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>The reason we call ourselves writers is that first we must be >able to write. Second, some skill with graphic layout is >usually quite important (the debate about how many of us >preside over layout notwithstanding). Our ability to hack code >or draw a circuit diagram might come in handy if a hiring >manager is looking for someone to tackle more technical
>documentation, but it should not be necessary to our so-called
>profession.
The whole question of qualifications bogs down because there's so many
niches in the field. If you're only doing Policy and Procedures stuff,
then you don't need any technical background at all. If you're writing a
programmer's manual, then you obviously do.
Basically, there's two possible career development plans: you can
specialize, or you can try to be a generalist. If you have a full-time
job, or you're a contractor with a regular list of clients, you can
afford to specialize.
However, if you're a new writer, or a new contractor, in my experience,
being a generalist will help you become employable quicker. So, just a
little bit of layout expereince is useful, so a little programming
background doesn't hurt. If you want to maximize your chances, you'll
try to get both.
There's something to be said for both sides. Which is best depends on
your personality and situation.
--
Bruce Byfield (bbyfield -at- axionet -dot- com)
Technical Writer / Job Bank Team, STC Canada West Coast Chapter
h: (604) 421-7189
"Is it the sea you hear in me,
Its dissatisfactions?
Or the voice of nothing, that was your madness?"
--Sylvia Plath, "Elm"
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