What does a Business Writer do?

Business Writers create written content related to business topics. One type of Business Writer works for a business publication, either as a freelancer or a staff writer, to produce business pieces on topics their readers enjoy. Other Business Writer careers focus on working for a company and composing reports, proposals and other business documents.

This type of writer is typically a full-time employee of the company. They use their background in business and their writing skills to produce professional pieces on specific business topics. Some business writing has the purpose of educating people on business topics. Other pieces are designed to achieve a specific business function.

Business Writer skills and qualifications

To be successful, Business Writers need several specific skills and qualifications, including:

• Strong writing and grammar skills
• Effective research skills
• Understanding of business topics
• Ability to make complex business topics easy to understand
• Ability to follow business guidelines and change the voice of the writing to match the business or publication
• Strong time-management and multitasking skills
• Creativity to think of new writing topics

Business Writer experience requirements

A Business Writer needs extensive professional writing experience to produce quality content. It also helps to have business experience. Some publications might focus on a particular topic, such as the stock market, so it’s beneficial to have previous job experience in that area. Writing positions often rely heavily on writing samples, so candidates might have the option to prove their experience and skills through a portfolio of related content.

Business Writer education and training requirements

While no standard Business Writer education requirements exist, many companies prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communication or business. Relevant work experience or a strong portfolio can work in place of a degree in many situations. A license or certification in a particular business area can also be beneficial. A Certified Public Accountant would be a good match for a Business Writer position working on accounting topics, for example.

Job description samples for similar positions

If you’re looking for something a little different than a Business Writer, check out these similar job descriptions:

• Copywriter
• Grant Writer
• Technical Writer
• Communications Officer

Business Writer job description FAQs

What qualities make a good Business Writer?

A good Business Writer is analytical and knows how to vet sources to ensure they’re factual. Business Writers understand what their target audience needs or wants and can create that in written form. They’re efficient at juggling multiple writing projects at once. While business writing isn’t considered creative writing, having some degree of creativity to look at issues from different angles or think of new ways to cover them can also be beneficial.

What should you look for in a Business Writer resume?

Check for extensive writing experience, especially on business topics. Professional writing experience in other areas can be useful, but the writer also needs a strong understanding of the business topics they’ll cover. Professional business positions, especially ones that relate to the type of writing they’ll do, can also be a good thing to find on the resume. You might also ask for a few related writing samples or a portfolio in addition to a resume to see their work firsthand.

What makes a good Business Writer job description?

When writing your Business Writer job description, describe the specific types of writing the candidate will do and the topics they’ll cover. Let them know if they’ll be a full-time employee or if this is a freelance position. If it’s freelance, detail the payment method, whether it’s per piece, per word or an hourly rate. Include any details that set your company apart to make it more appealing to candidates. Unique perks and benefits can also make your job description stand out. For example, if you’re hiring for a remote Business Writer position, you might provide a laptop and pay for the person’s home internet service.

Who does a Business Writer report to?

A Business Writer who works for a publication, such as a magazine or journal, typically reports to the editor. Editors typically assign pieces, review work and ask for revisions if necessary. The writer might also have to create proposals for new writing pieces for the editor. A Business Writer who works for a company might report to the manager or the head of the Marketing or Communications department. This can vary based on what specific type of documents the writer produces and who’s in charge of that area.