Why your startup needs a UX writer and how to find one

This is like part two of an article I wrote almost one and a half years ago. I am including bits from the original article here, since it’s extremely likely that you have not read it. (I can’t go through the day without a little self-deprecating humor.)

Step 1: Figure out if you need a UX writer

OK, I’m not trying to suggest that you will have content like this unless you hire a UX writer. I just had to include it because it’s fabulous. / Photo credit: David E. Cooper

If you are willing to put in time and effort, it’s entirely possible to create user experience (UX) content that works without a writer.

In my opinion, most of the issues arise from the person writing the content, not knowing what the main message is at any given point in time. Figure out what you want to say and start your sentence with it.

So, why hire a UX writer? Because, like design, writing is a craft.

Among other things, a UX writer will align your UX content with your brand voice (or create a brand voice). They’ll create an emotional connection with your users and give your product a personality, too.

Icons from the Noun Project: Happy by Natasha and Sad by Xinh Studio

Step 2: Make room for a UX writer in your design process

Before you start looking at resumes or even think about what type of person you want to hire, give some thought as to how your newly hired UX writer will fit into your design process. Content is UX too, so it’s a good idea to involve your writer early, right in the discover or define stage.

Definitely, don’t ask your writer to look at a shiny, finalized visual design; it will be a painful experience for everyone. This is because if you’ve hired a good UX writer, they’ll want to do their job. They’ll want to make sure your users see the right content at the right time, which in turn means they’ll suggest changes to the flow and overall information structure. So let them!

Singapore data

The graph above, although by no means conclusive, shows that UX writing isn’t as popular a role as copywriting, so you may need to hire a copywriter and let them learn on the job. This is perfectly fine, but consider pairing them with a senior UX designer who can guide them when it comes to UX best practices.

Step 3: Hire them, and look for these qualities

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