Cybersecurity is a realm of tech that is ever-expanding, ever-changing, and always finding new ways to protect the systems of computers everywhere. Whether you are working to develop programs to stop malware and trojans, taking down hackers, or even teaching large companies how to protect themselves from threats, many people are working behind the screens to keep you safe. There is a way for writers able to enter the technology world without having to understand complex programming or data analysis; cybersecurity technical writing. This allows technical writers to demonstrate their expertise in writing and the creativity that comes from the research they do.
Does cybersecurity require writing?
In a field as big as tech, what’s the use for those who write? Writing is a “soft skill”, which means a skill that is related to a person’s personality and efficiency. On the other hand, to explain topics in cybersecurity to other companies or potential clients, some use the assistance of a technical writer. A cybersecurity technical writer is someone who can analyze, create, and look over cybersecurity content. Tech needs people who can create social media content, construct manuals, and oversee the editing of policies to cater to customers. A technical writer’s job is to make sure that you can use skills to boost productivity and whatever the company needs written up (audits, blog posts, white pages, case studies, etc.). Most importantly, a technical writer can take a presentation, ZOOM meeting, or even a podcast and summarize it for those who may have trouble understanding the context.
Cybersecurity technical writers can also help with the prevention of cyber threats as well. These writers specialize in research and data collection. With that in mind, they take what they learn from data manuals and other collection guides to create a cybersecurity plan. A cybersecurity plan involves listing out a company’s best defenses, showcasing the pros and cons of the system, and making a strategy to prevent future attacks. They also track down new threats and document every detail of the company. With the cybersecurity plan and keeping documentation up to date, the job of a technical writer is to delegate what is important to inform the higher-ups. There is more to cybersecurity writing than listening in on meetings and writing blog posts.
Technical skills needed for technical writers
You can scour the internet to locate what skills are required for cybersecurity, but you will find an array of articles with differing opinions on what makes a good employee. There are even some articles out there that give summarized versions of what constitutes a great cybersecurity writer. For that reason, here is a general list of technical skills needed for cybersecurity.
- Coding
- Troubleshooting/Problem Solving
- Networking and System Administrating
- Malware Prevention
- Cloud Security
- Well-versed in programming languages such as Java, Python, etc.
- Able to write security audits
If you want to learn said skills, try going on Skill Share for classes on cybersecurity. You can also earn certifications through online classes via the Sans website to flesh out your resume. Most importantly, you must have a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or any field that requires writing as a skill.
One important qualification that many companies are looking for when it comes to the field is that one has great attention to detail and can research the data before documenting it. The knowledge of content creation tools and programs is a plus for those wanting icons and logos for their companies. This also has the added benefit of the inclusion of collaboration software that allows for edits on documents and teamwork to establish workplace relationships. Another skill that is vitally needed is the understanding that you must be creative. While it is fine to have technical prowess, you must also be a creative writer to explain topics in detail to those who have little understanding.
What makes a great cybersecurity technical writer?
In the end, you must have good communication skills, an understanding of cybersecurity, and a willingness to learn new things. Many people will tell you various ways to improve your writing and update your repertoire with every passing year. While this advice is great, the way you become better is to gain experience in the field. Research different companies and their requirements for becoming part of their writing team. Explore cybersecurity blogs and websites to keep up to date with the market. Create a portfolio of past articles and other written documents that you’ve done for other companies to entice those recruiters.
Essential Data has some articles that can help with any additional questions you may have on the subject. We have articles that go over the reason why cybersecurity technical writers are needed in a company setting. Some articles explain in detail where to find these writers and how to hire them. We even have articles that will teach the pros and cons of becoming a cybersecurity technical writer, so go look.
Conclusion
The question of whether cybersecurity and writing go together is quite simple; yes. If you are a writer, going into tech will be beneficial at this time post-pandemic, remote working environment. The article’s main purpose is that writing and cybersecurity go hand in hand to create content for everyone. Similarly, it’s also to inform you what technical skills are needed for a job such as this. In the end, with your experience and education, you will become a writer that any company would pay for.
How Essential Data Corporation can help you
Whether you need a single software technical writer for a brief project, or a team of consultants to produce a complete line of documentation, the quality of our work is guaranteed for you. Our clients work closely with an Engagement Manager from one of our 30 local offices for the entire length of your project at no additional cost. Contact us at (800) 221-0093 or sales@edc.us
Written by Cecelia Lupton