Should Freelance Medical Writers Specialize?

This article was written by freelance medical writers Lori De Milto, Elizabeth L. Smith, and Cathryn D. Evans. It was originally published in the AMWA Journal.

Pros and Cons of Specializing

There are good reasons to specialize in certain types of projects and/or therapeutic areas—and good reasons not to specialize. In general, if you’re a new freelance, you should focus more broadly to attract more clients. As you gain experience, you can narrow your focus, which is what I did.

How to Keep a Steady Stream of Jobs as a Freelance Medical Writer

Freelance medical writers tend to develop a roster of trusted clients that they work for consistently. When clients find someone who is reliable, knows their business, and produces high-quality work, they'll stick with them.

But even the busiest and most successful medical writers need to cultivate new business constantly. There are steps you can take to identify new freelance medical writer jobs that are a good fit for you, while keeping up with your current workload.

Working With Recruiters to Advance Your Medical Writing Career

Recruiters can make all the difference when advancing your medical writing career. Experienced recruiters can help you identify a role that increases your earning potential, improve your work/life balance, and move you up to a senior-level position.

Many medical writers aren’t sure how to effectively find and work with recruiters. Some may not think they need to work with recruiters. However, used in conjunction with other job search strategies such as industry job postings (available to AMWA members), working with a recruiter can be a good way to make critical connections that will help you land your ideal next job.

Medical Writing Courses That Can Help You Advance In Your Career

Until recently, most writers in the field of medical communication entered the field without formal training. Some started out with scientific or medical degrees and previously worked as scientists, physicians, or pharmacists before transitioning into medical writing. Others began as journalists and built a career by writing about health and medicine.

Advantages of a Medical Writing Certificate

A medical writing career requires being a lifelong learner and networker.

To begin working in the field, medical writers need specialized skills and knowledge to obtain jobs. Advancing in the field means constantly building on that base. In addition, professional connections are helpful in the beginning of your career and in order to advance.