Copywriting - the art of crafting words that encourage your readers to take action -- is a perfect field for dietitians to lean in.

As more and more virtual businesses launch, copywriting needs emerge. Copywriting is how entrepreneurs demonstrate their expertise, speak to their ideal clients, and invite them to become clients. A business's website is its virtual front door!

Registered dietitians are a natural fit to do this work. Not only are we nutrition experts, but we're also the authors that Google wants to highlight (we'll dive into these SEO details in this article).

But how to get started? In our training that focuses more on scoop sizes and diseases, it can be difficult to feel confident. But fear not, we have lots of resources available to help you get started.

This guide is for the dietitian who is eager to leap into the world of professional writing.

Why is there a demand for RD writers?

The exponential growth of the health and wellness industry has led to an upsurge in the need for content that's not just captivating, but written by experts.

For readers seeking guidance through the labyrinth of fad diets and unverified health claims, a dietitian's byline is an indicator of reliable information.

Google and other search engines are increasingly favoring content that is penned by individuals with genuine credentials and hands-on experience. This is known as "E-E-A-T" in the lingo of SEO, which you can read more about right here.

As dietitians, we have a leg up as writers because of our credentials. We are a profession rooted in science in a click-bait-saturated market. This translates to an expanded job market and an ability to leverage higher rates.

From supplement brands, health and wellness practices, and innovative food brands, dietitian writers understand the science behind their claims and can market these goods and services with ethical, evidence-based copy.

“Writing is incredibly flexible and something you can do with a full-time job, with young kids, or any busy schedule. The fastest way to start is just by getting started and practicing writing. Reading regularly also helps make you a better writer, so make sure to include that in your daily routine! If you're on the fence about writing or feel like it's not the right time, I encourage you to just dive in, ask questions, and see if it's for you.” -Melissa Mitri, Weight Loss Dietitian and SEO Nutrition Writer.

What kind of copy can I write?

You may be wondering what kinds of writing businesses and entrepreneurs hire copywriters for…the answer is lots! There's a smorgasbord of copy types a dietitian can craft for clients.

From succinct, powerful website copy that encapsulates a brand's mission, to informative and engaging blog posts that drive organic traffic; from personalized email sequences that nurture reader relationships to comprehensive newsletters providing valuable content at regular intervals… white papers and longer-form content can also showcase a dietitian's deep knowledge and bolster a brand's authority in the health sector.

Each form of copywriting requires an understanding of a specific strategy, all while taking into account the unique voice and audience of your client.

Continuing Education: How to develop skills (and confidence)

For dietitians ready to level up their expertise as a writer, there are several high-quality courses and opportunities for you to nurture your skills.

My first recommendation for you is SEO Made Simple by Erica Juelson. This course offers dietitians a comprehensive understanding of SEO strategies. These skills are non-negotiable for creating content that ranks well and attracts the right audience. In the world of online search, Google reigns supreme, and we play by their rules.

My other recommendation for you is to learn how to write in a way that doesn't sound like a science-y robot. Our traditional academic writing does not always align with the needs of digital marketing for small businesses. Holly Larson, a registered dietitian and seasoned nutrition copywriter, has developed a writing course tailor-made for dietitian entrepreneurs.

Her approach teaches you to craft blogs and emails in a conversational tone, making your readers feel like you're sharing insights over a coffee at a local café. This skill is a careful inclusion of both professional expertise and a warm, personal touch.

Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN offers these words of encouragement for writers-to-be: “Just start! There are so many places that could use an RDN’s expertise. If you don’t feel you are a good writer, take a class. The more you write, the better you will become.”

Finding Your Niche

As a dietitian, you may feel excited to cover any health and wellness topic, but the truth is, you'll do better to eventually zero in on a niche and specialize. This includes a subject matter niche as well as a niche in the kinds of copy you provide.

Identifying a niche, be it sports nutrition, weight management, or chronic disease, can feel scary, but it actually helps you to write with more expertise (and in less time) for those clients. Consider topics that both captivate your interest and align with your professional experience. Having a niche approach allows you to become a recognized authority in your domain, elevating your profile among potential clients and readers alike.

It is also worth having a focus on the kinds of copy you specialize in. Feel welcome to try the different kinds of copy and see what you like. As you hone in on the kind of writing you enjoy the most, you'll get to continue learning the specialized strategies for that kind of copy.

You can even specialize in other skills, such as being an editor! This is what Julie does now after fifteen years of working as a copywriter.

“I’m currently a senior editor in the Family and Consumer Sciences department for Goodheart-Willcox, Publisher. As a full-time editor, I work with authors to prepare their textbook and workbook manuscripts for print and digital publishing. I design the lesson plans and edit the exams used in FCS classes such as basic foods, culinary arts, and nutrition and wellness-focused programs at the high school and middle school levels. I’m passionate that the key to transforming nutrition knowledge into healthy behaviors is having basic cooking and meal planning skills.” -Julie Stefanski MEd, RDN, Senior Editor, Family & Consumer Sciences

As you gain more experience and build your confidence, you'll also be able to boost your rates. But where to begin? Let's talk about rates now.

Setting Your Rates

Determining your rates as a registered dietitian writer can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Why? There are no set rates or universal pricing standards. The spectrum of rates can vary significantly across the industry.

It's natural to encounter writers who charge less than you and those whose rates are higher. This variability can be intimidating, but it also is a permission slip for you to establish your value.

The key is to set rates that reflect your expertise, experience, and the quality of work you provide AND also cover your expenses.

“This is always a touchy subject, but I think as an RD with a Master’s Degree you should be paid a decent rate and think we are highly underpaid. Personally, I think a minimum rate of $500 for a high-quality blog post should be standard, and higher for those with more experience and longer articles or white papers. I know writers in other industries that make $1200 - $1500 per blog but we are our own worst enemies and have a way to go.” - Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN a culinary nutritionist based in Pittsburgh, PA.

Rather than fixating on how your fees compare to others, focus on setting a rate structure that compensates you fairly for your time and knowledge. Benchmarking against industry standards can serve as a starting point; however, tailoring your rates to the specific services you offer will ensure a fair exchange for the distinctive skills you bring to the table.

Click here to explore the annual State of the Industry report on copywriter rates by the American Writers and Artists Institute. (This is a free resource, BTW.)

Remember, as you grow in your career and continue to demonstrate successful outcomes for your clients, your rates can, and probably should, increase to reflect your evolving skill set and professional worth. No one is going to offer you a raise; you have to advocate for yourself.

Put your portfolio together

The very first step in your journey as a registered dietitian writer is to develop a portfolio of writing samples. This portfolio doesn't need to be an extensive library of published articles; starting with just two to three pieces is more than enough.

It may seem like a catch-22 to create samples without having clients yet, but there's a solution: platforms like Medium and LinkedIn allow you to publish your writing without the need for clients or even a personal website. These platforms are not only free to use but also offer the opportunity for your work to be seen by a wide audience, including potential clients who value your professional expertise and insights.

By contributing articles on these platforms, you can build a succinct body of work that showcases your knowledge in nutrition and your skills as a writer.

Don’t worry about writing a zillion article samples, just 2 or 3 will do it!

Now that you’ve got some samples, it is time to find clients!

Finding Clients: Employee vs Freelance Writer

As you venture into the realm of dietitian writing, it’s important to understand that there are two primary career paths available to you: seeking an employee position or embarking on a freelance journey.

Many dietitian writers are drawn to freelancing for the maximum flexibility and autonomy it offers. As a freelancer, you have the freedom to choose your clients, manage your schedule, and work from virtually anywhere. However, others find that to be a bit intimidating or prioritize having the community and benefits that come with being an employee - both perspectives are valid!

If a full-time, steady-income position is more your style, online job boards such as NutritionJobs and LinkedIn are invaluable resources for finding employment opportunities. When utilizing platforms like LinkedIn, ensure that your profile underscores your writing expertise and is optimized to attract employers searching for skills that align with copywriting in the nutrition field.

On the freelance side, you're in charge of finding your clients. How? Cold-pitching is the name of the game. Pro-tip: cold pitching requires thick skin. Be prepared for periods of silence, polite rejections, and the occasional “no.”

"I recommend cold pitching for finding clients over job boards like Upworks. Those kinds of postings tend to be hugely underpaid and have a lot of competition. We're healthcare professionals with extensive experience and expertise in our fields, even if we are beginner writers: we don't deserve to work for peanuts." -Holly Larson MS, RD, registered dietitian and nutrition copywriter.

Reflect, learn, and expand

As you embark on the journey of developing your writing business, remember that it is a cycle of reflection, continuous learning, and expansion.

With each client you serve, don't forget to ask for testimonials of your work—these are invaluable for building credibility. Additionally, it's always helpful to ask for permission to include the completed work in your portfolio.

Keep track of your time. Record the hours spent on direct client work, but also be meticulous about tracking administrative tasks, such as communicating with clients, sending invoices, and developing pitches for new prospects.

Equally important is a comprehensive record of your income and all business expenses—including a reserve for taxes. This financial note-taking is essential for being able to thoughtfully evaluate your pricing strategy so far. Most of us undercharge, especially at the beginning.

Stand back and ask yourself: are you generating enough income, in the time that you have, to sustain your desired lifestyle?

You may decide that in order to develop your dream business, you need to adjust how you find clients, your rates, or the kinds of copy you offer.

Step into that CEO energy and make the course corrections so that your writing career is one that brings you joy, satisfaction and an income worthy of your expertise.

Perks of being a copywriter or nutrition writer as a dietitian

1. Flexibility in Schedule: One of the significant advantages of being a nutrition writer is the flexibility to set your own hours. Whether you prefer to work early in the morning, late at night, or in intervals throughout the day, this role allows you to tailor your work schedule to fit your personal and professional life seamlessly.
2. Voice of Authority: As a nutrition writer, you have the platform to become a trusted voice of authority in a field often crowded with misinformation. By providing scientifically-backed, accurate nutritional information, you can influence the health choices of a wide audience, helping to dispel myths and promote healthier lifestyles.
3. Continuous Learning: The field of nutrition is constantly evolving with new research and trends. As a nutrition writer, you are at the forefront of these developments, continually learning and expanding your knowledge. This not only keeps your career intellectually stimulating but also ensures you are always up to date with the latest information.
4. Creative Expression: Writing about nutrition offers the chance to express yourself creatively. Whether you are crafting articles, developing educational materials, or writing social media posts, you get to shape how your message is conveyed and impact readers in unique and helpful ways.
5. Opportunity for Remote Work: Most copywriters have the opportunity to work remotely, allowing them to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This perk not only reduces commuting stress but also opens up possibilities for a more comfortable and personalized work environment.

Ways to Showcase Writing and Media Work on LinkedIn

Once you’ve built up a few writing samples or media appearances, you can showcase them where potential clients might see them. LinkedIn is a powerful platform to display your expertise, show your authority, attract more writing opportunities, and build credibility with potential clients and collaborators.

Here are a few simple ways to feature your work and get noticed as a dietitian-writer or media contributor:

Feature articles or blog posts in the “Featured” section
You can start by showcasing your best articles or blog posts in the “Featured” section of your LinkedIn profile. This section allows you to add direct links to published work—whether it's on your personal website, Substack, or a third-party publication. It creates a quick visual portfolio right at the top of your profile, making it easy for potential clients or collaborators to see your expertise.

Upload PDFs or screenshots of magazine articles, print features, or handouts
If your writing has been featured in print or isn’t available online, you can still highlight that work by uploading PDFs or clear screenshots. This is especially helpful for internal newsletters, handouts, or printed publications. Even if the content isn’t accessible via a link, showing the layout and design adds visual credibility to your experience.

Share posts highlighting your work with context
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted post. Share your writing or media work directly in your feed with a brief explanation of what it is, why it matters, and who it helped. Add a link, image, or document to give readers an easy way to access the work itself. These posts build engagement and show your voice in action.

Embed videos from TV segments or podcast appearances
If you’ve been interviewed on a podcast, featured in a TV segment, or recorded a cooking demo, LinkedIn allows you to embed that media directly on your profile. You can upload the video or link from platforms like YouTube and Vimeo. This helps bring your work to life and adds a dynamic, multimedia layer to your professional presence.

Add “Writer,” “Media Contributor,” or “Nutrition Communicator” in your headline or About section
Adding relevant keywords like “Writer,” “Media Contributor,” or “Nutrition Communicator” to your headline or About section instantly communicates your niche. It helps the LinkedIn algorithm—and visitors to your profile—understand what you offer and makes it more likely that writing opportunities will come your way.

Include media work under the “Experience” section
For freelance projects or ongoing writing gigs, add them to the Experience section of your profile. Include the names of publications or brands you’ve worked with and a quick summary of the topics you covered. This reinforces your credibility and helps connect your writing to your broader professional narrative.

Use the “Projects” section
The “Projects” section is a great place to highlight larger writing initiatives—like ebooks, client guides, or collaborative content pieces. You can link directly to the content, provide a short description, and associate it with a relevant job or freelance role. It’s a strong way to showcase both scope and specialization.

Tag publications or companies in your posts
When you share your work on LinkedIn, tag the publications, companies, or collaborators involved. This increases visibility and reach, and also reinforces your credibility. It shows that others trust you as a professional contributor—and expands your network in the process.

Keep on reading

We have a few more articles you might be interested in checking out.

• How (and Why) to Self-Publish Your Book as a Dietitian
• Get Paid to Get Published
• ​​Best Alternative Jobs for a Dietitian

That's a wrap

Having writing clients, whether that's your full-time gig or a side hustle, is a great way to have more income and to be less dependent on one single employer.

Becoming a successful registered dietitian writer requires a combination of expertise, focus, and determination. By identifying your niche, setting appropriate rates, and consistently producing quality work, you can establish yourself as an authority in the field and open doors to exciting opportunities.

Whether you choose to pursue freelance work or seek full-time employment, the possibilities for growth and achievement are endless. If you're inspired to take this leap, remember that your voice as a dietitian holds authority and influence.

This is the beginning of an exciting chapter where your insights can enrich not just your profession but the world of writing itself. Welcome to the new frontier of nutritional communication.

Search for Jobs on NutritionJobs

Are you looking for a new job or just want to see what else is out there? Browse all jobs on NutritionJobs today. Also, check out the Featured Jobs on NutritionJobs. Share with a friend in need, as well!

About the Author

Stacey Dunn-Emke, MS, RDN, is the Founder Owner of NutritionJobs and DietitianSalaries.com and is an established dietetic career expert. She helps steer dietetic and nutrition professionals to a successful job search process with the top-ranked dietetic job board platform, NutritionJobs.com. Stacey is the author of The Dietetic Resume Guide and numerous dietetic career action-ables. She gives the tools to create a modern standout dietetic resume to land that job interview, help with job interview prep, and with creating Compelling LinkedIn profiles. Stacey has interviewed and hired many dietitians. Since running NutritionJobs in 2000, she has reviewed thousands of dietetic resumes. She works closely with dietetic hiring managers and recruiters to know the standout elements on a resume that land a job interview. Stacey speaks on successful compensation negotiation at professional conferences and frequently consults with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at FNCE and co-created the webinar series, Dietetic Career Hack: The Complete Networking and Resume Guide and Dietetic Career Hack Part II: Interviewing Tips and Tricks. Her previous dietitian jobs have been in clinical, nutrition support, and research.

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