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Based on my experience being hired as a technical writer, there is a dearth
of employees. I still get calls from agencies regarding my resume posted on
www.dice.com, 18 months ago.
One thing that exaggerates the problem is HR. All too often the term "Tech
Writer" is used to describe a job that is simply midway between "Programmer"
and "Clerk". I have often interviewed for a job, only to find that what the
company really needed was very different from what they advertised. In
brief:
1) Check employment agencies: www.sease.com lists over a hundred in the
Silicon Valley area. Virtually all of the technical writers I know work
through an agency.
2) Make sure your job definition is complete, and accurate.
3) Don't insist on software-specific experience. Being willing to work hard,
learn, and have a good attitude is more important than "3 to 5 years
experience with Framemaker".
4) A good resume is important! If the "writer" can't do his or her resume
well, what good will they be on your documentation?
Good luck in your search.
Peter Christian
-----Original Message-----
From: Tony Rocco [mailto:tony -at- roundpeg -dot- com]
Sent: Wednesday, January 26, 2000 1:34 PM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: Employment Resources
Fellow tech writer managerial types:
I am having some trouble finding a qualified mid-level tech writer to help
me document the Web sites my company produces for corporations. I have
posted to this list and to the Silicon Valley STC job list. I was wondering
if anyone had found a good source of qualified tech writers on job boards,
etc? Also, any opinions/perceptions as regards the current job market and
the seeming dearth of qualified applicants would be appreciated. No offense
to those who might have responded my job post, but the resumes I received
left much to be desired. Is this typical for those of you in a position to
hire tech writers?
Technically yours,
Tony
<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>
There's only one sin, and that's failing to believe you have a choice.
- Jean-Paul Sartre, author
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