Technical writing: what is the difference between business writing and technical writing?

There are several books, programs, and classes offered today to teach “technical writing.” Some of these are excellent; prepared by industry veterans who know what they are doing. But some others are basically repeating old “business writing” concepts and techniques under the guise of “technical writing.”

“And that?” you may ask, which is a fair question. And here’s the answer: If you are seriously considering going out and looking for a job as a “technical writer,” then you need to have at least one whitepaper prepared according to industry standards and expectations. General business writing, of course, will help you communicate better and conduct your business more efficiently. That’s why it’s good. But when it comes to finding a technical writing job, business writing won’t help you much. No recruiter will accept a business writing sample as proof of your technical writing skills, especially in the high-tech industry I’ve worked in for over 10 years.

Business copywriting is any type of copy generated to manage, communicate, and control others in a work environment. Covers all office communications and topics like how to write a note; how to write an email; how to prepare a report; how to write meeting minutes; all kinds of business letters, etc.

While this knowledge is useful, it will not be enough to find a job in the highly competitive field of modern technical communications. Instead, what you need to learn is the type of documentation that is generated every day in high-tech industries such as software, hardware, networks, telecommunications, manufacturing, chemicals, finance, defense, etc.

Does your instructor help you learn what a “scope” document is, for example, and how it is written? How do you prepare and write “release notes”? What is the fundamental difference between an “interface guide” and a “how-to guide”? Do you know how to write a QCP for a defense contractor?

There are many other similar topics that a beginner needs to learn to prepare for a great career in technical writing. Once you know the crucial difference between “business writing” and “technical writing,” you can make a better decision as to which questions to ask before purchasing a technical writing book or signing up for a technical writing program. That way, you won’t waste your time, money, and energy on a product or program that won’t help you reach your main goal. As is always the case, knowledge is also power on this particular topic.