Seek Out Freelance Technical Writing Jobs
A Skilled Freelance Writer is Always Wanted in the Business World
Oct 24, 2009
Countless writers who would be ideally suited to a freelance technical writing position miss out on a good, steady income in this field for two main reasons:
- They don't have any real concept of what a technical writer does
- They have no idea where to find these freelance writer jobs.
What Exactly is Freelance Technical Writing?
Technical writing simply refers to a way of presenting specialized information, usually based on business, manufacturing or technology. Some writers mistakenly think that all technical writing has something to do with information technology. "I don't know anything about computers," they say, "so that rules me out." If only they knew!
It's a shame that nobody has told these writers just how easy it is to use their skills in writing technical material. Here is an overview of what writers need to know about freelance technical writing jobs:
- It is not necessary for the writer to be an expert in a specific area of technical writing. Usually, subject matter experts provide the content and are available for consultation. What most subject matter experts cannot do is present the information in clear, easy-to-understand language. That's where the technical writer comes in.
- Writers who understand and can write "Plain English" are particularly valued. Briefly, "Plain English" means English that is written with the aim of being understood. The writer takes into account the level of reading ability and the existing knowledge of the intended readership. Of course technical writing must, by its very nature, include some technical terms and explanations. Writers will often need to outline Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and write step-by-step explanations of a technical nature. However, the writer strives to present this information without unnecessary jargon and without long, wordy sentences.
Although writers usually have access to engineers and other SMEs (Subject Matter Experts), those who are keen to build a career in technical writing should strive to become familiar with the products and equipment about which they are writing. By doing this, they will be much more at ease using specialised language and writing procedures.
Further Examples of Technical Writing Jobs:
- user guides for software
- employee training manuals or courses
- online help documents or FAQ sections
- privacy policies for web sites
- contracts, proposals and reports
- guides to setting up consumer products
Where are Freelance Technical Writing Jobs Found?
Technical writers can specialise in different areas. Manufacturing firms and the mining industry, for example, have an ongoing need for good technical writers. People who already have a sound knowledge of computers might enjoy a career in technical writing based on information technology.
The huge growth in popularity of online learning means that a wide range of businesses are hiring technical writers to create e-learning courses. E-learning courses are often available on the company intranet, and can encompass site inductions, safety procedures, staff training and company familiarisation modules. Companies often advertise freelance writer jobs in technical writing, because they are able to outsource the job on an as-needed basis, rather than having to hire permanent staff.
A writer interested in pursuing technical writing jobs should start by putting together a portfolio of work to show potential clients. It's a good idea to spend time browsing the Internet to find examples of various kinds of technical writing, then write some examples for an individual portfolio.
Armed with this, writers can apply for technical writing jobs as a contractor or casual provider. Frequently, positions like this can lead to permanent employment as a technical writer.
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