Author
Job Description:Authors produce written creative work, including novels and non-fiction books, children’s books, or poetry.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could write either fiction or non-fiction, in genres such as novels, short stories, plays or poetry. You could choose a writing specialism, like writing children’s books, travel or technical writing.
You could also write features for newspapers, magazines, radio, film or television, or hold a blog or other social media.
Depending on your role, your day-to-day duties might include:
- choosing a subject based on personal interest, or on a commission given by agents or publishers
- coming up with themes, ideas or plots
- researching information using the internet, libraries and personal interviews
- submitting your draft to a publisher, either speculatively or through an agent
- revising your work after getting feedback
- pursuing publishing opportunities
- 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
As an established writer, you’ll attend book signings, readings and discussions of your work, or run writing workshops.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of English language
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- 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 (creativity)
- ambition and a desire to succeed
Entry Requirements:
There are no set requirements.
You’ll need to:
- be able to come up with ideas that will sell
- have good research skills
- be able to express ideas in a style suited to your intended audience
You’ll also need to have confidence in your writing, be able to accept criticism and remain positive.
There are a number of things you can do to develop your skills, find out more about the world of publishing and promote yourself, like:
- joining a local writers’ group
- entering writing competitions
- blogging
- study Creative writing or English
Should you wish to study through University:
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
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll work on a self-employed, freelance basis. You’ll choose your own working hours, although you may still have to meet publishing deadlines.
Career Path & Progression:
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.