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.
Former college teacher and software developer seeks advice on getting started as a tech writer
Subject:Former college teacher and software developer seeks advice on getting started as a tech writer From:"Tony Horowitz" <tonygh -at- verizon -dot- net> To:<techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Mon, 09 Jul 2007 12:56:50 -0400
I have been working as a software developer for the last 12 years, and before that I worked as a college teacher for about the same length of time. I have excellent writing skills, and a lot of experience with explaining technical material with the needs of a particular audience in mind. I do not have any formal experience with technical writing, but I frequently drafted the content of user manuals when I was working as a developer, and proofread and edited existing manuals and online help systems. I think my general skills are well suited to the needs of technical writing, but I lack experience with the tools of the trade. (I do speak HTML, but only as a programmer does; and my experience presenting material in the classroom will of course need to be adapted to this new medium.)
I would like to find employment as a tech writer. A friend who is a tech writer suggested that my experience as a programmer might make me particularly suited for documenting APIs. I would appreciate any advice people have to offer on how to find employers who might be particularly interested in my skills, and willing to take a chance on someone with very little experience. Thanks in advance for any responses.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Create HTML or Microsoft Word content and convert to Help file formats or
printed documentation. Features include support for Windows Vista & 2007
Microsoft Office, team authoring, plus more. http://www.DocToHelp.com/TechwrlList
True single source, conditional content, PDF export, modular help.
Help & Manual is the most powerful authoring tool for technical
documentation. Boost your productivity! http://www.helpandmanual.com
---
You are currently subscribed to TECHWR-L as archive -at- web -dot- techwr-l -dot- com -dot-