TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
I'll give you a few realities of technical writing:
1. You must demonstrate technical ability. This means you must know something about something - computers, engineering, manufacturing, et cetera. If you don't have this knowledge, start studying (go back to school or grab some "for Dummies" book).
2. You must demonstrate that you can write. If you don't have a portfolio, dig in and start writing something - procedures for clipping your toenails if nothing else. Just write.
3. You must demonstrate tools knowledge. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise: if you don't know RoboHelp, for instance, you just won't land a job writing help files. Take the time to learn at the very least, the "big three" (Word, FrameMaker, and RoboHelp). Beyond that, working knowledge of screen shot software, operating systems, and PhotoShop or PaintShop Pro will be helpful.
My advice? To make yourself marketable, go to the market. Look at the ads for techwriters in your target area and start compiling a list of the skills they are asking for. Once you *know* what companies want, go out and get those skills.
Good luck.
Jeff Hanvey (who needs to take his own advice)
--- "D M" <daisymay_fl -at- hotmail -dot- com> wrote:
>
>Dear List,
>
>Could someone please give me some pointers on getting a job as a beginning
>tech writer. I am unemployed and really want to know what I can do to
>improve my situation!
_____________________________________________________________
Jeff Hanvey: http://www.jewahe.net
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