Hire Technical Writers

Whether you’re a project manager hoping to streamline software onboarding or an HR professional scouting for in-house expertise, hiring the right technical writer can be transformative. A well-documented API, for instance, can expedite partnerships; while clear user guides can drastically reduce support requests. Knowing what to look for when hiring can mean the difference between a frustrated user base and a product that’s heralded for its user-friendliness.

1. Understanding the Role of a Technical Writer

Hiring the right technical writer hinges on grasping the breadth and depth of their responsibilities.

1.1. More Than Just Writing 

Technical writing isn’t about creating content. It’s about providing clarity amidst technical complexity. These professionals are tasked with creating structured documents that bridge the gap between developers and consumers or between software architects and end-users.

1.2. The Precision of Their Craft

Their work demands a balance: comprehensive enough for technical stakeholders yet simple enough for non-tech users. It’s a nuanced role – they must delve into the heart of a technical product and emerge with content that makes sense to all.

1.3. Adapting to Varied Demands 

From software documentation, and hardware manuals, to process specifications and training materials, their scope is vast. Depending on the industry, they might need to create content for medical devices, complex machinery, software platforms, or even aerospace equipment. Their adaptability is a testament to their prowess.

1.4. Collaboration is Key 

It’s not a solo endeavor. Technical writers often collaborate with engineers, product managers, and user experience designers. They gather intricate details, discern what’s crucial, and then lay it out coherently for the target audience.

2. Key Qualities to Look for in a Technical Writer

It is important to know how to identify these skilled professionals to ensure your technical content stands out for its precision and clarity.

2.1. Technical Acumen

While they don’t need to be experts in every technical domain, they should have a strong grasp of technical concepts. This doesn’t mean they should be able to code an application from scratch, but they should be comfortable navigating technical landscapes. Look for candidates who have past exposure to technical fields, either through formal education, past roles, or self-driven learning.

2.2. Exceptional Research Skills

Technical writers often wade into unfamiliar territories. Their ability to conduct thorough research and quickly comprehend new information is essential. This quality ensures that the documentation they produce is accurate and reliable.

2.3. Detail-Oriented Approach

The smallest oversight in a technical document can lead to significant complications down the line. Whether it’s an API reference or a user manual, precision is paramount. A keen eye for detail ensures that all technicalities are covered comprehensively.

2.4. Strong Collaborative Skills

As previously mentioned, technical writers will work closely with multiple teams, from engineers and designers to product managers. Their ability to communicate effectively, ask the right questions, and synthesize feedback is crucial for creating well-rounded documentation.

2.5. Adaptability to Different Writing Styles

Different technical documents serve different purposes. An API document might be succinct and straightforward, while a user manual might require a more explanatory tone. The ideal candidate should demonstrate versatility in adjusting their writing style to match the document’s intended audience and purpose.

2.6. Familiarity with Technical Writing Tools

The modern technical writer should be well-versed in tools that aid their craft. Familiarity with platforms like oXygen XML, MadCap Flare, Adobe FrameMaker, or even specialized documentation platforms relevant to your industry can be a significant asset.

3. Navigating the Technical Writer Interview Process

After pinpointing potential technical writers, the interview serves as the linchpin to determine their suitability. This process is multifaceted, marrying both their technical knowledge and writing prowess.

3.1. Start with a Detailed Job Description

Before initiating the interview, it’s essential to craft a comprehensive job description. This sets clear expectations for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Detail the specific domains or tools they’ll be working with, the types of documents they’ll be expected to produce, and any collaboration they might engage in with other teams.

3.2. Skill Assessment Tests

It’s beneficial to administer a skill assessment test to evaluate the technical proficiency and writing capabilities of the candidate. This could be a mock task to draft a concise how-to guide or a brief summary of a complex technical concept. It not only assesses their writing abilities but also their capacity to research and understand tech-related topics.

3.3. Review their Portfolio

A portfolio can provide tangible evidence of a writer’s capabilities. Ask for samples of their past works, especially those that align with the nature of documents your organization typically produces. Look for clarity, structure, and the ability to convey complex information in understandable terms.

3.4. Ask Scenario-Based Questions

Instead of generic questions, focus on scenario-based inquiries. For instance, “How would you approach documenting a new feature from scratch?” or “How do you handle feedback from engineers that conflicts with user accessibility?” These types of questions gauge the candidate’s practical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

3.5. Evaluate their Collaborative Mindset

Given the collaborative nature of technical writing, it’s pivotal to discern how a candidate would function in a team setting. Delve into past experiences where they worked closely with developers, designers, or product managers and how they navigated any challenges that arose.

3.6. Compare WriteHire vs. Traditional Hiring

• Efficiency: Traditional hiring processes can take weeks or even months, sifting through numerous applicants and conducting multiple rounds of interviews. With WriteHire, companies get matched with suitable technical writers in a fraction of the time.
• Skill Verification: WriteHire ensures that each technical writer on the platform has undergone stringent verification processes, eliminating the guesswork out of hiring.
• Cultural Fit: Traditional hiring often focuses solely on skills, overlooking cultural fit. WriteHire’s algorithm factors in company culture, ensuring a harmonious working relationship.
• Flexibility: WriteHire’s model allows for both short-term and long-term engagements, making it adaptable to varying business needs, unlike traditional hiring which often leans towards long-term commitments.

4. Evaluating a Technical Writer’s Portfolio

A writer’s portfolio stands as the tangible proof of their craftsmanship, and for technical writers, it’s a testament to their ability to transform intricate details into comprehensible prose. When evaluating a technical writer’s portfolio, begin by examining the range of their work. Have they covered diverse topics or focused on niche areas? The breadth of their samples can provide insights into their versatility.

Hone in on the clarity of their documentation. Do they distill complex technical jargon into user-friendly content, or does the writing seem dense and unapproachable? Furthermore, consistency in formatting and structuring of the documents speaks volumes about their meticulousness and attention to detail. As you scrutinize their samples, also assess their flair for design. Since a good portion of technical documentation may involve diagrams, flowcharts, or infographics, a writer’s ability to incorporate these effectively can be a strong asset.

Consider the relevance of their samples to your specific needs. If you’re in the fintech sector, for instance, a writer with ample samples related to financial technologies can be a more fitting choice. While a diversified portfolio is commendable, relevance should always be a pivotal factor in your evaluation. After all, a technical writer’s portfolio is not just a showcase of their past work, but a preview of what they can deliver for your organization.

5. Soft Skills and Cultural Fit: The Understated Essentials

While hard skills often take center stage in hiring discussions, the importance of soft skills and cultural fit cannot be understated. Both elements significantly shape the productivity and harmony of a workplace relationship.

5.1. Communication Skills 

Technical writers frequently collaborate with a wide range of professionals, from engineers and product managers to marketing teams. They need to not only write clearly but also excel in gathering information, bridging gaps between technical and non-technical stakeholders, and asking pertinent questions. Effective communication ensures that the content is comprehensive and addresses all user needs.

5.2. Empathy for the Reader 

A great technical writer consistently places themselves in the shoes of the reader. This empathy ensures that the content produced is intuitive and user-centric. By understanding the perspective of the audience, technical writers ensure that even the most complex subjects are made accessible to readers of varying technical proficiencies.

5.3. Adaptability in Dynamic Environments 

Tech environments are renowned for their fast-paced and ever-evolving nature. As such, technical writers must exhibit adaptability. This includes acclimating to new tools, adjusting to evolving product features, or adapting writing styles to align with shifting company objectives. A flexible approach ensures continuity and efficiency in documentation projects.

5.4. Cultural Fit and Organizational Alignment 

Every organization carries its unique ethos, values, and dynamics. It’s imperative to find a technical writer who meshes well with this culture. Whether it’s a match in work ethic, collaboration style, value systems, or conflict resolution methods, a good cultural fit can expedite integration and foster long-lasting professional relationships.

In your pursuit to hire the ideal technical writer, it’s crucial to weigh both their technical capabilities and these softer, yet pivotal attributes. Remember, a harmonious working relationship is often rooted in intangible qualities as much as tangible ones.

6. Post-Hire Integration

Once you’ve hired the right technical writer, the next challenge is ensuring their smooth transition into your team. Effective integration requires deliberate onboarding processes and open channels of communication. Start by introducing them to key team members, outlining the company’s expectations, and providing the resources they need. 

The goal is to make them feel valued and equipped to handle their new role effectively. Regular check-ins during their early days can help identify potential bottlenecks and facilitate quicker resolutions.

7. Outsourcing vs. In-house Technical Writers

Choosing between in-house technical writers and outsourced specialists is a decision that every company needs to make based on its unique needs and circumstances. Each has its own merits and potential drawbacks. Here’s a deeper dive into these two distinct approaches.

7.1. Advantages of In-house Technical Writers

• Continuity and Consistency: Having an in-house writer ensures that there’s a consistent voice and style across all documentation. They are familiar with the company’s previous work and can ensure that new content aligns well with the old.
• Deep Product Knowledge: An in-house writer becomes intricately familiar with the product, often participating from the development phase to the product’s release. This can lead to a deeper understanding, which can be reflected in the documentation.
• Immediate Feedback and Iterations: With the writer on site, teams can have real-time discussions, allowing for faster revisions and refinements. It can also foster a more collaborative environment.

7.2. Advantages of Outsourcing Technical Writers

• Expertise and Specialization: Outsourced writers often have experience across a broader range of industries and products. If your project requires specific expertise or knowledge, outsourcing might provide a quicker solution than training an in-house writer.
• Flexibility: Outsourcing allows companies to scale their writing needs up or down based on the project’s demands without the long-term commitment of a full-time salary.
• Cost-Effective: For businesses that don’t consistently need a technical writer, it might be more economical to hire an outsourced writer for specific projects rather than keeping an in-house writer on a regular payroll.

Balancing the Two:

While both options have their distinct advantages, some companies find a middle ground by employing a combination of both. They might have a core team of in-house writers for consistent tasks and outsource specific projects that require specialized knowledge or to manage overflow during peak times. Platforms like WriteHire can be instrumental in such scenarios, connecting businesses to the right expertise at the right time.

Ready to Hire a Technical Writer?

As you set forth on this pivotal journey to find the ideal technical writer, remember that assistance is just around the corner.

WriteHire is designed to make the process efficient and specific to your needs. Rather than spending hours pouring over profiles and portfolios, a simple form detailing your requirements is all it takes. Our dedicated team at WriteHire will review your needs meticulously and connect you with a handpicked list of experienced technical writers perfectly tailored for your project. 

This approach doesn’t just save time; it guarantees you’re linked with professionals primed to elevate your documentation. Embark on this journey with WriteHire, and bridge the gap between your tech-savvy creations and your audience’s comprehensive understanding.