Content writing is the creation of content specifically for internet channels, including blogs, social media, e-commerce sites, and more. In the context of the Web, “content” means information that is targeted towards the interests of a desired audience. Because good content writing can improve search engine optimization (SEO) rankings, reach famous influencers, and otherwise increase the prominence of a brand, content marketing has become an important part of marketing and communications strategy for many companies.

While writing for content marketing is similar to traditional copywriting in advertising, it is different in both form and function. Blogs and other pieces of content writing are often hundreds or thousands of words, and seek to deliver free, valuable content to your audience with a goal of attracting them and ultimately turning them into customers. Copywriting is typically focused on shorter advertisements, webpage design elements, and emails that aim to convince the audience to take a specific action like buying a product or signing up for a mailing list.

Despite these differences, content writing and copywriting both rely on many of the same types of good writing skills. Like copywriters, content writers must be able to write with both creativity and clarity, and they must possess excellent editing skills to meet word counts and keep their finished product focused on the goal. And, in the words of leading content writing site Copyblogger, the top professionals in this field must “combine strategic copywriting with great content to get the best of both worlds”.

If you are a writer interested in working in the world of advertising and marketing, a background in content marketing has become an essential part of the job description in the 21st century. With strong writing and editing skills, this career path can offer you fast-paced and engaging work as well as good pay.

Alternatively, if you have an understanding of how content writing fits within today’s marketing landscape, you may become a marketing research analyst or marketing manager. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marketing manager jobs pay a median wage of $135,900 per year, and “advertising managers who can navigate the digital world should have the best prospects.”

Yes, you can! Content writing is native to the internet, just like Coursera’s industry-leading online learning platform. With Coursera, you can take courses covering every aspect of the digital marketing world, including content writing, from top-ranked schools like Northwestern University, and University of Michigan. You can even take a course on content marketing jointly presented by University of California Davis and Copyblogger, a leading authority in the field.