Professional writers develop original content for various media to convey information to audiences. They work in fields like publishing, marketing, journalism, and more. The document outlines the types of professional writing, educational and technical requirements, job growth projections, and median pay for different writing roles. It concludes that while a college degree is preferred, the field will continue growing due to technology and demand for online content.

1. Professional
Writing
Employment outlook,
trends, and statistics for
professional writers

2. What is a Professional Writer?
Professional writers use their skills to clearly
convey information in a way that is easily
understood for their intended audience. Their
main job is to develop original content for
advertisements, books, magazines, movie, and
television scripts, songs, and web sites.
Professional writers are employed in such fields
as publishing, marketing, technical
communications, journalism, education,
corporate communication, public relations,
creative writing, editing, and many more.

3. Types of Professional Writing
 Technical Publications  Non-Fiction
 Copywriter  Critical Reviews
 Novels  Short Fiction
 Magazine Articles  Biographers
 Poetry  Playwrights

4. Educational Requirements
A college degree is required for salaried
positions as a writer or author.
 No college degree is required for entry
level positions, although it is preferred.
 Competency with
computers, software, and communication
devices is necessary.
 As online publications and services
continue to grow, there is increased
demand for writers with web and
multimedia experience.

5. Job Growth/Outlook Between
2010 and 2020
180
Number of Jobs by
160
140
120
Thousands
100
80
60
40
20
0
Reporters &
Writers and Technical
Correspon
Authors Writers
dents
Number of Jobs in
145,900 49500 58500
2010
Number of Jobs in
154400 58000 55300
2020

6. 2010 Median Pay for
Professional Writers
Annual Median Salary
$63,280
$55,420
$36,000
Writers and Authors Technical Writers Reporters &
Correspondents

7. Conclusion
The professional writing industry is a fast growing
field which includes a variety of different types
of employment. It requires strong writing skills, an
ability to adapt to changing environments and
technology, and a college education is
preferred. However, there will be continued
demand for professional writers, especially with
the growth of technology and online
publications and services.
References:
"Home : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics." U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Web. 01 June 2012. <http://www.bls.gov/ooh/>.