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Phil Burridge

The Importance of Soft Skills for Medical Writers

Navigating the Intersection of Skill and Sensibility


In the rapidly evolving landscape of medical writing, the development of soft skills has become increasingly paramount. As highlighted in the recent issue of the European Medical Writers Association (EMWA) journal, "Soft skills are indispensable for medical writers in this era, and even more important when considering career progression" [1]. This sentiment underscores the crucial role that interpersonal and intrapersonal abilities play in medical writers' professional growth and effectiveness.


soft skills

The influence of AI in medical writing


The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in the medical writing industry has revolutionized the way writers approach their tasks. AI tools can assist in various aspects, from data analysis to the generation of initial drafts, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the writing process. However, this technological advancement also necessitates a shift in focus towards the cultivation of soft skills. While AI can handle technical tasks, the human touch remains irreplaceable, particularly in areas that require empathy, understanding, and nuanced communication.


The essential soft skills


Corinne Swainger, in her insightful article "The Hard Truth About Soft Skills in Medical Writing" [2], identifies several key soft skills that are essential for medical writers. These include:


1. Time Management

Effective time management is crucial in the world of medical writing, where deadlines are often tight, and the pressure to deliver high-quality work is constant. Writers must be adept at prioritizing tasks, managing their schedules, and ensuring that they meet their commitments without compromising the quality of their work.


2. Communication

Effective medical writing relies on clear and precise communication. Writers must be able to convey complex medical information in a manner that is accessible to diverse audiences, including medical professionals, regulatory bodies, and patients. This requires not only a deep understanding of the subject matter but also the ability to tailor the message to the audience's needs.


3. Adaptability

The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and requirements is a valuable skill in any profession, and medical writing is no exception. Writers must be flexible and open to feedback, willing to revise and refine their work in response to new information or changing guidelines.


4. Collaboration/Teamwork

Medical writing is often a collaborative effort, requiring input and coordination from multiple stakeholders. Writers must be able to work effectively within a team, valuing the contributions of others and working towards a common goal. This involves not only good communication skills but also the ability to navigate interpersonal dynamics and build strong professional relationships.


5. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and those of others, is a critical soft skill for medical writers. This includes empathy, self-awareness, and the ability to handle stress and conflict constructively. Emotional intelligence can enhance communication, improve teamwork, and contribute to a more positive and productive work environment.


The Morula Health perspective


At Morula Health, the importance of soft skills is reflected in our medical writer qualification process. We evaluate how writers handle challenging situations and effectively communicate complex topics with clients, including managing timelines and resolving differing perspectives at comment resolution meetings. A few key questions we ask ourselves internally to evaluate a medical writer are:


  • Without senior or project management supervision, would we leave this medical writer to run a project independently?

  • Can they be a team player and embody the culture of the business?


If the answer is no, it is likely because they have not yet developed enough of the essential soft skills. This evaluation process ensures that our writers are technically proficient and capable of thriving in a collaborative and dynamic work environment.


The value of soft skills


Soft skills are fundamentally human skills that hold significant value for both the medical writer and the client. They facilitate effective communication, foster strong working relationships, and enhance the overall quality of the work produced. In an industry where precision and accuracy are paramount, the ability to connect with others and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics is equally important.


Moreover, the development of soft skills can lead to greater career progression and job satisfaction. Medical writers who possess strong soft skills are more likely to be entrusted with greater responsibilities, opportunities for leadership, and the ability to work on more complex and high-profile projects. This, in turn, can lead to increased professional recognition and career advancement.


Conclusion


As the medical writing industry continues to evolve, the importance of soft skills cannot be overstated. While technical proficiency and subject matter expertise are essential, it is the ability to communicate effectively, manage time, adapt to change, collaborate with others, and demonstrate emotional intelligence that sets truly exceptional medical writers apart. By investing in the development of these skills, medical writers can enhance their professional capabilities, contribute more effectively to their teams, and ultimately achieve greater success in their careers.


In summary, soft skills remain an indispensable component of a medical writer's toolkit. They bridge the gap between technical expertise and human connection, ensuring that the written word not only informs but also resonates with its intended audience. As we move forward in an increasingly AI-driven world, the cultivation of soft skills will continue to be a crucial factor in the sustained success and growth of the medical writing profession.


If you are seeking tips and guidance on how to improve your soft skills, be sure to check out the EMWA journal Volume 33, Issue 2 - "Soft Skills for Medical Writers" [3]. This edition offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you hone the essential interpersonal and professional skills that will elevate your medical writing career.


References


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