Definition of Technical Writer

[Beth Agnew]

Two things: 1) make sure your job announcement very clearly asks for a 
senior technical writer and mentions the types of qualifications you are 
looking for. If your description is not clear, you may be getting 
applicants who are interpreting the ad, and do so incorrectly;
2) even with a clear job description, anyone out of work and desperate 
will apply for anything; just ignore those inappropriate applications. 
(I've even had a chef apply for a Sr TW position.)

These days, you don't need to respond to people who apply, only those 
who have come in for an interview. Put "Only successful applicants will 
be contacted" in your job announcement. When interviewees don't match 
your requirements -- why did you interview them? Some better filtering 
is required. And if they did match your job profile but aren't suitable, 
thank them for coming in and tell them that their qualifications are not 
quite right for the position but you appreciate their interest in the 
company.

BTW, it's worth nothing that many excellent techwriters might not fit a 
certain "definition". This is a very broad profession, and people come 
to it via diverse routes. We've even had an STC President who used to be 
a professional clown. Be clear on what you want the person to do, and 
then look for people who can do that.
--Beth

Ronald Schwarz wrote:
> I am attempting to recruit a "senior" technical writer. I am finding
> people who respond to my job announcements who have accomplished all
> sorts of things and claim to be technical writers so that they can be
> hired by my company. 
>  
> What is a technical writer? I need a definition so when I turn someone
> down I can give a short answer.
>   
-- 
Beth Agnew
Catch the Buzz: http://bethbuzz.blogspot.com
STC Presentation archived at:
http://www.301url.com/podcasting

Professor, Technical Communication
Seneca College of Applied Arts & Technology
Toronto, ON 416.491.5050 x3133
http://www.tinyurl.com/83u5u