As the tech industry continues to grow and evolve, the need for technical writers is increasing. Companies are looking for professionals who can effectively communicate technical concepts to a non-technical audience. Gladly, they have freelance technical writers to the rescue.
With the rise of remote work, freelancers have become a valuable resource for businesses seeking quality content. In this blog post, we will explore the 7 best websites where you can hire talented freelancers for technical writing in Africa. Whether you need content for your website, blog, web project, or marketing materials, these platforms offer a wide range of experienced writers to meet your needs.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect freelancer for your next project!
What Is Technical Writing?
Technical writing is a form of communication that professionals use to disseminate specific information on a topic. Grammar defines technical writing as a type of writing where the author writes about a particular subject that requires direction, instruction, or explanation.
A technical writer is someone who creates content to provide instructions or explain technical concepts regarding environmental regulations, computer applications, or medical procedures. They study target audiences to determine how best to pass the information around the technical aspects of a product and its features. In addition to writing, they may also need to help produce videos, illustrations, and other visual communication.
Some of the most common industries that rely on technical writing include:
- Engineering
- Computer software and hardware
- Robotics
- Chemistry
- Finance
- Consumer electronics
- Forestry
- Aeronautics
- Medical and healthcare
- Biotechnology
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What Does A Technical Writer Do?
Technical writers are skilled wordsmiths who frequently produce press releases, journal articles, how-to manuals, online wiki sections, product manuals, and other documents that clarify and simplify technical knowledge.
Whether through education or experience gained on the job, these writers typically have a foundation in the subject. Science, medical, engineering, software, manufacturing, and other technological fields are frequently included in this subject matter.
Building upon this foundation, they make clear challenges and bring their readers—developers, project workgroups, engineers, and consumers—up to speed.
The aim of technical writing is to make procedures simple to grasp and products easy to use.
A technical writer is responsible for the following tasks:
- Gathering technical information on their company’s or department’s line of business
- Plan the creation of technical documents according to the demands of the company
- Sort information according to its relevance and value
- Create and edit the necessary documentation
- Make copies of all technical documents and enter them into the database for data security
- Maintain a comprehensive glossary and library of technical words and records
Along with this, specific technical writers may also have other responsibilities or duties within their area of specialty.
- Medical writers, for example, regularly publish medicine-related material and product reviews in medical journals.
- If you work as a Google technical writer, on the other hand, you might write content on how users can embed YouTube videos.
Irrespective of the field a technical writer works in, their role will involve two key duties: subject matter research and technical document planning.
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How To Become A Technical Writer?
Becoming a technical writer demands practice which involves developing your skills in written communication, design, research, analysis, and many more.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a technical writer.
- Earn your bachelor’s degree.
- Pursue a technical writer certification.
- Create a portfolio of samples.
- Build up your professional network.
- Develop your industry knowledge.
1. Earn your bachelor’s degree
While an associate’s degree may be sufficient for entry into the technical writing sector, earning a bachelor’s degree in an area like technical communications, scientific writing, or journalism can help you land a better career. Additionally, consider expanding your expertise through further training and education in specialized sectors like engineering, computer and data science, and medicine.
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2. Pursue a technical writer certification
To stand a better chance of excelling in technical writing, you pursue technical certification. You can try your hands on the Society for Technical Communication (STC). This association offers a three-tiered certification program that consists of foundation, practitioner, and expert certification levels.
For medical writers, the American Medical Writers’ Association (AMWA) offers continuing education and training programs for technical writers who specialize in medical writing. If you plan to enter the scientific or medical communication fields, consider certification through AMWA to increase your career prospects.
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3. Create a portfolio of samples
This is very important for technical writers. At WritersGig we prioritize a portfolio of samples as it shows the work you’ve done in the past. A portfolio of samples is proof that you’re an expert.
Check out how to create a writing portfolio.
As you improve your technical writing ability, collect writing samples and offer to take on small projects for friends and acquaintances. Create each sample as you would a professional technical project and keep it in a work portfolio. You can use this resource when you apply for jobs to show employers evidence of your work and demonstrate your technical and written prowess.
4. Build up your professional network
Join a technical writing professional association. You should also go to networking events where people in the IT, science, and medical sectors get together. Seek out ways to put your skills to use and enhance your reputation as a skilled technical writer while you expand your network. For example, look for open-source projects to contribute to using association contacts and network connections. Likewise, offer your assistance or arrange a trade-off with a business associate that requires the creation and printing of a software handbook.
5. Develop your industry knowledge
Lastly, stay up to date on your industry’s trends and new developments to back your knowledge of the field. Staying current on new technology and software, medical advances or the latest scientific research is necessary for planning and writing your project materials. If you choose to join a professional association, use the resources the network offers to remain informed of the latest news for whichever field you specialize in.
7 Best Websites To Hire Freelancers for Technical Writing in Africa
While there aren’t many platforms specifically designed to connect with African freelancers, several general freelance websites have a strong presence in Africa and can be a great resource for finding technical writing talent. Here are 7 options to consider:
1. WritersGig
WritersGig is an excellent freelance website for technical writers. By signing up as a technical writer, you gain access to various clients in search of technical writing services. One good thing about WritersGig is that it allows you to bid on jobs by sending proposals to as many clients as possible.
Whether the need is for detailed user manuals, comprehensive product descriptions, or sophisticated technical guides, WritesGig boasts of the best technical writing professionals in Africa
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is an online marketplace that has revolutionized the freelance industry with its unique approach to gigs. Unlike traditional freelancing platforms, Fiverr allows freelancers to offer their services starting at just $5.
This low starting price attracts clients who are looking for affordable options without compromising on quality.
3. WriterHire
WriterHire stands as an exceptional platform for hiring skilled technical writers, distinguishing itself with a specialized focus on technical documentation and content creation. This platform is an invaluable resource for businesses and individuals who require writers with the unique ability to simplify complex technical concepts into user-friendly content.
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4. iWriter
iWriter is a dedicated platform for African freelance writers, providing numerous opportunities to showcase their skills and secure writing gigs
Here, you can find technical writing jobs that match your expertise and interests.
5. Upwork
Upwork is a renowned freelance marketplace, offering a vast pool of freelancers including technical writers. You can search for talent based on skills, experience, location, and budget. Upwork also has a convenient escrow system to ensure secure transactions.
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6. Writers.ng
Writers.ng is a professional Technical writing company in Nigeria offering high-quality technical writing services. To get technical writing gigs on the website, you need to apply as a technical writer and get approved by the admin.
To stand a better chance at securing a job, you must possess excellent knowledge of all aspects of the subject matter they are assigned.
7. Guru
Guru is a popular freelance platform that caters to a wide range of industries and skill sets, including technical writing. It offers features like project milestones, escrow payments, and dispute resolution to ensure a smooth working experience.
FAQs On Websites To Hire Freelancers for Technical Writing
You can hire technical writers on popular platforms like WritersGig, Upwork, Writer, Guru, etc.
To assess the quality of a technical writer before hire, review their portfolio and samples to gauge the quality of their writing. You can also request a small test task or interview the freelancer to assess their understanding of technical concepts and writing style.
Look for relevant experience in technical writing, expertise in your industry or niche, strong communication skills, a portfolio showcasing past work, and positive reviews from previous clients.
You can use the search function on writersgig.com to look for technical writers. Use keywords like “technical writer,” and “content writer,” or specify the type of technical content you need.
Conclusion
Once you hire a vetted technical on WritersGig be guaranteed of their ability to simplify and translate complex technical information into coherent content that a wider audience can understand.
References
- indeed.com – What Is Technical Writing? Definition, Examples and Steps
- builtin.com – What Is a Technical Writer? How to Become One, Salary, Skills.
- technicalwriterhq.com – How to Become a Technical Writer without Experience
