UX Writer Career Guide

What is a UX writer?

A UX writer crafts the words you see on apps, websites, and software. Their main job is to make sure everything reads clearly and feels right to the user. This means making it super easy and fun to understand, helping people get where they need to go within the app or site. Just like a guide in a video game, they help you navigate and understand what to do, making the whole experience smooth.

Duties and responsibilities

Think of a UX writer as the person who makes sure all the little messages on apps and websites, like button labels and error messages, make sense and sound friendly. They work closely with designers and tech teams to make sure the words look good and fit well with the designs. They also listen to what users like and use that feedback to improve their writing. Plus, they create guidelines so that all the text across a product feels the same, which is super important for keeping things consistent.

Work environment

Most UX writers work in offices, but a lot work from home too, especially in tech companies. They are part of big teams that make apps and websites, so they spend a lot of time talking with designers and programmers. Their work is fast-paced, which means it can get really busy, especially when they are trying to finish up a project.

Typical work hours

UX writers usually work regular hours, like a 9-to-5 job, Monday through Friday. But sometimes they might have to work extra, especially if they’re wrapping up a big project or need to talk to teams in other time zones. Some UX writers even work freelance, which lets them choose their own hours, but they still need to meet deadlines and coordinate with their clients.

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How to become a UX writer

Want to be a UX writer? It’s all about blending writing chops with tech know-how. Here’s how you can get started on this cool career path:

Step 1: Get a bachelor’s degree

Start with a bachelor’s degree in something like English, communications, or journalism. These subjects help you hone your writing and thinking skills. If you can, pick courses that focus on digital communication or web design—they’ll give you a head start.

Step 2: Dive into writing

Get real-world writing experience. This could be internships, freelance gigs, or jobs like copywriting or content creation. It’s all about building a killer portfolio that shows off your skills in making digital stuff easy and enjoyable to read.

Step 3: Understand UX design

Learn the ropes of UX design. Know the basics like user-centered design and information architecture. Get comfy with design tools like Sketch or Figma.

Here are some options available for online courses:

• Coursera’s UX Research at Scale: Surveys, Analytics, and Online Testing covers survey techniques for gaining insights from large user sets.
• The University of Michigan hosts the User Experience Research and Design course that provides a hands-on experience for thoroughly understanding user needs, generating prototypes, evaluating designs, and conducting analysis.
• Udemy offers a UX Strategy Masterclass that focuses on becoming an expert strategist for building models and value propositions.
• Expand your understanding of Figma with Udemy’s Figma UI/UX Design Essentials course. 
• Sharpen your expertise with Skillshare’s Design Research: Get More Insight from Customer Interactions course focusing on mastering qualitative data analysis. 

Step 4: Boost your team skills

UX writing isn’t a solo gig. You’ll need to work smoothly with designers and tech teams. So, focus on getting good at communicating and collaborating.

Step 5: Create a portfolio

Build a portfolio that puts your UX writing front and center. Show a mix of work—website text, app interfaces, emails—and dive into the stories behind them. How did you tackle the project? What was the impact?

Step 6: Network

Get out there and meet people in the UX and content world. Go to meet-ups, join online groups, and connect with pros. It’s a great way to learn and find job leads.

Step 7: Apply for jobs

Now, you’re ready to hit the job market. Tailor your resume to highlight your UX writing skills and projects. In interviews, be ready to talk about how you approach your work and how you’ve made a difference.

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How much do UX writers make?

As a UX writer, your salary can be influenced by several factors. Geographic location plays a significant role, as salaries tend to be higher in cities with a high cost of living. Additionally, your level of education, particularly if you have specialized training in user experience or a related field, can impact your earnings. Experience is another major factor; as you gain experience, you may have the opportunity to work on more complex projects or take on leadership roles, which can increase your salary.

The industry you work in can also affect your pay, as some industries might have a higher demand for UX writing skills. Lastly, the size and type of the company you work for could influence your compensation; larger companies or those with a strong online presence might be willing to pay more for skilled writers.

Browse UX writer salary data by market

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Types of UX writers

UX writers can dive into different niches depending on their interests and skills. Let’s check out some cool paths you might consider:

Microcopy writer

These writers are all about the small stuff that makes a big impact. Think button labels, error messages, or hints on forms—tiny texts that guide users smoothly through apps and websites. Microcopy writers team up closely with UX/UI designers to make sure every piece of text fits perfectly in the design and matches the vibe of the brand.

Content strategist

Content strategists are the planners of the UX writing world. They figure out what kind of content will hit the mark with users and map out how to deliver it. They use research to design content that’s engaging and useful, making sure it flows well within the app or website’s design. It’s all about making content that not only looks good but also works hard to meet business goals.

Localization writer

When an app or website goes global, localization writers come into play. They tweak the content to make sense culturally and linguistically in each new market. It’s not just about translating; it’s about rethinking content so it feels right at home, no matter where home might be. They work hand-in-hand with designers to ensure the localized content fits seamlessly into the overall design.

Technical writer

Got a knack for the nitty-gritty? Technical writers focus on the heavy-duty info like user manuals and help guides. They break down complex tech speak into easy-to-digest advice that helps users get the most out of a product. Their work often collaborates closely with UX/UI teams to make sure these guides are easy to access and use within the product.

Brand writer

Brand writers craft the voice of the company. They work on content that not only informs but also connects emotionally with users. From website copy to ad campaigns, they keep the brand’s tone consistent and engaging across all platforms. Working with UX/UI designers, brand writers ensure that every piece of content reflects the brand’s identity and values.

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Top skills for UX writers

UX writers need a mix of creativity and technical skills to craft content that’s not just easy to read but also effective. Here’s what you need to shine in this role:

Strong writing and editing

You should be able to write clearly and engagingly. Whether it’s a small pop-up message or a detailed guide, your words should make sense instantly and feel welcoming. Also, being a pro at proofreading and editing is key—you need to spot and fix any typos, grammar slip-ups, or awkward phrasing.

Adaptability in style and tone

Flexibility is crucial. Sometimes you’ll need to be formal; other times, casual or playful. Understanding how to switch up your writing style to match different audiences or products helps create a connection with users.

Collaborative skills

UX writing isn’t a solo show. You’ll work with designers, developers, and other team members to weave your words into the product seamlessly. Good communication means you can share ideas clearly, take feedback constructively, and help everyone stay on the same page.

Attention to detail

Everything from the accuracy of your content to its adherence to brand and legal guidelines matters a lot. You should also know about accessibility and SEO to make your content not just good but also discoverable and usable by everyone.

Ability to juggle tasks

With deadlines always around the corner and multiple projects on the go, being organized and able to prioritize is a must. Sometimes, you’ll need to handle last-minute changes without dropping the ball.

Commitment to learning

Digital trends and technologies are always evolving, so staying in the loop with the latest in UX design, content strategy, and user behavior is important. Regularly updating your skills keeps you ready for whatever comes next in the tech world.

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UX writer career path

Starting out

If you’re aiming for a career as a UX writer, begin by building solid writing and communication skills, ideally through roles in content writing, copywriting, or similar fields. A background in marketing or journalism can provide a good foundation. It’s crucial to assemble a portfolio that highlights your knack for creating clear, user-centric content. Networking and keeping up with industry tools and trends are also key steps to getting your foot in the door.

Early career development

As you gain experience, you’ll likely tackle more challenging projects. This could mean crafting comprehensive content strategies or collaborating closely with UX designers to ensure your copy meshes well with design elements. At this stage, consider boosting your credentials with UX design certifications or relevant workshops.

Mid-career development

Midway through your career, you might step into roles like senior UX writer or content strategist. These positions often involve leading projects or small teams and developing overarching content strategies. You’ll work more extensively with other team members, including product managers and designers, to shape the product’s content landscape.

Senior leadership

Later in your career, you could move up to a leadership position such as Head of Content or Director of UX. These roles typically focus more on strategic oversight and less on day-to-day writing tasks. You’ll play a key role in setting the direction for the company’s overall user experience.

Consulting and freelancing

Some experienced UX writers choose to consult or freelance, offering their specialized skills to a range of clients. This path provides flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects across different industries.

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Similar job titles

• SEM Strategist
• Copywriter
• UX Designer
• UX Developer
• UI Developer
• UI Designer

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Position trends and outlook for UX writers

UX writers are at the forefront of a major shift in digital product design, where storytelling and user interaction are key. Companies are increasingly integrating storytelling into UX to make their brands feel more human and relatable. This approach helps create a more engaging and memorable experience for users. UX writing has become an integral part of this process, as it involves crafting content that not only guides but also connects with users on a personal level.

The focus is also on creating seamless user experiences. UX writers play a critical role in ensuring that the language used across digital platforms is clear, concise, and consistent with the brand’s voice. This makes the interaction as intuitive and pleasant as possible, enhancing user satisfaction and loyalty.

Employment projections for UX writers

The outlook for UX writers is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups UX writers under technical writers and forecasts a 6% job growth from now through 2031, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the expanding demand for digital products and services, which requires skilled writers to create user-centered content that enhances the overall user experience.

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UX writer career tips

Develop strong writing skills

To excel as a UX writer, you need to master the art of clear, concise writing. Regularly practice writing in various styles, from snappy microcopy to detailed user guides. Consider enrolling in courses focused on writing, journalism, or copywriting to sharpen your skills. The better you write, the more effectively you can guide users through a digital experience.

Learn UX design principles

A solid understanding of UX design principles is essential. Dive into the basics of layout, typography, and color theory to see how they influence user interactions. Enhancing your skills through UI and graphic design courses can also provide a more well-rounded perspective on creating user-friendly designs.

Build a strong portfolio

Your portfolio is your showcase, demonstrating your ability to craft engaging digital content. Include diverse projects such as examples of microcopy, user guides, and detailed case studies. Make sure to highlight your writing process and the rationale behind your content decisions, as these insights are invaluable to potential employers.

Build a network

Building a robust network is key to career growth. Join organizations like the UX Writers Collective, IABC, or STC to connect with peers and stay informed on industry trends. Attending conferences and networking events can also open doors to new opportunities and insights.

Enhance your communication skills

Effective communication is crucial, especially when discussing your work with stakeholders and team members. Enhance your ability to convey your writing choices and be receptive to feedback by taking courses in business writing and public speaking.

Stay current with industry trends

UX writing is a rapidly evolving field. Stay ahead by keeping up with the latest technologies and trends through blogs, publications, and attending industry events like conferences and webinars. Participating in forums and online discussions can also keep you connected to the community and new ideas.

Commit to continuous learning

The digital landscape is continuously changing, and so should your skills. Pursue certifications, attend workshops, and seek further education to stay competitive and knowledgeable. This ongoing learning will ensure you remain relevant and effective in your role.

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FAQs