How many engineers, programmers or technicians do you have that can write interesting, readable articles about your technologies? Can they communicate effectively to potential customers? Do they have the time to write great articles and take care of their primary duties, too?
Do you have writers who can understand and regurgitate what you do on a technical level? Can they take what you give them and communicate it on a level that your customers can understand and appreciate while preserving the accuracy of technical content?
This is why your competitors outsource to technology writers.
What to look for in a technology writer.
A great technology writer has a great portfolio. The writer you want will have samples that parallel the content you’re looking for. A good example of a great portfolio can be found at http://www.GeerCom.com/samples.html.
A great technology writer is a great investigator. A great technology writer takes time to get to know you, your business, and your goals. What do you really want to get out of this project? A great writer will ask because a disciplined professional needs to know.
A great technology writer is a team player. Professional writing requires top-notch communications skills on all levels, not just in the text of your copy. The writer you want should be able to carry on a dialogue with you and your team to discover your needs, and to make sure that they are met.
A great technology writer is prepared to work with you and your team until you’re satisfied. Consultations, revisions and changes should be built into the fee. These are part of the process and should be foreseen by the writer that you want to hire.
Lastly, a great technology writer instills confidence. After providing the necessary requirements and information, you should feel comfortable letting the writer drive where your project is concerned. You should be able to rely on their responsiveness to your queries. You should be assured that they will deliver all that you expect and more.
David Geer is chief technology writer and owner of Geer Communications, which helps corporate communications departments, marketing and PR pros and ad agencies leverage their relationships with technology clients. E-mail him at David@GeerCom.com, call him at 440-964-9832, or check out the Geer Communications Website at www.GeerCom.com.
