How to Stay Relevant as a Technical Writer?

by Bradley Nice, Content Manager at ClickHelp — all-in-one help authoring tool

At the beginning of a technical writing career, you try to acquire as much knowledge as possible, thinking that there is a long way to go. But finally, you start feeling all that is said and done in your professional field is not new to you. It is exactly the moment when professionals stop developing their skills. Of course, it is not about all of us, but things like that happen every now and then. Definitely, to stay relevant as a technical writer, one should not stop improving their skills. Here is what you can do to be a successful technical writer:

• Become a member of technical writing communities. Today that is not a problem — social networks are here to help you. Technical writers all over the world share their experiences, discuss problems, and ask for help. If you spend at least 15 minutes per day checking what is happening in the world of technical writing, that would be enough. Another wonderful thing here is conferences and other events for technical writers. That’s what can really inspire you but not only give you new information. Besides, many experienced technical writers have blogs. They tell a lot about what they do, give tips, etc.
• Communicate with colleagues and techcomm-related people. For example, if you ask recruiters to tell you about the latest requirements in your sphere, they will tell you what tools you are to use and what skills you are to have. That is a great idea as the world around us is rapidly changing, and a great variety of new tools appear every year: tools to write, tools to make screenshots and draw, tools to communicate, etc. Your professional value depends on this, as well.
• Courses. Yes, courses =) The more experienced you are as a tech writer, the more difficult it is for you to find informative courses. But they exist, I am sure! If your tech writing skills are perfect, check whether you need some other courses that will contribute to the quality of your writing. For example, coding, robotics, engineering — it depends on your field. Do not ignore this opportunity to grow as a professional.
• Books. Make a list of books you would like to read for your professional development. They might give you a new look at technical writing. Find at least 30 minutes per day to read if you do not have enough free time. Step by step, you will cover a lot.
• Take a look at the latest trends. Here we are talking not only about technical writing and the sphere which you are writing for but also about the whole world. Technical documentation is changing correspondingly. Today, it has gone online and become reader-oriented. Let’s see what is going to happen next. But I am pretty sure that big changes are on the way.

Have a nice day!

Bradley Nice, Content Manager at ClickHelp.com — best online documentation tool for SaaS vendors