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>While I totally agree, I have bring this back to the original point, which
>centers around new writers. You have to start somewhere, and my point is to
>not be picky about what tool your future employer is using,
Unfortunately, many new writers don't have this option. When I was starting out just 2 years ago, the only tools I could use fluently were Word and PageMaker. While I was in grad school, I took an internship and added Quark to my list of tools.
Then I started looking for a job. I searched for over 9 months, hitting the job boards, networking with STC, endlessly sending out resumes, et cetera. Almost every job ad asked for FrameMaker knowledge. Because it wasn't on my resume, I didn't get a call back. The ones who did call me back would make a point of discussing my knowledge of tools. The most common reason I got turned down was because I didn't know what they used. I got my current contract only because this department was desperate. I had to learn FM on my own very quickly.
This is why I tell new writers to look at the job ads in their area, see what skills the hiring companies are looking for, and focus on developing those skills. It's the only way to make yourself marketable.
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Jeff Hanvey: http://www.jewahe.net
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