
• knowledge of psychology
• administration skills
• the ability to sell products and services
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Writers create written work such as books, scripts, poems, blogs and technical guides.

In this role you could:

• choose a subject based on personal interest, or at the request of an agent or publisher
• come up with ideas, plots or content headings
• research information using the internet, libraries, site visits and personal interviews
• develop your story, article, blog, review or instruction manual
• submit your draft to a publisher or editor
• revise your work after getting feedback
• upload your work to websites or social media, or look for publishing opportunities
• attend book signings, readings and discussions of your work
• run writing workshops

Location : You could work in an office or from home.

Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours variable

Working Pattern is freelance / self-employed managing your own hours

Career Path:

You could self-publish, in traditional print format, online or through e-books.

You might be able to promote your work by entering literary competitions, become a book critic or teach creative writing in colleges.