The process to become a website content writer varies depending on the website and the type of writing the editors are looking for. For many people, however, becoming a website content writer is a good way to start getting clips published and to build up a resume, and can serve as a type of entry-level writing job. Some people can simply apply to become a website content writer and become one, even without too much writing experience; this generally applies to people with college degrees. Others may need to take a writing test or submit previously published clips. Bloggers, who have a portfolio of writing at their fingertips, are often hired as website content writers because of this.
Websites that provide articles or information on highly specific topics, such as finance or medical advice, for example, will naturally want to hire content writers with expertise in a specific field. An individual might need a college degree or a certain number of years of work experience in the field, for instance. These people may often be hired with a fairly simple activation process. It is also important for anyone who wants to become a website content writer to understand specific aspects of writing on the web, such as writing for search engine optimization; any writer who can do this will immediately be more valuable.
Another way to become a website content writer is to go through a longer application and screening process with a website. Many websites wanting to hire writers will develop a writing test for applicants to complete. People who pass the test may then be hired on a trial basis to see if they can be successful at writing content based on the standards of the website. It is important to keep in mind that many website content writers, in fact, nearly all, are hired on a contractual or freelance basis. It is incredibly rare to find full-time work with benefits in this area.
Some aspiring writers have found another way to become website content writers. Starting a blog and updating it regularly with high-quality content is a good way to develop a portfolio of writing that can then be shared with companies. Some companies will even contact bloggers directly and offer them paying opportunities.
Ideally, a person should have a portfolio of published clips, but a portfolio of polished blog entries can sometimes get the job done. Likewise, some sites that pay only based on the amount of hits or advertising revenue an article generates, often provide another way for writers to get a foot in the door, as they often will be willing to take on writers with less experience. Either way, having a portfolio of writing to share will always make it easier to get a writing job.