Are there any writing jobs without a college degree?

Question

I'm not an excellent writer, but I'm creative. I have written several song lyrics that my friends and family say are really good. I've made up a rap for Taco Bell that's pretty good too. I have written poetry in the past, which people liked as well. I want to find some kind of job that allows me to write creatively without having to go to school for 2 or 4 years. I've had college experience, but I don't want to change my major. Maybe writing slogans for companies or help them write advertisements and brochures. Can someone please lead me in the right direction, so I can try to put my writing skills to good use? I'm not excellent at what I do, but I want a company that would work with me because I like to write.

Answer 1

There are lots of people out there with college degrees trying to get writing jobs, so it's going to be hard for you to compete against them for jobs.

Not impossible, though, because ultimately it's the writing that counts.

One way is to try freelancing yourself into a job. Go get a copy of Writer's Market from the library or buy one. http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksea...  

Also Songwriter's Market http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksea...

For ad copy and related writing: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Cop...

This one is different from the books above. It's more of a how-to than a directory. I read it a long time ago, was very impressed by it (but not interested in doing it).

You can also start out doing some writing on a volunteer basis to get both writing samples and references. For example, a non-profit may need some articles for their newsletter or brochures or ads.

Or maybe small businesses run by people who don't speak great English. Have you ever noticed how badly most Chinese take-out menus are written? They order them from some other Chinese business, one that prints the menus, but the writers must be Chinese speakers, because the English in them is terrible. Surely there's an opportunity there.

About not being an excellent writer: You'll naturally improve with practice, and when money starts coming in, you'll feel a professional pull to hone your craft. Your posted question is already better-written than most people manage in a business letter, I kid you not.

Answer 2

Freelance writing... Just keep submitting your writing to different places.

Answer 3

A company will not work with you because you like to write.  They will work with you because you are productive and that helps them prosper.

Talk to someone in advertising and ask for suggestions.  Also work on a positive attitude.  If you don't believe in you, who will?