Have you ever considered pursuing a career in technical writing? At Essential Data Corporation, we have a staff of talented writers who have proven their success in the lucrative industry of technical writing. If you are an organized individual with a knack for words, technical writing may be the path for you.
A Snapshot of the Duties of Technical Writers
First, let’s go over a quick review of some of the types of documentation that technical writers create:
- User Manuals
- Design Documents
- Technical Reports
- Reference Guides
- Business Proposals
- Training & Compliance Documentation
- Procedure Documentation
- ..and much more!
Moreover, the responsibility of a technical writer is to simplify and condense highly complicated information. Furthermore, a technical writer has likely made your life easier without your knowledge, giving you the tools to do your job, operate electronic devices, and navigate unfamiliar software.
Educational Paths of Technical Writers
Furthermore, technical writing is not specific to just one major. Technical writers come from a variety of college majors and many find success within the field of technical writing, regardless of their educational background. However, there are some common paths; many technical writers major in the following areas:
- Technical Communication
- Engineering/Computer Applications
- English
- Communication Studies
In addition to getting a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field of study, there are many technical writing certification courses offered offline and online. These courses can be incredibly useful for anyone looking to get into the technical writing field, even if they do not have the “traditional” educational background of a technical writer.
What are the Next Steps to Becoming a Technical Writer?
Technical writers can work independently, for niche individual companies to do in-house technical writing projects, or for tech writing firms such as Essential Data Corporation.
For a recent graduate breaking into the technical writing industry, the most valuable tool is experience. Similarly, experience is worth its weight in gold. Some recent graduates might gain experience by interning or even providing work for companies on a volunteer basis. A young technical writer must immerse themselves in the industry as much as possible to gain invaluable experience and develop connections in the industry.
Additional Resources for Technical Writers
In today’s “Age of Information”, it is of the utmost importance to be taking advantage of online resources. For technical writers, there are several, including ’10 Minute Tech Comm’, an educational podcast for technical writers.
Additionally, this expansive online forum offers an abundance of information for technical writers, including salary information and networking opportunities. A budding technical writer should also consider reading the book “Modern Technical Writing” by Andrew Etter, which provides a current approach to navigating the modernized industry of technical writing.
A well-informed technical writer is a successful technical writer! Remember to utilize the abundance of online resources at your fingertips.
In conclusion, are you interested in pursuing a technical writing career with Essential Data Corporation? View our current job listings
If you aren’t interested in becoming a technical writer but need the help of a technical writer, work with Essential Data. At Essential Data Corporation, the quality of our work is guaranteed. Contact us today to get started. (800) 221-0093 or [email protected]
Written by Ariana Sweany