We are living in an era that could be called “the communication revolution.” Of course, the mechanics of the written language are the same – spelling, sentence structure, grammar etc. but the mode of delivery has changed, and is continuing to change. Along with the necessary skills of language and writing, these days one has to have a basic knowledge of how to use the Internet, email and certain software to pursue any sort of career involving written English.

Having said that, because of the new technology, there is a plethora of careers available to anyone who has the basic skills and is willing to invest some time to learn any specialist knowledge required. However, with the availability of Spellchecker etc., you don’t even have to be brilliant at spelling.

One of the most obvious career choices involving English writing is that of an author – it could be short stories or a full length novel; fiction or non-fiction; adults or children; general interest or specialist subject. The list is endless. Closely akin to this field is ghostwriting – perhaps more suited to those who have the desire and skill to write but prefer anonymity.

If current events and news items are of interest to you, journalism may be the preferred writing application for you, or if general writing is your thing the opportunities are vast – product reviews, blogging, article writing, rewriting articles etc.

Anyone with specialist knowledge in any field can utilize their expertise and compose articles relevant to their niche – copy writing; web design and web content; technical writing; search engine optimization; educational writing; medical writing; legal writing etc.

English, while being the ‘language of the world’ so to speak, and perhaps being our native language, has to be taught, so a career in teaching English is a plausible option.

For those interested in drama, television and the media, screenwriting is an avenue worth exploring. One of the great benefits of this type of writing is the ability to write how we speak, so the content is more natural and flowing, and easy to follow, and, of course, the screenwriter can get away with using slang and perhaps even sentences/phrases that are not grammatically correct.

However, for some people who may not have had the benefit of a good education but still wish to gain employment, there is a need for people to help them complete application forms, compose resumes and write cover letters. This is an opportunity which may be suited to someone with a secretarial background.

Entrepreneurs and enterprising individuals seeking to form a new company and suchlike will, without doubt, require a business plan if they require financial backing or resources from a bank. While they may have the personality and practical skill to make their commercial venture a success, they may lack the theoretical knowledge or the fluency to formulate an effective business plan. For those with a business background, there is a market for this type of writing.

Editing, proofreading, writing reports, speech writing – it is obvious that from our earliest attempts at writing our name, through school and college years and beyond, writing is a skill that is vital for our career advancement, as well as our personal development. Whatever our chosen career, writing is essential, indeed it could be said that the ability to write – and write well – is the cornerstone upon which we build.

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