You have heard multiple times that anyone can become a content writer. Well, that is true. If you want to, you can become a content writer.

The big question is, Do you want it bad enough to do what it takes? You'll find that the highest percentage of individuals who have failed to succeed in content writing or any other online work, gave up too quickly. The truth is, they could not handle the WORK part of it.

There is nothing that comes easy and nothing comes for free. This is the world, and you have to work for what you get. It is that simple. 

Content writing is amazing. We have been creating all types of written content for 5+ years and it worked for us. Even so, it was not easy.

So, are you still considering content writing?

You will need a checklist. But, before we get to the checklist, let us define content writing.

What is Content Writing?

This is a style of writing that focuses on delivering well-researched content which targets a massive group of people. This kind of content is often published in blogs, newspapers, magazines, etc.

The way you develop, write and then deliver the content is what sets you apart. This is what helps you to rank among the best in the industry.

The Checklist :

1. Have the Right Mindset

If you are thinking of something that can make you money overnight, content writing is not for you. It takes work and discipline to make it in this line of work. You need to invest in getting the right knowledge. There is a learning curve and you need to embrace it. If you are not willing, the best option you have is to look for something different.

2. The Right Set of Skills

The employer or the direct client is interested in your skill. Just like you, they are interested in making money. So, they will be looking for an individual that can deliver the kind of content they want.

You need the right skills to deliver quality content. Some people can write amazing compositions. But they may not have an idea of how they can come up with a good blog content article that sells.

When it comes to making money online using content writing, getting trained is more than learning good grammar.

You also learn:

• How to structure your articles
• How to come up with killer pitches
• The tools used by professionals to come up with amazing articles
• Where to pitch for jobs
• How to write a cover letter and much more
   

3. Pitch, Pitch Pitch .....Do Not Give Up

When it comes to pitching, the secret is simple. DO NOT GIVE UP.

You should always pitch and diversify as much as possible. Consider pitching to:

• Content Mills
• Employers From Facebook Groups
• Direct Clients From different job boards and through social media platforms
• Clients from Linkedin
• Google clients in different niches online

As long as you do not have a job and you have the skills, make sure that you write personalized pitches and send them out.

4. You Will Need Samples

Think about how much you value having a CV when you want to apply for a job. Everyone knows that they will be asked for their CV whenever they make any applications.

The same energy you have when writing your CV is the same one that will be required when you are coming up with samples. Once you have the skills, it is your job to come up with samples. These are the samples that you are going to use when pitching for jobs.

5. Adopt a Research and Learning Mindset

You learn more when you understand the value of being a student in life. Sometimes you might not have the money to pay for training but you have the interest. Make use of all the free resources available online. There are so many Facebook groups online belonging to Kenyans who share information on content writing. An example is the Newbie Freelance writers' hub

You can also access the free information we share on YouTube. Getting access to all this information can help you out even if it is getting the basics.

Conclusion

So, before you decide if content writing is what you want to try, ask yourself:

• Do I have the required skills?
• Am I ready to go through the process and learn until I get a job?
• Am I ready to pitch as hard as I can, when the time to do so comes?
• Am I ready to use a variety of different means to learn as much as I can?