Making a living as a writer can be challenging, especially when you’re just starting out.
While pursuing your writing career, it helps to have a reliable day job to pay the bills.
Day jobs allow you to make decent money while leaving enough time and creative energy for your writing passion.
So in this guide, I want to share the 13 best day jobs I’ve discovered for people like you who are chasing the writing dream while still needing to make a decent income each month.
I’ll give you the inside scoop on what the jobs really involve and how writer-friendly they are.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
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Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Day Jobs
When evaluating potential day jobs for writers, keep these key factors in mind:
1. Time
Make sure the job leaves you sufficient time each day or week to focus on writing. Some roles with regular 9-5 office hours may sap your energy while jobs with flexibility can work around your writing routine.
2. Networking Opportunities
Some day jobs put you in contact with people who could further your writing career down the road. Roles in publishing, media, and education tend to provide the most connections.
Networking opportunities are crucial for advancing your writing career. Consider leveraging tools like LinkedIn to connect with potential collaborators and industry professionals effortlessly.
3. Attention
Look for jobs that aren’t mentally draining, so you can bring your best mental focus to writing after work. Physical work or routine tasks are less taxing than jobs requiring lots of focus and decision-making.
4. Creative Energy
The best jobs allow you to leave work and still have the motivation and inspiration to write. Office jobs with rigid schedules or stifling environments can crush your creative spirit.
5. Money
Obviously, you want a job that pays decently, even if it’s just temporary. Look for roles that pay well per hour and offer opportunities to pick up extra shifts or projects.
Types Of Jobs For Creative Writers
There are two main categories of jobs for writers:
13 Best Day Jobs For Writers in 2023
Now let’s dive into the 13 best day jobs for writers that you should consider for 2023.
1. Freelance Writing/Ghostwriting
One of the most popular part-time jobs for writers is freelance writing and ghostwriting.
As a freelancer, you can make $30-70/hr writing blogs, website copy, ebooks, scripts, business materials, and more for clients.
Companies worldwide hire English freelancers, no matter your niche expertise.
But before going towards this route you have to decide which type of freelance writer you want to be, as there several types and each does different things.
For eg. a freelance blog writer will write blogs for different websites while a freelance YouTube script writer will write video scripts for YouTube videos
The benefits:
This is an ideal creative writing job since it provides both income and writing experience.
Start by joining sites like Upwork and Fiverr or reaching out directly to businesses that are looking for writers.
2. Virtual Assistant
If you’re organized and tech-savvy, a virtual assistant role can be a lucrative remote day job for writers.
As a VA, you’ll provide admin support like email management, data entry, scheduling, and basic web/graphic design for clients worldwide.
The pros:
Sign up on sites like Upwork and PeoplePerHour to find virtual assistant jobs that work with your schedule.
Just be sure to only accept projects within your skill set so you can deliver quality.
3. Copywriter
Copywriting involves writing marketing materials like emails, ads, website pages, and more to promote brands.
As a copywriter, you can make $40-$60/hr writing compelling content that drives engagement and sales.
Wait, Isn’t the copywriting industry dead after the introduction of AI technology like chatGPT?
Not at all, the industry isn’t dead but the way of working has changed.
Do you think business owners who do millions of turnovers every single year will sit in front of their laptop, open up chatGPT and write their marketing copies?
NO !!!
They still need copywriters who can leverage technology like chatGPT to create marketing materials for them to grow their business.
The upsides:
Many copywriters start on Upwork or with an internship before moving to full-time gigs.
Develop a portfolio of sample emails, landing pages, and social posts to showcase your skills.
4. Youtube Script Writer
You can leverage your writing talents to create scripts for popular YouTube channels and personalities.
These script-writing jobs can pay $20-$70 per video and allow you to work from anywhere.
Why it’s great:
Reaching out directly to Youtubers (using their email) is even better, as the pay is often higher when you bypass freelance sites.
Offer to write 1-2 trial scripts so they can see your style in action.
Try to email 100 YouTubers and I can guarantee you will easily land 2-3 clients.
5. Proofreader
Every author knows many drafts of proofreading and editing go into publishing a book.
As a freelance proofreader, you can make $25-$45/hr correcting others’ writing and earning income from your keen editing eye.
Sign up on sites like Scribendi and Proofed to find proofreading gigs from indie authors, agencies, companies and more.
6. Teaching
Teaching English abroad or locally provides a stable income source and summertime off for writing.
Most programs only require a bachelor’s degree, TEFL certification, and native English skills.
Benefits include:
Look for teaching jobs on sites like DavesESLcafe, CheggTutors, and within local school districts.
7. Librarian
Think about it: as a writer, working in a library is like being a kid in a candy store. You’re surrounded by books all day, in a super cozy spot.
Plus, you get to chat with all kinds of people, which can give you awesome ideas for your stories.
And here’s a cool fact: According to U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, librarians earn around $61,660 a year on average, which is about $29.65 an hour.
Not too shabby, right?
Plus, you mostly work regular hours, so you’ll know when you have time to write.
And the best part?
You’re in charge of what you do each day, and you’re always learning something new.
So, if you’re a writer, being a librarian isn’t just a job, it’s like a backstage pass to endless inspiration!
8. Babysitting and Pet Sitting
There’s something magical about being in the company of children’s innocent laughter or the soothing presence of pets.
The flexible schedule these roles offer is unmatched. Instead of being tied to a desk from 9-to-5, sitters often enjoy breaks that can be used for writing.
And talk about inspiration!
Children, with their boundless creativity, can ignite fresh story ideas, while pets, with their unique antics, can inspire memorable characters.
On the financial side, it’s promising. Data from Care.com suggests that babysitters can earn above the minimum wage.
Meanwhile, pet sitters, as noted by Petful, not only earn well but also experience the joy of bonding with different animals.
Forming connections with kids and pets can counteract the loneliness that writers sometimes feel.
So, for writers looking for a fulfilling day job, babysitting or pet sitting could be the perfect fit!
9. Bookstore Jobs
Imagine being a writer and having your workspace nestled among stories from every corner of the world.
A bookstore isn’t just a retail space; it’s a hub of creativity and knowledge.
Every customer you assist might share a book recommendation, giving you a fresh perspective or a new story idea.
And here’s something to consider: According to Payscale, the average salary for a bookstore manager is around $35,746 a year.
Not only do you earn a decent paycheck, but many bookstores also offer employee discounts.
That means more books for your personal library without breaking the bank!
Plus, there’s the joy of being the first to see new releases and the chance to attend book signings or author events.
For a writer, working in a bookstore isn’t just about the pay; it’s about being part of a community that values stories and the art of storytelling
10. Waiter/Waitress
Waiting tables at restaurants, bars, banquet halls, etc. is often touted as the classic writer’s day job.
It offers flexible schedules, cash tips, and solid income from shorter shifts. No wonder so many famous authors started out as waiters!
Seeking jobs at famous restaurants, bas often results in bigger tips for fewer hours worked. Those tips can fund writing conferences and editing services.
11. Blue Collar Labor
Construction, landscaping, and trade jobs provide hands-on work outdoors along with ample time off.
The physical nature prevents mental burnout for writing afterwards.
Considerations:
- Usually hire entry-level, pay $15-$25/hour
- Work intently during day, write at night
- Take winters off (for seasonal roles)
- Develop useful hands-on skills
- Allows switching companies/roles easily
Just avoid hazardous jobs and seek roles with schedule flexibility. Your body may tire but your creative spirit will remain intact.
12. Website Manager
If you have technical skills, you can make $40-$70/hr managing sites for small bloggers, businesses, and e-commerce brands that lack tech expertise.
Hours are flexible and projects provide writing experience.
Make sure you have enough knowledge about – website hosting, security, content, SEO, content management systems, etc before reading out to companies and clients.
13. Social Media Manager
Nearly every modern business needs social media help, making this an in-demand remote writing role.
You can earn $30-$50/hr managing accounts, creating posts, developing content calendars, and monitoring engagement.
Use your writing expertise to grow brands through authentic social engagement.
FAQ On Best Day Jobs For Writers
Here are some FAQs on best part time day jobs for writers.
What do writers do for a day job?
Most writers and aspiring authors work a day job to pay the bills while building their writing career.
Common day jobs for writers include freelancing, teaching, office roles, retail, food service, and blue collar jobs that offer flexibility.
Many authors work part-time gigs that provide enough income to fund their creative projects.
What career are for good writers?
Some of the best careers for skilled writers include copywriter, editor, technical writer, content manager, social media manager, journalist, translator, communications director, marketing professional and more.
These roles allow you to use your writing abilities to earn a steady paycheck while working regular office hours.
How much do writers work per day?
There is no magic number for how much writers should write per day. Full-time authors usually spend 4-6 hours on writing and related tasks daily.
Freelancers often log 2-4 hours while fitting writing around their day job. But any consistent writing time – even 30 minutes a day – adds up over months and years.
Many writers find a set morning routine optimal.
Do most authors have a second job?
Yes, nearly all authors hold a day job or side hustle initially to cover costs while establishing their writing career.
A 2018 study found 65% of published authors derived income from a job outside of writing.
Only 5-10% of writers support themselves fully from writing. Having a flexible, non-draining day job lets you write while still paying the bills.
What are the best jobs for writers?
Some of the best day jobs for writers include library assistant, bookstore clerk, waiter, virtual assistant, social media manager, freelance writer, teacher, proofreader, website manager, and tutor.
These roles provide a stable income to support your writing goals, while leaving you enough mental energy to write during your free hours. Look for remote gigs, shift work, and flexible schedules.
Final Say on Day Jobs for Writers
Finding the ideal day job lets you earn a consistent living while actively working towards your writing dreams.
The roles above are some of the top-paying, most writer-friendly day jobs for 2023.
Look for opportunities that offer schedule flexibility, minimal stress, human interaction, and transferable skills.
With the right day job supporting your true passion, your literary success is within reach!
Hey there! I’m Rohit Lohia, a passionate SEO enthusiast and the proud founder of Branded Bucks. I’m all about helping small business owners achieve success online through my blog. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore ways to make money online and build a thriving digital presence.