Thank you for re-joining me today, readers and faithful followers. It’s a pleasure to re-connect. I hope you’ve had a fun summer, filled with passion projects and relaxing times.
Now that you’re back on the scene, let’s get busy exploring today’s timely topic. Shall we?
WHY BEING A WRITER STILL MATTERS
We are living in uncertain times. A day and age when automation, technology, and Artificial Intelligence threatens to eliminate long-held jobs and institutions. To redefine our very existence.
With it, things can be done faster, bigger, cheaper than decades before. The digital age (and modern technology) has shaped the way we shop, transact business, read, interact, etc.
We can “visit” the doctor’s office, without actually showing up and getting undressed, courtesy of Zoom and tele-conferences. While Robots can even perform dreaded grunt work, like vacuuming. Time has indeed brought about a change.
But what does all this mean for writers in evolving times?
Well, writers are a mainstay. Writers will always be relevant and required.
Particularly solid, skilled, professional writers and bloggers. Contrary to the many misleading ads that maintain that all you need to become a successful writer is “command of the English language and a computer connection.” Writing is complex, with many moving parts. It's not for everyone, my friend.
According to a recent article on the subject, at Forbes.com: ”Yes, Robots do a lot of amazing things, but one thing they will never be able to do is write like a person. AI writing tends to be mechanical and formulaic—which is fine for technical writing, but problematic when you need to convey warmth and authenticity in order to engage readers and build trust.”
With this in mind,
HERE’S WHY REAL WRITERS WILL STILL BE RELEVANT AND IN DEMAND IN TIMES AHEAD…
1). Real, quality writing, (and those who possess this ability) can evoke real emotions. This level of creativity and type of writing brings real magic to the motion pictures, soap operas, stage plays, documentaries, that entertain and enhance us. Bringing in millions of bucks at the box-office and to popular TV networks. And there’s no “app” for that.
2). Real, quality writing does more than connect words and sentences. It connects the “dots” to provide a big picture perspective, and life lessons--much like a jigsaw puzzle. It connects people. It connects stories.
3). Real, quality writing requires analytical ability and other important skill sets that can‘t be duplicated or eliminated.
Still, there’s no denying, that with the advent of A.I., today’s writer must become more innovative and intentional regarding their content strategy, to stay in the game and remain profitable.
HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO DO SO:
1). TAKE ONLINE CLASSES TO EXPAND YOUR SKILL-SET AND KNOWLEDGE BASE.
Whether it’s classes on SEO Writing, proofing and editing or copywriting techniques. Know more to grow more!
2). READ.
Serious writers recognize the importance of reading to expand their vocabulary, to study different literary devices, and to identify the needs of an audience. Read books on craft, literary magazines or popular niche blogs, to stay informed.
3). STAY CURIOUS.
My mom used to say that you’re never too old to learn something new. And with the vast array of resources available today, there’s no better time.
4). DABBLE.
Creatively speaking...try a little this. Try a little that.
Besides making you a more interesting writer, it’ll make you a more interesting person at cocktail parties. If that’s possible. :-)
ON A PERSONAL NOTE HERE...
I have had the pleasure, in the vast span of my professional career, of exploring many different genres and creative projects. From publishing poetry, to obituary writing, to copywriting, to ghost writing, to penning relationship columns. This has helped tremendously, in building my portfolio and my bank account.
It can do the same for you, too.
IN CLOSING
Though writers can sometimes be under-valued, under-paid, and emulated, we will never truly be replaced or obsolete. Even with many print publications folding and A.I. in place.
Keep practicing your craft. Keep being your best. That's the best way to ultimately provide job security, even in these changing times.
Thoughts? Agree or disagree?
Image credits: Pixabay.com
