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.
Subject:Is temping a good way to start? From:KFuhlbrig <kfuhlbrig -at- AOL -dot- COM> Date:Tue, 20 May 1997 14:39:44 -0400
Yes, in case you hadn't guessed, I too want to get into tech writing. For
a variety of reasons, I need the flexibility that freelance work provides.
Is a temp agency a good place to get some experience and develop a
portfolio? If so, can you recommend any particular agencies?
FYI, my background is in finance and strategy, and I have no formal
training in tech writing. However, I do write extremely well, and I've
discovered I really enjoy hacking around at a computer all day. I
understand basic typography and design, and have created two items to show
prospective employers:
1) I reformatted a page from Michigan's Drivers' Manual...it was
appropriately written, but the formatting totally obscured the message.
2) I have a done a product brochure/spec sheet for a new industrial robot
application.
In addition, I have written bazillions (notice the use of precise
technical terminology) of reports, all well received, but they are all
confidential material. I can't use them.
Is this an appropriate start? Any hints and tips would be most welcome.
Also, if anyone has compiled a "newbie FAQ", I'd love to get a copy of it.
Thanks in advance.
--------------------------------------
Eschew obfuscation
Kathryn Fuhlbrigge
KFuhlbrig -at- aol -dot- com
(yes, I know it's not a cool address, but, hey, I don't get junk email! ; P )
TECHWR-L (Technical Communication) List Information: To send a message
to 2500+ readers, e-mail to TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU -dot- Send commands
to LISTSERV -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU (e.g. HELP or SIGNOFF TECHWR-L).
Search the archives at http://www.documentation.com/ or search and
browse the archives at http://listserv.okstate.edu/archives/techwr-l.html