Re: Writing Samples and Confidential/Internal Use Publications

[Beth Agnew <beth -dot- agnew -at- senecac -dot- on -dot- ca>]

I don't send samples to a potential employer. If it seems indicated, I 
can point them to a website where I have enough various pieces of 
writing related to my own content that they can get a sense of my 
ability. For specific examples, I would expect them to bring me in for 
an interview where I could show them my portfolio.

It's always a good idea as one goes along, to ask a current employer 
about any documents you could use as a portfolio item. Installation 
instructions are a likely candidate for this. At that point you can 
strip out any proprietary information and run it by the powers that be 
for approval to include in your writing samples.

In a situation where you've been downsized, you probably don't have 
access to all of your written work any more, and of course wouldn't have 
any of them at home. If your employer will not act as a reference for 
you regarding your writing ability (some will only confirm employment, 
not speak to your capabilities), then create some documentation on your 
own about a technology or subject area that shows your strengths. Think 
of the time it takes to do this as an investment in your career.
--Beth

Karen wrote: