1) As you said a lack of it may show that the person is only interested in a 9 to 5 job and earn money. An online presence may show that a person is techno savvy, communication savvy and is interested in learning more and sharing what he knows about his job.
2) Most of the companies ask for writing samples. Since writers mostly work on propriety stuff they cannot show their daily work. Therefore a blog or a website comes in handy while showcasing your writing skills.
An online presence serves two needs:
1) As you said a lack of it may show that the person is only interested in a 9 to 5 job and earn money. An online presence may show that a person is techno savvy, communication savvy and is interested in learning more and sharing what he knows about his job.
2) Most of the companies ask for writing samples. Since writers mostly work on propriety stuff they cannot show their daily work. Therefore a blog or a website comes in handy while showcasing your writing skills.