Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
An Author is a professional who writes original content in the form of books, articles, scripts, or other literary works. They create works of fiction or non-fiction, often conveying stories, concepts, or insights that can inform, entertain, or provoke thought in readers.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Long-term
Projected Growth: 3.7% (average)
Annual job openings: 13 400
Direct AI exposure: 62% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 100% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Authors and Writers (Except Technical). According to the wage tables, average income is $77K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $53K per year | $62K per year | $77K per year | $94K per year | $110K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $12K above the national average. | ||||
Authors typically work independently, which allows for a flexible work environment. They can work from home, in private offices, or in shared workspaces. Some authors travel for research or promotional events. The profession often involves irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially as deadlines approach.
Being an author requires a combination of creativity, discipline, and a passion for storytelling. Authors must be able to develop compelling narratives or informative content that engages readers. This process involves extensive planning, research, and the ability to organize complex ideas into coherent and captivating written works. Authors need to be self-motivated, as the nature of their work requires significant solitary effort and self-management.
The journey of an author often involves more than just writing. It includes revising drafts based on feedback, navigating the publishing industry, and marketing their work. Authors may work with agents and editors to refine their manuscripts and strategize on publication and promotion. With the rise of digital media, many authors also engage in self-publishing, which involves additional tasks like managing sales platforms and self-promotion.
The career of an author can be highly rewarding but also challenging. It offers the freedom to explore diverse topics and express creativity, but it also demands resilience in the face of rejection and criticism. Success in this field often requires persistence, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement in writing skills.
There is no specific educational requirement to become an author. However, many successful authors have a bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field. Formal education can provide valuable writing skills and knowledge, but practical experience and a strong portfolio are often equally important.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
