According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition, careers for writers, authors and editors are going through a shift in nature. As the demand for online publications and web-based content continues to grow, those of us who write for a living will adjust accordingly. And happily. For me, personally, acquiring a Master's Degree will help with said adjustment.
The employment outlook for us is expected to grow about as fast as average. Competition is extremely stiff in this field, as many people are attracted to it, especially with new media, online publishing, and web content management areas. With the poor state of the economy and current high unemployment rates, it's not surprising that people are drawn to the writing field.
As a graphic designer and business owner (undergrad Art major, English minor), I have worked with many corporate executives (Presidents, small business owners, managers, etc.) who had no writing skills whatsoever, totally taking me by surprise. Twenty years ago, I was so shocked by written correspondence from a few extremely highly paid executives, that - by default - my design business grew to include corporate marketing and communications. I offered them help and was able to get paid for it. That is a beautiful thing.
I have been creating newsletters, brochures, advertising copy, and press releases for many years now and am ready to venture out. I am looking forward to offering the clients in my marketing business new options and services (new media, SEO, etc.), while entering into a realm I haven't yet explored ...fiction. I have several creative ideas I'm hoping to develop, but - at my age (non-traditional, even for grad students!) - there isn't enough time or energy in a day to achieve all these and manage the business. But I will do it. It will take a little time, patience and energy.
I have always had a love for the printed word. I haven't yet bought a Kindle and I'm not sure that I will. I love the feel and smell of paper in a book or newspaper (remember those?) and turning the page as I read. It is not for the money, but the passion for words (and images) that I have chosen the writing field.
So, to my fellow MAPW students, let the courses of nature shift our business. May the words and sentences flow. And may you find your passion and make a decent living along the way!
