| | | |

20+ Proven Ways to Make Money Online as a Writer

By Reading Time: 16 minutes

Earn a Living as a Writer: Expert Tips and Tricks for Success

Want to turn your writing talent into a profitable career or an income increase as a side hustle?

You can find plenty of opportunities to earn an income and make money online as you create wealth when you contribute your knowledge to the world with your writing contributions. Learn how to monetize your abilities with these proven strategies for making money online.

Check out these 20 strategies for monetizing your writing skills and turn your passion into a profitable career.

Snapshot:

  • Grant writing to social media management
  • Transcription to translation
  • Copywriting to ghostwriting
  • Editing, proofreading to e-book publishing
  • and more

Remember: As a writer, you have the skills and talent to succeed in the digital world. 

Here are twenty time-tested ways you can make money online writing right now

Learn how to market your writing

Freelance writing

You can offer your writing services to businesses, websites, and publications on a freelance basis. You can find freelance writing work on job boards, through social media, or by contacting businesses directly.

  1. Offer your writing services to businesses, websites, and publications on a freelance basis. You can find freelance writing work on job boards, through social media, or by contacting businesses directly.
  2. Create content for businesses as part of their content marketing efforts. This can include blog posts, website content, social media posts, and more.
  3. Write marketing copy for businesses, including sales pages, email campaigns, and advertisements.
  4. Write ebooks and self-publish them on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.
  5. Offer your editing and proofreading services to individuals and businesses to help improve the quality and clarity of their written content.

Blogging

If you enjoy writing about a particular topic, you can start a blog and monetize it through advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

  1. Monetize your blog through advertising, either by displaying ads on your site or joining an advertising network like Google AdSense.
  2. Partner with brands and businesses to create sponsored content or sponsored reviews on your blog.
  3. Sell physical or digital products through your blog, such as ebooks, courses, or merchandise.
  4. Offer services through your blog, such as consulting, coaching, or design work.
  5. Use affiliate marketing to earn a commission by promoting products or services on your blog. You can join affiliate programs or find individual products to promote.

Content marketing

You can work with businesses to create content for their websites, social media, and marketing materials.

  1. Work with businesses to create content for their websites, social media, and marketing materials.
  2. Write articles, blog posts, and other types of content for content marketing agencies.
  3. Offer your expertise and knowledge through webinars, online courses, or consulting services.
  4. Create and sell templates, worksheets, or other resources for businesses to use in their content marketing efforts.
  5. Write and sell ebooks or other digital products related to content marketing.

Copywriting

You can create marketing copy for businesses, including sales pages, email campaigns, and advertisements.

  1. Write marketing copy for businesses, including sales pages, email campaigns, and advertisements.
  2. Create copy for social media posts, landing pages, and other digital marketing materials.
  3. Offer your copywriting services to marketing agencies or work with clients directly.
  4. Write copy for email marketing campaigns and newsletters.
  5. Write copy for direct mail campaigns, including sales letters and brochures.

Ghostwriting

You can write content for someone else under their name, such as books, articles, and speeches.

  1. Write content for someone else under their name, such as books, articles, and speeches.
  2. Offer your ghostwriting services to individuals, businesses, or publishing houses.
  3. Write blog posts or other content for businesses or individuals who want to publish content under their own name.
  4. Write content for social media accounts or websites, including posts, articles, and other types of content.
  5. Create content for email marketing campaigns, newsletters, and other types of digital marketing materials.

Technical writing

You can create technical documents, such as user manuals, training materials, and online help guides.

  1. Write technical documents, such as user manuals, training materials, and online help guides.
  2. Offer your technical writing services to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations.
  3. Write content for technical blogs or websites, such as product reviews, how-to guides, and tutorials.
  4. Write articles or white papers on technical topics for trade publications or websites.
  5. Create content for e-learning courses or other types of online training materials.

“As a writer, you have a unique set of skills and talents that can be monetized online. With the right strategies and tactics, you can turn your passion for writing into a profitable career.”

Editing and proofreading

You can offer your editing and proofreading services to individuals and businesses to help improve the quality and clarity of their written content.

  1. Offer your editing and proofreading services to individuals and businesses to help improve the quality and clarity of their written content.
  2. Work with authors to edit and proofread their books, articles, and other written works.
  3. Edit and proofread content for websites, blogs, and other online publications.
  4. Offer your services to students and academic researchers to help improve the quality of their papers and dissertations.
  5. Work with businesses to edit and proofread marketing materials, such as brochures, sales letters, and email campaigns.

Ebook publishing

You can self-publish your own ebooks and sell them on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing.

  1. Write and self-publish your own ebooks on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or Kobo Writing Life.
  2. Promote your ebooks through social media, email marketing, and other online channels.
  3. Sell your ebooks through your own website or blog.
  4. Offer your ebooks as part of a subscription service or bundle them with other products or services.
  5. Collaborate with other authors or businesses to create and sell ebooks together.

Grant writing

You can write grant proposals for non-profit organizations, schools, and other institutions to secure funding for their projects and programs.

  1. Write grant proposals for non-profit organizations, schools, and other institutions to secure funding for their projects and programs.
  2. Offer your grant writing services to non-profit organizations and other institutions.
  3. Write grant proposals for businesses or individuals seeking funding for research or development projects.
  4. Write proposals for government grants or contracts.
  5. Work with grant writing consultants or firms to help secure funding for clients.

Resume writing

You can help people improve their resumes and cover letters to increase their chances of getting hired.

  1. Offer resume writing services to job seekers looking to improve their chances of getting hired.
  2. Write cover letters and LinkedIn profiles in addition to resumes.
  3. Offer career coaching and consulting services to help job seekers with their job search.
  4. Write resumes for executives and other high-level professionals.
  5. Create resume templates and other job search resources that job seekers can purchase.

Screenwriting

If you enjoy writing scripts for movies, television shows, or plays, you can sell your scripts or pitch them to production companies.

  1. Write scripts for movies, television shows, or plays and sell them to production companies.
  2. Offer your screenwriting services to production companies or individual filmmakers.
  3. Participate in screenwriting competitions or pitch your scripts to agents or managers.
  4. Write scripts for video games or other interactive media.
  5. Write treatments or outlines for movie or television ideas and pitch them to studios or production companies.

Speechwriting

You can write speeches for politicians, executives, and other public figures.

  1. Write speeches for politicians, executives, and other public figures.
  2. Offer your speechwriting services to businesses, organizations, and individuals.
  3. Write wedding speeches or other types of special occasion speeches.
  4. Write eulogies or other types of memorial speeches.
  5. Write and sell scripts or templates for speeches that can be customized for different audiences and occasions.

“From freelance writing to e-book publishing and more, there are countless ways to make money as a writer online. Find the right fit for you and start earning an income from your writing skills.”

Social media management

You can manage the social media accounts for businesses and create content for their platforms.

  1. Manage the social media accounts for businesses and create content for their platforms.
  2. Offer your social media management services to a variety of businesses, from small startups to large corporations.
  3. Create and manage social media campaigns for businesses, including advertising and influencer partnerships.
  4. Write and schedule social media posts for businesses or individuals.
  5. Analyze and report on the performance of social media campaigns for businesses.

Transcription

You can transcribe audio and video files into written documents for businesses and individuals.

  1. Transcribe audio and video files into written documents for businesses and individuals.
  2. Offer your transcription services to journalists, researchers, and other professionals who need audio or video content transcribed.
  3. Transcribe medical or legal documents for professionals in those fields.
  4. Transcribe podcasts or other audio content for online publication.
  5. Offer your transcription services to students and academic researchers who need audio or video interviews transcribed for their research projects.

Translation

If you speak multiple languages, you can translate written content from one language to another.

  1. Translate written content from one language to another for businesses and individuals.
  2. Offer your translation services to translation agencies or work with clients directly.
  3. Translate websites, marketing materials, and other business documents for international clients.
  4. Translate legal or medical documents for professionals in those fields.

Travel writing

You can write about your travels and get paid by travel magazines, websites, and blogs.

  1. Write about your travels and get paid by travel magazines, websites, and blogs.
  2. Offer your travel writing services to businesses, such as hotels, airlines, and tour operators.
  3. Write travel guides or create travel-related content for websites or publications.
  4. Write travel-themed articles or blog posts for a variety of publications.
  5. Write travel-related ebooks or other digital products and sell them online.

Video script writing

You can write scripts for video content, such as documentaries, commercials, and explainer videos.

  1. Write scripts for video content, such as documentaries, commercials, and explainer videos.
  2. Offer your video script writing services to production companies or individual filmmakers.
  3. Write scripts for corporate video content, such as training videos or promotional videos.
  4. Write scripts for educational videos or e-learning courses.
  5. Write scripts for video games or other interactive media.

“If you’re looking to turn your writing skills into a source of income, there are plenty of opportunities available online. From content marketing to social media management, discover the best strategies for monetizing your writing skills and achieving success as a writer.”

Web content writing

You can write website content for businesses, including product descriptions, landing pages, and blog posts.

  1. Write website content for businesses, including product descriptions, landing pages, and blog posts.
  2. Offer your web content writing services to a variety of businesses, from small startups to large corporations.
  3. Write articles, blog posts, and other types of content for websites and online publications.
  4. Write SEO-optimized content to help businesses improve their search engine rankings.
  5. Write and edit content for ecommerce websites, including product descriptions and category pages.

White paper writing

Discover how to write a white paper step-by-step

You can write research-based documents for businesses to use as marketing materials or for educational purposes.

White papers are a document that presents information about a specific topic in a clear, concise manner. White papers are often used by businesses and organizations to present research and analysis on a particular issue or problem, and to provide recommendations or solutions based on that research.

White papers are typically longer than articles or blog posts and are more in-depth and detailed in their treatment of a subject. They are often used to educate readers about a particular topic or to persuade them to take a specific action, such as adopting a new policy or purchasing a product or service.

White papers can be found in a variety of industries and sectors, including business, technology, healthcare, and government. They are often used as marketing materials or as part of a content marketing strategy to demonstrate the expertise and knowledge of a business or organization.

  1. Write research-based documents for businesses to use as marketing materials or for educational purposes.
  2. Offer your white paper writing services to businesses, consulting firms, and other organizations.
  3. Write white papers on technical or industry-specific topics for trade publications or websites.
  4. Write white papers for academic or research institutions.
  5. Sell white papers as standalone products or as part of a larger package of content marketing materials.

Case Studies

Case studies are a type of research that involves a detailed examination of a specific subject, such as a person, group, event, or organization. They are often used to illustrate a specific point or provide examples of how a theory or concept applies in practice.

Case studies are often used in business and marketing to demonstrate the effectiveness of a product or service, and they can be used to showcase the results that a business has achieved for its clients. They can also be used in academia to demonstrate the application of a particular theory or concept, or to provide insight into a specific issue or problem.

In addition to being used for research and education, case studies are also frequently used as marketing materials, as they can help businesses to demonstrate the value of their products or services to potential clients.

  1. Write case studies for businesses to use as marketing materials or for educational purposes.
  2. Offer your case study writing services to businesses, consulting firms, and other organizations.
  3. Write case studies on technical or industry-specific topics for trade publications or websites.
  4. Write case studies for academic or research institutions.
  5. Sell case studies as standalone products or as part of a larger package of content marketing materials.

Writing coaching

Being a writing coach involves helping individuals improve their writing skills and achieve their writing goals. This can involve working with writers one-on-one, leading writing workshops or retreats, or creating and selling online courses or ebooks on writing-related topics.

As a writing coach, you might work with writers of all levels, from beginners looking to develop their skills to experienced writers looking to improve specific areas of their craft. You might also work with writers who are seeking guidance on specific writing projects, such as completing a book or developing a writing portfolio.

To be a successful writing coach, you should have a strong understanding of the writing process and be able to provide helpful feedback and guidance to your clients. You should also be able to communicate effectively and be able to tailor your coaching to the individual needs and goals of each writer you work with.

  1. Offer writing coaching and consulting services to help individuals improve their writing skills and achieve their writing goals.
  2. Work with writers one-on-one to help them develop their writing skills and achieve their writing goals.
  3. Create and sell online courses or ebooks on writing-related topics.
  4. Lead writing workshops or retreats for writers.
  5. Write articles, blog posts, or other content on writing-related topics and sell them to publications or websites.

Online Writing Five FAQs

What is the first step I should do right now if I want to earn money online as a writer today?

If you want to earn money online as a writer, the first step you should take is to assess your skills and experience. Consider your writing interests and areas of expertise, and think about what types of writing you would be most interested in doing. This will help you to identify potential opportunities and target your efforts effectively.

Once you have a clear idea of what you want to write about, the next step is to create a portfolio of your writing work. This can include writing samples, published articles or blog posts, or any other writing you have done that demonstrates your skills and abilities.

You can then start looking for online writing jobs or opportunities to pitch your writing services to potential clients. This might involve applying for writing jobs on job boards or freelance marketplaces, reaching out to businesses and individuals directly, or creating your own blog or website to showcase your writing and attract clients.

Finally, it’s important to be persistent and keep marketing yourself and your writing services. Building a successful writing career takes time, but by consistently seeking out new opportunities and building your skills, you can increase your chances of success.

What should I do next?

If you want to earn money online as a writer, there are a few steps you can take to get started:

  1. Assess your skills and experience: Consider your writing interests and areas of expertise, and think about what types of writing you would be most interested in doing. This will help you to identify potential opportunities and target your efforts effectively.
  2. Create a portfolio of your writing work: This can include writing samples, published articles or blog posts, or any other writing you have done that demonstrates your skills and abilities.
  3. Look for online writing jobs or opportunities: This might involve applying for writing jobs on job boards or freelance marketplaces, reaching out to businesses and individuals directly, or creating your own blog or website to showcase your writing and attract clients.
  4. Marketing yourself and your writing services: Building a successful writing career takes time, but by consistently seeking out new opportunities and building your skills, you can increase your chances of success.

It can also be helpful to seek out resources and guidance from other writers, such as joining writing groups or seeking out writing coaches or mentors. By networking and learning from others, you can gain valuable insights and support to help you succeed as a writer.

What is the easiest way to make money today with online writing?

It’s difficult to say what the easiest way to make money with online writing is, as it will depend on your skills, experience, and interests. However, there are a few ways you can potentially earn money with online writing that may be easier to get started with, depending on your circumstances. These include:

  1. Freelance writing: One way to make money with online writing is by offering your writing services as a freelancer. You can find freelance writing work through job boards, social media, or by reaching out to businesses and individuals directly.
  2. Blogging: If you have an area of expertise or a passion for a particular topic, you can start a blog and monetize it through advertising, sponsorships, or selling products or services.
  3. Content mills: Content mills are websites that hire writers to create content on a variety of topics. While the pay may not be as high as other types of writing work, content mills can be a good way to get started and build your portfolio.
  4. Affiliate marketing: If you have a blog or website, you can make money by promoting products or services and earning a commission when someone makes a purchase through your link.
  5. Self-publishing: If you have a book or ebook idea, you can self-publish and sell your work through platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or Kobo Writing Life.

What are the highest paying online writing jobs?

The highest paying online writing jobs will depend on a variety of factors, including your level of experience, your writing skills, the type of writing you do, and the demand for your writing services. Here are a few types of online writing jobs that can potentially be high paying:

  1. Technical writing: Technical writers often create user manuals, instructional materials, and other types of technical documentation. This type of writing typically requires a high level of expertise and attention to detail, and it can be well-paid.
  2. Grant writing: Grant writers create proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations, schools, and other institutions. This type of writing requires research skills and the ability to clearly articulate the needs and goals of the organization.
  3. Resume writing: Resume writers create professional resumes and cover letters for job seekers. This type of writing requires strong writing skills and the ability to present a person’s work history and skills in the best light.
  4. Screenwriting: Screenwriters create the scripts for movies, television shows, and plays. This type of writing can be highly competitive, but it can also be well-paid if you are able to sell your scripts to production companies or studios.
  5. Marketing writing: Marketing writers create content for businesses to use in their marketing and advertising efforts, such as website content, social media posts, and email campaigns. This type of writing typically requires strong writing skills and an understanding of how to craft effective marketing messages.

Which online writing can I do with no writing experience?

Here are a few types of online writing that you may be able to do with no writing experience:

  1. Content mills: Content mills are websites that hire writers to create content on a variety of topics. While the pay may not be as high as other types of writing work, content mills can be a good way to get started and build your portfolio.
  2. Blogging: If you have an area of expertise or a passion for a particular topic, you can start a blog and share your knowledge and insights with others. While you may not make a lot of money at first, blogging can be a good way to build your writing skills and establish yourself as an authority in your field.
  3. Social media management: Many businesses are looking for help with managing their social media accounts, including creating and scheduling posts. If you have strong writing skills and are comfortable using social media platforms, this could be a good opportunity to get started with online writing.
  4. Transcription: Transcribing audio and video files into written documents can be a good way to get started with online writing, as it doesn’t require a lot of creative writing experience.
  5. Editing and proofreading: If you have a good eye for detail and are comfortable spotting errors in written content, you may be able to find work as an editor or proofreader. This type of work typically requires strong writing skills, but it may not require as much creative writing experience.

It’s important to keep in mind that, while these types of online writing jobs may be more accessible for those with little or no writing experience, building your writing skills and gaining experience will likely be key to advancing your career and increasing your earning.

We hope you’ve found the strategies for making money online useful and motivating. We hope they’ll equip you with the insights and tools needed to help you succeed as a new author.

Writing is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. You don’t have to go it alone. We’re excited to continue the journey with you, providing guidance and encouragement every step of the way. Our goal is to provide basic insights and practical advice to help you navigate the writing world with increased confidence.

If you have a draft you want to publish, and wonder how AI can help, read, Is Your Book Ready to Self-Publish? Lastly, for help writing a non-fiction book, read Write Your First Non-Fiction eBook: a 30-Day Workbook for Getting It Done.

 

Don’t wait. Start today!

How can we help? To let us know, please fill out our contact form. Happy writing!

 

Similar Posts