Writing for the Web

Apr 23 2008

It's a recession.  But each day more Web sites spring up.  And some of those sites need writers.  Are you qualified?

Writers should not be afraid to apply for Web writing positions.  Each site is a different story, but a writer with imagination can add value to almost any form of media.

I was not so certain of this when I agreed to write and edit content for a new shopping site, DiamondPriceGuru.com.  The main page allows anyone to design a diamond (shape, size, cut, color, etc.) and see where it is available and at what price.  The information can save a shopper thousands of dollars--but what use would the site have for a writer with zero background in the jewelry industry?

In conversations with the founders, I learned the site really did need a writer, and they would prefer a writer with a mixed background of experience.  Assembling people's proposal stories is like writing memoirs or even short stories.  Editing the section on how to save money on a diamond purchase brings out the research reporter in me.  I even enjoyed researching and writing a segment on conjoint analysis, and in the future I will write replies to frequently asked questions. 

As more sites add interactive components, they'll demand writers who can call on a diverse background of writing styles.  A person who has cross-industry experience--reporting, fictional writing, blogging, poetry--can show talent and the ability to serve many functions for the any site.