ST. GEORGE — Writing is a worthwhile pastime, but is it something people can actually make money doing?

The answer is yes. In fact, the market is expanding as writing becomes an in-demand skill for many companies, especially as it relates to online businesses. Read on to find out how to make money as a writer.

Freelance writing

What if your sofa was your workspace? That’s the reality for many freelance writers such as Parowan resident Cami Cox. She’s been enjoying this casual office setting for more than 14 years, writing for magazines, newspapers, websites and numerous businesses.

Cox began her journey as a writer when she was presented with an opportunity to try freelancing after being interviewed by a newspaper about her job at a children’s charity. The reporter told Cox they were hiring freelance writers. One assignment with that organization eventually led to full-time job for Cox.

Although Cox has a background in writing, she said would-be writers don’t necessarily need a college degree in journalism.

“The interesting thing, at least in my experience, is in the field of writing, ability can count for a lot more than a degree,” Cox said. “As a newspaper managing editor, I was much more interested in an applicant’s ability to write well, put together a good story and just do the job than whether they had a journalism degree.”

From her sofa workspace, Cox has enjoyed writing for a wide range of businesses. Cox said sites like FlexJobs and UpWork are great places to start hunting for freelance stints. These jobs enable writers to work for companies from all over the world, and in some cases, name the price for their work.

“A writer can seek gigs offered by businesses in higher-paying areas and, resultantly, make more money than they would working only in their local geographic area,” Cox said.

Cox said writers shouldn’t let a lack of experience deter them from trying to get paid for their craft. Everyone must start somewhere. Cox advises writers to consider completing an internship or offer to write a few articles for free so they can start building a portfolio for future employers to view.

Magazine work

Magazines have joined the digital age, with many publications offering both a physical and online product. This spells opportunity for writers who want to dip their toes in the waters of magazine work. St. George City Lifestyle Magazine is one such publication which offers periodicals in a number of areas, including Southern Utah. Local Editor JJ Abernathy said they utilize about 10 freelance writers, offering stipends in exchange for work. Abernathy said they are seeking additional writers who can deliver print-ready material.

“That means they have edited it extensively,” Abernathy said. “We use the Associated Press handbook so they need to be familiar with that.”

Abernathy said a journalism degree isn’t a prerequisite for writing for City Lifestyle Magazine, but passion is.

“That passion, that hook, has to come out at the very beginning of the feature,” Abernathy said. “If the writer is passionate, the reader will pick up on that.”

Abernathy said her publication is willing to take on relatively new writers who can demonstrate their skills and show a willingness to improve upon them. Applicants should provide samples of their writing and indicate if they have expert knowledge in certain subjects.

News reporting

Bridger Palmer is one of the newest reporters on staff at St. George News, covering the education beat. Palmer came to the job with a background working as the editorial assistant at Redlands Community News in California. Palmer said one of the things he likes about St. George News is the flexibility that comes with his schedule.

“I work from home from 8-11 a.m.,” Palmer said. “I find I’m most productive in the morning.”

Palmer said the work he does for St. George News is challenging and interesting.

“The first day on the job, they sent me out to cover a story at Utah Tech,” Palmer said. “Having to ask direct questions that are really important is a skill I’m still developing.”

Although a journalism degree is always helpful, it isn’t a requirement to work at St. George News. Editor-in-Chief Joseph Witham said passion for journalism and a willingness to learn goes a long way when considering applicants. Reporting jobs at St. George News also require multimedia skills such as photography and videography. Already having these skills is a plus, but Witham said on-the-job training is available.

“We’re willing to take complete amateurs in that regard and train them up,” Witham said.

Like many media agencies, St. George News wants to see at least three writing samples, preferably ones that have been published. Witham said a resume that is put together well is also important.

“As a journalist, you have to be able to tell a story concisely,” Witham said. “I’d like to see an ability to do that in a resume as well.”

Witham recommends submitting a tailor-made cover letter along with a resume. St. George News currently has 10 full-time reporters and about five freelancers. Witham said they are always looking for new talent and recommends qualified people get in touch.

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