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----- Original Message -----
From: <zorgalina -at- springmail -dot- com>
To: "TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com>
Sent: Friday, October 01, 2004 11:09 AM
Subject: Neophyte - impostor looking for advice on contract tech-doc job
>
> hello - I am an erstwhile programmer- I went back to school, obtained an
> MA, am looking for work as a developer but also sought tech writing work.
> I didn't misrepresent myself, insofar as I've written documentation for my
> own software and others, in companies that didn't or couldn't afford
> professional tech writers, but am aware that I am not a professional.
You're in a tough spot. I was going to say that your skills as programmer
could be valuable as a technical editor--you would review drafts for
programming language syntax, and check code samples, for example. I was
going to say that, but since you're working for companies who can't afford a
teh writer, you're not likely to get a gig with them as tech editor.
My suggestion: hang out your shingle as "Zorgalina, MACSci, Programming
Consultant to Editors and Writers". I have often wished for a staffer who
could take the burden of syntax checking off me when I edit or write API
documentation. I'd pay well for a tech editor with strong programming
experience. One who can write would be even better. Shop your skills
around, maybe call some editors and let them know you're available.
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