No published writing samples? No problem.

The medical writing world beckons, and your fingers itch to craft compelling health narratives, but a glaring obstacle stands in your way – the dreaded lack of a medical writing portfolio of published work.

But what if I told you that you don’t even need a portfolio of published work to get your first freelance health writing job?

Think about it. All your clients want to know is that you have strong medical writing skills. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been published yet.

Here’s your guide to showcasing your talent and securing that first gig when you’ve never been published.

Step 1: Craft your own samples and be your own client

Remember, no client exists yet, so why not create your own?

Choose a relevant niche you’re drawn to – patient education materials, clinical trial narratives, medical copywriting for devices – and start writing!

Here are some ideas:

• Craft a patient information booklet on a common condition, explaining it in clear, accessible language
• Develop a compelling case study highlighting the benefits of a hypothetical medical device
• Write a health blog post addressing a trending medical topic, showcasing your ability to translate complex information for a lay audience
• Draft a regulatory document in your chosen niche, adhering to the specific format and guidelines

Don’t worry about publishing these just yet.

The goal is to demonstrate your understanding of the medical field, writing skills and ability to cater to specific audiences.

Step 2: Embrace the power of “never say no”

Never forget that opportunities often arrive in unexpected ways.

Network with healthcare professionals, attend industry events and connect with medical marketing agencies. If someone proposes a writing project, even if it feels slightly outside your comfort zone, consider it a chance to learn and showcase your adaptability.

This could mean writing a blog post for a local clinic, drafting email newsletters for a medical association or even ghostwriting content for a healthcare professional.

Each project adds valuable experience and strengthens your writing skills.

Step 3: Invent a client for impact

Feeling adventurous? Develop a hypothetical client within your niche. Research real companies and create a typical requirements-gathering brief. Then, write samples tailored to their needs and target audience.

This allows you to demonstrate your ability to research, adapt writing styles and meet specific client requirements.

Remember, transparency is key. Clearly disclose these samples as mock projects when you publish them on your website and show potential clients.

Step 4: Beyond publication: Samples don’t need an audience

The purpose of these initial samples is not necessarily publication, but demonstration.

Include them in your online portfolio, share them during client consultations or use them as writing prompts during interviews.

Focus on the quality of your writing, clarity of message and adherence to health communication best practices.

Step 5: Remember, they just want to know you can write

Ultimately, clients want to see your writing ability and potential.

While published pieces are ideal, well-crafted, relevant samples, even if unpublished, can speak volumes.

Emphasise your research skills, attention to detail and passion for medical communication.

Showcase your willingness to learn and adapt, demonstrating your potential to become a valuable asset to their team.

Bonus tip

When pitching, highlight transferable skills from other writing experiences.

Explain how your communication skills, research background or ability to handle complex topics translate to the medical writing realm.

Remember, building a successful medical writing career is a journey.

Embrace the initial hustle, use these tips to showcase your talent and, most importantly, believe in your ability to write with clarity and purpose in the fascinating world of medical communication.

So, pick up your pen (or keyboard), get creative and write your way to success!