What does a Feature writer do?
A feature writer researches and authors long-form narrative stories that explore human interest topics, cultural trends, or in-depth profiles for magazines, newspapers, and digital publications. This role moves beyond breaking news to craft engaging, structured articles that captivate readers through detailed reporting and vivid storytelling. Writers pitch original ideas or accept assignments from editors, then conduct thorough interviews and background research to build a compelling narrative arc. The final deliverable is a polished, publication-ready article that meets editorial standards for tone, accuracy, and style.
- Research story angles by gathering data, reviewing archives, and conducting interviews with sources to collect quotes and contextual details that support the narrative. Writers synthesize this information into a coherent outline that guides the structure of the piece before drafting begins.
- Draft feature articles using narrative techniques such as scene-setting, character development, and thematic exploration to create an immersive reading experience. The writer organizes complex information into a logical flow that maintains reader interest from the lead paragraph to the conclusion.
- Revise drafts through multiple editing cycles to improve clarity, correct factual errors, and refine prose style based on feedback from editors. This process involves proofreading for grammar and adherence to house style guides, ensuring the final manuscript is accurate and ready for publication in a content management system.
How to hire a Feature writer on Upwork
Step 1: Post a job
Define the story angle, target publication style, and research requirements to attract writers who match your editorial voice. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description from a few sentences about your needs. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing post to save time.
- Specify whether the role involves pitching original ideas or executing assigned topics to clarify the creative scope.
- List required reporting methods, such as conducting interviews or analyzing data, to filter for journalists with strong investigative habits.
- Include expected word counts and deadlines so candidates can assess if the workload fits their schedule.
Step 2: Evaluate candidates
Review portfolios for narrative structure, voice consistency, and depth of reporting rather than just headline appeal. Uma can run instant video interviews and build shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you spot top performers quickly.
- Look for published clips that demonstrate the ability to weave facts into engaging long-form narratives.
- Check for experience with specific industries or beats relevant to your publication to ensure subject matter familiarity.
- Verify that the writer understands editorial workflows, including revision cycles and fact-checking standards.
Step 3: Interview your top choices
Discuss their research process and how they handle editorial feedback to gauge collaboration fit. Schedule and conduct interviews within Upwork Messages, which generates an immediate transcript and summary after each session.
- Ask how they source experts and verify information to maintain journalistic integrity.
- Request examples of how they revised a draft based on editor notes to test their adaptability.
- Clarify their availability for real-time communication during tight publication windows.
Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work
Set clear milestones for outlines, first drafts, and final edits to keep the project on track. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for all communication and file sharing, while identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds secure the engagement.
- Define the number of revision rounds included in the rate to prevent scope creep.
- Specify the content management system or file format required for final submission.
- Agree on ownership rights and byline credits before the writer begins reporting.
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