Follow along with a content writing project
As a content writer, I’ve been producing blogs for clients since 2018. Wondering what goes on behind the scenes during one of these projects? Here’s the lowdown on how an article goes from concept to publication, via Word Dragon, using an example from one of my long-term clients.
The background
The client, an outplacement provider, currently requests two blog posts from me per month. I’ve worked on two of their websites since launch, as well as on other brands under the same umbrella. They provide briefs for me at the end of each month, to be delivered any time before the end of the following month.
The brief
The client works with an SEO specialist to prepare a comprehensive brief, which will be designed to fill a gap in their blog, appeal to HR professionals, and perform well in Google and AI search rankings.
The brief includes:
- A working title
- A target word count range
- A primary keyword and secondary keywords
- Common questions people search for on this topic
- Notes on other points to consider when writing the article
The writing
There’s nothing worse than staring at a blank page waiting for words to appear, so I start by copying the brief into the blank document. Then I use the common questions provided to decide on the basics that the article needs to cover. I use this to inform some of the sub-titles, with the others decided based on the notes from the client. I might change or add to them later, but now I have a structure and headings for the main paragraphs, rather than a blank document. I highlight the keywords in pink and position them under the headings where I think they’ll fit best, so that I can remember them and weave them in naturally as I write.
Now the writing can begin in earnest. If I’m struggling to get started, I might pick an easy paragraph for a gentle start - otherwise I’ll just dive straight in at the beginning. I’ll research as I go – for this client, I’ve spent a lot of time looking at Australian labour laws and the state of the Australian job market, as well as more universal career topics. I add links to any research and statistics as I use them.
When I’ve written a few paragraphs I start monitoring the word count, adding in extra information in line with the brief if needed. I always end with a call to action pointing the reader to relevant pages of the client’s website. I often write the introduction last of all.
Finalising the draft
When the article is written, I go through it to add relevant links to other posts on the client’s blog. I run through the brief again to make sure I’ve covered everything add a meta title. I also check the final word count and run a second spell-check, before using Word’s Read Aloud function to find any final typos or errors.
Sending it to the client
When I’m happy with the draft, I upload it to the client’s system. An editor will take over, checking that it reads well, complies with the brief, and doesn’t contain any errors. Then it’s back to the content team to be published. Take a look at the final version!
Can I help you with your content needs?
I specialise in writing careers content but I’m open to briefs on a wide range of topics. Just ask! If I can’t do it to a high standard, I won’t accept the brief. Find out more about my content writing services or get in touch!
Updated 2026
Author bio: Jen is a UK-based careers writer with over 15 years' experience in writing CVs for UK professionals. She is a certified member of the British Association of CV Writers, with a Master's degree in English, and has written and edited articles for international businesses.
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