5 qualities you need to become a great content writer (2024)

New Delhi,UPDATED: Mar 9, 2022 16:04 IST

Being a content writer requires excellent written and communication skills. But is that enough? No, not at all! The industry is so competitive that a content writer has to be the best in the field and produce high-quality content to be in demand. That being the case, here we discuss the inherent qualities you need to become a good content writer.

Here are five qualities you need to become a content writer:

1. Ability to research

The first and foremost quality of an incredible content writer is research proficiency. Internet is a hub of resources and knowledge, but not all of it is accurate.

One has to churn out credible information, statistics, and facts to back up your arguments in the content. That's what makes the content a high-quality piece.

Moreover, proper research gives you a fair idea of what to write before putting on your writer's hat. That facilitates you to streamline content in a refined manner.

2. Knowing the target audience

Having a clear picture of your target audience lets you connect with the readers and create lasting impressions.

Additionally, the target audience image models your writing style, word choice, and formatting. Thus, knowing who you are writing for is intrinsic to content creation.

3. Vivid understanding of SEO

There is this writer's joke that if you want to bury a dead body, bury it on the second page of Google. Because no one cares to visit the same.

The crux is, however, incredible the content is, it is useless until and unless it reaches the right audience. That's where SEO comes into play.

SEO or search engine optimization enhances the content as per Google algorithms to get leading SERP rankings.

Consequently, a content writer must be versed in drafting SEO-friendly content, titles, meta descriptions, alt images, and more.

4. Proofreading and editing skills

The first content draft is rarely a perfect piece. And it will seldom be your best work. What more does it require? It yearns for proofreading and editing to weed out all the mistakes and errors, and not only to pick out the errors but also redundant points and over-used words.

While it might not be your favourite thing to do, it sure is an essential step to a quintessential piece of writing. This extra effort gives you a cutting edge and sets you apart from the herd.

5. Spirited organization and management skills

Content writers usually work on multiple assignments and projects simultaneously, especially freelancers. For that matter, reasonable organization and prioritization are crucial to avoid getting knocked in front of clients.

One must make full use of the calendar to schedule priority tasks and set deadlines to manage time.

Likewise, the organization of thoughts is equally essential before setting on the writing trail. Consolidating ideas and thoughts beforehand leads to a free flow of content creation.

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Content writing demands a lot of hard work and perseverance, just like any other job. Although it might seem effortless at first, it requires discipline and skillfulness.

All the aforementioned skills cement the cornerstone of a pro-level content writer. However, one must not be in a rush to acquire these skills all at once. It's no kids play.

Time, patience, and practice will eventually polish your skills and imbue the vital qualities to become a great content writer.

- Article by Vaibhav Kakkar, Founder of IIM Skills

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