Beginner’s Guide to Start a Home-Based Content Writing Business in Singapore
It’s a bit of a fallacy to think that being a content writer is a breeze. There’s certainly a lot more to it than just rewriting Google articles. In fact, starting a home-based content writing business in Singapore requires serious commitment as well as writing skills.
There is no lack of resources online that can pave the way to becoming a content writer. Any enterprising person can quickly pick up the basics of writing and how to monetize this skill. Content writing is a popular freelance or home-based job that most people believe they can cash in on.
The reality is that content writing as a business requires a combination of skill, talent, commitment, and diligence. Simply put, great content writers create great content that is original and well-researched. Their writing is exceptional and credible, while the context is always relevant and informative.
In this guide, we take a closer look at the exciting and lucrative world of content writing. We’ll also explore what’s needed to turn this skill into a successful business.
What Is Home-Based Content Writing Business?
Content writing is the business of writing articles for all types of media but especially for websites. Content marketing specifically employs content to drive or market a product or service.
A great content writer delivers on several tiers of work. The end product is a strategically planned, customer-centric, clear, concise, and relevant write-up. The primary purpose of this content is to persuade the target audience to visit a client’s site.
For the home-based or freelance business, there are specific style guides to follow when creating content. The client’s content team provides these to ensure the most strategic content possible for their company.
Why Choose to Start a Home-Based Content Writing Business in Singapore?
Singapore is a pretty great place to start a business. Regulations are business-friendly and created with entrepreneurial start-ups in mind. Setting up a home-based content writing business in Singapore is as straightforward as it comes. You don’t even need to set up a company to get started; just get writing.
Content writing is a great contender for the best home-based business idea. Start-ups costs are minimal, and you get to work from the comforts of your home. No daily commute, no workplace stress and no uncomfortable dress code to adhere to. You can work from anywhere at any time, have multiple clients and really reap the rewards of hard work.
Further, as a business owner, you don’t have to do any writing yourself. Savvy entrepreneurs can always manage a stable of talented writers who get the work done. You simply have to network and run the business.
Requirements to a Start a Home-Based Content Writing Business
As with most home-based business setups, there are some essentials to keep in mind. Having fast and reliable broadband is axiomatic along with a good laptop. They are the tools of your trade, so do allocate the more significant part of your budget here. Missed deadlines due to digital downtime are unacceptable and bad for business.
Create a writer’s nook as a dedicated workspace in your home. It can help establish routines and get the creative neurons firing.
Ensure that you are computer literate and adept at word processing. Stay current by learning to use digital analytical and editing tools. Some, such as Search Engine Optimization (SEO), plagiarism checks, etc., are free to use. Others may require a small investment but are necessary tools worth the money.
Do consider your target market and niche to your – or your team of writers’ – strengths and talents. You can specialize in resumes, press releases, blogs and guides, industry-style writing, etc. Consider signing up with an agency and taking anything that comes your way.
Guidelines for Starting a Home-Based Content Writing Business in Singapore
You can easily establish any small business in your HDB flat or residence under Singapore’s Home Office Scheme. Rules are simple and include adhering to residential privacy rules such as not causing a nuisance, etc. You will also not be able to use your HDB flat as a registered business address.
No specific license is needed to operate any small business that generates an income for you. In fact, you can start any small business at home provided you keep within the rules. Check out the HDB guidelines and URA guidelines if you are unsure about what you can and can’t do.
Consider having a website, a blog, and other strong social media presence. Work out your rates and create a portfolio of your writing to load onto your site. This is a crucial platform in creating awareness for your business.
How to Grow a Home-Based Content Writing Business?
There’s a cliché to having a successful content writing business – it’s really all about the content. What you write must be informative, engaging, and spot-on relevant to the reader. In our digital economy, where content is an essential business driver, this also includes using digital tools. To break it down, contemporary content needs to be:
- Well researched
- Planned and strategy led
- Target audience-centric
- SEO and keyword relevant
- Original and captivating
It also helps for a content writer to have certain skill sets. Aside from the obvious one of being able to write well, other essential skills include:
- Excellent grammar, editing, and research
- Impeccable time management
- Professional attitude
Hone your skills continuously by writing regularly, reading extensively, and creating viral content. Sign up for online writing courses or attend a writing workshop. You’ll learn new insights, be able to network and promote your business. Don’t forget to get referrals whenever possible.
Conclusion
Starting a home-based content writing business in Singapore is a great way to earn a living. It doesn’t require any professional training, simply writing, learning, and adapting to new content. With persistence, some networking, and an adaptable mindset, you can jumpstart a great writing career.