Becoming a medical writer is easy when you know which steps to take.
The problem is: most people don’t.
With countless medical writing courses and people saying you need a medical writing certificate online, it’s hard to know where to turn.
As a healthcare worker who built a 6-figure medical writing business in 18 months, I’ve got a lot to say about this.
Here’s how to become a medical writer without wasting time on things that won’t actually bring you the flexibility you crave.
1. Avoid medical writing courses with no practical application.
Googling “medical writing courses” will leave you swimming in options.
Honestly, it’s pretty overwhelming.
A common complaint I hear among medical writers in my network is that there’s no practical application to what’s taught.
Sure, it can be interesting to learn how to conduct a literature search or write an ad board report.
But, is this going to actually help you find clients or a job as a medical writer?
Absolutely not.
If you want to become a medical writer, you need to know how to sell yourself and your services with confidence.
There’s no point in taking a medical writing class, course, or training if it won’t help you build a strong personal brand.
What’s great about Prospology’s ‘Thriving & Free’ Medical Writer Program is that every course has practical application.
Here’s what one Prospologer had to say:
“I haven’t been happier to invest in a program that actually DELIVERS results than this one! Sophie provides incredible step-by-step guides on how to start your business and gives you the confidence you need with honest feedback.”
Whichever medical writing course you end up taking, be sure you won’t hear crickets at the end of it.
2. Don’t waste your time with medical writing certificates online.
A huge misconception I hear from people who want to become medical writers involves online certification.
Let’s nip this in the bud right away.
Medical writing certification is not necessary for finding clients or a full-time job as a medical writer.
Throughout all my years in the industry, I’ve never heard of someone not getting hired due to being uncertified.
Not once.
Unlike healthcare, where you can’t join a medical association or maintain licensure without certification, the medcomms industry is very chill.
What’s more important is your ability to communicate science to specific audiences, having a strong work ethic, and like-ability.
It’s really that simple.
So, the next time you find yourself typing “medical writing certificate online”, think twice. It could be a total waste of time, effort, and money.
3. Hire a medical writing coach who’s already been successful.
The smartest path to becoming a medical writer is one well trodden.
In other words, instead of trying to reinvent the wheel, why not learn from someone who’s already achieved your desires?
If you haven’t watched Prospology’s webinar yet, you’ve gotta check it out!
In it, I explain how I went from burnt-out nanny and housekeeper to six-figure freelance medical writer in 18 months.
Spoiler alert: it didn’t involve online certification, getting a masters in medical writing, or any theoretical learnings.
Here’s what our viewers have to say:
“I watched your webinar and was truly inspired. I love how authentic and vulnerable you are in sharing your story. Listening to your successes and failures was motivational.”
“I love your brutal honesty and your story resonates. I’m so proud of you for paving the way for others like me to believe in ourselves and to be our own best advocates.”
“I finished the webinar and it was brilliant! You’re amazing! I’m in awe of what you’ve built, who you are, and what is possible working with you, your team, and your methodology.”
For real though—learning from others’ successes and failures is the fastest and most effective route to becoming a medical writer.
That’s why we have interviews with over 40 industry experts in our Careers Academy, woven into our medical writing courses.
So, listen up and listen carefully.
For more free tips and true stories on how to become a medical writer, subscribe to our Sunday newsletter.