Through reading this guide you will understand a lot more details on how to become a screenwriter.

You will need to develop your talent in your spare time. You will need spec script examples. To get hired you might also need to find contacts in the industry through working as a writers assistant or from networking and entering script competitions.

Full-time Writer Jobs - Full-time screenwriting jobs are mainly for TV (these could be rolling contracts). Especially recurring TV series such as soap operas and day time shows. These jobs are advertised on companies own websites. For UK screenwriters the BBC often hires check out the Writers Academy Course. Other full-time writers jobs might be for commercials and creative agencies.

Feature Film Jobs – Selling an original feature film script is especially difficult. This could happen later in your career after you have built your reputation as a writer. You will need to find an agent/manager which could lead to more work.

Sam Wilson goes into more detail on the differences between agents and managers here. Occasionally a win at a major script competition can lead to getting your film produced.

Drama Series Jobs – If you want to work on a drama series, perhaps for a TV company or Netflix. You need to once again have spec script examples, and perhaps work within the industry to make those right contacts.

Getting any writing job is about convincing people that you can be trusted to do the job well.

Independent Jobs – There are a lot of indie producers and directors are looking for screenplays. Through working on indie productions and networking, you could meet the right group of people to help you make your film. A successful indie film could lead to further opportunities as a writer.

I hope this guide helps you understand how to have a career as a screenwriter. It is not as simple as writing one screenplay and selling it straight to Hollywood. Screenwriting is a very competitive job role, you will need to convince producers you are a talented writer who can be trusted to do the job well.

Did I miss anything?

What type of screenwriter do you aspire to be?

Which of these work routes above will you be taking?

Let me know in the comments below right now -

Resources - Highlander 2 App | Scriptnotes Podcast | Any Possibility Blog |ScreenSkills Screenwriter Job Description | BBC Writers Room |No Film School - How to sell a screenplay

