Technical Writing

Lesson 1: Introduction to Becoming a Technical Writer

What Are the Advantages of Becoming a Technical Writer?

There are many advantages for those wishing to become technical communicators. In addition to offering a fulfilling career in the exciting and rapidly changing world of modern technology, you may find any or all of the following benefits of interest as you decide whether technical writing is for you:

1. The high tech market is booming (usually!) and demand--driven by the computer industry--for technical communicators is very high.

2. Demand is so high in fact that there is actually a shortage of technical writers in the United States and Canada, and is rapidly becoming that way in other countries. Thus, employers are open to entry-level writers who wish to break into the field.

3. High tech companies value good technical writers, and, thus, pay rates have increased in recent years. Thus, technical writing is one of the best paying jobs for those who wish to use their writing talents.

4. Technical writing has much to offer the budding creative writer also. Along with journalism and copy writing, tech writing keeps the prospective writer writing. You learn to write in active voice, write concisely, edit your copy, and make timelines (Something your future publisher will appreciate!). Besides, you do not have to starve in a garret; you can actually live--and even prosper--off the excellent pay!

5. If you think you would enjoy working at home all or most likely a day or two a week, you have found the right field. Of course, not every company is willing to allow employees to telecommute, but management is becoming more and more open about letting employees work out of home offices, as they usually save some costs in property and equipment. Some municipalities and states also provide financial incentives to encourage telecommuting, primarily because if you are at home, you are not contributing to traffic congestion.

6. The booming market for technical writers should parallel the continuing mushrooming growth of the computer, telecommunications and other high tech industries. Thus, there should be some measure of job security or at least the ability to find another job quickly should you be laid off.

7. Since the lifetime of many projects is from a few months to a couple of years, many companies use temporary contractors. While contractors receive few benefits, their pay is often substantially higher than that paid permanent employees. Many technical writers enjoy the higher compensation, freedom to take time off occasionally, and the variety of job tasks involved in contracting. To paraphrase an old TV show, such writers sometimes think of themselves as "hired guns" who Have Word Processor, Will Travel.

8. While your manual on the operation of the latest "widget" or "wadget" may never make the New York Times bestseller list, you can truthfully say that you make your living as a professional writer--no small accomplishment!

Recommended ReadingThe Complete Idiot's Guide To Technical Writing, Pages 8-12

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