Re: Problems with new tech communicators

[CGiordano -at- EvergreenInvestments -dot- com]

These are problems that new graduates in general have, not just technical 
communicators.  Some of the things I would tell new grads:

Your mission is simple to understand and devilishly difficult to execute: 
Clear communication of relevant information using the media that make the 
most sense for the intended audience to reach their objective.  That 
leaves lots of room for creativity, growth, and advancement, collaboration 
and all sorts of other cool things... because you're going to have to 
learn to play well with others no matter how well you write.
Do not assume your college degree entitles you to anything but a chance
Do not assume that TWs without a degree in technical writing are in any 
way less qualified than you ... or any more qualified
Marketing is not the enemy.
Remember, it's not all about software -- either as tools or as subjects.
Do not obsess over the use of "appears", "opens"or "displays"; one space 
or two after a period; or whether  or whether training material, 
specifications or QA  is in your purview,,. life is too short to argue 
about it.
Neither the Microsoft Manual of Style nor Data Flow Diagrams are the 
answer to everything -- 42 is :) 

Happy Friday!

Connie P Giordano, M A 
Senior Technical Advisor/Technical Writer
Evergreen Investments
704/383-4405
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