A successful medical writer needs to be an excellent time manager, communicator, and team player, and show great attention to detail and commercial awareness, in addition to possessing core writing skills and the ability to evaluate and contextualise data. Above all, there must be an enthusiasm to learn. Researching and networking within the medical communications industry will help build a picture of a medical writer’s day-to-day activities. An online profile and error-free application closely tailored to the specific role and employer of interest, followed by illustrating relevant skills and potential with examples during interview, will supplement successful off- and on-site written tests and lead to the start of a career in medical writing.