Do Programmer Writers need an extensive writing background?

Posted Dec 17 2008 9:52 AM by the JobsBloggers
dear jobsblog

Dear JobsBlog: I am interested in programmer writer positions at microsoft.  Does one need to have extensive writing experience to apply for these positions? Or is it okay to have been a programmer for 5+ years and have a passion and talent for writing?

 

Angela

Answer: The answer could vary from position to position and level to level.  But for the most part, an extensive “professional” writing background is not usually a requirement.  A big plus could be a degree in Technical Communications.

The ability to understand and / or be proficient with programming languages is most important.  Being able to document programming languages, technical concepts and work within established style guidelines is key to success.  Programmer Writers are tasked with describing complex programming concepts, how to execute on programming tasks, how to use application programming interfaces and other very technically focused processes.

The ideal person is usually someone with a programming language background that really enjoys explaining details to others and has a love for writing.  Basic writing skills (grammar, punctuation, etc) are usually sufficient.

Check out our programmer writer openings.

- Angela

3 Comments

  • Noticias externas said:

    Dear JobsBlog: I am interested in programmer writer positions at microsoft. Does one need to have extensive

  • said:

    Question then.

    What if you're trained in programming but your current position for the past eight years has not offered a programming opportunity, as such your skills are THERE but very dry.

    Thus the knowledge and why/how logic works is there but you need a "refresher" course as it were in a current language to begin coding again.  

    What would be a good programming position to target at that level or what position WOULD you advise to target at for a relatively high level tech who is familiar with programming? (But lacking heavy Enterprise support)

    Open to suggestions... Even the "floor mopping / shoe scrubbing ones"

  • Mr Vista said:

    Hi. Your readers may get a kick out of these new series of geeky-comedy I'm putting together. Here is episode 1...

    <a rel="nofollow" target="_new" href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x46p2h_episode-1_shortfilms">http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x46p2h_episode-1_shortfilms</a>

    Sorry to add this as a comment but I couldn't find a 'contact us' button.

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