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Getting Started as a Writer

When you are trying to become a documentation specialist it is difficult to know where to start. We recommend you: Decide whether you have what it takes Get qualified Get reading Showcase yourself

What is a Documentation Specialist?

 

Decide whether you have what it takes

Documentation Specialists have a broad range of skills, however there are some that are essential in whatever job you do:

• excellent written communication skills
• excellent interpersonal skills (as you need to talk to subject matter experts)
• theoretical and practical knowledge of writing styles
• an understanding of plain English writing
• an understanding of how documentation specialists contribute to improving the overall performance of a business.

The key to being a good documentation specialist, is your ability to communicate effectively with your audience. Sure, you're a professional writer, but you're not going for the Booker Prize. It's not about you; it's about your reader.

Ask yourself:

• Does my audience understand?
• Are there any ambiguities in this document?
• Is everything included? Logically organised? Not clouded by excess "style"?

Being a documentation specialist is a work-in-progress. You will be constantly adapting and growing your skills with each assignment. Your audience may be different, the industry may be different, the medium may even be different, and so the way you write will need to be different.

For more information on what a documentation specialist does and the skills required to be successful see What is a documentation specialist?

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Get qualified

Not everyone has the time or money to undertake university study. However, a tertiary qualification in communication will give you the edge on your competition, not to mention teach you some useful skills. Check our News and Resources to find out some of the tertiary programs that are available.

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Get reading

Check out the information in News and Resources to find out where to start developing your skills.

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Showcase yourself

Write yourself a good resume. See our 6 Golden Rules for Resumes.

Get together a portfolio. See our Portfolio Pointers.

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