Niche writers are highly sought after by publications and it’s no secret that businesses are willing to shelve more cash for copywriters who have an authority in their field of expertise than someone who has no clue about what they’re writing.
Wouldn’t you rather hire a writer a retired nurse for a healthcare blog than someone who has no idea about the healthcare system?
Actually, it’s not always the case. Here’s the secret to succeeding in writing when you aren’t an expert in anything: You don’t have to be an expert in anything to succeed in writing. The only skill you need to succeed as a writer is your writing skill. That’s something no one can teach you.
That being said, there are lots of things you can do that will help you succeed in writing when you have zero expertise in any field. Here are some useful tips for writers:
Research, research and more research
Two things will help you become an awesome writer: Your writing skill and lots of research. It’s okay if you don’t know anything about the topic you’re writing. You just need to do ample research and talk to experts in the field. Google is a wonderful tool that can be used to read about any subject. Read articles, blogs and opinionated articles. Then, contact experts in the field to ask for their point of view. In no time, you’ll be able to write an elaborate, well-thought out article.
Similarly, you don’t need to have a college degree in psychology to write about Maslow’s theory of self-actualization or work in finance to pen a blog about mutual funds.
Become a Jack of all trades
I’ve seen several writers who write blogs on varied topics. They aren’t niche writers; they just juggle countless subjects with ease. In fact, this is a good strategy because it enables you to be open to writing about any subject. Would you rather be a Jack of all trades or a master of one?
Being a master in one field is good, but being a Jack of all trades is even better when it comes to the world of freelance writing. One of the most useful tips for writers I’ve come across is to be an expert in multiple fields rather than just one. It increases your employability in a fiercely competitive market.
Sometimes it’s better not to be an expert
To be honest, most editors aren’t willing to hire experts because they are awful writers. Think about it. A veterinary doctor may not necessarily be adept at penning an engaging, reader-friendly and crisp article about veterinary medicine. On the other hand, a writer with little veterinary medicine knowledge may have the writing skills to create an interesting and helpful article.
This is especially true for editors seeking writers to explain how to do something, simplifying complex jargons and giving tips on a subject.
Keep writing on topics you like or know a little about
If you do want to be a bona fide expert in a field, one of the most useful tips for writers that I’ve come across is to write on topics you like or know a little about. Have you ever bought a house? You can certainly write real estate articles. Like sprucing up a room’s décor? You can certainly pen a blog about popular bedsheet designs.
The more you write about something, the more you become an expert in that field.
