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Subject:RE: Help with a Technical Writing career From:"Neumann, Eileen" <ENeuman -at- franklintempleton -dot- ca> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Thu, 26 May 2005 08:53:07 -0400
Hi Raymond,
I'd like to add to the advice so far. I believe a course or courses in technical writing, specifically where you learn to write procedures and produce manuals and online help, would be of great benefit in both learning how to do these things, and also in getting your foot in the door. An employer will probably want to see that you have some training specifically in the writing aspect of the job, as well as subject matter expertise (aeronautics or computer), as you lack experience in tech writing.
Secondly, you'll need a bit of a portfolio. Document something, lay it out professionally, and take it with you to interviews. Ideally, this should be something in the industry you are targeting. Maybe it would be possible to document something of use in your job at the computer help desk.
Thirdly, learning some of the software commonly used by technical writers will be beneficial. You could learn RoboHelp or FrameMaker, and some HTML or an HTML editor for instance.
Good luck!
Eileen Neumann
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-----Original Message-----
From: bounce-techwr-l-177285 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:bounce-techwr-l-177285 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Raymond Ambrosini
Sent: Wednesday, May 25, 2005 4:34 PM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: Help with a Technical Writing career
I am a 49 year old male who desires to pursue a career in technical
writing.
I have nearly 2 years of college from 1977.
I am a former commercial Pilot that now works in the computer help desk
field.
No one seems to know where I am to begin.
Shall I get a writing certificate or take other classes?
Please define the track I need to pursue.
I have no desire to finish college although I am willing to take classes.
Thank you in advance,
Raymond Ambrosini
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