An entry-level job for grant writers
If you have a background that involves writing or research you should be able to find a career writing grants.
You may want to take on part-time work or freelance jobs while keeping your day job. You need some skills, a computer, and a connection to the internet and you are ready to write some grants.
Grant writing can allow you to have a positive impact on the world.
What companies hire grant writers? What does a grant writer do? Businesses and nonprofit organizations can hire grant writers to get funds for their organization and specific projects.
What is a grant writer?
Grants are funds that are given to organizations by public and private donations. They can be given to help an organization complete a specific task or project. For example, a cancer research company can get a grant to research thyroid cancer. A grant does not have to be paid back but it can only be used for the specific purpose for which it was given.
Grant writer put together the proposal for the organization that is looking for grant money. They can work for the organization and help them get as much funding as possible. Other grant writers work as freelance employees.
It is easy for a grant writer to work from home once they have some experience in the field. There are many opportunities to gain experience.
What kind of tasks are grant writers expected to perform?
Granter writers that work for a company may spend their time looking for grants and applying for them. They may complete all of the paperwork for grants that apply to their organization.
Other things that grant writers may be required to perform include:
A grant writer has to research grants that meet the needs of their client. They need to find grants that will benefit their client and those that are related to their goals.
Grant writers need to follow guidelines for the grants. They will need to follow all of the rules when applying.
A grant writer needs to write a proposal. They will spend their time writing a convincing proposal to help their organization get the grant. They will need to give the company’s story and what the grant money will be used for. They need to contain facts and need to be interesting to stand out from the other companies looking for a grant.
Grant writers will need to work with their clients and they will need to work with donors. They will need to communicate the needs of their clients while answering the questions from donors. A grant writer needs to have exceptional communication skills.
What skills are needed to become a grant writer?
A grant writer needs excellent writing and communication skills. They need to be persuasive. They need to explain why their client needs the money more than the other applicants. They need to proofread their material and may need to have someone edit their work.
They must be able to multitask and have good organizational skills. They may be working with several clients and writing several grants at the same time. A grant writer needs to be able to research proposals since they will need to know about the organization they are writing for.
Step to becoming a grant writer
If you are interested in becoming a grant writer but may not know where to begin there are some steps to help you get started.
Step 1: Study grant writing
For some, this may be an optional set. Many grant writers have a degree in English or a related field. The field does not matter as much as your writing skills.
You need to learn about grant writing and luckily there are many free resources online. Some colleges can also offer grant writing courses. There are certificate programs that you can add to your resume.
The American Grant Writer’s Association has courses in grant writing and a certificate program.
Step 2: Get Experience
You will want to build up some experience.
You should look for volunteer or internship opportunities. You should once again check with the American Grant Writer’s Association since they work with organizations that are looking for people to write their proposals. They will also allow you to find a niche to write in.
Indeed has some opportunities for grant writers. There is some full-time position in addition to contract positions. FlexJobs.com also has some opportunities to help you build up your resume.
You can network with other grant writers. They may know of some entry-level positions. You can also attend conferences and meet people to help you get into the business. You can look on Facebook for grant writers’ groups. You can look for professional grant writers and get advice from those that already have a grant writing career.
Your previous work experience can help you are a grant writer especially if you have worked for a nonprofit. You will know about the industry and may understand a specific niche. You can also ask others in the field for advice.
How much do grant writers make?
Pay will vary based on if you work for a company or if you are self-employed. You can earn a lot of money if you can handle the demands of a large client base.
According to information from Salary.com, a grant writer can make up to $76,500. You pay will vary based on experience, education, certifications, and the area where you live.
A grant writer can earn more than $100 an hour with experience and if they can get results for their clients. If you are just starting you will earn between $40 and $50 an hour.
Advantages and disadvantages of working as a grant writer
Here are some advantages:
a) There is a good chance you would be able to work from home.
b) You can make a good income.
c) You will be able to write for causes you are passionate about.
d) Your work can be interesting and inspiring.
Some of the disadvantages:
a) You may have trouble gaining experience.
b) You will need to handle your taxes and medical benefits if you are self-employed.
c) You need to secure clients.
d) You may have the freedom of self-employment but will need to get your insurance.
How to find a job as a grant writer?
There are several ways that you can get a job as a grant writer. You can try to freelance. There are some tips for getting work.
Develop an online portfolio. This will allow clients to see your work. You should also have a social media account where you can post writing samples.
Check ZipRecruiter, Careerbuilder, and other online job boards. You can even search for grant writing jobs in your area.
You can contact nonprofit organizations and offer to help them to build up your resume.
You can have a Fiverr.com account to find some entry-level work.
You should have your experience on Linkedin.
You should have a profile on FlexJobs.com. You can work with professionals and you will get to develop some experience.
Writing a Grant Writer Resume
You can work with a professional resume writer so that your resume will stand out. You can also aim your experiences towards grant writing. It will help to have someone else look over your resume before turning it into companies.
ResumeWriters.com has helped over 250,00 people in over 70 different areas get a custom resume.
A career in grant writing will have its challenges but you can make some positive changes in the world. If you have the right skills and experience you will be able to enjoy your work and even work from home.
You should have a strong writing background and this will show that you have the skills for the job. Take some time to add experience to your resume and you can be a grant writer in no time.