Freelance Technical Writing Jobs

Freelance technical writing jobs can be a lucrative writing gig. Many freelance writers lack the confidence to tackle technical writing assignments. However technical writing is not all about being a computer expert or technology professional but rather about careful research, attention to detail and the ability to write clearly and concisely for the intended audience.

There are a wide range of freelance technical writing assignments available. In addition to the popular computer niche, technical writers are employed to develop manuals for common kitchen appliances, do-it-yourself assembly products, electronic products and tools and equipment. Technical freelance writing jobs include developing training manuals for staff, user guides for a multitude of products, reports and proposals, product reviews, online instructions and help guides, e-learning courses, textbooks, project presentations, product brochures and magazine articles.

• What do I need to get started as a technical writer? You do not necessarily have to be an expert in a specific field of technology. Most companies use SMEs (subject matter experts) to provide the basic content. The technical freelance writer is asked to rework and present this material in an accessible and clear format for the intended consumer. Many successful freelance technical writers have no formal technical training. However you do need to do your research, conduct independent study and build up your base of technical knowledge in order to secure more writing gigs. There is also the option of enrolling in an online technical writing course to further develop your skills. Solid research skills, accuracy and the ability to distil and simplify complex information are key competencies for a technical writer. Good computer skills and a knowledge of relevant software applications including desktop publishing is essential.
• Develop a portfolio Most potential employers will request samples of your work. You need to develop a portfolio of techical writing samples. If you don't have sufficient writing samples from previous freelance jobs you can always write an instruction manual for an appliance or piece of equipment you are familiar with. Alternatively find a badly written product brochure or manual and re-write it. Sites such as www.wisegeek.com and www.brighthub.com offer writers the opportunity to write a post and get published online. This helps to build a portfolio. Your technical writing resume is also key to securing assignments.

Where can I find freelance technical writing jobs online?

There are a number of sites that list technical writing jobs. Go to Freelance Writing Jobs and Freelance Online Writing Jobs to find out more.

Get some help with how to search for quality writing assignments at Online Freelance Work

Consider alternative sources for finding freelance writing gigs at Freelance Writing Jobs Online

The site www.technicalwritingzone.com lists jobs by state. Search job boards including Indeed.com, Monster.com and Dice.com for technical writing jobs. Techwhirl.com is an online magazine and email discussion group for technical writers across the world. It provides useful technical communication resources and the opportunity to build professional networks. Find tech blogs on the web and check if they are looking for writers. Visit Problogger to find blogging gigs. Use social media sites. Join technical writer groups on Linked In and Facebook.

What off-line resources are there for finding writing jobs?

Contact technical employment agencies. Look in the local paper, focus on the computer and technical employment sections. Be proactive about finding jobs. Visit local companies that are likely to make use of techncial writers. Target companies that fall into your range of technical knowledge. Consider manufacturing, transportation, telecommunications, construction, engineering, medical and computer companies. Find out what you can about the company before visiting by researching their website.

Join the Society for Technical Communication (www.stc.org). There are over 130 local chapters which provide great networking opportunities. As a member you have access to their listings for freelance technical writing jobs. You can also post your resume on the organization's career center.

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Freelance technical writing jobs are a growing industry. It is a competitive field but with perseverance and hard work you can make a success of it.

Practical ideas for finding freelance technical writing jobs

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