Like many writers, I have to supplement my income. My books don’t bring in much money—not enough to make a difference in our budget since my husband retired. I researched what a writer in Canada earns and for which specific type of writing. I figured, nowadays, I could live in Ontario and write remotely for anyone anywhere in Canada. So, I cast my writer’s net wide.
Some of you might be interested in what I discovered. This is my initial search, and pay grades may have changed slightly, as things in our industry often do. Results are primarily from October 2022.
Jobs Available across Canada
Content Writer
A Content Writer is a professional who writes informative and engaging articles to help brands showcase their products. They write on a range of subjects and are responsible for creating the best possible written or visual content, from blog posts to press releases. — Workable
Social Media Specialist
This Social Media Specialist job description template is optimized for posting social media marketing roles in online job boards or careers pages. — Workable
Freelance Writer
Educational background in advertising, marketing, and/or design. A strong portfolio demonstrating conceptual thinking and a variety of writing styles – by media channel, by audience, and more. Strong project leadership and presentation skills. A critical thinker driven to solve problems with creative solutions. A team player with a penchant for organization. — Indeed
Editor
Editors do acquisitions, manuscript and project development, research, structural editing, stylistic editing, rewriting, fact checking, copy editing, picture research, proofreading, indexing, layout and production editing. Professional Editorial Standards describes a number of these key roles. — Editors.ca
Copywriter
Copywriters create engaging and persuasive content for websites, brochures, billboards, emails, catalogues and advertisements. — Workable
Average $54,817 per year full-time employment
Tutor
Tutors work with their students on areas or subjects they need assistance with or help them prepare for an examination. The most common job responsibilities of a private tutor include: working with their students to improve their skills in a specific subject or area. Helping students to set and achieve academic goals. — Indeed
My takeaway
While I have experience in some of these areas, I know I’ll need training before applying for a job with a company. My question is this: Am I prepared to take additional training and spend money on that before I can make a part-time income from one of the above?
My primary income has come from writing workbooks to help other writers on their journey through the process of creating their books and getting published. I enjoy that, and although I don’t make much money from sales, I feel God’s pleasure when someone tells me I helped them. Maybe that’s all the reward I need.
I’ll keep the list handy, but for now, I think I’ll carry on as an independent writer and content creator for more workbooks and occasionally, coach (although my fee seems to be a little on the low side, according to Indeed).
I’d love to hear what you do to supplement your writing income.
Lynne Collier is a writer of stories and poetry. She’s a Christ-following Yorkshire lass living in Ontario. Lynne loves nature and gardening. https://lynnecollier.com/my-books/