I am 55 and long years of experience as a stenographer. Is it possible to switch over my career to content writer ? Where will I get training. Kindly enlighten me. Mohan

Ans: Creatives / videos/ reel etc. are in demand these days and this would continue for the foreseeable future. You can do a course in this and earn a good monthly income.

Ans: Certainly! Content writing is a rewarding field, and it’s never too late to start. Here are some steps and tips to help you embark on your content writing journey:

Read, Read, Read:
Immerse yourself in various types of content. Read articles, blogs, and books across different genres and styles. Pay attention to writing techniques, tone, and structure. Reading helps you learn and stay inspired.
Know What You Want to Write:
Define your interests and niche. What topics resonate with you? Are you passionate about travel, health, technology, or lifestyle? Knowing your focus will guide your content creation.
Write, Write, Write:
Practice is key! Start writing regularly. It’s okay if your initial drafts aren’t perfect. The more you write, the better you’ll become. Experiment with different formats like blog posts, social media content, or product descriptions.
Keep Tone, Voice, and Perspective Consistent:
Develop a consistent writing style. Consider whether you want to sound formal, conversational, or authoritative. Your tone and voice should align with your target audience.
Care About Keywords:
If you’re writing for the web, understanding basic SEO (search engine optimization) is crucial. Research relevant keywords and incorporate them naturally into your content.
Don’t Care Too Much About Keywords:
While keywords matter, don’t sacrifice readability for SEO. Focus on creating valuable content that engages readers. Quality always trumps keyword stuffing.
When In Doubt, Add More Formatting:
Break up long paragraphs, use subheadings, bullet points, and images. Formatting makes your content visually appealing and easier to digest.
Strive to One-Up the Competition:
Research what others are writing about in your niche. Find gaps or areas where you can provide unique insights or a fresh perspective.
Don’t Be Afraid of Tools:
Use tools like grammar checkers, plagiarism detectors, and content management systems. They enhance your writing process and improve quality.
Finish With a Proofread:
Before publishing, proofread your content meticulously. Correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. A polished piece reflects professionalism.
Develop a Style:
Over time, you’ll develop your own writing style. Be authentic, and let your personality shine through your words.
Remember, experience is your best teacher. Start writing, explore different topics, and enjoy the creative process. Best of luck on your content writing journey

Ans: Dear Sir/ Madam,

Most important thing is to be proactive in what you do. Few aspects to look at-

Focus more on continuous learning
Diversify your skills
Build a strong portfolio
Network and collaborate
Focus on your personal branding across all platforms
Seek for support, mentoring and guidance if needed
Look for freelancing/ consulting options as well

All the best.

Hope this helps and all the best

To Your Success
Thanks and Regards
Ashwini Dasgupta
Author of Confidence Decoded. Is it a Skill or Attitude?