The UX writer produces the words inside a product: labels, instructions, errors, confirmations and empty states. It is design work carried out in language, and it has a disproportionate effect on whether people understand what is happening. Good product writing is largely invisible, while bad product writing generates support tickets.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Write interface copy including labels, buttons, messages and instructions
- Design error messages that explain the problem and the way out of it
- Establish and maintain voice and tone guidelines
- Build and maintain content standards within the design system
- Work with designers from the start rather than writing at the end
- Test copy with users and iterate based on comprehension
- Review and improve existing product content
- Write onboarding and empty state content that helps people start
- Collaborate with legal and support on sensitive messaging
- Advocate for clarity over cleverness
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, design or a related field
Required Skills and Experience
- 3+ years writing for digital products
- Portfolio showing interface copy rather than marketing writing
- Ability to write concisely under space constraints
- Understanding of accessibility and plain language principles
- Experience establishing voice and tone guidelines
- Comfort working inside design tools alongside designers
- Willingness to test copy rather than rely on preference
- Attention to consistency across a large product
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with content design systems
- Localisation experience