Chronicler

What does a columnist do? – Tasks and work environment

A columnist primarily writes personal and reflective texts, often focusing on current social issues, culture, or everyday life. Tasks include research, analysis of current events, and expressing personal thoughts in an engaging and accessible manner. Columnists are usually active in newspapers, magazines, digital media, or radio and TV, where they contribute unique perspectives and voices to public discourse. The work environment is often flexible, with many working from home or remotely, but there are also fixed newsroom environments with high tempo and tight deadlines.

Salary development over time

Columnist salaries have shown some variation over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month. The following year, 2023, it decreased slightly to 42 500, corresponding to a reduction of just over 1%. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a clear recovery with an increase to 44 800, a rise of approximately 5.4%. This development reflects both market demand for experienced writers and increased competition for attractive media assignments. Salary trends are also influenced by digitalization's impact on media consumption and the need for profiles with a strong personal voice.

Columnist salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 44 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 51,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 269 SEK
• Women: 44 400 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 45 200 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No available data

Education and qualifications

Most columnists have backgrounds in journalism, media studies, or related fields. Formal education is often an important foundation, but many also build their skills through practical experience, networking, and developing a personal style. Success requires linguistic confidence and the ability to analyze and comment on current issues.

• Journalism education: University/college, usually 3 years or more
• Courses in creative writing: Standalone or as part of education
• Internships or trainee positions: Common within media companies
• Prerequisites: Good language skills and analytical ability
• Self-studies: Personal writing and digital publishing

Common benefits and compensations

Columnists often enjoy benefits such as flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work, and sometimes special fees for extra efforts or guest appearances. Freelance columnists negotiate compensation individually, while permanent employees may include collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and vacation pay.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by fierce competition, especially for the most visible platforms and recurring assignments. Digitalization has enabled more people to publish, increasing both supply and the demands for standing out with a unique style and relevant content. Building a personal brand and networking within the media industry are often crucial for securing regular assignments. Workload can be uneven, and many columnists need to combine various writing assignments to maintain a stable income.

Tips for aspiring columnists

To succeed as a columnist, it is good to have strong language skills and the ability to express oneself personally and engagingly. Curiosity and staying updated on current issues provide opportunities to find unique angles and perspectives. Building a personal network and being active on social media are important for visibility and contacts. Self-discipline is necessary, as the work often involves managing deadlines and working independently. Creativity and courage to stand by one's opinions are valuable traits, as is the ability to accept constructive criticism and develop through feedback. Regular practice and publishing texts, even in smaller contexts, help build experience and credibility.

Key facts about Columnists

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, usually in journalism (3 years or more)
• Work environment: Flexible, often remote or freelance
• Occupational group: Journalists and others
• Job vacancies: 620 within the occupational group (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Small salary difference, women earn 98% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, many columnists have the opportunity to develop into prominent writers, editors, or advance to leadership roles within media and communication. Some choose to specialize in specific areas such as culture, politics, or business, while others expand into podcasts, TV, or authorship. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for columnists, as the profession is part of a broader group with continued high competition. However, there is a consistent demand for skilled writers, especially those who can combine traditional writing with digital presence and multimedia skills. As of May 2024, there were 620 job openings in the journalism group, indicating some ongoing demand, though the columnist role remains niche.

Frequently asked questions about Columnists

• What does a columnist earn?
  - A columnist has an average salary of 44 800 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a columnist?
  - Usually, post-secondary education in journalism or media studies, often at least three years.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Salary differences are small; women earn 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• Can you work remotely as a columnist?
  - Yes, many work from home or as freelancers.
• What are the future prospects for columnists?
  - The outlook is uncertain, but there remains demand for skilled writers in media.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for columnists?
  - The highest salary is 51,000 SEK and the lowest is 43,900 SEK per month.
• What types of workplaces hire columnists?
  - Mainly newspapers, magazines, digital media, and sometimes radio and TV.